Michigan vacations

There are so many top-notch places to hit the slopes in Michigan that you can take your pick. The state ranks second in the nation by number of ski areas, which might explain why Olympic gold medalist snowboarder Nick Baumgartner and Olympic skier Winter Vinecki hail from Michigan. In the winter, skiers and snowboarders at any age or level can find ski runs, terrain parks, lessons and slopes spread across the state − many of which include overnight accommodations in cozy lodges. If you’re visiting in any other seasons, most ski resorts transform into an equally thrilling place to bike, hike or golf.

The history of commercialized winter sports in Michigan stretches back to when its first ski resort opened 93 years ago. Today the state is still trying to push boundaries, with a record-setting bridge between peaks and a ski resort designated for advanced skiers only. Become part of the state’s skiing and snowboarding legacy when you visit any of these top Michigan ski resorts.

(Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

In Michigan’s Upper Peninsula region sits Ski Brule, a family-friendly mountain resort offering skiing and snowboarding for all ages and abilities. Three parks designed for snowboarding offer diverse terrain ranging from smaller boxes and wider rails to pitches of various sizes through advanced wooded areas. The resort offers 17 ski trails, 11 lifts and 150 acres of navigable terrain; the property sees 150 inches of snow each year, with snowmaking capabilities as well. Ski Brule typically opens for the season in late November and remains open as long as there are good snow conditions (typically until mid-April).

Brule Village offers 15 different on-site chalets with up to six bedrooms; some feature saunas, private hot tubs, and wood or gas fireplaces. The resort’s Homestead Snow Tubing Park is an option for a fun and easy afternoon of gently sliding down the slopes. Brule is open in the summer months, with options to kayak, fish, golf and more.

Address: 397 Brule Mountain Road, Iron River, MI 49935

Mount Bohemia is a Michigan ski resort reserved for advanced skiers only, with steep slopes, exposed…