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Jim Neff's Ultimate Michigan Ski Guide

Jim Neff's Ultimate Michigan Ski Guide

Jim Neff’s Ultimate Guide 2003-04

Grand Traverse Resort & Spa

Petoskey / Harbor Springs / Boyne Country Jim Neff’s Ultimate Michigan Ski Guide 2003 - 2004

By Jim Neff 7669. year Indianhead still had 52” of on its Website: www.bigpowderhorn.net runs. A great health and recreation club ichigan ranks among the facility is also open to guests. n a t i o n ’s leaders for the number Blackjack – Bessemer Mof ski areas. Here ’s a look at Blackjack is located in the beauti- Vertical Drop: 638’ what the state’s ski re s o rts have to off e r ful Black River Valley in the Lake Lifts: 5 chairs, 4 surface in 2003-2004. Superior snowbelt of Michigan's western Terrain: 21% novice, 37% intermediate, Upper Peninsula. The area is one of the 42% expert. most -friendly ski areas in the Trails: 22 Upper Peninsula Midwest, with multiple halfpipes and terrain : Terrain Park and Olympic-size parks. Blackjack also caters to families with Halfpipe Big Powderhorn – Bessemer a wide variety of terrain and programs, plus Information: 800-346-3426 Big Powderhorn is a favorite in the Upper special lift ticket pricing for family groups. Website: www.indianheadmtn.com Midwest, and there's infinite variety in the runs. The vertical is a solid 622 feet, one Vertical Drop: 465’ – Marquette of the highest in the Midwest. Lodging at Lifts: 4 chairs, 2 surface Known as a skier’s mountain, Marquette the area features an array of chalets and Terrain: 20% novice, 40% intermediate, Mountain features a great race program and condos, and a family friendly ski village 40% expert. plenty of challenging terrain. The area con- means there’s plenty to see and do. This sea- Trails: 22 tains a 4,000’ alpine terrain park and two son a new black diamond run has been Snowboards: 2 Parks and 3Pipes legal tree runs. The city of Marquette, the added along the upper towers of 4. Information: 888-906-9835, 800-848-1125. home of Northern Michigan University, is The Main Lodge cafeteria has been renovat- Website: www.skiblackjack.com only five minutes away, so there are many ed and will offer home made baked goods lodging and dining options near the resort. and health-conscious salads. Indianhead Mountain – Wakefield For this year the Supreme lift and run have Indianhead Mountain Resort in Michigan’s been re-engineered, the park has been Vertical Drop: 622' western Upper Peninsula offers 195 acres of moved to Chute, and the restaurant has Lifts: 10 (9 chairs, 1 surface) skiable terrain and wide open runs reminis- been remodeled. Terrain: 35% novice, 35% intermediate, cent of the Rockies. The base lodge and 30% expert. facilities are actually at the top of the moun- Vertical Drop: 600' Trails: 26 tain, which treats guests to stunning vistas. Lifts: 3 chairs, 1 surface Cross Country: 17km and grooming are a specialty Terrain: 15% novice, 65% intermediate, Snowboards: 2 terrain parks, Oxbow and of the resort, which typically opens earlier 20% expert. Powderkeg and stays open later than most other ski Trails: 25 Information: (906) 932-4838, 1-800-501- areas in the region. At the end of march last Snowboards: 3 terrain parks all designed by

S2 S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 0 3 ◆ M I C H I G A N S K I E R M A G A Z I N E ability: lite weight, big air, all natural. 1 ate, 35% expert don’t miss a visit to Famers, the location of halfpipe, 13 rails. Trails: 15 the Upper Peninsula sports Hall of Fame. Information: 906-225-1155, 800-944-7669. Cross Country: 5km; 3km snowshoeing. Pine Mountain Resort is located next to Website: www.marquettemountain.com Snowboards: Terrain Park and Pipe Timberstone Golf Course rated by "Golf Information: 906 563-9700, 800-272-5445 Digest" Magazine as one of the top courses – Houghton Website: www.norwaymountain.com in the US. Mont Ripley is operated by Michigan Tech University provides a comfortable chalet fea- Pine Mountain – Iron Mountain Vertical Drop: 500' turing a cafeteria and lockers as well as a ski Pine Mountain is one of the Upper Lifts: 3 chairs, 2 surface shop and . The terrain is varied, Peninsula’s most famous ski resorts. It’s Terrain: 30% novice, 40% intermediate, with something for beginners and experts main lodge is a classic and the resort also 30% expert alike. The area is also known for its profes- offers a selection of condos. Resort spa facil- Trails: 23 sional National Ski Patrol unit. Mont Ripley ities are open to all guests. While there, Snowboards: Terrain Park and Pipe sits adjacent to the Keweenaw National Historic Park. Ripley recorded 112 ski days last season. This year look for new Salomon shape in the rental depart- ment and a new state-of-the art snow- making system.

Vertical Drop: 423' Lifts: 1 chair, 1 surface Terrain: 28% novice, 30% intermedi- ate, 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 experi- ence. The area also has the largest ski- able 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 expe - rience in the entire Midwest.

Vertical Drop: 900' Lifts: 2 chairs, 1 surface Terrain: 7% novice, 39% intermediate, 54% expert. Trails: 41 Snowboards: Park and Pipe 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 trail-side 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% intermedi-

S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 0 3 ◆ M I C H I G A N S K I E R M A G A Z I N E S3 Information: 906-774-2747 Ski Brule is always the first ski resort in rentals, a snow tubing park, free cross coun- Website: www.pinemountainresort.com Michigan to open and the last to close, last try , and a snack bar, the area is a year logging a record 182 days of skiing. popular spot for families. The resort really caters to families and chil- – dren with an array of ski programs and Vertical Drop: 300’ Ontonagon deals. Off the slopes families and kids can Lifts: 1 chair, 1 surface Po r cupine Mountains ski area is located in also enjoy ice skating, sleigh rides, marsh- Terrain: 25% novice, 50% intermediate, Po r cupine Mountains Wil d e r ness State Park, mallow roasts, torchlight parades, and a 25% expert Michigan's largest state park. The park is in visit to the Homestead Lodge for a bar- Cross Country: 3km Ontonagon County, at the western edge of beque. This winter a new tubing park is Snowboards: Terrain Park and Pipe Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The park harbors opening on the Whitewater Trail and the Information: 906-932-3718 the last extensive tract of old-growth hemlock rental inventory of skis, snowboards, and Website: www.gogebic.cc.mi.us/studentin- fo r ests, and is one of the Midwest's most snowblades has been expanded. All children fo/mtzion extensive wilderness areas. The Porkies are enrolled in a kid’s program gets a free hel- home to one of the first alpine ski areas in the met rental. More Ski Areas Midwest as well as some of the most scenic Al Quaal – Ishpeming – 906-486-6181 No r dic ski trails in the entire Great Lakes Vertical Drop: 500' Gladstone Sports Park – Gladstone – 906- region. The chalet offers ski and snowboard Lifts: 5 chairs, 2 T-Bars, 4 surface 428-9130 rentals, pro shop, rest rooms, 3 fireplaces, and Terrain: 30% novice, 35% intermediate, ca f e t e r i a . 35% expert Trails: 17 Northern Lower Peninsula Vertical Drop: 641' Cross Country: 23km Lifts: 2 chair, 2 surface Snowboards: Snowboarders welcome on all Boyne Highlands – Harbor Terrain: 21% novice, 50% intermediate, runs, but Snowshoe and Rapids are dedicat- Springs 29% expert. ed snowboard terrain: halfpipe, whales, Boyne Highlands is one of Michigan’s best Trails: 15 spines, table tops, and kickers. family res o r ts. The area is well-known for its Cross Country: 42km Information: 800-362-7853 excellent ski school and children ’ s prog r a m s . Information: 906-885-5275 Website: www.skibrule.com The terrain is expansive, and the lift struc t u r e Website: www.ontonagon.net/porkies/ski/ is one of the most efficient in the region. Wit h Mt. Zion – Ironwood th r ee base lodges, plenty of ski in/ski out con- Ski Brule – Iron River Mt. Zion is run by the ski management dos, and three hotels, the res o r t has plenty of school of Gogebic Community College and ca p a c i t y , and the outdoor swimming pools and Photo above: The Otsego Club is the oldest winter recreation complex in hot tubs are a big favorite. This year begin- Big Snow Country. With ski and snowboard ners can ski/board on North and South

S4 S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 0 3 ◆ M I C H I G A N S K I E R M A G A Z I N E S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 0 3 ◆ M I C H I G A N S K I E R M A G A Z I N E S5 Camelot, the Camelot lift and the Magic car- timers and pet entirely free of charge . beginners to improve Michigan Ski Vertical Drop: 545' their skiing Lifts: 8 chairs (including a high speed quad), and snow- 2 surface boarding Terrain: 37% novice, 29% intermediate, skills. The 31% expert resort also Trails: 46 has one of Cross Country: 25km the best Snowboards: Terrain park and pipe cross coun- Information: 800-GO-BOYNE try ski Website: www.boyne.com touring centers in Michigan. Boyne Mountain – Boyne Falls Last winter Boyne Mountain, the dean of Midwest ski the new resorts, was the first North American resort Kinlochen to install a six-seat chair lift, and it’s where Lodge the triple and quad lifts were invented. opened in Always known as a place with challenging the base and varied terrain, the Mountain also boasts village. a wide variety of lodging options, the This year Austrian/American ski school, and the best the resort apres ski in the Midwest, featuring the leg- opens 11 endary Snowflake Lounge. The ten new new slopes trails off the top of Disciple’s Ridge are a serviced by fantastic addition to this storied resort. a new quad lift, Vertical Drop: 500' which adds Lifts:10 chairs (including a high-speed 6), 2 22% more surface skiing. Terrain: 29% novice, 41% intermediate, 30% expert Vertical Trails: 62 Drop: Cross Country: 35 km 375' Snowboards: Terrain park and pipe Lifts: 7 Information: 800-GO-BOYNE chairs Website: www.boyne.com (including a high Challenge Mountain – Boyne Falls speed Challenge Mountain is the only ski resort in quad), 2 the devoted entirely to physi- surface cally and mentally challenged skiers. The Terrain: area offers every type of adaptive ski gear 24% and a dedicated staff of volunteer instruc- novice, tors, and all of its services and equipment 53% inter- are provided free of charge to special needs mediate, skiers. Challenge Mt. is open most weekends 23% and by appointment. expert Trails: 45 Vertical Drop: 370’ Cross Country: 40+ km have been added to the rental departm e n t . Lifts: Paddle tow and snowmobiles (for cer- Snowboards: Quarterpipe and 4 Parks Additional skiable terrain has also been devel- tain adaptive equipment) Information: 800-968-4676, 800-YOUR- oped for the upcoming season. Terrain: 100% novice MTN Vertical Drop: 485' Trails: 3 Website: ww w. c r ystalmountain.com Lifts: 4 chairs, 2 surface Snowboards: Available this year for the first Terrain: 39% novice, 29% intermediate, time. Caberfae Peaks – Cadillac 32% expert. Information: 231-535-2141 Now in its 65th ski season, Caberfae Peaks Trails: 31 Website: www.challengemt.org just keeps getting better. The South Peak and Cross Country: 15km No r th Peak developments have totally Information: 231-862-3000, 800-968-7544 Crystal Mountain – changed the skiing at Caberfae Peaks in rec e n t Website: www.caberfaepeaks.com Thompsonville years. The res o r t now boasts some of the Crystal Mountain offers lodging for over biggest vertical drops and longest and best ski Hanson Hills – Grayling 1,200 people, indoor and outdoor pools, a runs in the Midwest. Other new additions Publicly owned and operated, Hanson Hills fitness center, and a myriad of skier services include a rental building, a beautiful day is really a winter sports park. The area in the Crystal Center. But where the resort lodge, and paved parking. This year ren o v a - offers and some of the best excels is in family skiing, with solid terrain tions on the Mackenzie Lodge begun last year cross country skiing in the state. Hanson choices and excellent programs. Crystal's have continued, with 10 rooms ref u r b i s h e d . Hills hosts many Michigan Cup XC races. Totem Park is designed exclusively for first- 300 pairs of shaped skis and 50 snowboards

S6 S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 0 3 ◆ M I C H I G A N S K I E R M A G A Z I N E peaks, and spectacular vis- rants and debuted the La Vigna Italian tas of Lake Michigan’s Bistro in Cedar River Village last season. Areas Amenities Little Traverse Bay are a This year a new glade skiing run will greet treat. The area has one of skiers at Schuss Mountain, a new Extreme the best snowboard parks in Tubing Run will thrill visitors at Summit the state, too. New this year Village, and the largest TV screen in north- is a 4,000 sq. foot warming ern Michigan will provide après ski fun at house and restaurant on top Ivan’s in Schuss Village. of Pintail Peak with stun- ning vistas over Little Vertical Drop: 450' Traverse Bay. 20 snow guns Lifts: 7 chair, 4 surface have been added, bringing Terrain: 37% novice, 30% intermediate, the resort’s total to 199, 33% expert and all new children’s skis Trails: 46 and boots will be available Cross Country: 30km in the rental department. Snowboards: 2 Parks and Pipe Information: 800 678-4111 Vertical Drop: 427' Website: www.shantycreek.com Lifts: 8 chairs Terrain: 30% novice, 50% intermediate, 20% expert Skyline – Grayling Trails: 43 Skyline has undergone a transformation Cross Country: 28km thanks to new ownership. The venerable ski Snowboards: Top to bottom area has long been a favorite of families. terrain park and 300’ half- The cozy lodge is always a fun place. Easy pipe access off I-75 near Graying makes this a Information: 231 526-2131, popular resort. 800 SKI-NUBS Website: www.nubsnob.com Vertical Drop: 210’ Lifts: 1 chair, 4 surface Otsego Ski Club - Terrain: 10% novice, 70% intermediate, Gaylord 20% expert. Opened in 1939, Otsego Trails: 14 Club is America's oldest Country: 10km club with its own facility. Snowboards: Terrain Park The club is private, but the Information: 989-275-5445 public is invited to ski the Website: www.skylineski.com area at selected times of the winter. The ski facilities The Homestead – Glen Arbor include 27 slopes, 5 chair The Homestead is unique because it rests on lifts including high speed the western shores of Lake Michigan, over- quad, 2 snowboard half- looking the Sleeping Bear Dunes. The trails pipe parks, and miles of loom high over Lake Michigan and lead marked cross country ski down to a charming Village and resort trails. The Club's elevation neighborhoods, all close to resort activities is the highest point in the and amenities. Children will love the famed Michigan Snow/Sun Tamarack Children’s Center. Guests can Belt, and assures exception- also enjoy a snowshoe in the woods, savor al skiing throughout the fine dining, or travel to nearby villages and season. explore shops, galleries, museums and his- torical sites. Vertical Drop: 358’ Vertical Drop: 375’ Vertical Drop: 225’ Lifts: 5 , including a high-speed quad Lifts: 3 chairs, 2 surface Lifts: 1 t-bar, 3 surface Trails: 27 Trails: 16 Terrain: 50% novice, 50% intermediate Cross Country: Miles of marked trails. Cross Country: 18km Trails: 11 Snowboards: Terrain Parks, 2 halfpipes, Snowboards: Terrain Park Cross Country: 35km numerous terrain features Information: 231-334-5000 Snowboards: Terrain Park Information: 989-732-5181 Website: www.thehomesteadresort.com Information: 989-348-9266 Website: www.otsegoclub.com Website: www.hansonhills.org Shanty Creek – Bellaire Treetops – Gaylord Nub’s Nob – Harbor Springs Shanty Creek is a four-season resort located Treetops Sylvan Resort, in the heart of Nub’s Nob is an excellent family ski area on 4,500 acres. The complex includes two Northern Michigan's snowbelt, is a perfect famous for its excellent snow, award win- ski mountains and three villages, all tied family getaway. Located outside "The ning day lodge, and superb cafeteria. This is together with a transit system. Skiers can Alpine Village" of Gaylord, Treetops has a a ski-only operation, with no lodging on ski both the Summit Slopes and the Schuss hotel at the top of its ski hill and a good site, but the varied terrain keeps skiers com- Slopes on one Superticket. The area also selection of condos. The ski trails wind their ing back. Readers of SKI Magazine have offers tubing, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and way through the majestic hardwood forests voted Nub’s as the Number One resort in 30 km of the finest cross country skiing in that cover the slopes while state-of-the-art the Midwest the last 3 years. Trails face all Michigan. Shanty is famed for its restau- snowmaking and grooming make skiing directions of the compass and spill off two

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here a joy. The excellent ski school also is a More Ski Areas snowboarder - beginner to advanced - the favorite with kids and families. Hickory Hills – Traverse City – 231-947- opportunity to enjoy their favorite winter 8566 sport just a few miles from the heart of the Vertical Drop: 225' Mt. Holiday – Traverse City – 231-938- tri-cities (Saginaw, Bay city, Midland). Race Lifts: 4 chairs, 3 surface 2500 programs challenge skiers of all ages and Terrain: 30% novice, 50% intermediate, Mt. McSauba – Charlevoix – 231-547-3267 levels. Apple Mountain has a quad chairlift, 20% expert a park with a half pipe, and Trails: 19 100% snowmaking capabilities, lighting for Cross Country: 20 km and a warm cozy lounge. Snowboards: Terrain Park and Halfpipe Central Lower Michigan Information: 888-TREETOPS, 517-732- Vertical Drop: 220' 6711 Apple Mountain – Freeland Lifts:1 chair, 5 Surface) Website: www.treetops.com Apple Mountain offers every skier and 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 stu- dents. 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. Vertical Drop: 210’ Lifts: 1 chair, 5 surface Terrain: 30% novice, 50% intermediate, 20% expert Trails: 12 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 Va l l e y. 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 a p p a rel and accessories. The Wi n n e r ' s C i rcle Lounge is the place to go for food and drink.

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

S10 S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 0 3 ◆ M I C H I G A N S K I E R M A G A Z I N E Cannonsburg Ski Area – 10% expert o ffers night skiing, complete snow mak- Cannonsburg Trails: 15 ing and grooming, and a helpful staff . Cannonsburg Ski Area, just north of Grand Snowboards: Terrain Park and Pipe The sprawling lodge has some great din- Rapids, offers slopes of great variety close Information: 616-694-9449, 800 285-6525 ing spots, like a pizza room and the Lift to home. Continuous grooming and snow- Website: www.timberridgeski.com Lounge with 21 food/drink items, as well making assures every skier from the as the best apres ski decks in Michigan. unsteadiest beginner to the advanced racer More Ski Areas that the best snow conditions are always at Pando Winter Sports Park – Rockford – Vertical Drop: 350' Cannonsburg. With a quad, triple, and dou- 616-874-8343 Lifts: 7 chairs, 6 surface ble chair, T-bar and rope tows, Terrain: 22% novice, 39% intermediate, Cannonsburg has plenty of capacity to 39% expert move skiers up the hill. The area also have Trails: 18 a top-notch ski school and popular adult Snowboards: Terrain Park and junior racing programs. Information: 248-634-8260, 800-582-7256 Website: www.skimtholly.com Vertical Drop: 250' Alpine Valley – White Lake Lifts: 3 chairs, 9 surface A short drive from or Ann Arbor Terrain: 40% novice, 40% intermediate, brings you to the largest ski area in southern -- Clarkston 20% expert Michigan. This family-oriented ski area fea- Pine Knob is close to Detroit, but has an Trails: 18 tu r es 25 scenic slopes serviced by 10 chairlifts “up north” feel. The slopes offer a lot of Snowboards: Terrain Park and Pipe and 10 rope tows. And when you're ready to v a r i e t y, including the double black Information: 616-874-6711, 616-874-6728 unwind after a fun-filled day or night of chal- “ Wall.” The day lodge is one of the Website: www.cannonsburg.com lenging snowy runs, you can relax in front of classiest in Michigan, with huge windows one of the many massive stone fireplaces in overlooking the slopes. Beginners flock to the spacious lodge, complete with two cafete- the ski school each winter, and the Adult Swiss Valley – Jones rias and snack bars. Racing League is one of the most active Celebrating its 35th Anniversary this winter, in the state. Swiss Valley is a popular destination for Vertical Drop: 300' Michigan skiers as well as skier’s from Lifts: 10 chairs, 10 surface Vertical Drop: 300' Indianapolis to . The area special- Terrain: 39% novice, 26% intermediate, Lifts: 5 chair, 5 surface izes in group outings, with an outstanding 35% expert Terrain: 30% novice, 35% intermediate, ski school and children’s program. Swiss Trails: 25 35% expert Valley is also home for one of the best Snowboards: Terrain park and 350’ half- Trails: 15 freestyle training programs in the country, pipe Snowboards: Terrain Park the Swiss Valley Extreme Team. With alpine Information: 248-887-2180, 248-887-4183 Information: 248-625-0800, 800-642- themed buildings and a nifty mountain top Website: www.skialpinevalley.com SNOW restaurant, Swiss Valley has a lot to offer. Web Site: www.skipineknob.com Swiss was open for 100 days of skiing last year, and this year a restructured racing Mt. Brighton – Brighton program in the Junior and Adult leagues Mt. Brighton, now in its 43rd season, is one should provide lots of action. of the busiest ski areas in Michigan, a favorite Ontario with young and old alike. The area is popular Vertical Drop: 225' with groups and does a great job with chil- Lifts: 3 chairs, 4 surface dr en, but that does not mean the adults are Blue Mountain – Collingwood, Terrain: 20% novice, 60% intermediate, left out. Night skiing (as late as 2 A.M. on Ontario 20% expert Sa t u r day nights) and race programs are two Although not “technically” a Michigan ski Trails:11 staples on the Mt. Brighton menu. The area ar ea, so many Michigan skiers trek to Blue Snowboards: Terrain park with table tops, also boasts a massive lodge with good food Mt. each winter it ranks as a close cousin. spines, picnic tables, kickers, floaters, and a and a fun atmosphere. Last year the res t a u - With a whopping 728’ vertical and a moun- 36’ dragon rail called “Nessie” rant lounge was renovated and is now a full tain that’s 2.5 miles wide, Blue is immense. Information: 616-244-5635, 616 244-8016 scale sit down restaurant called the Bauery. The res o r t is so huge it encompasses 4 distinct Website: www.skiswissvalley.com Sn o w b o a r ders will love the halfpipe and ter- base areas, but the Village at Blue is the most rain park featuring a VW Beetle. im p r essive. Anchored by the stately Grand Ge o r gian Hotel, the Village contains shops, Timber Ridge – Kalamazoo Vertical Drop: 250' restaurants, and a town square. By 2010 Blue Timber Ridge has proudly offe r ed skiing and Lifts: 7 chairs, 11 surface will have pumped $500 million into develop- sn o w b o a r ding in southwest Michigan for the Terrain: 30% novice, 40% intermediate, ment and will rival places like Tremblant. This past 41 years. The trails cascade over beauti- 30% expert winter skiers will see a new six-place lift on fully wooded hills. The area also features the Trails: 26 the mountain plus a Rocky Mountain Snowshoe Bar with huge windows overlook- Snowboards: Terrain Park and Pipe Chocolate Factory and Firehouse Pizza res t a u - ing the slopes, which come in handy for Information: 810-229-9581 rant in the village. watching the many race programs sponsored Website: www.mtbrighton.com by the res o r t. The Ski Patrol is one of the best Vertical Drop: 728’ in the country, and patrollers put on slope side Lifts: 12, including 4 high speed lifts barbeques every Saturda y , a “don’t miss” Mt. Holly – Holly Terrain: 15% novice, 32% intermediate, attraction. Check out the great photo gallery Nestled in beautiful Groveland Va l l e y, 52% expert on the res o rt ’ s website. Mt. Holly is just one hour north of Trails: 40 D e t roit and 15 minutes south of Flint. Snowboards: 4 terrain parks, 1 halfpipe, 2 Vertical Drop: 240' The area offer slopes for the whole fami- Lifts: 5 chairs, 5 surface l y, and uphill capacity that includes a Information: 705-445-0231 Terrain: 20% novice, 70% intermediate, high speed quad. Skier friendly Mt. Holly Website: www.bluemountain.ca MS

S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 0 3 ◆ M I C H I G A N G O L F E R M A G A Z I N E S11 10 Nordic Northern Michigan De l i g h t s

By Mike Terrell

hen it comes to cross-country skiing, the northern Lower WPeninsula of Michigan is hard to beat around the Great Lakes. Located on the leeward side of Lake Michigan and the lake-effect snow conditions are as consistent as you’ll find in the Midwest. The last few win- ters have been lean snow years for Wisconsin, Minnesota and the south- ern part of the UP. As an avid Nordic skier, I’ve skied delightful trails in every corner of the Lower Peninsula. In fact I wrote a book on it called N o rt h e rn Michigan‚Äôs Best Cross Country Ski Tr a i l s. Here ’s a rundown on 10 my favorite areas for both state land trails, touring centers and re s o rt s . Each of the trail systems mentioned have a variety of trails to suit all lev- els of cro s s - c o u n t ry skiers from those seeking easy meandering glides to m o re difficult terrain with hills and thrills. Enjoy. is a one-day race that takes place the second by the DNR and tracked by the West weekend of February each winter. The trail Branch Chamber of Commerce, is a beauti- Sleeping Bear Dunes National proved so popular with the locals that it ful classic single-track trail. Perched, just Lakeshore was developed into a year-round DNR north of the city of West Branch on a termi- This is some of the most spectacular pathway that’s groomed by a local volun- nal moraine left by the last glacier to march cross-country scenery in northern teer group that oversees the grooming, and through this area around 11,000 years ago. Michigan—dunes, panoramic views and they do a bang-up job. You can count on The system’s 15 miles of trails cater to all beautiful overlooks amid woodland settings. fresh tracks every time it . The path- ability levels. Most of the trail meanders Seven trails are designated for skiing within way is groomed for both skate and classic through a mixed hardwood forest and the 70,000-acre national park along 70 styles. Winding through the picturesque stands of white pine and hemlock. You can miles of Lake Michigan shoreline in Pere Marquette State Forest, the pathway see evidence of old homesteads—rock fence Leelanau and Benzie counties. The more offers four routes from an easy skiing 2K to lines, old orchards and foundations—along popular trails are Scenic Drive, Alligator the 25K racecourse, which is a hill-laden the trail. A beautiful overlook of the Hill, Bay View and Platte Plains. Although workout. For the latest trail conditions, call Saginaw basin is found along the southern all offer a mix of beginner, intermediate and (231) 938-4400, or click on www.vasa.org. edge of the moraine. A variety of terrain advance terrain, Platte Plains is the easiest exists for all level of skiers. and stays mostly on the flats. All other Heading north on I-75, this is the first pathways climb up into the dunes. Big M “Up North” trail system that you run into. Ob s e r ving the National Park Service tradi- In a corner of the Udell Hills in the Manistee Maps are posted at the trailheads, but to tion of keeping things simple and natural, National Forest near Wellston, Big M is a res - obtain a copy or check on trail conditions, none of the trails are groomed, but they are ur rected ski area. Formerly a community run call the West Branch CVB at (800) 755- well marked, and often are skier-t r a c k e d . alpine ski area that folded years ago, it was 9091. This makes a great combination with Distances range from two to 14 miles. Maps br ought back in the late 1980s as a Nordic ski the Corsair Pathway, which is about 30 ar e posted at the trailheads and can be picked ar ea by the Manistee Cros s - C o u n t r y Ski miles away, for a multi-day outing. up at the Visitor Center located on M-72 near Council. The organization regularly groo m s Em p i r e. You need an annual or day pass to about 20 miles of single-track trails that range display in your vehicle, which can also be into the surrounding hills and cuts through a Corsair Trails picked up at the Visitor Center. mostly hardwood forest with a few fragrant Located on National Forest Service land stands of pine. It‚Äôs a nice mix of trails and northeast of East Tawas, the Corsair Trail of fers something for all skill levels. A warm- system is one of the largest groomed trail VASA Pathway ing hut is open on weekends. Maps are post- networks in the state. Nestled in the beauti- One of northern Michigan’s perennial ed at the trailhead and available to take with ful Silver Valley area, the 35-plus miles of favorite cross-country trails—more than yo u . trails offers as nice a variety of length and 25,000 skiers annually ski this trail each difficulty as you‚Äôll find in the Lower winter—was originally developed for the Peninsula. Covering scenic rolling terrain, grueling North America VASA Race, which Ogemaw Hills Pathway the well designed, well-marked system is not Photo above: Garland Resort The Ogemaw Hills Pathway, developed overly difficult, but can be challenging with

S12 S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 0 3 ◆ M I C H I G A N G O L F E R M A G A Z I N E the distance you choose to ski. The area is the hilly, wooded hinterland between the groomed at least weekly, and more often re s o rt ’s three villages—The Summit, when it snows, by local volunteers who Schuss Mountain and Cedar Cre e k . pride themselves on providing an excellent Secluded from the condo clusters aro u n d 2003-2004 trail. The trails meander across open mead- the villages, the trails present a scenic, ows, through stands of sweet-smelling pines somewhat challenging ski experience. At and towering hardwoods, and along swift- times you glide alongside beautiful, swift- Ski Information flowing streams. For more information on flowing little creeks. An eight-mile trail the area or to get the latest snow report, connects the re s o rt ’s trails with the Grass call (800) 55-TAWAS. River Natural Area. The single-track Sources trail, which is groomed on a regular basis, allows skiers a chance to experience some By Jim Neff Black Mountain Pathway w o n d e rful terrain. From the ro l l i n g , One of the newest DNR cross-country ski wooded uplands of the ski re s o rt down to t seems like eons have passed, but it was areas in the state, the Black Mountain the wetlands along the river, it’s a unique less than ten years ago when Great Lakes Recreation Area’s 31-mile trail system e n v i ronment, especially in winter. There ’s ISports Publications unveiled a “new” opened in 1993. The trail is groomed with a lots of animal activity, and it’s not way of delivering information – the World piston-bully groomer, and offers an excel- uncommon to see an eagle or two. For Wide Web. It was at a Detroit ski show and lent double-tracked pathway. A separate 6- m o re information on the re s o rt or the lat- we had to (literally) drag people over to our mile skating lane snakes around the lower est trail conditions, call (800) 678-4111 booth and force them to look at this “elec- portion of the hill. or check it out on www. s h a n t y c re e k . c o m . tronic media.” More than one ski resort/ski Located about 15 miles southeast of shop operator assured us that this “Internet Cheboygan, Black Mountain looms over thing” was never going to work; people the east side of Black Lake. It’s a series Boyne Nordican were not going to sit at a computer to get of long, wooded ridges that peak to a Located at the base of Boyne Mountain, the ski information. high point of 925 feet. The ridge was Nordican is to cross-country skiing what Remember what it was like back then? deposited here about 10000 years ago as the Mountain means to downhill skiers; The only way to get resort prices was to lay the last ice age drew to a close. Cro s s i n g excellence. Nobody does it better than your hands on a brochure or phone the the heavily forested ridgeline, the pathway long-time cross-country guru Lou Awody, resort. You got ski conditions reports by feels very remote. The forest breaks just Boyne’s Nordic director. He offers a nice reading the newspaper (where the reports enough to offer limited views of Black choice of trails for all ability levels. If you were only three days old if you were lucky) Lake and Lake Huron, which is about six want to ski to the top of Boyne Mountain, or by listening to the radio — “The ski miles away as the crow flies. which is a good workout, you can. If you report will be coming right up, but first A couple of recently built three-sided want to ride the lift to the top and pick here are ten songs from Milli Vanilli.” shelters, located on both sides of Black your way leisurely down the cross-country Now, the Web is THE key resource for ski Mountain Road which bisects the top of the trails, you can. information, and statistics show that over ridge, are perfect for a break on a cold day There’s over 20 miles of trails groomed 70% of all skiers have web access and use it or a trailside picnic lunch. Four sets of for both classic and skate. One of the first to obtain for ski news. Skiers are the most trailheads scattered around the mountain to open and last to close, you can always solid demographic in all of travel/recre- offer plenty of access to the pathway. For count on a good skiing experience. For the ation. maps and trail conditions, call the Atlanta latest, and always an honest, snow report, Michigan resorts were among the first to DNR Field Office at (517) 785-4252. This call (800) GO-BOYNE and ask for the latch on to the Web, so the state’s ski resort one of the best, most remote groomed DNR Nordican or click on www.boynemoun- websites are bristling with everything skiers cross-country ski areas in the Lower tain.com. and snowboarders need to know – prices, Peninsula. conditions, real-time cams, photos, events, trail maps, lodging guides, coupon specials, Crystal Mountain on-line ticket sales and more. Cross-Country Ski Headquarters Crystal Mountain’s cross-country trail sys- In addition to the resort sites, however, C ro s s - C o u n t ry Ski Headquarters is a pop- tem is always changing due to continued there are several other web sources skiers ular stop on the way north. Located just development at the resort, but one thing might enjoy. o ff I-75 near Roscommon, it offers a nice you can count is a good experience. They mix of fairly easy trails and a well- are meticulous with their grooming. If con- Michigan Skier TV stocked ski shop operated by friendly ditions aren’t first rate, they will tell you so GLSP again blazes new trails with the owners Bob and Lynne Frye. They main- and won’t send you out. The family-owned world’s first Internet ski television program. tain nearly 20K’s of well-groomed trails resort grooms about 30K of trail for both Interviews with ski personalities, visits to for both classic and skate. The trails skate and classic skiers, of which 6k are lit resorts, and coverage of events are all meander through a forest setting and for night skiing. It’s the longest night skiing brought directly to your computer in the a c ross open meadows. A stop at the trail in the Lower Peninsula. Nordic skiers form of a television program. Best, MSTV Tr a p p e r’s Cabin log shelter is always a can also cheat gravity here as well by taking is on 24/7. http://www.michiganskier.tv. must where you can enjoy a hot cup of the chairlift to the top and skiing down; cocoa, a warm fire and good conversation mostly downhill. Michiganskier.com b e f o re finishing your ski tour. For the lat- The trails get well away from the hustle The only website in Michigan skiing that est conditions, call (989) 821-6661, or and bustle of the busy resort and downhill has links to everything in Michigan skiing: click on www. c ro s s c o u n t ryski.com. It area, and even join the DNR Betsie Valley all the resorts, all the clubs, all the travel makes a nice warmup on the way north. Pathway offering eight more miles of a bureaus, and all the news. The site also semi-wilderness experience. For more infor- publishes the only comprehensive events Shanty Creek mation on the trail system or to get the lat- calendar available in Michigan. Also on the Located in the heart of the Antrim est snow report, call (800) 968-7686 or site is a signup for the Michigan Skiing C o u n t y ’s beautiful hill and dale country, check out their website at www.crystal- News, the state’s only regular ski e-newslet- the re s o rt ’s cro s s - c o u n t ry trails traverse mountain.com. MS ter. http://www.michiganskier.com.

S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 0 3 ◆ M I C H I G A N G O L F E R M A G A Z I N E S13 Weather Underground print catalog is a delight to read, with handy Mountain Cams If you want all the ski conditions all in tips on everything from ski tuning to boot If you have time on your hands, it’s one spot, the ski page of this weather service fitting. http://www.tognar.com fun to see what the skiing is like all over is the best. Operated out of the University of the country (an in Michigan). Resort Michigan, this ski page is quick to load and Great Lakes Nordic Ski Council S p o rts Network has cams at many ski updated continually. http://www.wunder- An association of trail systems and tour- re s o rts and you can see first hand what ground.com/ski/MI/ ing centers across the state. If you love to the snow looks like. You can even use cross country ski, you can get lost on this one of the cam shots in a free e-postcard Michigan Radar site for a long time. All sorts of information, and send it to friends. Intellicast has this great radar picture. plus links to member properties. h t t p : / / w w w.rsn.com/mtn_cams What’s good about it is that it covers the http://www.skinordic.org whole Midwest, so you can see storms com- Ski Magazine ing in from Wisconsin and Minnesota. This Nordic Skiracer The only national ski magazine that does is a good one to put in your favorites so you This is the place if you’re a died-in-the- Midwest coverage is SKI. You can also look can track approaching powder (and make wool racer, or just want to be. The complete at the ski resort rankings and annual gear plans to call in sick). Michigan Cup Race Series schedule is here, guide. http://www.skimag.com http://www.intellicast.com/Local/USLocalWi along with a top of training information. de.asp?loc=ktvc&seg=LocalWeather&prod- http://www.nordicskiracer.com Skiing History grp=RadarImagery&product=Radar&prod- Created by the world’s leading organization nav=none Metropolitan Detroit Ski Council devoted to the sport’s heritage, the Ski clubs galore and the most active rac- International Skiing History Association, Tognar Toolworks ing program in the state. The MDSC has this is one of the coolest new sites on the If you’re into ski tuning this catalog/web- been coordinating fun for Michigan skiers web. You can find lost ski areas, read about site is the ultimate. Every ski tool and gad- for decades, and this is the place to come the sport’s legends, check out historical race get imaginable is here, all stuff you just for information about ski clubs and events. results, and enjoy some vintage pictures. won’t find at a “normal” ski shop. The http://www.mdscski.org http://www.skiinghistory.org MS

The Michigan Skier Television Show Channel: http://michiganskier.tv

Upcoming Shows Cross Country Skiing in the North Blue Mountain, Collingwood, Ontario Country We visit our friends from Blue Mountain and Michigan Ski Show 2003 The Michigan Skier stops by the Grand catch some of the excitement of their multi-mil- A ski show ret u r ns to Michigan at the Novi Golf, Traverse Resort and Spa, the Vasa Trail, and liondollar expansion. Ski and Travel Show at the Novi Expo. Jim Neff, Cadillac, to examine some of Michigan’s finest our host, will find out the latest for 2003-2004. trails. Mike Terrell offers some insights into what Mt. Brighton – Top Guns makes a great cross country destination. We visit Mt. Brighton, one of the pioneers in the Don Thomas Sporthaus – the First 50 utilization of ski guns. The area can put a ton os Years snow on the slopes as soon as it hits 28 degree s . Don Thomas is truly a legend in the Michigan Michigan Skiing 2003 Ski Industry. We will celebrate Don’s 50th in the Our host, Jim Neff, interviews anybody and Don Thomas – Michigan Ski Pioneer ski business. eveerybody in teh Mich8igan Ski Industry as we One of Michigan ski pioneers, DonThomas get ready for yet another great year of skiing in established his business around the same time that The Otsego Club 2003 Michigan. Ev e r ett Kircher began building Boyne Mountain. One of Michigan’s oldest ski resorts has some Don has a fascinating story and we have captured it. new on-trail lodging to see. Scott Chesley will be Getting Geared Up -Don Thomas our on-camera host. Sporthaus Bob Thomas shows us the latest trends on Now Showing what we will wear on our feet for the coming – Skiing The Otsego Club year. See the latest on snow skis, snowboards, and snowshoes. – Skiing at Crystal Mountain Resort – Jeannie Thoren and her Ski School at Skis, Shoes and Boards-Don Thomas Crystal Mountain Resort Sporthaus – Skiing at Treetops Resort Bob Thomas shows us the latest trends on – Cross Country Skiing in Michigan with what we will wear on our feet for the coming Mike Terrell year. See the latest on snow skis, snowboards, – Boyne Mountain’s Carnival Days and snowshoes. – The Everett Kircher Story – Michigan Senior Olympics at Treetops Caberfae Peaks at Cadillac – Jeep King of the Mountain Series At one of Michigan’s original ski areas, we Don Thomas, celebrating 50 years of ski retailing, is visit with the architects who turned Caberfae into – Bob Thomas of Don Thomas Sporthaus: pictured here with Olympic champion Stein Eriksen a resort with two peaks, a new lodge and a golf Tuning Your Skis (l) and Willie Bogner (r) of Bogner ski wear. course. – Michigan Winter Special Olympic Games

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