Ski Michigan: Your Ultimate Guide to Michigan Ski Resorts.
I'm an affiliate, meaning I partner with brands and earn a commission if you purchase through the links on our site at no cost to you. This helps support our website.
Hey y'all! Living in the Midwest, especially in Chicago, definitely has its perks, especially as the winter season rolls in. Michigan is my secret snow playground for the best skiing this side of the Rockies. This state is famous for its beautiful lakes and quaint towns, but it's all about the slopes when winter hits. With over 40 ski areas and boasting the only ski-flying hill in the country, Michigan ranks second in the nation for the number of skiing areas. From fresh, powdery snow to a wide range of ski resorts, a whole world of winter fun awaits. Let's explore why Michigan is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy quality time on the skis or snowboards.
Why Michigan Winters Make Great Snow.
Michigan's got a reputation for its winters, and it's well-deserved. We're not just talking lake effect snow here, though it piles up near the Great Lakes. The whole state gets into the winter spirit, with plenty of cold and snow.
The cool thing about skiing in Michigan? It's all about options. Big resorts like Boyne Highlands offer those long, groomed runs, while places like Mount Bohemia are about the wild, ungroomed backcountry. Then there are smaller hills where you won't bump into a crowd every time you turn. They might not be as famous, but they have a charm that's all their own. The state's all in when it comes to winter, making it a solid pick for anyone who loves snow sports.
Ski lift at The Highlands.
The 40 Ski Resorts in Michigan.
Michigan is home to a wide range of ski resorts, with over 40 destinations welcoming skiers and snowboarders at all skill levels. This guide highlights a select group of these resorts chosen for their popularity, distinctive features, and excellent visitor experiences. You'll get a glimpse into places like Boyne Highlands and Nub’s Nob, known for their well-groomed runs, and Mount Bohemia, famous for its adventurous terrain. Check out resources like Pure Michigan, SkiCentral.com, and Travel MI for a complete view of all Michigan's ski resorts with details.
Let Us Discuss Michigan's Ski Resorts.
Michigan's authentic charm in the skiing world lies in its diverse range of resorts scattered throughout the Mitten and the Upper Peninsula. Big names like Boyne Highlands and Mount Bohemia are just the tip of the iceberg. These places offer well-groomed runs, challenging terrains, and enough variety to keep any skier or snowboarder grinning from ear to ear.
Smaller ski spots like Ski Brule or the quaint slopes of Mulligan’s Hollow might not have the fame, but they win with personality and fresh tracks. They're the kind of places where you feel like part of the community, not just a visitor. And that’s where you'll find some of the best skiing in Michigan and among Michiganites.
The beauty of skiing here is you can always find something that fits your style. Plus, the après-ski scene with local brews makes winding down as enjoyable as the time on the slopes. Below, we will break down these resorts by size, vertical drop, rank, and the small mom-and-pop resorts.
Top 10 Michigan Ski Resorts by Size.
If size matters to you, we've ranked Michigan's top ten ski resorts by size based on skiable acres and runs.
Mount Bohemia (Mohawk)
Skiable Acres: 585
Number of Runs: 105+
Lifts: 2
The Highlands of Harbor Springs (Harbor Springs)
Skiable Acres: 435
Number of Runs: 55+
Lifts: 10
Boyne Mountain (Boyne Falls)
Skiable Acres: 415
Number of Runs: 60+
Lifts: 12
Shanty Creek Resorts (Bellaire)
Skiable Acres: 400
Number of Runs: 53
Lifts: 12
Nub's Nob (Harbor Springs)
Skiable Acres: 248
Number of Runs: 53
Lifts: 11
Marquette Mountain (Marquette)
Skiable Acres: 169
Number of Runs: 25
Lifts: 3
Caberfae Peaks (Cadillac)
Skiable Acres: 200
Number of Runs: 34
Lifts: 6
Crystal Mountain (Thompsonville)
Skiable Acres: 102
Number of Runs: 58
Lifts: 9
Treetops Resort (Gaylord)
Skiable Acres: 80
Number of Runs: 23
Lifts: 5
The Homestead (Glen Arbor)
Skiable Acres: 80
Number of Runs: 23
Lifts: 5
Top 10 Michigan Ski Resorts Based on Public Opinion.
Based on public opinion, here are the top ten Michigan ski resorts known for their terrain, facilities, and overall experience.
Boyne Highlands (Harbor Springs)
Boyne Mountain (Boyne Falls)
Crystal Mountain (Thompsonville)
Nub's Nob (Harbor Springs)
Mount Bohemia (Mohawk)
Shanty Creek Resorts (Bellaire)
Caberfae Peaks (Cadillac)
Treetops Resort (Gaylord)
The Homestead (Glen Arbor)
Marquette Mountain (Marquette)
The Charm of Michigan's Smaller Ski Resorts.
Smaller ski resorts in Michigan often provide a more personal and intimate skiing experience. You'll likely encounter a community feel, where staff and fellow skiers are friendlier and more personable. Here are a few of the smaller resorts in Michigan:
Mulligan’s Hollow Ski Bowl (Grand Haven)
Swiss Valley Ski & Snowboard Area (Jones)
Hanson Hills (Grayling)
Snow Snake Ski & Golf (Harrison)
Pine Knob Ski Resort (Clarkston)
Bittersweet Ski Resort (Otsego)
Cannonsburg Ski Area (Belmont)
Timber Ridge Ski Area (Gobles)
The Homestead (Glen Arbor)
Norway Mountain (Norway)
View from The Highlands
Nub’s Nob. Photo courtesy of Nub’s Nob.
Michigan Ski Resorts on the Indy Pass and Ikon Pass.
For avid skiers and snowboarders, the Indy Pass and Ikon Pass offer access to an extensive network of resorts. In Michigan, the Indy Pass includes Nub’s Nob, Crystal Mountain, Schuss Mountain, Caberfae Peaks, and Swiss Valley. The Ikon Pass includes Boyne Mountain and The Highlands.
The Hemlock lift at Boyne Mountain. Photo Boyne Mountain.
Fun Facts About the Michigan Ski Scene.
Oldest Chairlift in America at Boyne Mountain: The Hemlock revolutionized ski lift design.
Longest Run at Boyne Highlands: Provides an extensive skiing experience.
Mount Bohemia's Extreme Terrain: Best for extreme skiing in the Midwest.
Nub's Nob's Award-Winning Snow Grooming: Renowned for its meticulous grooming.
Copper Peak: The only ski-flying hill in the Western Hemisphere.
Copper Peak: The Sky-High Thrill of Michigan.
Vintage photo of Copper Peak. Photo from Copper Peak Instagram.
In Michigan's Upper Peninsula lies a remarkable testament to the daring spirit of winter sports: Copper Peak. This iconic ski-flying hill near Ironwood is the only one of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. It's more than just a ski jump; it's a monument to the bold and thrilling sport of ski flying.
Built in 1969, Copper Peak quickly became a landmark in the ski-flying world. Unlike traditional ski jumping, ski flying involves larger hills and longer jumps, often exceeding the staggering distance of 200 meters. Copper Peak's 469-foot structure has seen ski flyers soar over 600 feet, a feat that combines athleticism with sheer adrenaline.
While it hasn't hosted a ski flying competition since 1994, Copper Peak remains a beacon for winter sports enthusiasts. The adventure ride to the summit of the jump offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding forests and Lake Superior. It's a year-round attraction that gives visitors a glimpse into ski flying and the beauty of Michigan's landscape. To learn more about Copper Peak, visit their site.
While it hasn't hosted a ski flying competition since 1994, Copper Peak remains a beacon for winter sports enthusiasts. The adventure ride to the summit of the jump offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding forests and Lake Superior. It's a year-round attraction that gives visitors a glimpse into ski flying and the beauty of Michigan's landscape. To learn more about Copper Peak, visit their site.
Meet Shaggy's: Michigan's Own Ski Craftsmen.
Shaggy's stands out as a small, family-run gem in the vibrant world of Michigan's winter sports. More than just a ski shop, Shaggy's is a testament to a family's love for skiing and local craftsmanship. Named after a beloved family nickname, Shaggy's story turns a passion into a thriving business.
What makes Shaggy's skis unique is their use of locally sourced Michigan Pine. This choice supports the local economy and ensures that the skis are ideally suited to Michigan's varied terrains. Each pair of skis is crafted with extraordinary care, offering a rare level of customization that turns them into personal masterpieces.
Shaggy's is more than a ski manufacturer; it's a cornerstone of the local skiing community. The family actively sponsors events and promotes the sport, demonstrating a deep commitment to quality and sustainability. Their dedication to using local materials and minimizing environmental impact reflects their respect for the natural world, which makes skiing possible.
For more about Shaggy’s and their products, visit their website.
Overland Girl's Michigan Ski Resort Visits.
As an avid skier, I've enjoyed visiting several of Michigan's top ski resorts. In 2023, I had the chance to stay at The Highlands of Harbor Springs. The resort offered a delightful experience with scenic views and excellent skiing conditions. We stayed at the Main Lodge, which was comfortable and conveniently located. One of the highlights was night skiing at Nub’s Nob, just across the street from The Highlands. Nub’s Nob exudes a local vibe that I loved, and the skiing was both awesome and fun. The atmosphere at Nub’s Pub, one of my favorite ski resort bars, was warm and welcoming, offering a great selection of local brews.
During the same trip, we also visited Boyne Mountain. While it was part of our ski pass, I preferred the slopes and ambiance of The Highlands.
On another long weekend ski trip, we headed to Schuss Mountain. The ski trails at Schuss were diverse and super fun.
Michigan is Straight-up Great for Skiing or Snowboarding.
Michigan's winters are special, and it's not just the snow enthusiasts saying so. Here, the chill from Canada meets the lake effect from the Great Lakes, giving us a snowy season that's both consistent and packed with possibilities. This blend keeps our slopes ready and waiting, no matter winter time. From the shores of the Great Lakes to the quiet corners near Canada, Michigan is dotted with ski spots that range from the big names to the local favorites. Whether you're carving down a slope for the first time or searching for your next thrilling downhill adventure, Michigan has a spot for you. Here, winter is more than a season—it's playtime.
