The Highlands and Boyne Mountain

Eastern U.S. ski resorts, Michigan Ski Resorts

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About The Highlands and Boyne Mountain

The Two Mountains

The Highlands and Boyne Mountain, sister resorts in northern Michigan, provide two unique alpine experiences united by a dedication to exceptional skiing and family-friendly fun:

The Highlands, located near Harbor Springs, delivers a classic alpine vibe with sweeping terrain, scenic wooded trails, and a slower, more relaxed pace. It’s beloved by families and groups seeking variety with over 435 skiable acres, night skiing, and the longest tube run in the state.

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Boyne Mountain, near Boyne Falls, brings more of the buzz—home to Michigan’s largest indoor waterpark, premium night skiing, the state’s first high-speed six-pack chairlift and three thrilling terrain parks.

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Together, the two resorts offer 115 downhill runs, three terrain parks, 10 miles of cross-country ski trails and some of the best snowmaking and grooming operations in the region.

The Highlands is home to the longest ski run in Michigan—Camelot—while at Boyne Mountain, you’ll find the state’s first high-speed six-pack chairlift. Expect affordable lift tickets, laid-back après scenes and cozy slope-side lodging. The Highlands and Boyne Mountain is Midwest skiing done right—with heart, heritage and a whole lot of snow.

Planning Your Ski Trip to The Highlands and Boyne Mountain

Planning your trip is effortless with a variety of accommodations to choose from, including ski-in ski-out chalets, cozy family lodges, and luxurious full-service hotels. Booking through Ski.com allows you to build your own ski-and-stay packages with lodging, lift tickets, airfare, rentals and more. Working with a Mountain Travel Expert is the smartest way to plan, so get in contact today!

5 best things about The Highlands and Boyne Mountain according to our Mountain Travel Experts

Great family resorts.Longest tubing park in the Midwest.State-of-the-art snowmaking technology.Ski-in ski-out lodging, long tubing adventures and a zipline.True alpine village experience in the Midwest.

MOUNTAIN STATS

Number of runs: 55

Beginner runs: 36%
Advanced runs: 29%
Intermediate runs: 33%
Expert runs: 0%

Skiable acres: 850

Base elevation: 719 ft
Summit elevation: 1,152 ft
Vertical drop: 552 ft

Average snowfall: 117"
Terrain park: NO

Where to stay in The Highlands and Boyne Mountain

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The Highlands and Boyne Mountain Trail Maps

How to get to The Highlands and Boyne Mountain

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.

Make flight plans and book transport with one of Ski.com's knowledgeable Mountain Travel Experts.

Getting around

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.

Skiing in The Highlands and Boyne Mountain

Skiing The Highlands

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.

Skiing Boyne Mountain

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.

Beginner Skiing in The Highlands and Boyne Mountain

The Highlands and Boyne Mountain are ideal destinations for beginner skiers and families easing into the sport. Both resorts feature expansive learning zones and gentle terrain designed specifically for first-timers. The resorts' ski school provides tailored instruction for kids, teens, and adults with group or private lesson options. Programs like the "Learn to Turn" package combine rentals, lift tickets and beginner instruction, making it easy to get started without the stress. Magic carpets and beginner-friendly lifts keep the experience simple and unintimidating, while expert instructors focus on creating a fun, encouraging environment.

Expert Skiing in The Highlands and Boyne Mountain

At The Highlands, over half of the resort’s 55+ trails are rated for intermediate and advanced skiers, with standout runs like North Peak Pass, Olympic, and the long, winding Heather run. Boyne Mountain features 60 trails with a similar balance of blue and black terrain, including favorites like Victor, Thunder, and the steep and thrilling McLouth. Both resorts feature well-maintained snow and extensive snowmaking, ensuring consistent conditions throughout the season. Advanced skiers can also challenge themselves on mogul runs, glade skiing, and multiple terrain parks that cater to higher skill levels.

Family vacations in The Highlands and Boyne Mountain

The Highlands

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.

Boyne Mountain

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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