Tips for First-Time Skiers in Michigan
Whether this is your first-ever time hitting the slopes or you’re a confident skier visiting Michigan’s resorts for the first time, we’ve got some helpful hints to make your Michigan skiing adventure truly memorable.
1. Rest assured, the snow is spectacular.
While other regions might take over the headlines come ski season, Michigan’s slopes are an underrated Midwestern gem. Like many of Michigan’s other natural treasures, these conditions are a result of the marvelous lake effect: When cold air from Canada blows over the warmer waters of the Great Lakes, the air gathers heat and moisture. It rises and travels over land and then, as it cools back down, forms clouds and snow. Lake effect snow is especially desirable since it’s consistent, light and fluffy. Once the lake freezes, the “lake effect snow machine” stops producing.
2. Take your pick from 40+ resorts.
One of Michigan’s best fun facts is that it has more than 40 ski resorts, the second-most in the United States. They’re scattered all over from southeast Michigan to the farthest reaches of the Upper Peninsula; the Keweenaw Peninsula is especially blessed with an average of 300 inches of snow per year. Higher terrain tends to get more snow than areas closer to Lake Superior, and there are lots of downhill and cross-country tracks to explore.
3. Dress appropriately, but don’t stress.
All the basic rules for cold-weather activities apply, most notably to dress in several thinner layers that you can remove easily. Start with a fitted, moisture-wicking base layer, followed by an insulating layer made from wool or fleece. The top layer should be waterproof. Protect your eyes with goggles or sunglasses, and of course cover up with gloves, a hat or headband (and always a helmet!), and a scarf or neck gaiter. Don’t forget sunscreen and lip balm!
4. Stick with beginner-friendly slopes and work your way up.
If you’re still learning the difference between pizza and French fry techniques, you’re definitely going to want to hit the bunny slopes and, ideally, have an instructor to show you the ropes (and the ski lift). The Highlands at Harbor Springs has family-friendly slopes for all levels. Boyne Mountain Resort has a great area for beginners and a popular ski school. Nub’s Nob Ski Resort earned its nickname as the home of “The Midwest’s Best Snow” with a variety of options on three separate peaks.
5. Be open to other activities.
Skiing and snowboarding are tough workouts and it’s easy to overdo it over a day or two. Take a break with a different kind of family activity while still enjoying winter in Michigan. Boyne Mountain has great cross-country skiing and ice-skating, while Crystal Mountain has both an ice-skating rink and a quaint horse-drawn surrey ride through the snow. Try tubing at Treetops Resort in Gaylord. And everyone will be up for a cozy indoor break by a fireplace with a hot chocolate in hand.
Get more tips on Michigan’s signature ski runs and popular resorts.