Can you feel the chilly breeze run through your hair as you zip down the side of a mountain with that perfect powder white snow underneath your skis? Well, here in the northern region of the Wolverine State, we have plenty of excellent slopes to carve up during the winter. That’s why we compiled this list of some of our favorite places to go skiing in Northern Michigan. So check them out and start packing because you have some prime skiing to do on your Michigan adventure! If you need more info on activities, attractions, and restaurants around our great state, request our free Vacation Guide!
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5 of the Best Places to Go Skiing in Northern Michigan
Mt. Holiday Ski and Recreational Area
Mt. Holiday Ski and Recreational Area has a good mix of skiing, snowboarding, and tubing on its budget-friendly slopes. This Northern Michigan ski spot sits just outside of Traverse City and has a variety of activities for every time of the year. In addition to offering rentals from the ski lodge, you can book one of their lessons ranging from a basic ski school to a technical “flight school” for optimum jump performance. While the hills at Mt. Holiday are loads of fun, the terrain park is a unique attraction that is perfect for those looking to test their ski skills on a challenging system of rails and jumps.
Nub’s Nob Ski Area
Nub’s Nob Ski Area is home to 53 runs of perfectly manicured snow. While a ski school, great slopes, and cross-country skiing are all available, this ski mecca features a downhill skiing race course where they hold race leagues and series from January through March. Even if you don’t compete, it’s an exciting and entertaining event to watch! Day tickets and season passes are reasonably priced, especially for the quality of the ski area.
Caberfae Peaks
A bounty of lake effect snow and 34 ski runs put Caberfae Peaks in the running for one of the top places for skiing in Northern Michigan. This resort has five lifts, two terrain parks, cross-country skiing, a race course, and classes. With just about every kind of ski experience possible, you can spend a full action-packed day experiencing it all for a very reasonable day ticket price.
Crystal Mountain
This little ski village in Northern Michigan is a beautiful spot to ski day or night. You can see for miles from the top of the pristine slopes while the sun’s out, and when it gets dark outside the lights of the resort and surrounding cabins resemble a small European mountain village. In addition to races, clinics, and cross-country skiing, Crystal Mountain has 58 downhill slopes, three terrain parks, and eight lifts. There is a variety of lift ticket and rental packages to choose from, and the night skiing pass is a great deal.
Hickory Hills Ski Area
This no-frills, barebone ski area in Traverse City is perfect for those wanting a taste of the slopes without a big price tag. Hickory Hills offers eight downhill ski runs as well as backcountry cross-country skiing. With its incredibly inexpensive lift tickets, this is one of the best low-cost places to ski in Northern Michigan.
Your Northern Michigan Skiing Packing List
Make sure you prepare yourself before hitting the slopes. The icy temperatures and wind chill can set in fast, so you want to make sure you dress and layer accordingly. Here is a packing list to keep in mind when preparing for your trip.
- Warm hat/beanie
- Thermal tops
- Neck warmers
- Warm face masks
- Thermal, waterproof pants
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof gloves
- Fleece tops
- Warm socks
- Goggles (you can rent them if you don’t own any)
If you own snowboard or skis, bring your own equipment so you don’t have to pay for rentals
Book Your Northern Michigan Adventure
Head back to your cozy cabin after a fun day on the slopes. Our Northern Michigan vacation rentals are perfect for the adventurer wanting to get out and explore our enchanting landscapes. So check our availability and get ready for a trip you won’t soon forget! We look forward to welcoming you to the Freshwater family! Feel free to bring your furry friend along and stay in our pet friendly cabin rentals in Michigan!