Book Now

Explore

Winter Activities

Traverse City winter activities are perfect for building lasting memories with family and friends. The snow creates a beautiful backdrop for outdoor fun, and there are plenty of activities to choose from, depending on your interests. Sledding is always a favorite winter pastime. If you’re looking for a more leisurely winter activity, snowshoeing is perfect. There are many trails to explore in the woods around Traverse City.

Downhill Skiing

Downhill skiing and snowboarding are big winter attractions in Traverse City. There are ski areas to suit every taste and skill level, from beginner to advanced. The Mt. Holiday Ski & Recreation Area, just east of the city limits, provides hours of fun for the entire family, with skiing and snowboarding on 16 runs.

For an immersive winter recreation experience, head to Crystal Mountain. Located about 45 minutes southwest of Traverse City, Crystal Mountain is home to 58 downhill trails, eight chairlifts across 102 skiable acres, and three terrain parks. Both resorts have terrain to suit all ability levels from beginner to advanced.

Stay With Us

Northern Michigan is the winter playground you’ve been dreaming of, and there are plenty of fun activities to keep you busy during the cold months. There's something for everyone from sledding and skiing to snowshoeing and fat biking. There’s nothing like getting out and experiencing the winter landscape first hand, and there are literally hundreds of miles of pristine snow-covered trails you can explore.

If you’re looking for a winter activity that will get your heart racing, consider skiing or snowboarding. There are several ski resorts in the area, and if you’re a beginner, there are plenty of lessons and packages available to help you get started. Here’s some more of our favorite things to do in the winter.

Have Dinner in an Igloo: Hop Lot In Suttons Bay is uniquely Michigan. In the winter, they have igloos on-site that can be reserved for dinner. If you can’t get an igloo reservation, they also have a fire pit going year-round with marshmallow roasting and a delightful indoor taproom.

Ski Hickory Hills: The bunny hill is free to ride, and they have a tremendous lodge to get warm after a long day of skiing. A full complement of snacks and hot chocolate make this resort a true gem.

Grab Some Sushi: After the slopes, you’ll need some nutrition, and the Asian fusion cuisine at Red Ginger is the perfect spot to reload on calories. Located in downtown Traverse City, you are going to love the many menu options.

Taste the Latin Flavor: Across the street from Red Ginger is Georgina’s. The restaurant is a unique mix of Asian and Latin fusion. The menu has so many great options; you’ll have a difficult time making a selection.

Hike The Empire Bluff Trail: Spectacular every day of the year. This trail turns it up a notch during the winter. Just over a mile long, the trail ends with a stunning view of snowy sand dunes emptying into Lake Michigan.

Icon awesome-quote-right
Icon awesome-quote-right-1

Beautiful, perfect location This time we stayed in a 1 bedroom. The place is very luxurious, even for 3 people. We loved the fireplace. The Lodge staff is very friendly and helpful. They are a delight to work with. Free coffee and tea is provided, plenty of games provided free (board games, chess, puzzles, etc.)

— JoJo

More on

Flourish header

Come for a stay, Love it for a Lifetime

 

Check Availability