Ski Industry Retail Trends: 2019 and Beyond
It’s hard to say where the ski industry is heading in the next 30 years. In the meantime, there are plenty of trends to follow that are just as important as the overall movement. Similar to ...
Big Powderhorn
Skiing and snowboarding in the upper peninsula of northwestern Michigan has a secret—well, several of them, actually. The resorts of Powder Horn, Black Jack, Indian Head, Porcupine, and Mount Bohemia are all located within a short drive of each other, nestled between Wisconsin and Lake Superior, roughly two hours from Duluth, Minnesota.
Big Snow Country
The western slope of the Upper Peninsula receives well over 200 inches of snow each year and because it’s surrounded by national forests and Lake Superior, there is no shortage of winter activities to enjoy. While it’s not often needed, the resort can produce snow on nearly 95 percent of the resort, ensuring you can take advantage of your time during your visit. On the mountain, Powder Horn has over 30 trails to explore on over 250 skiable acres. With their nine double chairs and a handle tow system for beginners, the resort can bring in over 10,000 skiers per hour.
Throughout the year, the resort is host to many alpine skiing events where you can watch amature and professional skiers race. Check their online calendar and their website, they often have deals that coinside with these events. In addition, a season pass holder will often find they get additional perks, for example, a season pass holder of Big Powder Horn will get a free ski day at smaller resorts nearby including Mount Ashwabay, Mont Ripley, and Pine Mountain. While these resorts are a bit smaller, the locals often flock to them for the chance to access the U.P. powder. This resort is amongst the top five in the Midwest, winning awards voted by the locals and visitors throughout the years. It’s also a full-service resort, and the grooming staff work throughout the evening hours and early morning hours so you can start fresh every day.
Off the Slopes
One of the most impressive things about the Upper Peninsula is the stunning beauty you’ll find no matter the season. This area is surrounded by national and state forests, and offers trails for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snow shoe hiking. In fact, the area is starting to become more known for the cross-country skiing than for anything else. You’ll find groomed trails that run through a lovely forest with great views. On top of that, anyone traveling to northern Michigan for the skiing, should take a day to learn to ice fish. Lake Superior is well-known for its ice fishing and the traditions go back hundreds of years. It’s one of those things everyone should experience at least once, if not every winter!
Getting Here
Your best bet is to fly into Duluth, which is just two hours away. You’ll enjoy the beautiful drive around Lake Superior. Green Bay is just three hours and Minneapolis is a little over four hours. Or jump on Great Lakes Airlines from Minneapolis directly to the Ironwood area any day of the week.
Ski Vacation Deals
We’ve gathered helpful information for you to plan your next Midwestern ski vacation, browse the categories for discounts on lodging, deals on lift tickets, savings on all your ski equipment, and coupons for area restaurants.
Skiing and snowboarding in the upper peninsula of northwestern Michigan has a secret—well, several of them, actually. The resorts of Powder Horn, Black Jack, Indian Head, Porcupine, and Mount Bohemia are all located within a short drive of each other, nestled between Wisconsin and Lake Superior, roughly two hours from Duluth, Minnesota.
Big Snow Country
The western slope of the Upper Peninsula receives well over 200 inches of snow each year and because it’s surrounded by national forests and Lake Superior, there is no shortage of winter activities to enjoy. While it’s not often needed, the resort can produce snow on nearly 95 percent of the resort, ensuring you can take advantage of your time during your visit. On the mountain, Powder Horn has over 30 trails to explore on over 250 skiable acres. With their nine double chairs and a handle tow system for beginners, the resort can bring in over 10,000 skiers per hour.
Throughout the year, the resort is host to many alpine skiing events where you can watch amature and professional skiers race. Check their online calendar and their website, they often have deals that coinside with these events. In addition, a season pass holder will often find they get additional perks, for example, a season pass holder of Big Powder Horn will get a free ski day at smaller resorts nearby including Mount Ashwabay, Mont Ripley, and Pine Mountain. While these resorts are a bit smaller, the locals often flock to them for the chance to access the U.P. powder. This resort is amongst the top five in the Midwest, winning awards voted by the locals and visitors throughout the years. It’s also a full-service resort, and the grooming staff work throughout the evening hours and early morning hours so you can start fresh every day.
Off the Slopes
One of the most impressive things about the Upper Peninsula is the stunning beauty you’ll find no matter the season. This area is surrounded by national and state forests, and offers trails for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snow shoe hiking. In fact, the area is starting to become more known for the cross-country skiing than for anything else. You’ll find groomed trails that run through a lovely forest with great views. On top of that, anyone traveling to northern Michigan for the skiing, should take a day to learn to ice fish. Lake Superior is well-known for its ice fishing and the traditions go back hundreds of years. It’s one of those things everyone should experience at least once, if not every winter!
Getting Here
Your best bet is to fly into Duluth, which is just two hours away. You’ll enjoy the beautiful drive around Lake Superior. Green Bay is just three hours and Minneapolis is a little over four hours. Or jump on Great Lakes Airlines from Minneapolis directly to the Ironwood area any day of the week.
Ski Vacation Deals
We’ve gathered helpful information for you to plan your next Midwestern ski vacation, browse the categories for discounts on lodging, deals on lift tickets, savings on all your ski equipment, and coupons for area restaurants.
