The top-rated ski resorts in the Midwest

When you think of the Midwest portion of the U.S., ski resorts aren’t the first thing that comes to mind. That’s because people forget that the northern part of this region is quite mountainous. Thus, Midwest ski resorts thrive.

They might not be big names like Vail or Park City. Still, they have their fans. Especially those who utilize either the Epic Pass or Ikon Pass that allows them to get into multiple resorts for one price.

To help you learn more, here are the top-rated Midwest ski resorts.

Afton Alps, Hastings, MN

Afton State Park Skiing

You’ll find Afton Alps within a short drive from Minneapolis and St. Paul. It’s nestled in the St. Croix River Valley and provides visitors with 300 acres of skiable trails. State-of-the-art snow machines keep all areas coated in white throughout the season.

Ski slopes are available for participants at every level. Additionally, Afton Alps features a large snowboarding trail. The resort contains several locations to warm up after a day on the slopes. Numerous dining experiences complement the resort village.

Byone Highlands, Harbor Springs, MI

Harbor Springs

Approximately 90 minutes from Traverse City, Byone Highlands has served residents and visitors to northeastern Michigan since 1963. In the winter, the resort features, lodging and dining offerings along with 55 groomed trails. This includes the state’s longest ski run at over one mile.

In the warmer months, the resort shifts toward offerings like its golf course and zipline adventures. Throughout the year, Byone Highlands’ spa allows visitors to relax and loosen stiff muscles.

Byone Mountain Resort, Byone Valley, MI

Further north on Michigan’s mitten is Byone Mountain Resort. Established in 1955, the area is home to year-round outdoor sports. In the winter, visitors have access to 60 downhill trails and over 20 miles of cross-country ski paths. The family-owned resort also contains the largest indoor water park and a nearly 20,000 square-foot spa. In the summer, Byone Mountain is a mecca for golf aficionados and zipline fans.

Mt. Brighton Ski Resort, Brighton, MI

Brighton Ski resort
Mt. Brighton Ski Resort is based off of Interstate 96 between Lansing and Detroit. Despite its location in a metropolitan area, visitors still feel like they are far away from civilization as they journey through the area’s 25 trails. The family-friendly ski area is great for experienced trailblazers and those who want to learn.

Wilmot Mountain Ski Resort, Wilmot, WI

Situated to the west of Lake Michigan, Wilmot is a convenient ski destination for those who live in Milwaukee and Chicago. A total of 11 trails are available for visitors, including bunny and turtle trails for the youngest skiers. Additionally, the resort provides a trail for those who want to skip the skis and slide down the mountain in a tube.

As you can see, these Midwest ski resorts have as many amenities, if not more, than their Western cousins. On top of that, they are local to many metropolitan locations. So, consider these resorts for your next ski adventure.

Enjoyed skiing in the East? You might want to visit these ski areas next

The East Coast offers a number of different ski areas, each with its own unique claim to fame. From massive, renowned resorts to smaller, out-of-the-way destinations, there’s no shortage of places to ski. Here are some areas to research ahead of your next East Coast ski trip.

Killington Mountain

Killington Mountain

As both the most popular ski resort on the East Coast and the resort boasting the largest vertical drop, there’s simply no overlooking Killkington when considering ski areas of the East. Encompassing eight mountains, 1509 acres, and 155 trails, this Vermont ski area provides plenty of variety for experienced and amateur skiers alike. The Ikon Pass provides seven days of access to Killington.

Loon Mountain Resort

Sunapee Mountain

With 61 runs (including plenty of options for both beginners and experts), this New Hampshire resort is a great option for anyone in New England. Having recently purchased snow guns, it’s also a great destination for those rough months when Mother Nature withholds her snow-white bounty. Like Killington, Loon offers Ikon Pass holders seven days of access.

Mount Sunapee

Located in New Hampshire and boasting 66 separate trails, this resort is known for its wild “slushing” event, during which expert “slushers” attempt to ski across a frozen (but melting) pond. Epic Pass holders are offered seven days of access

Okemo

Okemo

This Vermont resort is renowned for its impressive snowmaking capabilities. It has also been lauded as an excellent resort for families, where children can learn to handle their skis while the adults hit the more challenging slopes. You can access Okemo for seven days with the Epic Pass.

Snowshoe

Killington Mountain

Tucked in among the Alleghenies of West Virginia, this resort is a favorite among midwestern and Appalachian skiers. The many miles of wilderness on site offer plenty of adventure, while the commercial center near the mountain’s summit (as opposed to the base) certainly represents a peculiarity. It is available to holders of the Ikon Pass.

Stratton

Killington Mountain

Once tucked away and difficult to access, this Vermont resort is now one of the most popular ski areas on the East Coast. With 99 trails and plenty of lifts, the resort is capable of hosting large numbers of enthusiasts. It is available to holders of the Ikon Pass.

Stowe

Killington Mountain

This Vermont resort, which comprises two peaks, boasts the fifth-largest lift-served vertical drop in New England. Located in the North of the state near the Canadian border, the resort receives impressive amounts of snowfall. It is available on the Epic Pass.

Sugarbush

With 111 trials and a considerable vertical drop (the third-largest in New England), this Vermont resort is a popular destination for good reason. Recent renovations have revamped the chair lifts and given the resort a more modern feel. You can visit Sugarbush for seven days with the Ikon Pass.

Sugarloaf

After Killington, this resort in Western Maine is the biggest ski area in the East. It boasts 160 runs, fourteen lifts, and the second-largest vertical drop in New England. The resort’s free transportation system makes it easy to navigate for skiers on a budget. It is accessible with the Ikon Pass.

Sunday River

While smaller than Sugarloaf, this Main resort is impressive in its own right. With 135 runs and fifteen chair lifts, it is capable of hosting an impressive number of skiers. It is home to a ski academy and various competitions, which help make it famous in the skiing world. You can visit Sunday River with an Icon Pass.

These are some of the most famous resorts on the East Coast, and for good reason. They each offer something special to the many skiers who visit them.

The top 5 ski chalets to have on your bucket list in 2021

The snow has begun falling at ski resorts all over North America, beckoning travelers to come and enjoy the thrill of racing down a mountain. When planning your epic 2021 ski vacation, your first step needs to be finding a place to call home base on your trip. A classic ski chalet will provide easy access to the slopes and a welcoming environment to come home to at the end of your day of adventure. Here are five of the top ski chalets that you should put at the top of your 2021 travel bucket list.

Fun in Fairplay Fairplay, Colorado: This secluded mountain getaway is just what the doctor ordered if you need a quiet and tranquil ski vacation escape. Nestled high in the clouds at the top of the Valley of the Sun, this chalet offers three bedrooms, three full bathrooms, two separate living areas, and a deck. With accommodations for up to eight people, everyone will enjoy plenty of space to spread out. While the chalet feels remote, you are also close to the charming town of Fairplay, making it easy to pick up necessities and a bite to eat.

Stunning Stowe Getaway – Stowe, Vermont: Enjoy the beauty of New England with this ski chalet in Stowe, Vermont. The Stowe Pond Chalet is conveniently located just three miles from town. Boasting four spacious bedrooms, this chalet provides accommodations for up to 10 people. The chalet is set on over four acres, giving you plenty of room to soak up the winter wonderland. The double-sided stone fireplace is the perfect place to warm up after a day on the slopes.

Elk View at Beaver Creek – Vail, Colorado: Immerse yourself in the magic of Vail, Colorado with this private home in Beaver Creek. The Elk View estate features nine bedrooms, ten bathrooms, a heated ski boot room, a sauna, a hot tub, and much more. The 2,500-square-foot deck provides sweeping views of the Rocky Mountains. The private home is located on the popular Beaver Creek Golf Course, offering convenient access to the region’s best ski runs. This massive home features accommodations for up to 20 people, making it a great destination for your next family reunion.

Lakefront Beauty – Wasa Lake, British Columbia: This rural lakefront property puts you at the heart of the Canadian Rockies in southern British Columbia. When staying in this chalet, you will enjoy the ski-in and ski-out privileges at the sister condo located at Kimberley Alpine Resort. Just outside your door, you will also find ice skating, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing opportunities. This home accommodates up to eight people comfortably.

Caldera House – Jackson Hole, Wyoming: Do not miss your chance to explore the adventures offered in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. This boutique hotel is located in the middle of Teton Village, steps from the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort tram. You can choose from a variety of suites, helping you to find the accommodations to fit your travel party. Guests will also enjoy 24-hour access to the fitness center, dry sauna, and more. On-site dining options and a sports shop round out the offerings at this inviting hotel experience.

Any of these five lodging options will deliver the perfect place to relax after your days taking advantage of the best recreational opportunities of the winter season. Start a search for your favorite chalet here

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Welcome to Updates & Insights on Ski House Swap! Here we will post new information, plus all the relevant news and updates related to some exciting new developments here at Ski House Swap. We cannot wait for winter here in North America and we’re thrilled to announce what we have coming your way!

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