The Highlands and Boyne Mountain are easily accessible from several Midwest cities, making them ideal for a weekend ski getaway or a full family vacation. From Detroit, MI (280 miles), it’s about a 4.5-hour drive; Chicago, IL is roughly 360 miles or 6 hours away; and Grand Rapids, MI is about 190 miles, taking 3 hours by car.
For those flying in, the two closest airports are Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) in Traverse City, located about 60 miles (1.5 hours) from the resorts, and Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), approximately 280 miles (4.5 hours) away. Both airports offer rental cars, and select accommodations near The Highlands may provide shuttle services upon request. Driving is the most convenient option, especially for families or groups bringing ski gear, but air travelers will find smooth connections and easy transfers.
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Both resorts are self-contained, which means most lodging, dining, ski rentals, and lifts are just a short walk or ski from each other. At The Highlands, complimentary resort shuttles operate regularly to transport guests between the ski base, lodging areas, and dining venues. Boyne Mountain also offers a walkable village layout, and for those staying farther out, on-demand shuttle services are available to ensure you never miss a ski session or dinner reservation.
Parking is ample and free at both resorts, with convenient drop-off zones near the base areas. If you're exploring beyond the resort, rental cars provide flexibility to visit nearby towns like Petoskey or Harbor Springs, just a 10–15-minute drive away. However, for most travelers, once you arrive and settle in, you’ll find little need to leave—the resorts are designed for ease and comfort, with everything you need for your winter vacation right at your fingertips.
At The Highlands, you'll find 435 skiable acres, and an award-winning Snowsports Academy for both kids and adults. Beginners can enjoy wide, gentle trails, while seasoned skiers carve down advanced slopes. Lift tickets start around $165 for a 2-day pass, but Ikon Pass holders can access the mountain with no blackout dates, offering great value for frequent skiers.
Over at Boyne Mountain, the vibe is a bit livelier with 60 runs across 415 acres and three terrain parks that keep adrenaline high. Their ski academy caters to first-timers and expert shredders alike, with private and group lessons available. Lift tickets also start at around $85, and Ikon Pass access is valid here too. Both resorts offer night skiing, equipment rentals and discounted multi-day tickets for extended fun.
The Highlands is one of the most family-friendly resorts in the Midwest, as well as one of the most affordable! Drive to Petoskey State Park and hunt for Petoskey stones, go snowshoeing through its scenic trails, and unwind in the evening with s’mores by the fire pit! Boyne Highlands' tubing park features an exhilarating 800-foot tubing run, offering a thrilling snow-filled adventure you won’t forget.
At Boyne Mountain, the energy ramps up with a wider range of family activities. The Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark—Michigan’s largest—lets kids splash around after a day on the slopes. Boyne Mountain also features the Zipline Adventure Tour for kids to participate in under the supervision of professionals while parents can sneak away to the luxurious Boyne Mountain Spa. There is also a tubing park, fat biking trails and ice skating rink for nonstop winter fun.
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