Shredder’s Guide to Michigan Ski Resorts: Ranking by Size
Hey snow-fiends, ever wondered where to catch the biggest verticals or sneak a quick session when your boss isn’t looking? Michigan’s got a hill for every vibe, from big-shot peaks to small-town charmers. So strap in, wax up, and let’s rank Michigan ski resorts by size while throwing in some gnarly details to make you drool.
1. Mt. Bohemia (Lac La Belle, U.P.)
The Big Kahuna: 900 vertical feet
If Michigan had a king of shred, this is it. Mt. Bohemia is all about ungroomed, expert-only terrain. No snowmaking here—just lake-effect powder so deep you’ll feel like you’re riding a cloud. Also, no bunny hills, so tell your wobbly beginner friends to stay home.
2. Boyne Highlands (Harbor Springs)
Royalty on the Mitten: 552 vertical feet
Boyne Highlands is like the luxury SUV of Michigan resorts—fancy, smooth, and with enough terrain to make your thighs burn by day two. Night skiing? Check. Heated chairlifts? You bet. Plus, après-ski vibes in Harbor Springs are elite.
3. Boyne Mountain (Boyne Falls)
Sibling Rivalry: 500 vertical feet
Boyne Highlands’ sibling, Boyne Mountain, brings the family-friendly energy with a killer indoor waterpark for when the kiddos are done face-planting on the bunny hill. But don’t sleep on the 60 trails, parks, and steeps—it’s got enough to keep you lapping all day.
4. Nubs Nob (Harbor Springs)
Local Legend: 427 vertical feet
Nubs Nob is where you’ll find Michigan’s hardcore locals—shredding everything from moguls to perfectly groomed corduroy. It’s not as bougie as Boyne Highlands, but who needs heated seats when you’ve got killer vibes?
5. Crystal Mountain (Thompsonville)
Hidden Gem: 375 vertical feet
Crystal Mountain is like that friend who doesn’t brag but secretly kills it. With 58 trails and some stellar parks, it’s a solid choice for shredders of all levels. Plus, Thompsonville? It’s quaint AF.
6. Caberfae Peaks (Cadillac)
Old-School Cool: 485 vertical feet
Caberfae has been holding it down since the 1930s, making it Michigan’s OG ski resort. The terrain is fun, the tickets are cheap, and Cadillac is an underrated après hotspot.
7. Shanty Creek (Bellaire)
Triple Threat: 450 vertical feet
Shanty Creek’s got three villages and a whopping 53 trails spread across Schuss Mountain, Summit Mountain, and Cedar River. It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure book but with more face plants.
8. Pine Knob (Clarkston)
Metro Detroit’s Pride: 300 vertical feet
A favorite for Detroiters, Pine Knob offers a quick hit of shred without the long drive. It’s small but mighty, and the views of Clarkston are, uh, inspiring?
9. Cannonsburg (Belmont)
Park Rat Paradise: 250 vertical feet
Cannonsburg is the spot if rails, boxes, and jumps are your jam. The park crew here knows their stuff, and the vibe is all chill, no frills. Belmont’s proximity to Grand Rapids is a bonus.
10. Bittersweet (Otsego)
Sweet, Indeed: 350 vertical feet
Bittersweet is ideal for a quick sesh, with fast lifts and solid runs. It’s like the perfect first date—not too fancy, not too sketchy, just right.
11. Mt. Holly (Holly)
Detroit Adjacent: 350 vertical feet
A staple for southeast Michigan shredders, Mt. Holly is your go-to for midweek turns or teaching your newbie friends how to pizza. Pro tip: hit it at night for maximum vibes.
12. Alpine Valley (White Lake)
Laid-Back Laps: 300 vertical feet
Alpine Valley is as chill as it gets. It’s close to Metro Detroit, making it a favorite for low-key weekend warriors. The terrain parks here are surprisingly solid for its size.
13. Treetops Resort (Gaylord)
Small but Mighty: 225 vertical feet
Treetops lives up to its name with stunning views and runs that wind through dense forest. It’s small, but you’ll leave feeling refreshed and ready for a brew in charming Gaylord.
14. Marquette Mountain (Marquette)
U.P. Vibes: 457 vertical feet
Marquette Mountain is a must for Upper Peninsula shredders. Big vertical for the U.P., solid powder days, and a town that knows how to après right.
15. Snow Snake (Harrison)
Snake Your Way Down: 210 vertical feet
Snow Snake may not be the biggest, but it’s the perfect training ground for kids and beginners. Plus, Harrison’s small-town charm makes it a worthy stop.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re bombing steep runs at Mt. Bohemia or cruising the parks at Cannonsburg, Michigan’s got a hill for every shredder. The verticals may not be Rocky Mountain-sized, but the vibes are pure stoke, and the après-ski game? Second to none.
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