One of the Midwest’s premier destination ski resorts, featuring 60 trails, a 500-foot vertical drop and extensive year-round activities.

• Opening Date: 6 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 20 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Pellston Regional Airport (PLN) - 36 miles (45 minutes)

Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - 59 miles (1 hour)

Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) - 181 miles (3 hours)

Boasting 60 runs that cater to all skiing levels and fantastic non-skiing activities, Boyne Mountain is an ideal resort for families. Located more than five hours from Chicago and almost four hours from Detroit, the resort might be a bit out of the way unless you're a local. Nonetheless, it's a great mountain with an extensive snowmaking network ensuring reliable snow conditions. Beginners, including little ones, can enjoy designated areas without needing a lift ticket, while non-skiers can explore a range of activities like snowshoeing, ziplining, and visiting Michigan’s largest indoor water park. Accommodations are abundant, conveniently located, and tailored to fit any budget, making Boyne Mountain an inviting retreat for everyone.

• View Boyne Mountain Resort Ski Packages

One-of-a-kind Mississippi River views and excellent beginner-friendly terrain.

• Opening Date: 6 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 16 Mar 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Dubuque Regional Airport (DBQ) - 25 miles (45 minutes)

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) - 150 miles (2 hours 30 minutes)

Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) - 160 miles (3 hours 30 minutes)

Chestnut Mountain may feature a modest 19 runs and a single terrain park, but its prime location in western Illinois makes it a favorite among Midwestern skiers. Renowned for its terrain park, consistently ranked among the best in the Midwest, the resort also caters to families with its welcoming, beginner-friendly slopes. Despite its smaller size, advanced snowmaking technology guarantees reliable skiing conditions throughout the season. Visitors can enjoy a range of lodging and dining options conveniently close to the slopes, while the nearby town of Galena adds to the experience with its charming boutiques, art galleries and historical attractions. Located just three hours from Chicago, Chestnut Mountain is easily accessible for skiers across Iowa, Wisconsin and Minnesota. For those flying in, Dubuque Regional Airport (DBQ) is a short 25-mile drive away, ensuring both convenience and adventure for every guest.

Some of the best terrain parks and longest runs in the Midwest.

• Opening Date: 7 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 16 Mar 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) - 26 miles (45 minutes)

General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) - 90 miles (2 hours)

Just a short drive from Chicago and even closer to Milwaukee and Madison, Cascade Mountain offers easy access to Wisconsin Dells' year-round attractions. The resort features 11 lifts serving nearly 50 diverse runs and four terrain parks designed for all skill levels. Families will love that kids under 12 ski for free with a paying adult. After skiing, visitors can enjoy 15 thrilling 800-foot tubing chutes and live entertainment throughout the season. With its budget-friendly perks and activities for everyone, Cascade Mountain is the perfect destination for a memorable winter getaway!

Home to Wisconsin's largest resort, the state's tallest vertical drop at 700 feet, and expertly maintained terrain.

• Opening Date: 6 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 6 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA) - 13 miles (15 minutes)

With 700 feet of vertical and 200 acres of terrain, Granite Peak’s 68 runs might make you think you’re skiing or boarding in a different part of the country. There are runs for every ability and experience level, including dedicated beginner slopes, and the elevation and aspect make for reliably good snow conditions. The Midwest's largest-ever ski resort expansion is now a reality, thanks to recent investments, and it features one of the finest lift networks in the region. Intermediate skiers can enjoy a wide selection of groomed runs, while advanced enthusiasts will find plenty to challenge them with terrain parks, moguls and tree runs. Conveniently located for day trips from Green Bay and Milwaukee, the resort is also near Wausau, which offers a variety of accommodations and dining options to complete your visit.

Consistently one of the top-rated family ski resorts in North America, with a welcoming atmosphere and activities for all ages.

• Opening Date: 23 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 20 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) - 116 miles (2 hours)

Crystal Mountain keeps its guests busy with instructional programs for kids as young as 3, free skiing for kids under 6, and plenty of activities for non-skiers. While the mountain doesn’t boast much vertical, its 58 runs cater to all skill levels, and nearly half of them are illuminated for night skiing. Located near Lake Michigan, it benefits from reliable lake-effect snow, complemented by a snowmaking system that covers 100% of the terrain. Whether you’re here for skiing, relaxation or a family-friendly getaway, Crystal Mountain delivers.

Kids as little as 3 can participate in instructional programs, while kids under 6 enjoy free skiing. Non-skiers won’t be left out, thanks to a range of activities, including the award-winning Crystal Spa, ranked among the top Midwest spas by Spas of America. While the mountain’s vertical drop might not be the largest, its 58 diverse runs cater to all skill levels, with nearly half lit for night skiing. Crystal Mountain benefits from reliable lake-effect snow, enhanced by a snowmaking system that covers the entire terrain. Whether you’re hitting the slopes, unwinding at the spa or seeking a family-friendly retreat, Crystal Mountain exceeds expectations.

The best place in Michigan for expert and advanced skiers!

• Opening Date: 15 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: Apr 16 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Houghton County Memorial Airport - 36 miles (1 hour)

Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) - 375 miles (7 hours)

Mount Bohemia might require a lengthy road trip unless you’re lucky enough to live on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. However, its remote location offers a unique advantage: cold Canadian air and Lake Superior’s lake-effect snow combine to produce an impressive average of 273 inches of snowfall annually—the highest of any ski resort in the Midwest. Designed exclusively for expert skiers, Mount Bohemia has no beginner terrain and stands out as the only lift-served resort in North America without groomed trails. This creates exceptional deep snow conditions and some of the best tree skiing in the region. For those seeking a true challenge, Mount Bohemia boasts the Midwest’s largest vertical drop at 900 feet, offering powder skiing, bumps and glades that feel more like a destination you’d need a plane ticket to reach. Lift tickets remain budget-friendly compared to larger resorts, and backcountry enthusiasts will find plenty of accessible terrain to explore.

Some of the best snow in the Midwest and ski seasons up to six months long!

• Opening Date: 28 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 20 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Sawyer International Airport (MQT) - 84 miles (1 hour 45 minutes)

Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) - 145 miles (2 hour 45 minutes)

Tucked near the border of Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Ski Brule might not be the most accessible resort for many Midwesterners. However, for locals or those willing to make the journey, it’s a hidden gem worth exploring. Renowned for its top-notch snowmaking and impeccable grooming, this family-friendly resort offers a delightful mix of features: trails up to a mile long, scenic runs through wooded landscapes, and a 500-foot vertical drop. With one of Michigan’s longest ski seasons—often stretching into May—Ski Brule consistently delivers exceptional skiing and snowboarding conditions. Its remote location is balanced by affordable lift tickets, pristine snow and varied terrain, making it a destination worth the effort. Beyond skiing and snowboarding, visitors can enjoy tubing, snowshoeing and terrain parks, making it a great choice for adventurers of all skill levels.