Experience Year-Round Fun at Shanty Creek Resort in Northern Michigan
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Shanty Creek Resort is a full, four-season resort packed with something to do no matter the time of year you visit. It’s noted for its 90 holes of championship golf across five distinct locations. It also has 53 runs for skiing and snowboarding on both the Summit and Schuss Mountains.
There are over 28 kilometers of cross-country skiing to enjoy and lots of fun at the Alpine tubing park too. More so, the location offers on-site lodging, restaurants, shops, and much more to do and explore. Learn everything you need to know for a trip to this Northern Michigan resort.
About Shanty Creek Resort
Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire Michigan was first developed in 1944 when Ry Deskin, the son of a coal miner, worked to become a fixture in the Detroit auto industry. In 1944, he retired but loved being able to entertain.
The Beginning of the Resort
After moving to Up North on Torch Lake, he quickly decided to create his own social establishment, a private club that eventually became a four-season resort.
The resort got underway in 1961, with skiing on Summit Mountain beginning a year later. The lodge was completed in 1963, and the rest developed over time.
A Full-Service Resort
The location has expanded over the years to include more amenities and features. Today, the resort offers everything that guests need to enjoy the region, whether it is the heart of winter or the warmest days of the summer.
Shanty Creek is home to numerous restaurants and entertainment options, along with full lodging, restaurants, and shops to enjoy. There’s even a fitness center and several pools to explore.
Additionally, there is golf, an Alpine tubing park, and 5,500 acres of biking and hiking trails along with the nearby areas of Torch Lake and Grass River. It boasts tennis courts, outdoor and indoor pools, and a spa too.
Things to Do at Shanty Creek Resort
Shanty Creek is sure to keep any visitor busy no matter when they make the trip. Take a look at some of the numerous activities to explore.
Go Skiing & Snowboarding
During the winter months, the resort offers all of the fun possible in the snow. The 53 slopes are maintained well, offering some of the best access to downhill skiing in Michigan.
There are also 25 kilometers of cross country trails to enjoy and Alpine tubing, which has become a very popular choice for those who love a bit of adventure.
Those who want to ski can book family ski packages or check out any of the discounts and availability options for day passes. It’s a popular location, to be sure.
On top of that, there’s a NASTAR track for those who want to find out just how fast they can go against the best times in North America.
Enjoy the Championship Golf Courses
Shanty Creek Resort is noted for its championship golf courses — Cedar River Golf Course, The Legend Golf Course, Hawk’s Eye Golf Course, Summit Golf Course, and Schuss Mountain Golf Course. Each one offers a unique design and is breathtakingly beautiful.
These courses have won recognition from Conde Nast Traveler, Golf Digest, and others as being some of the best in the country. Guests can reserve a tee time during their stay. There’s also an on-site golf academy that well-seasoned PGA professionals lead for those who want to improve their game.
Test Your Skills in the Top Golf Swing Suite
For those who want to enjoy some fun indoors, the Top Golf Swing Suite is an excellent choice. It provides a comfortable place to relax and enjoy some good food and drinks while also engaging in virtual games. You don’t have to be a golfer to have fun here, either.
Book a Room at Shanty Creek Resort
Shanty Creek Resort is home to ample lodging with over 275 options for guests to select for their stay. That includes most sizes and types of properties depending on their length of stay and the number of guests.
The Lakeview hotel has standard, modern, and comfortable rooms. There are studios and larger suites here as well. Some guests may want more of a larger, home-like experience, which is where the two-bedroom suite comes into play.
There’s also the ability to book a condo for those who want a backyard and more than one floor to explore and enjoy. The largest options here are full-wood homes designed to provide ample space for even large groups.
These lodging options are spread out in four villages, as Shanty Creek calls them. Each is a bit different, but all are charming and beautiful. They are referred to as Summit, Cedar River, Hawk’s Eye, and Schuss.
Exercise in the Fitness Center
Those who are spending their time at The Lakeview hotel have access to a large, on-site fitness center. It is more than a simple gym, offering most of the top-notch equipment that people seek — cardio equipment, a Nautilus system, free weights, and large spaces for stretching.
Also, there’s a steam room, locker rooms, a dry sauna, and a whirlpool to unwind and relax after a workout. A tanning bed is available here for those feeling a bit pale too.
Splash in the Pools
One of the nice things about Shanty Creek Resort is that there’s so much to do, even when you don’t want to hit the golf course or the ski slopes. The swimming pools are often a favorite because they are beautiful, well-kept, and perfectly secluded.
Several options include The Lakeview Hotel and Summit Village indoor and outdoor pools. While these are some of the most popular locations, there’s also an indoor pool at The Lodge of Schuss Village, which is perfect for those staying in the rooms here.
Or, for those at The Lodge at Cedar River, which is only available to Cedar River guests, there’s a large outdoor pool along with several hot tubs to enjoy. Any of these pools can be a good way to wake up in the morning or unwind in the evening.
Rent a Bike
For those who want to explore the area in the most natural way possible, bike rentals are available at Shanty Creek. There are two options — traditional bikes to pedal away the day and e-bikes.
E-bikes are motor-assisted pedaling bikes that help guests take longer adventures throughout the area without tiring out too soon. They are rented by the hour or by the day and offer a fun way to spend a few hours seeing the area with a group of friends.
Play Some Disc Golf
One of the more popular options for those who are looking for outdoor activities is disc golf. There’s a pitch-and-putt, 9-hole disc golf course on site located just behind The Lakeview Hotel. Any guests staying on the property are welcome to explore it and have some fun playing it.
Get in the game and have fun with a group of friends!
Tempt Your Taste Buds
Shanty Creek guests are sure to find food here that is exquisite. The options feature lots of variety as well as freshness.
The Lakeview
The Lakeview is a fantastic choice for dinner. It serves pasta, steaks, and some of the best homemade desserts in the region. Even better, book dinner at the right time to enjoy the magical sunset views from the windows of the restaurant. This is elegant, more formal dining.
River Bistro
The River Bistro offers a more laid-back atmosphere. It boasts some of the best fresh fruit cocktails in the region and overlooks the 18th Green. Even better, there’s a nice fresh-air patio to enjoy. This is a good place to watch the big game.
Ivan’s
When it comes to something more finger food friendly, Ivan’s is a top-notch choice. It’s where you’ll find everything from homemade pot pies to pizza and chicken fingers, which you know the kids will love.
Other Eateries
Other food options on site include The CoffeeBAR — a must for those looking for a breakfast sandwich and fuel for the day — and Base Camp Food Truck, which is parked at the base of the snow to give you a quick pick-me-up during the day.
Have the Best Experience at Shanty Creek Resort
For those looking for a way to enjoy Michigan’s winter weather, a trip to Shanty Creek Resort can be the best decision. With so much to offer — including exceptional amenities, comfortable lodging, and even a full conference and meeting center — there are plenty of reasons to book a trip here.
More so, this location is noted for its charming staff and ability to remain at the top of its game — not just its golf game. There’s no reason not to plan a trip today.