My Top 3 Michigan Ski Resorts + 5 Honorable Mentions

A few weeks ago, my family and I completed our second annual “Ski Weekend” with our family friends. We started this tradition last year and don’t plan on slowing down anytime soon. It’s a highlight for both families- and the kids continue to impress us with their growth and shenanigans each year. 

Incredible Skiing in the Midwest

During this trip, I was overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible ski opportunities here in Northern Michigan. When I speak to friends who live in other Midwest states, their options are limited. I am so thankful we have numerous resorts to choose from, all with a skilled staff and a variety of terrain to keep our family moving through the winter months. 

Each year, new programs are popping up, from school partnerships to discounted weekday passes to ski racing development. It doesn’t matter what level you are, there is something out there for you. 

I couldn’t imagine my kids growing up anywhere but here- their love for the winter ski season runs deep, even at their young ages. We’ve had the privilege of participating in many of these programs, which has led us to explore numerous surrounding resorts. 

Related: 24 Best Michigan Ski Resorts

My Top 3 Ski Resorts in Northern Michigan

I’ve put together my top 3 ski resorts in Northern Michigan, although there are many that definitely deserve an honorable mention. Without further ado, here are my picks!

1. Boyne Mountain | Boyne Falls

Each year, my family goes on a ski weekend to one of the Boyne resorts; last year, we tackled Boyne Mountain, and this year, our adventures were at The Highlands. It’s incredible to have both of these options so close to home, with each offering something a little different. 

Trails for All Skill Levels

Boyne Mountain welcomes you with a large “village”, touting great restaurants and an intense waterpark at its base. There are 65 runs, and the snowmaking machines keep it fresh all season long (although this year, Mother Nature blessed us abundantly with the real stuff!) 

The trails range from green to double black diamond, creating options no matter your skill level. There are three terrain parks, for both skiers and boarders, and the mountain set up makes it easy to get around. 

The beginner level runs are mostly grouped together on the right side of the mountain, with the intermediate and expert trails located mainly on the left. This keeps operations running smooth for families and more advanced skiers alike.

SkyBridge, a Waterpark & Plenty More Non-Ski Experiences

In addition to the 415 acres of terrain, Boyne Mountain truly goes above and beyond to offer non-ski experiences! There is the SkyBridge, a suspended bridge adorned with lights; Avalanche Bay indoor waterpark, with countless water activities; snow tubing, designed to keep everyone entertained; cross country skiing and snowshoeing; and numerous bike experiences! 

For the thrill seeker, they offer fat-tire biking, a zipline course, and engine-powered Moon-bike tours! 

Delicious Pizza at the Trophy Room

One of our favorite features at Boyne Mountain is its adorable and cozy village. We are big fans of the pizza at the Trophy Room, but there are various dining options found right there at home base.

My kids always beg to visit the candy shop, and my husband loves poking around at the outfitter for new outdoor gear. My personal favorite place to stop and warm up is the Eagle’s Nest, perched high on the hill with a kickin’ fireplace to warm even the coldest of toes. 

Pro Tip: Add an additional day to spend at Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark; your kids will thank you!

2.  The Highlands, Harbor Springs, MI

The Highlands has always had a place in my heart. When I was a kid, my dad would have a medical conference each February. I’d get to take school on the road and head up to experience a magical week at ski school. 

Each day, my brothers and I would learn from Austrian instructors, culminating in a ski race at the end of the week. Words can’t express how much we enjoyed this week- and even now, in our mid-40s, we spend time reminiscing about our adventures at The Highlands.

In fact, this past Christmas, we even pulled out old VHS tapes to watch footage from our time there. 

A True “Up North” Retreat

I’m happy to report that while The Highlands has updated many of its facilities, terrain, and chair lifts, the vibe remains the same as what I remember. It’s a true “Up North” retreat, somehow maintaining its classic roots while offering modern amenities.  

They have added an Enchanted Trail Experience, which is especially magical near the holidays, a year-round zipline course, and a winter night hike to North Peak. These are all adventures worthy of the winter season, adding a spark after a day of skiing!

An Enclosed Chairlift, a Heated Outdoor Pool & More Amenities

The 55 runs range from a gentle slope through woods to challenger runs; one adorned with hard-to-find moguls. My kids race their way through the tree line, always looking for hidden jumps and secret ways to beat us down the hills. The heated and enclosed Camelot Chair lift is unlike anything I’ve yet to experience in the Midwest- truly ruining me for all chair lifts from here on out. 

The Highlands still has the infamous heated outdoor pool, and the main lodge has a historic winding stone staircase flanked by cozy fireplaces below. Food offerings range from cafeteria-style wraps and French fries to tacos and pub food. The coffee bar hits all the caffeine cravings to get you through the day, and there are plenty of places to grab a beer when that Michigan sunshine hits just right. 

Pro Tip: For apres ski festivities, hit up downtown Harbor Springs for a coffee or the nearby breweries in Petoskey!

3. Crystal Mountain | Thompsonville

Located in Thompsonville, this location is unbeatable. It’s a short 20-minute drive to Interlochen, 35 minutes from Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore, and 40 minutes from Traverse City. I can’t write enough good things about Crystal Mountain Resort; it’s a place that has a surprising amount of acreage, with plenty of activities for those choosing to stay overnight. 

Unbeatable Deals for Locals

My kids get lucky- Crystal partners with local schools in the area for an unbeatable deal. For 8 weeks, my children went on their designated night and received a group lesson, followed by several hours of night skiing with friends. 

The mountain is easy to navigate and made for intermediate skiers. Crystal has invested in the local community, allowing many families to find an affordable way to get their children active in the winter. 

A Quaint Family Style Resort

The village is quaint, containing food options that range from made-to-order pizza and grinders, cafeteria-style offerings from salads and soup to cheeseburgers, and even a fine-dining New American experience under the glow of outdoor igloos. 

There is an ice-skating rink nestled outside of their spa (the facials are a must!), and even a gym with an indoor pool and sauna for those looking to wind down apres-ski. The lodging options range from ski-in/ski-out condos to cabins and lodge-style rooms at the base of the hill.  

This is a true family-style resort with countless amenities to meet your needs.

Pro Tip: After hitting the hills, head down some country roads over to Iron Fish Distillery for a grain to glass drink.

Honorable Mentions

These are just a few of my personal favorites, and there are so many more that have spectacular offerings. Here is a list of others I’d highly recommend.

1. Nubs Nob | Harbor Springs

Located just across from The Highlands, Nubs Nobs offers numerous runs, with a heavy emphasis on intermediate runs. Kids 8 and under ski free, much to a parent’s delight.

2. Caberfae | Cadillac

This resort is smaller and is built for locals. Bring a crockpot to plug in at the lodge, and make some new friends along the way.

3. Hickory Hills | Traverse City

Nestled right in the heart of Traverse City, this hill is perfect for kids looking to gain some independence. Offering 16 runs, accessible only by tow-rope, this is a local’s dream. Don’t be fooled by the tow ropes- these hills will make warriors out of kids looking to learn.

4. The Homestead | Glen Arbor

The view of Lake Michigan is unbeatable. This small resort offers an incredible selection of restaurants and bonfire pits to warm up after a day of skiing the runs.

5. Shanty Creek | Bellaire

Shanty Creek is another resort that partners with youth in the area to ensure accessibility to learn ski basics. Reasonably priced and in a good location, it’s hard to pass up a day spent here, especially with Short’s Brewing just down the road!

Find Your Next Ski Adventure in Northern Michigan

We are so grateful to live in this beautiful state of Michigan that places such an emphasis on the astounding outdoors! No matter where you choose to spend the day “catching freshies”, these places will keep you enjoying the winter season through and through!