Michigan Family Ski Vacations

When most families envision the ultimate ski vacation, New England and the Rockies often come to mind; Michigan, on the other hand, likely does not. Did you know the state offers 38 alpine resorts though, making it the second largest state to offer the most ski resorts? (New York is No. 1, with 50 resorts.) Not only does Michigan offer a bevy of skiing opportunities, but it offers tame terrain specifically designed for youngsters, including popular Boyne Mountain Resort and Boyne Mountain Highlands, as well as Nubs Nob.

Boyne Highlands Resort

This is the sister property of Boyne Mountain Resort, a half an hour south in Boyne Falls. It offers 55 ski runs, as well as the opportunity to go snowmobiling and dogsledding. Six lodging variations are offered, too, and since ski passes can be used at Boyne Mountain Resort, the Boyne Highlands Resort serves as an ideal home base.

Boyne Mountain Resort

Boyne Mountain Resort offers more than 60 runs, many of which cater to new skiers and snowboarders. In fact, children as young as age 3 can learn to navigate the slopes, courtesy of the Boyne Snowsports Academy. Other offerings include slope-side ice skating, snowshoeing and, perhaps best of all, Avalanche Bay, an indoor waterpark!

Crystal Mountain

Dogsledding, snowshoeing, snow biking, ice skating, ice hockey, horse-drawn surrey rides, snowmobiling, and, of course, skiing and snowboarding, are what draw families to this ski resort, not far from Traverse City. But Crystal Mountain‘s complimentary activities are just as much of a sell, and include scavenger hunts, family bonfires, organized snowman searches, snow castle contests and more!

Nubs Nob

Located in Harbor Springs, Mich., Nubs Nob has 53 runs (15 of which are designated for beginner-level skiers), and continues to receive accolades for its terrain parks, snow-making system, ski patrol, family programs, food, and overall offerings! While it doesn’t offer lodging, there are at least 58 places to stay within a 15 mile radius.