The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is a winter wonderland, offering a variety of ski resorts that cater to skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. From the extreme terrain of Mount Bohemia to the family-friendly slopes of Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort, the U.P. has something for everyone.
What are the Top Ski Resorts in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula?
- Mount Bohemia Adventure Resort – Lac La Belle
- Known for its extreme skiing and snowboarding, with the longest runs, highest vertical, and deepest powder in the region.
- Offers helicopter skiing and backcountry Snowcat ski runs on Voodoo Mountain.
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Unique features include a Nordic Spa and a variety of terrain parks.
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Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort – Bessemer
- Family-friendly resort with 45 trails, nine chairlifts, and 253 skiable acres.
- Features three terrain parks and two full-service restaurants on-site.
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Known for its high snowfall levels, with an average of 17 feet of natural snowfall annually.
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Marquette Mountain Ski & Bike Area – Marquette
- Offers a variety of slopes for different skill levels, with a vertical drop of over 600 feet.
- Features two double chairs and one rope tow, as well as a cafeteria and full-service bar.
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Known for its scenic views of Marquette and Lake Superior.
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Pine Mountain Resort – Iron Mountain
- Offers 35 wide-open runs over 220 skiable acres, with a vertical drop of 400 feet.
- Features the Bone Yard Terrain Park and offers snow sports lessons for all ages and skill levels.
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Known for its ski-in/ski-out accommodations and proximity to an airport, shopping, and dining.
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Mont Ripley Ski Area – Hancock
- Owned by Michigan Technological University, this ski area offers 24 trails, a terrain park, and three tubing runs.
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Known for its night skiing, with operations on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 5 pm to 10 pm.
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Snowriver Mountain Resort – Bessemer
- Consists of two adjoining ski areas, Jackson Creek Summit and Black River Basin.
- Offers a total of 15 lifts and 56 ski trails, with three terrain parks.
- Known for its high snowfall levels, with an average of 160-200 inches annually.
What are the Night Skiing Options in the Upper Peninsula?
The Upper Peninsula offers limited night skiing options, with only one resort providing this service:
- Mont Ripley Ski Area: Offers night skiing on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 5 pm to 10 pm.
What are the Average Snowfall Levels at the Ski Resorts?
The Upper Peninsula is known for its abundant snowfall, but the exact figures vary across the different ski resorts:
- Mount Bohemia Adventure Resort: No specific data available.
- Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort: 17 feet of natural snowfall annually.
- Marquette Mountain Ski & Bike Area: No specific data available.
- Pine Mountain Resort: No specific data available.
- Mont Ripley Ski Area: No specific data available.
- Snowriver Mountain Resort: 160-200 inches annually.
References:
– Upper Peninsula Travel
– Freshwater Vacation Rentals
– Travel Ironwood
– Local Freshies
– MI Ski Report