15 Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Michigan, 2023/24

Visit Michigan during winter, and it's apparent the state takes skiing seriously. Except for New York, Michigan boasts more ski areas than any other state. Currently, the Wolverine State has approximately 40 ski resorts, over 250 lifts, 50 terrain parks, and nearly 1,000 runs.

Michigan is also home to the country's only hill for ski flying, which is like ski jumping but on a larger scale.

While those statistics are impressive, two other factors set Michigan apart from other states in terms of skiing: convenience and cost. Surprisingly, no matter where you go in the state, you're always within two hours of a ski resort. Skiing in Michigan is also much more affordable than buying lift tickets at ski resorts in Colorado or Utah ski resorts.

Find the best spots in the state to hit the slopes with our list of the top ski resorts in Michigan.

Snowriver Mountain Resort

New ownership has transformed what used to be Big Snow Resort in Wakefield into Snowriver Mountain Resort. The property still encompasses two mountains (Indianhead Mountain and Blackjack Mountain) that receive more than 17 feet of snow each winter. The new upgrades catapult this familiar terrain into a premier downhill destination.

The terrain at Snowriver is now split between Jackson Creek Summit and Black River Basin. While they're both geared to handle all levels of skiers, beginner and intermediate skiers will have slightly more terrain to choose from at Black River Basin, including a cushy beginner's area with a new ski carpet.

If it's size you're looking for, Jackson Creek Summit weighs in as the favorite, featuring 230 skiable acres versus 170 acres. Jackson Creek Summit also has a small collection of true double-black diamond runs for experienced downhill athletes only.

The mountains have eleven lifts accessing all of its terrain. Visitors to Snowriver Mountain Resort have access to both mountains, with a free shuttle transporting skiers back and forth throughout the day.

Some of the new upgrades to the ski area under new management include renovations to the old Indianhead Lodge & Suites, now The Lodge at Jackson Creek. New and improved retail options are also available at the Sugar Mountain Chalet, formerly the Summit Center. Perhaps the biggest upgrade at the resort, however, is the installation of the Upper Peninsula's first six-person high-speed lift, the Voyageur Express.

Address: 500 Indianhead Road, Wakefield, MI

Official site: https://www.snowriver.com/

Boyne Resorts

Michigan's best-known resort is Boyne, which actually consists of two mountains, Boyne Mountain and Boyne Highlands. These are the two largest resorts in lower Michigan, and each boasts over 400 acres, with more than 115 trails in total. Boyne Highlands also has a 1.25-mile trail, which is the longest ski run in Michigan. All these amenities make the mountains feel more like those in the West.

At Boyne Mountain Resort, you'll find America's first high-speed, six-place chairlift, and Boyne Highlands has Michigan's first four-place chairlift. In addition, the two mountains feature 11 terrain parks and the SnowSports Academy, which always earns accolades from guests. Both mountains also offer free beginner ski and snowboard areas.

For those not into the downhill scene, each mountain boasts an impressive 35-plus kilometers of cross-country and snowshoe trails. Each mountain is also well regarded for its overnight accommodations, including lodge rooms, cottages, and ski-in chalets.

Boyne Highland and Boyne Mountain Resort are part of the Ikon Pass. Day passes and regular season passes are also available, as well as several other "stay-and-ski" packages.

Address: 1 Boyne Mountain Road, Boyne Falls, Michigan

Official site: www.boyneresorts.com

Crystal Mountain

Crystal has scored a place on lists of the 10 best family ski resorts in the United States and Canada, putting it in the company of heavy hitters like Deer Valley in Utah and Steamboat Springs in Colorado. Credit goes not only to the 102 acres of skiable terrain but also to the amenities at the resort.

Some of the special features at Crystal Mountain include luxury cottages at the base of the slope, complimentary activities like family campfires, and an indoor pool with a family play area. The mountain also hosts a full array of additional snow activities like fat-tire snowcat biking, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.

Crystal is also home to an 18,500-square-foot LEED-certified spa. The Crystal Spa offers specialty treatments designed specifically to treat winter aches and soreness. On the slopes, nine lifts give access to 58 trails, including 27 lit for night skiing. The resort also has three terrain areas and six glade areas.

Address: 12500 Crystal Mountain Drive, Thompsonville, Michigan

Official site: www.crystalmountain.com

Ski Brule

This might sound like more of a dessert than a ski resort, but if you ski here once, you'll see why this is the ultimate sweet treat. Ski Brule consistently ranks as one of the Midwest's best resorts. It also promises to be the first to open, sometimes as early as October and stays open for roughly six months.

Much of the credit goes to its location near the Wisconsin and Michigan border, as well as its immense snowmaking capabilities. Within 24 hours, it can generate enough snow to open any one of its 17 trails. It also features three terrain parks and a tubing park. The resort also stays open late for night skiing.

Additional winter activities at Ski Brule include fat biking, cross-country skiing, and sleigh rides. And the unique Acrobag at the resort allows guests to launch off a five-foot jump into an inflatable landing pad (free with the purchase of a lift ticket).

Programs that cater to kids at Ski Brule include on-site daycare, specialized lessons, and free skiing for kids under nine years old every Sunday.

Address: 397 Brule Mountain Road, Iron River, Michigan

Official site: https://skibrule.com/

Mount Bohemia

Getting vertical is one of the biggest draws to Mount Bohemia in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Here, you'll find the longest vertical in the Midwest at 900 feet. Mount Bohemia is also blessed with an abundance of lake-effect snow, receiving 273 inches on average every year.

Because its trails are ungroomed and the runs are either expert or advanced, Mount Bohemia is solely for serious skiers who will no doubt love the mountain's extreme backcountry area. The forested runs feature chutes and cliff drops. Mount Bohemia now also oversees the development of the nearby Voodoo Mountain, which offers more intermediate runs and snowcat skiing.

The resort also recently opened the Midwest's first ski resort hostel. The Log Cabin Hostel at Mount Bohemia features 24 coed bunks in two different rooms, a sauna, and an outdoor hot tub, all of which are slope-side. You can also bunk in a yurt — sleeping 10 people each — or one of 12 log cabins with capacity for up to seven people each.

Address: 6532 Gay Lac La Belle Road, Mohawk, Michigan

Official site: www.mtbohemia.com

Nub's Nob Ski Area

For those looking to get their ski legs on for the first time before heading West, Nub's Nob is the place to go. That's because 30 percent of the trails are marked as easiest, and another 50 percent more intermediate. That leaves only a small amount assigned to the most difficult, but with only a 427-foot vertical drop, even intermediate skiers should be able to tackle these trails.

For absolute beginners, there's a free beginner area with a chairlift, so if you have any questions about whether you'll like the sport, you can always try it before buying a ticket. Those eight years and younger and 70-plus ski for free. And once you're on the slope, Pintail Peak is fun for skiing on gently winding trails.

Nub's Nob Ski Area expanded its snowmaking efforts in recent years, as well as added to its fleet of corduroy-making snowcats. Another recent addition to the resort includes a two-kilometer snowshoe trail that allows uphill skiers to access the Arena Glades without taking a lift.

Address: 500 Nubs Nob Road, Harbor Springs, Michigan

Official site: https://www.nubsnob.com/

Pine Mountain Resort

Tucked away in the Upper Peninsula, family-friendly Pine Mountain likes to say it has the best-groomed slopes in the Midwest. It features over 30 trails and a terrain park, plus night skiing. What sets Pine Mountain apart, though, is its ski jump, often revered as one of the best in the world.

Every February, the Kiwanis Ski Club hosts Jump Weekend, where top jumpers in the world have set numerous records throughout the years. In fact, the US record of 459 feet, which still holds, was set at Pine Mountain. More than 20,000 spectators attend Jump Weekend.

A 2018 change of ownership at Pine Mountain brought about the beginning of a multi-million-dollar upgrade to the resort. Overnight guests at the Lodge at Pine Mountain this year can enjoy the renovated rooms, which feature alpine décor and easy skiing access. The resort also offers newly renovated trailside condos at the Cedar Haus.

Address: N3332 Pine Mountain Road, Iron Mountain, Michigan

Official site: http://www.pinemountainresort.com/

Shanty Creek Resort

Beginner and intermediate skiers flock to Shanty Creek Resort, which boasts two distinctive ski areas, Schuss Mountain and Summit Mountain, with 53 runs total. More than 60 percent of the runs are suitable for beginner and intermediate skiers, although the resort does feature advanced terrain as well.

Shanty Creek Resort also features three terrain parks, tubing, fat tire biking, and 30 kilometers of groomed and track-set trails for Nordic skiers.

For the 2022/2023 season, daily lift tickets are between $67 (weekday) and $89 (weekend) for adults. The resort also offers discounted lift tickets for night skiing, which occurs between 5pm and 9pm Wednesday through Saturday. "Ski-and-Stay" packages are also available for an affordable weekend getaway.

Lift tickets are valid for both Schuss Mountain and Summit Mountain. Shanty Creek Resort has also recently upgraded its rental gear to include the latest equipment from Rossignol – a leader in ski technology.

Address: 5780 Shanty Creek Road, Bellaire, Michigan

Official site: http://www.shantycreek.com/

Caberfae Peaks

In the Lower Peninsula of Michigan, near the city of Cadillac, Caberfae Peaks receives an abundance of lake-effect snow. This not only provides an average of 140 inches of snowfall each year, but also contributes to the light and fluffy powder that makes for a fun ride.

Caberfae Peaks is spread out over 200 skiable acres and features 34 named ski runs and 485 feet of elevation drop. The resort caters to a wide range of skiers with primarily beginner and intermediate runs. A few black diamond runs are also present, and most intermediate skiers have no problem with these runs by the end of the day.

At the base of the mountain, The Mackenzie Lodge features 39 slope-side rooms. The lodge also features a large outdoor heated pool and hot tub. Stay-and-Ski special packages at Caberfae Peaks are perfect for an affordable family getaway.

Address: 1 Caberfae Lane, Cadillac, Michigan

Official Site: https://caberfaepeaks.com/

Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort

Big Powderhorn is a favorite ski area in the Upper Peninsula and has something for every level of skier. The ski area is spread across 250-plus skiable acres, with 45 named trails ranging from bunny hills to black diamond routes like "Cannonball" and "Don't Chute." Nine double chairlifts service a variety of routes.

Slope-side lodging is available at Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort in the Caribou Lodge. Overnight guests receive complimentary access to the private pool and sauna at the lodge.

The Caribou Lodge is also the place to enjoy a meal or après-ski near the slopes. The menu at the lodge features pasta, surf and turf, and hot sandwiches.

Address: 11375 Powderhorn Road, Bessemer, Michigan

Official site: https://bigpowderhorn.net/

Marquette Mountain

Near the shores of Lake Superior, Marquette Mountain is another popular local resort in the Upper Peninsula. The mountain serves as a standard winter retreat for Marquette locals, including students at Northern Michigan University.

On top of great wintry terrain, the affordable season passes and lift tickets at the mountain tend to draw a crowd.

Marquette Mountain has a variety of groomers spread across approximately 160 acres. Many of the runs are illuminated for night skiing seven days a week. The mountain also offers weekend, weekday, and nightly rentals of ski equipment — perfect for anyone new to the sport.

Address: 4501 M-553, Marquette, Michigan

Official site: https://marquettemountain.com/

Mount Holly Ski & Snowboard Resort

Mount Holly is in the Groveland Valley of Southeast Michigan, approximately an hour's drive northwest of Detroit. The resort is well known for its long season and small variety of runs, many of which cater to a more intermediate or advanced skier.

Mount Holly has 16 runs total, accessible by seven chairlifts and two rope tows. The total elevation drop at the resort is around 350 feet, offering quick but dynamic routes to the bottom. And with 100 percent of the mountain able to receive artificial snow, every day brings fresh tracks to make.

Beginners also find enjoyment on the mountain. Two rope tows and a magic carpet lend access to easier runs adjacent to the main mountain. This beginners' area is a great place to learn before tackling the steeper slopes.

Address: 13536 Dixie Highway, Holly, Michigan

Official site: https://www.skimtholly.com/

Porcupine Mountains Ski Area

The Porcupine Mountains Ski Area gives guests the opportunity to "Ski the Porkies" in the Upper Peninsula. These billions-year-old mountains rise abruptly near the shores of Lake Superior for quite the view.

The ski area is within the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park and operates independently. This area is filled with other scenic landscapes to explore.

Adult lift tickets throughout the ski season go for less than $50 for a full day. The lift ticket lends access to over 250 acres of skiable terrain, primarily accessed by one triple-chair lift. All levels of skiers find suitable routes in the Porkies, ranging from easy groomers to more technical backcountry runs.

Porcupine Mountains Ski Area also has a notable winter calendar filled with events. The Snowburst Winter Carnival, occurring on the last weekend of February, is one of the most celebrated, culminating with a fireworks show lighting up the dark winter night.

Official site: https://www.porcupineup.com/

Cannonsburg Ski Area

Cannonsburg is a family-friendly ski area within a 30-minute drive from Grand Rapids. It features a combination of nine lifts, rope tows, and magic carpet rides that access over 20 runs with varied levels of steepness and terrain. It's a beginner-friendly and budget-friendly ski area, with adult lift tickets running for $55 on weekends ($45 on weekdays).

Cannonsburg has several other amenities that make it a family-friendly destination. Tubing at Cannonsburg occurs every Wednesday through Sunday and has become so popular that online reservations are now required. The onsite Cedar Lounge is also a popular spot to visit between tubing or ski runs, featuring a celebrated Saturday and Sunday brunch and a full-time snack bar.

Official Site: https://cannonsburg.com/

Treetops Resort

Skiing and snowboarding at Treetops Resort is spread across 80 acres with 24 different runs catering to beginners and seasoned skiers alike. Lift tickets are extremely affordable, going for $25 for an all-day adult pass. Rentals, ski lessons, and special discount packages are available. Check out the "Cool School" enrollment for a taste of all that Treetops Resort offers.

Treetops Resort in Gaylord is much more than just a skiing destination. Alongside family-friendly slopes, this popular resort features dog sledding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and their very own brand of extreme tubing. The tubing earns this extreme status thanks to a breathtaking 400-foot run that has adults and kids flying down the hillside.

Official Site: https://www.treetops.com/ski-snow/

Map of Ski Resorts in Michigan

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