Skiing and Snowboarding in Michigan 2024-2025

With tons of snow and pristine slopes, Michigan has the second largest number of ski areas in the US. Even though the mountains in Michigan are not that tall, the state boasts 47 ski areas and 50 terrain parks with about 1,000 runs altogether, providing plenty of diversity for any winter sports enthusiast.

Ski Season in Michigan

Michigan ski resorts usually open in late November and close in mid-April. However, the snow is the deepest in February, which makes it the best month for skiing and snowboarding in the state. March sees slightly warmer temperatures but with plenty of machine-made snow, it's a great opportunity to spend an entire day on the slopes.

Big Powderhorn Resort in the Upper Peninsula

It starts snowing in the U.P. quite early, so by Thanksgiving, all of its nine ski resorts, located in western and central parts of the U.P., are usually ready to open. The largest is Big Powderhorn, which features 253 ac (102 ha) of slopes and 45 runs as well as three terrain parks. Big Powderhorn is also known as one of the best destinations for cross-country skiing due to its wide network of trails going through picturesque spots. After skiing and snowboarding, riders can relax at the Bavarian village. There are plenty of lodging options in Wakefield, just 10 miles (16 km) from the resort. The town boasts several chalets and hotels.

Lift Tickets

The resort still hasn't updated the pricing for the 2024/2025 season, but you can refer to last year's pricing. For adults, lift tickets cost $89 for one day, $168 for two days, and $237 for three days. Juniors from 10 to 17 years old could purchase lift tickets for $72 for one day, $134 for two days, and $184 for three days. Children between 7 and 9 years old could purchase tickets for $42, $74, and $96, respectively. Tickets for seniors between 65 and 74 years old cost $72 for one day, $134 for two days, and $186 for three days. Seniors over 75 years old can get on the chairlift for free. Children 6 and under can enter for free.

Ski Brule Resort in Upper Peninsula

Ski Brule, located in Iron River, is the highest ski resort in Michigan, featuring a 500-ft (152-m) vertical drop, 150 skiable acres (61 ha) of slopes, and 17 ski runs. Polished terrain is accompanied by beautiful views and family-friendly entertainment like sleigh rides through the Ski Brule Village. Cross-country skiing trails are also available at Ski Brule. The resort offers chalets for rent, which is the best lodging option in the area.

Lift Tickets & Season Passes

Lift tickets cost $74 for adults over 18 years old, $61 for juniors between 10 and 17 years old, and $71 for seniors over 60 years old. With price depending on the time of purchase, season passes vary around $365-510 for adults, $290-440 for children 10 to 17 years old and seniors, and $1,300-1,900 for families with two adults and up to four children.

Hours

The resort is set to be open from 9 am until 4 pm for the daily session and from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm for the night session.

The Highlands at Harbor Springs in Northern Michigan

The Highlands at Harbor Springs, previously known as Boyne Highlands, is the largest ski area in the state, located in Harbor Springs, Northern Michigan. It features 16 mi (26 km) of slopes and eight lifts that take riders to an elevation of 1,338 ft (408 m). Around 55 groomed runs and several terrain parks are suited to riders and skiers of all levels. In addition to downhill skiing, there is tubing, snowshoeing, and plenty of entertainment.

Season Passes

There are numerous season pass options at the resort, starting from the FreeRide Pass, which costs $99 for children between 6 and 17 years old from schools in Emmet, Cheboygan, Otsego, and several other counties. NoMi for 18-29 years olds costs $359, while Bronze Pass, which can be used from Sunday to Friday, costs $589. Silver Pass is valid everyday, except for the holidays, and costs $729. Gold Pass costs $1,099, while Classic Pass costs $389.

Crystal Mountain in Northern Michigan

Crystal Mountain is one of the most scenic destinations of Northern Michigan. The ski resort, located in Thompsonville, offers three terrains and seven lifts that take guests to elevations up to 1,181 ft (360 m). The resort also has trails for cross-country skiing. Resort visitors will enjoy 103 acres (42 km) of skiable area.

Season Passes

Similar to other resorts in Michigan, Crystal Mountain has numerous pass options. The cost generally ranges from $129 to $529 for adults, from $49 to $329 for children between 7 and 17 years old, and from $99 to $399 for seniors over 65 years old. Individuals over 80 years old might enjoy additional benefits and discounts.

Alpine Valley in Southern Michigan

Alpine Valley is the largest and most beautiful ski resort in southern Michigan and only some 42 mi (68 km) northwest of downtown Detroit. The ski area located in White Lake, Michigan, features nine chairlifts and 25 slopes. There are four terrain parks, a ski lodge, and Hornet's Nest Lounge with après-ski dancing and entertainment.

Ski Passes

Season passes cost $586 for children between 6 and 12 years old, $742 for adults, and $678 for seniors over 65 years old. The prices are due to increase after October 31st. Day lift tickets range from $54 to $67, while evening tickets cost $54-67. All-day tickets vary around $67-82. Children 5 and under can enter for free.