Skiing in Michigan

Michigan's most famous resort is Boyne, where the ski slopes unfold over 400 acres. Scoot down more than 50 runs, several of which are a mile long, and explore 43mi. of cross country skiing. The resort also boasts Michigan's first high speed chairlift.

Snuggled into the Upper Peninsula, the family-orientated Pine Mountain Resort beckons with one of the best ski jumps in the world. The U.S. record jump of 459ft. was set here. Arrive in February, and you can observe the Kivanis Ski Club tournament, frequented by the world's top skiers. The resort offers night skiing and 27 different trails, plus a terrain park to play in.

For over half a century, Big Powderhorn has offered its guests some of the most spectacular scenery in the state. Explore 253 acres of terrain, across a 622ft. drop on 33 different runs. The resort caters to experts and novices alike, so it's little wonder that its appeal endures year after year. Don't miss the invigorating Cannonball run, which is 5,280ft. in length.

For the European skiing experience, you'll want to head to Shanty Creek. More than 5,000 acres in area, the resort extends across two mountains, Schuss and Summit. Unique to Shanty Creek is the opportunity it affords guests to ski between three Nordic-style villages. Vacation at Shanty Creek, and you can whistle down 50 different runs, including one mile-long stretch, and play for hours on end in any of the resort's five terrain parks. Snowshoeing and dog-sledding are additional options.

Caberfae makes the top list for its scale and spectacular views over Manistee National Forest. Skiers of all abilities and experience will find thrilling runs among the 34 that are on offer at the resort. Experienced skiers can challenge themselves on the resort's double-black diamond rated run.

Regularly hailed as one of the best resorts in the Midwest, Ski Brule opens its doors earlier than most, in October, and remains open for six months. In 24 hours, the park can generate enough snow for an entire trail. Your family will be spoiled by the variety of facilities and activities on offer here. With three terrain parks and a tubing park, the resort also brings sleigh rides, acrobagging, and a packed children's program to the table.

Bountiful in lake-effect snow, Mount Bohemia receives an average of 273in. of snow every year. The resort offers guests access to the longest vertical in the region, at 900ft., plus myriad forested runs and plenty of après-ski options. What's more, the resort facilities include numerous outdoor hot tubs and saunas, so you can wind down in the warmth and watch the snowflakes falling after a long day on the slopes.

Your family will make great memories in a playground that stretches for 169 acres. There are 25 runs at Marquette Mountain, which is home to the second longest run in the state. Night skiing and snowboarding, cross country and terrain parks all await. If you wish, you can leave your cabin and hop directly onto one of three lifts, for maximum run time.

Crystal Mountain is another resort that families should consider, especially if you have young children. The range of activities and family-orientated facilities offered across the resort's 102 acres of terrain is impressive. Family campfires, a family play area, and other activities like snow cat rides, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing allow you to play all day in this picturesque alpine retreat.