Michigan ranks among the nation

Michigan ranks among the nation’s leaders for the number of ski areas. Here’s a look at what the state’s ski resorts have to offer.

UPPER PENINSULA

Big Powderhorn – Bessemer

Big Powderhorn is a favorite in the Upper Midwest, and there's infinite variety in the runs. The vertical is a solid 622 feet, one of the highest in the Midwest. Lodging at the area features an array of chalets and condos, and a family friendly ski village means there’s plenty to see and do.

Vertical Drop: 622'
Lifts: 10 (9 chairs, 1 surface)
Terrain: 35% novice, 35% intermediate, 30% expert.
Trails: 28
Cross Country: 17km
Snowboards: 2 terrain parks, Oxbow and Powderkeg
Information: (906) 932-4838, 1-800-501-7669.
Website: www.bigpowderhorn.net

Blackjack – Bessemer

Blackjack Ski Resort is located in the beautiful Black River Valley in the Lake Superior snowbelt of Michigan's western Upper Peninsula. The area is one of the most snowboard-friendly ski areas in the Midwest, with multiple halfpipes and terrain parks. Blackjack also caters to families with a wide variety of terrain and programs, plus special lift ticket pricing for family groups. Blackjack is owned by Burton Snowboard group and has all new rental equipment and features a learn-to-ride snowboard program.

Vertical Drop: 465’
Lifts: 4 chairs, 2 surface
Terrain: 20% novice, 40% intermediate, 40% expert.
Trails: 22
Snowboards: 2 Parks and 3 Pipes
Information: 888-906-9835, 800-848-1125.
Website: www.skiblackjack.com

Indianhead Mountain – Wakefield

Indianhead Mountain Resort in Michigan’s western Upper Peninsula offers 195 acres of skiable terrain and wide open runs reminiscent of the Rockies. The base lodge and facilities are actually at the top of the mountain, which treats guests to stunning vistas. Snowmaking and grooming are a specialty of the resort, which typically opens earlier and stays open later than most other ski areas in the region. A great health and recreation club facility is also open to guests.

Vertical Drop: 638’
Lifts: 5 chairs, 4 surface
Terrain: 21% novice, 37% intermediate, 42% expert.
Trails: 28
Snowboards: Terrain Park and Olympic-size Halfpipe
Information: 800-346-3426
Website: www.indianheadmtn.com

Marquette Mountain – Marquette

Known as a skier’s mountain, Marquette Mountain features a great race program and plenty of challenging terrain. The area contains a 4,000’ alpine terrain park and two legal tree runs. The city of Marquette, the home of Northern Michigan University, is only five minutes away, so there are many lodging and dining options near the resort.

Vertical Drop: 600'
Lifts: 3 chairs, 1 surface
Terrain: 15% novice, 65% intermediate, 20% expert.
Trails: 25
Snowboards: 3 terrain parks all designed by ability: lite weight, big air, all natural. 1 halfpipe, 13 rails.
Information: 906-225-1155, 800-944-7669.
Website: www.marquettemountain.com

Mont Ripley – Houghton

Mont Ripley is operated by Michigan Tech University provides a comfortable chalet featuring a cafeteria and lockers as well as a ski shop and ski school. The terrain is varied, with something for beginners and experts alike. The area is also known for its professional National Ski Patrol unit. Mont Ripley sits adjacent to the Keweenaw National Historic Park.

Vertical Drop: 423'
Lifts: 1 chair, 1 surface
Terrain: 28% novice, 30% intermediate, 31% advanced, 11% expert.
Trails: 16
Snowboards: Terrain Park and Pipe
Information: 906-487-2340
Web Site: www.aux.mtu.edu/ski/

Mt. Bohemia – Keweenaw

Located in the Keweenaw Peninsula, Mt. Bohemia boasts the state’s highest vertical and steepest terrain. Mt. Bohemia offers the biggest vertical drop in the Midwest, featuring expert slopes and some cliff-like drops on some of the steeper runs, a true western experience. The area also has the largest skiable glade between the Rockies and Eastern resorts, extreme back country terrain, and upwards of 300 inches of powder per winter. Bohemia is undoubtedly the most unique ski experience in the entire Midwest.

Vertical Drop: 900'
Lifts: 2 chairs, 1 surface
Terrain: 7% novice, 39% intermediate, 54% expert.
Trails: 46
Snowboards welcome on all slopes and glades.
Information: 888-937-2411, 906-289-4105
Website: www.mtbohemia.com

Norway Mountain – Norway

Skiers recognize Norway Mountain for its varied terrain and friendly staff. The lodge and trailside condos are located on the summit of the mountain, making for easy access to the ski runs. The resort has excellent programs for kids and families at the Alpine Learning Center, and you can even purchase lift tickets and resort merchandise via their on-line store.

Vertical Drop: 500'
Lifts: 3 chair, 2 surface
Terrain: 30% novice, 35% intermediate, 35% expert
Trails: 15
Cross Country: 5km; 3km snowshoeing.
Snowboards: Terrain Park and Pipe
Information: 906 563-9700, 800-272-5445
Website: www.norwaymountain.com

Pine Mountain – Iron Mountain

Pine Mountain is one of the Upper Peninsula’s most famous ski resorts. It’s main lodge is a classic and the resort also offers a selection of condos. Resort spa facilities are open to all guests. While there, don’t miss a visit to Famers, the location of the Upper Peninsula sports Hall of Fame. Pine Mountain Resort is located next to Timberstone Golf Course rated by "Golf Digest" Magazine as one of the top courses in the US.

Vertical Drop: 500'
Lifts: 3 chairs, 2 surface
Terrain: 30% novice, 40% intermediate, 30% expert
Trails: 23
Snowboards: Terrain Park and Pipe
Information: 906-774-2747
Website: www.pinemountainresort.com

Porcupine Mountains – Ontonagon

Porcupine Mountains ski area is located in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Michigan's largest state park. The park is in Ontonagon County, at the western edge of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The park harbors the last extensive tract of old-growth hemlock forests, and is one of the Midwest's most extensive wilderness areas. The Porkies are home to one of the first alpine ski areas in the Midwest as well as some of the most scenic Nordic ski trails in the entire Great Lakes region. The chalet offers ski and snowboard rentals, pro shop, rest rooms, 3 fireplaces, and cafeteria.

Vertical Drop: 641'
Lifts: 2 chair, 2 surface
Terrain: 21% novice, 50% intermediate, 29% expert.
Trails: 15
Cross Country: 42km
Information: 906-885-5275
Website: www.ontonagon.net/porkies/ski/

Ski Brule -- Iron River

Ski Brule is always the first ski resort in Michigan to open and the last to close. The resort really caters to families and children with an array of ski programs and deals. Off the slopes families and kids can also enjoy ice skating, sleigh rides, marshmallow roasts, torchlight parades, and a visit to the Homestead Lodge for a barbeque. Last year: Ski Brule built a new lodging office and a new children's center with indoor activities including a mini playground with slide. The center is located adjacent to the rental center and walks right out to Gentle Ben, the beginner hill. Ski Brule also purchased more snowmaking equipment including a groomer and snow guns.

Vertical Drop: 500'
Lifts: 5 chairs, 2 T-Bars, 4 surface
Terrain: 30% novice, 35% intermediate, 35% expert
Trails: 17
Cross Country: 23km
Snowboards: Snowboarders welcome on all runs, but Snowshoe and Rapids are dedicated snowboard terrain: halfpipe, whales, spines, table tops, and kickers.
Information: 800-362-7853
Website: www.skibrule.com

Mt. Zion – Ironwood

Mt. Zion is run by the ski management school of Gogebic Community College and is the oldest winter recreation complex in Big Snow Country. With ski and snowboard rentals, a snow tubing park, free cross country skiing, and a snack bar, the area is a popular spot for families.

Vertical Drop: 300’
Lifts: 1 chair, 1 surface
Terrain: 25% novice, 50% intermediate, 25% expert
Cross Country: 3km
Snowboards: Terrain Park and Pipe
Information: 906-932-3718
Website: www.gogebic.cc.mi.us/studentinfo/mtzion

More Ski Areas

Al Quaal – Ishpeming – 906-486-6181

Gladstone Sports Park – Gladstone – 906-428-9130

NORTHERN LOWER PENINSULA

Boyne Highlands – Harbor Springs

Boyne Highlands is one of Michigan’s best family resorts. The area is well-known for its excellent ski school and children’s programs. The terrain is expansive, and the lift structure is one of the most efficient in the region. With three base lodges, plenty of ski in/ski out condos, and three hotels, the resort has plenty of capacity, and the outdoor swimming pools and hot tubs are a big favorite.

Vertical Drop: 545'
Lifts: 8 chairs (including a high speed quad), 2 surface
Terrain: 37% novice, 29% intermediate, 31% expert
Trails: 50
Cross Country: 25km
Snowboards: Terrain park and pipe
Information: 800-GO-BOYNE
Website: www.boyne.com

Boyne Mountain – Boyne Falls

Boyne Mountain, the dean of Midwest ski resorts, was the first North American resort to install a six-seat chair lift, and it’s where the triple and quad lifts were invented. Always known as a place with challenging and varied terrain, the Mountain also boasts a wide variety of lodging options, the Austrian/American ski school, and the best apres ski in the Midwest, featuring the legendary Snowflake Lounge. Last year: Ten new trails off the top of Disciple’s Ridge are a fantastic addition to this storied resort.

Vertical Drop: 500'
Lifts:10 chairs (including a high-speed 6), 2 surface
Terrain: 29% novice, 41% intermediate, 30% expert
Trails: 67
Cross Country: 35 km
Snowboards: Terrain park and pipe
Information: 800-GO-BOYNE
Website: www.boyne.com

Challenge Mountain – Boyne Falls

Challenge Mountain is the only ski resort in the United States devoted entirely to physically and mentally challenged skiers. The area offers every type of adaptive ski gear and a dedicated staff of volunteer instructors, and all of its services and equipment are provided free of charge to special needs skiers. Challenge Mt. is open most weekends and by appointment.

Vertical Drop: 370’
Lifts: Paddle tow and snowmobiles (for certain adaptive equipment)
Terrain: 100% novice
Trails: 3
Snowboards: Available this year for the first time.
Information: 231-535-2141
Website: www.challengemt.org

Crystal Mountain – Thompsonville

Crystal Mountain offers lodging for over 1,200 people, indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, and a myriad of skier services in the Crystal Center. But where the resort excels is in family skiing, with solid terrain choices and excellent programs. Crystal's Totem Park is designed exclusively for first-timers and beginners to improve their skiing and snowboarding skills. The resort also has one of the best cross country ski touring centers in Michigan.

Vertical Drop: 375'
Lifts: 7 chairs (including a high speed quad), 2 surface
Terrain: 24% novice, 53% intermediate, 23% expert
Trails: 46
Cross Country: 40+ km
Snowboards: Halfpipe and 4 Parks
Information: 800-968-4676, 800-YOUR-MTN
Website: www.crystalmountain.com

Caberfae Peaks – Cadillac

Now in its 67th ski season, Caberfae Peaks just keeps getting better. The South Peak and North Peak developments have totally changed the skiing at Caberfae Peaks in recent years. The resort now boasts some of the biggest vertical drops and longest and best ski runs in the Midwest. Other new additions include a rental building, a beautiful day lodge, and paved parking. Last year Caberfae created a new terrain park featuring table tops and rails.

Vertical Drop: 485'
Lifts: 4 chairs, 2 surface
Terrain: 39% novice, 29% intermediate, 32% expert.
Trails: 34
Cross Country: 15km
Information: 231-862-3000, 800-968-7544
Website: www.caberfaepeaks.com

Hanson Hills – Grayling

Publicly owned and operated, Hanson Hills is really a winter sports park. The area offers alpine skiing and some of the best cross country skiing in the state. Hanson Hills hosts many Michigan Cup XC races.

Vertical Drop: 225’
Lifts: 1 t-bar, 3 surface
Terrain: 50% novice, 50% intermediate
Trails: 11
Cross Country: 35km
Snowboards: Terrain Park
Information: 989-348-9266
Website: www.hansonhills.org

Nub’s Nob – Harbor Springs

Nub’s Nob is an excellent family ski area famous for its excellent snow, award winning day lodge, and superb cafeteria. This is a ski-only operation, with no lodging on site, but the varied terrain keeps skiers coming back. Trails face all directions of the compass and spill off two peaks, and spectacular vistas of Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay are a treat and a 4,000 sq. foot warming house and restaurant on top of Pintail Peak overlooks it all. The Ski Magazine 2007 Reader Resort Survey ranked the terrain park at Nub's Nob in Harbor Springs as the best in North America and the resort's slope grooming ranked #4 overall. Both of these rankings were awarded by comparing all the ski resorts in the US and Canada.

Vertical Drop: 427'
Lifts: 8 chairs
Terrain: 30% novice, 50% intermediate, 20% expert
Trails: 52
Cross Country: 28km
Snowboards: Top to bottom terrain park and 450’ halfpipe
Information: 231 526-2131, 800 SKI-NUBS
Website: www.nubsnob.com

Otsego Ski Club - Gaylord

Opened in 1939, Otsego Club is America's oldest ski club with its own facility. The club is private, but the public is invited to ski the area at selected times of the winter. The ski facilities include 27 slopes, 5 chair lifts including high speed quad, 2 snowboard half-pipe parks, and miles of marked cross country ski trails. The Club's elevation is the highest point in the famed Michigan Snow/Sun Belt, and assures exceptional skiing throughout the season.

Vertical Drop: 358’
Lifts: 5 chairlifts, including a high-speed quad
Trails: 27
Cross Country: Miles of marked trails.
Snowboards: Terrain Parks, 2 halfpipes, numerous terrain features
Information: 989-732-5181
Website: www.otsegoclub.com

Shanty Creek – Bellaire

Shanty Creek is a four-season resort located on 4,500 acres. The complex includes two ski mountains and three villages, all tied together with a transit system. Skiers can ski both the Summit Slopes and the Schuss Slopes on one Superticket. The area also offers tubing, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and 30 km of the finest cross country skiing in Michigan.

Vertical Drop: 450'
Lifts: 7 chair, 4 surface
Terrain: 37% novice, 30% intermediate, 33% expert
Trails: 46
Cross Country: 30km
Snowboards: 2 Parks and Pipe
Information: 800 678-4111
Website: www.shantycreek.com

Skyline – Grayling

Skyline has undergone a transformation thanks to new ownership. The venerable ski area has long been a favorite of families. The cozy lodge is always a fun place. Easy access off I-75 near Graying makes this a popular resort.

Vertical Drop: 210’
Lifts: 1 chair, 4 surface
Terrain: 10% novice, 70% intermediate, 20% expert.
Trails: 14
Cross Country: 10km
Snowboards: Terrain Park
Information: 989-275-5445
Website: www.skylineski.com

The Homestead – Glen Arbor

The Homestead is unique because it rests on the western shores of Lake Michigan, overlooking the Sleeping Bear Dunes. The trails loom high over Lake Michigan and lead down to a charming Village and resort neighborhoods, all close to resort activities and amenities. Children will love the Tamarack Children’s Center. Guests can also enjoy a snowshoe in the woods, savor fine dining, or travel to nearby villages and explore shops, galleries, museums and historical sites.

Vertical Drop: 375’
Lifts: 3 chairs, 2 surface
Trails: 16
Cross Country: 18km
Snowboards: Terrain Park
Information: 231-334-5000
Website: www.thehomesteadresort.com

Treetops – Gaylord

Treetops Sylvan Resort, in the heart of Northern Michigan's snowbelt, is a perfect family getaway. Located outside "The Alpine Village" of Gaylord, Treetops has a hotel at the top of its ski hill and a good selection of condos. The ski trails wind their way through the majestic hardwood forests that cover the slopes while state-of-the-art snowmaking and grooming make skiing here a joy. The excellent ski school also is a favorite with kids and families.

Vertical Drop: 225'
Lifts: 4 chairs, 3 surface
Terrain: 30% novice, 50% intermediate, 20% expert
Trails: 19
Cross Country: 20 km
Snowboards: Terrain Park and Halfpipe
Information: 888-TREETOPS, 517-732-6711
Website: www.treetops.com

More Ski Areas

Hickory Hills – Traverse City – 231-947-8566

Mt. Holiday – Traverse City – 231-938-2500

Mt. McSauba – Charlevoix – 231-547-3267

CENTRAL LOWER MICHIGAN

Apple Mountain – Freeland

Apple Mountain offers every skier and snowboarder - beginner to advanced - the opportunity to enjoy their favorite winter sport just a few miles from the heart of the tri-cities (Saginaw, Bay city, Midland). Race programs challenge skiers of all ages and levels. Apple Mountain has a quad chairlift, a snowboarding park with a half pipe, and 100% snowmaking capabilities, lighting for night skiing and a warm cozy lounge.

Vertical Drop: 220'
Lifts:1 chair, 5 Surface)
Terrain: 40% novice, 40% intermediate, 20% expert
Trails: 12
Snowboards: Terrain Park and Pipe
Information: 888-781-6789
Website: www.applemountain.com

Snow Snake – Harrison

Snow Snake has carved out a reputation as a great place for families and students. The ski area packs a lot of fun into its 40 acres, everything from skiing and snowboarding to snow tubing. Excellent lift ticket and rental prices are a big plus for the area. The area purchased a new snow groomer and enhanced snowmaking last season.

Vertical Drop: 210’
Lifts: 1 chair, 5 surface
Terrain: 30% novice, 50% intermediate, 20% expert
Trails: 13
Cross Country: 5 km
Snowboards: Terrain Park
Information: 989-539-6583
Website: www.snowsnake.net

SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN

Bittersweet -- Otsego

Southwest Michigan's Bittersweet is in the scenic Kalamazoo River Valley. Come and features the "SWEET EXPRESS" High Speed Detachable Quad chair lift, a first for SW Michigan. The Snowberry Ski Shop has a complete line of skis, boots, and poles as well as the latest in skiing apparel and accessories. The Winner's Circle Lounge is the place to go for food and drink. Last year: The area added more snow guns and expanded and widened its terrain park for this season. The area also purchased more skiing and snowboarding equipment for the rental shop.

Vertical Drop: 350'
Lifts: 6 chairs, 6 surface
Terrain: 30% novice, 60% intermediate, 10% expert
Trails: 17
Snowboards: Terrain Park and Halfpipe.
Information: 616-694-2820, 616-694-2032
Website: www.skibittersweet.com

Cannonsburg Ski Area – Cannonsburg

Cannonsburg Ski Area, just north of Grand Rapids, offers slopes of great variety close to home. Continuous grooming and snowmaking assures every skier from the unsteadiest beginner to the advanced racer that the best snow conditions are always at Cannonsburg. With a quad, triple, and double chair, T-bar and rope tows, Cannonsburg has plenty of capacity to move skiers up the hill. The area also have a top-notch ski school and popular adult and junior racing programs.

Vertical Drop: 250'
Lifts: 3 chairs, 9 surface
Terrain: 40% novice, 40% intermediate, 20% expert
Trails: 18
Snowboards: Terrain Park and Pipe
Information: 616-874-6711, 616-874-6728
Website: www.cannonsburg.com

Swiss Valley – Jones

Celebrating its 36th Anniversary this winter, Swiss Valley is a popular destination for Michigan skiers as well as skier’s from Indianapolis to Chicago. The area specializes in group outings, with an outstanding ski school and children’s program. Swiss Valley is also home for one of the best freestyle training programs in the country, the Swiss Valley Extreme Team. With alpine themed buildings and a nifty mountain top restaurant, Swiss Valley has a lot to offer.

Vertical Drop: 225'
Lifts: 3 chairs, 4 surface
Terrain: 20% novice, 60% intermediate, 20% expert
Trails:11
Snowboards: Terrain park with table tops, spines, picnic tables, kickers, floaters, and a 36’ dragon rail called “Nessie.”
Information: 616-244-5635, 616 244-8016
Website: www.skiswissvalley.com

Timber Ridge – Kalamazoo

Timber Ridge has proudly offered skiing and snowboarding in southwest Michigan for the past 42 years. The trails cascade over beautifully wooded hills. The area also features the Snowshoe Bar with huge windows overlooking the slopes, which come in handy for watching the many race programs sponsored by the resort. The Ski Patrol is one of the best in the country, and patrollers put on slope side barbeques every Saturday, a “don’t miss” attraction. Check out the great photo gallery on the resort’s website.

Vertical Drop: 240'
Lifts: 5 chairs, 5 surface
Terrain: 20% novice, 70% intermediate, 10% expert
Trails: 15
Snowboards: Terrain Park and Pipe
Information: 616-694-9449, 800 285-6525
Website: www.timberridgeski.com

More Ski Areas

Pando Winter Sports Park – Rockford – 616-874-8343

SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN

Alpine Valley – White Lake

A short drive from Detroit or Ann Arbor brings you to the largest ski area in southern Michigan. This family-oriented ski area features 25 scenic slopes serviced by 10 chairlifts and 10 rope tows. And when you're ready to unwind after a fun-filled day or night of challenging snowy runs, you can relax in front of one of the many massive stone fireplaces in the spacious lodge, complete with two cafeterias and snack bars.

Vertical Drop: 300'
Lifts: 10 chairs, 10 surface
Terrain: 39% novice, 26% intermediate, 35% expert
Trails: 25
Snowboards: Terrain park and 350’ halfpipe
Information: 248-887-2180, 248-887-4183
Website: www.skialpinevalley.com

Mt. Brighton – Brighton

Mt. Brighton, now in its 45th season, is one of the busiest ski areas in Michigan, a favorite with young and old alike. The area is popular with groups and does a great job with children, but that does not mean the adults are left out. Night skiing (as late as 2 A.M. on Saturday nights) and race programs are two staples on the Mt. Brighton menu. The area also boasts a massive lodge with good food and a fun atmosphere.

Vertical Drop: 250'
Lifts: 7 chairs, 11 surface
Terrain: 30% novice, 40% intermediate, 30% expert
Trails: 26
Snowboards: Terrain Park and Pipe
Information: 810-229-9581
Website: www.mtbrighton.com

Mt. Holly – Holly

Nestled in beautiful Groveland Valley, Mt. Holly is just one hour north of Detroit and 15 minutes south of Flint. The area offer slopes for the whole family, and uphill capacity that includes a high speed quad. Skier friendly Mt. Holly offers night skiing, complete snow making and grooming, and a helpful staff. The sprawling lodge has some great dining spots, like a pizza room and the Lift Lounge with 21 food/drink items, as well as the best apres ski decks in Michigan.

Vertical Drop: 350'
Lifts: 7 chairs, 6 surface
Terrain: 22% novice, 39% intermediate, 39% expert
Trails: 18
Snowboards: Terrain Park
Information: 248-634-8260, 800-582-7256
Website: www.skimtholly.com

Pine Knob -- Clarkston

Pine Knob is close to Detroit, but has an “up north” feel. The slopes offer a lot of variety, including the double black “Wall.” The day lodge is one of the classiest in Michigan, with huge windows overlooking the slopes. Beginners flock to the ski school each winter, and the Adult Racing League is one of the most active in the state.

Vertical Drop: 300'
Lifts: 5 chair, 5 surface
Terrain: 30% novice, 35% intermediate, 35% expert
Trails: 15
Snowboards: Terrain Park
Information: 248-625-0800, 800-642-SNOW
Web Site: www.skipineknob.com

Blue Mountain – Collingwood, Ontario

Although not “technically” a Michigan ski area, so many Michigan skiers trek to Blue Mt. each winter it ranks as a close cousin. With a whopping 728’ vertical and a mountain that’s 2.5 miles wide, Blue is immense. The resort is so huge it encompasses 4 distinct base areas, but the Village at Blue is the most impressive. Anchored by the stately Grand Georgian Hotel, the Village contains shops, restaurants, and a town square. By 2010 Blue will have pumped $500 million into development and will rival places like Tremblant.

Vertical Drop: 728’
Lifts: 12, including 4 high speed lifts
Terrain: 15% novice, 32% intermediate, 52% expert
Trails: 40
Snowboards: 4 terrain parks, 1 halfpipe, 2 Superpipes
Information: 705-445-0231
Website: www.bluemountain.ca

WHAT'S NEW FOR 2007-2008 ON MICHIGAN'S SLOPES

Michigan ski Industries Association (Winter, 2007-2008)–Michigan skiing has come a long way in the past few decades. From humble beginnings of stamping out ski runs with a team of people wearing snowshoes to the massive machine groomers of today, downhill snow sports have evolved. Not only has slope maintenance improved dramatically, the ability to make snow has increased the quality and frequency of skiing. Even if there is no snow in people’s yards, the ski slopes can be covered when the weather is cold.
Winter thrills are not far away. Michigan has it all, from expert runs through the trees to Olympic-sized half pipes. Michigan ski areas boast a combined total of over 200 chairlifts, 840 runs, 40 terrain parks and thousands of kilometers of groomed cross-country trails. Steve Kershner, Michigan Snowsports Industries Association (MSIA) chairman and director of skiing for Shanty Creek, says there’s really something for everyone and every ability level on Michigan’s ski slopes and trails.

Here is a rundown of improvements on Michigan slopes for the 2007/08 winter season:

Boyne USA’s Boyne Highlands in Harbor Springs and Boyne Mountain in Boyne Falls, 1-800-GO-BOYNE, made a $750,000 investment in additional snowmaking and pumping system update. New wells, pumps and technology with Boyne’s latest high-efficiency snow guns boost a 40 percent increase in snowmaking capability allowing for better skiing/riding conditions–earlier in the season–while using less energy. Boyne also purchased two Prinoth groomers to add to their fleet. The 2007/08 Boyne Season Pass offers access to winter sports at Boyne Highlands and Boyne Mountain as well as discounts and/or free skiing and riding at Boyne resorts in Montana, Utah, Washington, British Columbia and now at newly acquired resorts in Maine. www.boyne.com

At Cadillac’s, Caberfae Peaks Ski and Golf Resort, (231) 862-3000, terrain expansions over the summer included widening the Mid-Canyon run, providing more room to carve and widening the Upper Easy Street run by almost 50%, providing easier access from the Shelter & Clubhouse chair lifts. For improved snowmaking, the Peaks added 6 snowmaking towers to Lower Easy Street and 5 snowmaking towers to Lower Shelter. Known to be the oldest operating ski resort in the Midwest, the owners also added 500 feet of snowmaking pipe, improving efficiency and added snowmaking guns, bringing the total to almost 100. Improvements at Mackenzie Lodge include the recent addition of full service dining and renovation of the front desk and reception area plus all 36 guest rooms. They also added 50 percent more lockers for rent this season. The Peaks has new season pass pricing to accommodate everybody’s schedule: $99 Weekend Pass–valid any Saturday & Sunday, $99 Midweek Pass–valid Monday thru Friday and the $198 Peak Pass–valid any day, any time. www.caberfaepeaks.com

Cross-country skiers are in for a treat at Cross Country Ski Headquarters of Roscommon, (800) 832-2663. Owner Bob Frye is building a new hilled cross-country terrain park, where kids can perfect their jumps and the others can work on their technique. Frye is covering the park with snow guns, so that Nordic skiers can enjoy their sport, even when the trails are bare. www.cross-country-ski.com.

Crystal Mountain of Thompsonville, (231) 378-2000, has increased snowmaking by 30 percent with additional pumping capacity and five new snow guns bringing their arsenal total to 126, allowing for better skiing/riding conditions early in the season and building and maintaining a good base. New this year, Crystal will hold a Winter Family Festival with Snow Monsters and other mascots providing entertainment on the slopes. Crystal is offering a new season pass called “Daybreak Season Pass”, for use Mon-Fri, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding holidays, for $139. www.crystalmountain.com

The Homestead of Glen Arbor, (231) 334-5000, renamed their rental shop, “Mountain Flowers Lodge”. The building has been expanded to twice its original size. New this season, The Homestead will offer ice skating. www.thehomesteadresort.com
Mt. Bohemia in the UP's Keweenaw Peninsula, (906) 487-9757, has added more lodging. For those who want to get first crack at new, morning powder, four new yurts (circular, domed tent-like dwellings originally developed by the Mongol and Turkic people of central Asia.) were added at the base of the slopes. www.mtbohemia.com

Mt. Brighton Ski Area of Brighton, (810) 229-9581, keeps the excitement rolling with more rails and boxes in the terrain park. www.mtbrighton.com

Mt. Holly of Holly, (248) 634-8269 has added 10 new snowmaking machines to the existing fleet of 80. www.skimtholly.com

Nubs Nob of Harbor Springs, (231) 526-2131, celebrates its 50th birthday this season and is gearing up for the next 50 by adding eight additional snow guns, (bringing their count to 250), and two new Pisten Bully Snow Grooming Machines featuring Z-Flex tillers, to insure that their slopes are groomed to perfection. The Nubs team was busy over the summer, clearing another expert-only gladed tree skiing area, located in Arena Glades and featuring a wind-protected pitch. To make every minute count, Nubs is introducing a new four-hour Freedom lift ticket, good for any consecutive four-hour period (Saturdays and Holidays only after 12:30 p.m.). Nubs purchased all new rental skis and replaced every pair of rental boots with the latest gear from Nordica. www.nubsnob.com

Pine Knob of Clarkston, (248) 625-0800, features a remodeled cafe/ski club room. Pine Knob also increased the number of snow guns by 15 percent to insure that there is ample snow on the slopes. www.skipineknob.com

Shanty Creek Resort & Club, of Bellaire, 1-800-678-4111, is undergoing a $10 million upgrade at its Summit Village (the original Shanty Creek Lodge). There will be a major main lodge renovation, with a new face. The lobby entrance will also be renovated with tall hardwood ceilings and big windows, revealing a stunning view of Lake Bellaire. As a result, the 185-room hotel is being renamed The Lakeview Hotel & Conference Center. There will also be extensive remodeling of the Lakeview Dining Room and all meeting and banquet facilities, including the 9,000-square-foot ballroom. All the guestrooms are being redecorated. On the slopes, Shanty Creek will boast a new Magic Carpet conveyor lift. Slopes on both Schuss and the Summit have new additional grooming and snowmaking equipment and more freestyle programs and features. Families can take advantage of Value Season Lodging packages, which are free for children. The rental department has additional new rental equipment and computerized rental sign-up. www.shantycreek.com

Ski Brule of Iron River, (906) 265-6754, is inviting guests to come and be a snow groomer co-pilot on Wednesday, Friday or Saturday evenings. Reservations for the 15-minute groomer rides are required through the Bear’s Den Pro Shop. Ski Brule has also made lodging accommodation renovations and increased snowmaking capacity, assuring that the ski area will once again be the first to open and last to close in Michigan. www.skibrule.com

Treetops Resort in Treetops Village, (near Gaylord), 1-888-TREETOPS, has expanded the terrain park with a designated beginner and intermediate section. Tubing enthusiasts will be pleased with Treetops’ brand new tubes. www.treetops.com

Timber Ridge in Gobles (269) 694-9449, will host The Kalamazoo Ski & Snowboard Festival this year on October 13th. The Festival will feature a “Teton Gravity Research” movie presented on the big screen on the slope. Also the Ridge will hold their first Rail Jam of the season in the Terrain Park and a Big Air Show featuring the Schrab twins of Warren Miller movie fame. There will be equipment vendors and lots of door prizes. On the slopes, Timber Ridge will have more snowmaking with tower-mounted snow guns this year. They have a new beginner terrain park as well as new features in the current park. Special training programs in the terrain park include Park Camp, January 5 and 6 and a special Kids’ Day, January 13, 2008. www.timberridgeski.com