New Snow, Beginning of March, and Spring Skiing in Michigan
The latest blast of snow hitting Michigan this week reminds us that winter is not over. A horrible December and up and down temperatures in January and February has left skiers and snowboarders itching for more.
Head North
March is the beginning of spring skiing in Michigan and many of the resorts offer added festivities to the standard ski weekend. Here are a few picks to consider when planning your getaway …
Photo Courtesy of Shanty Creek
Shanty Creek – Bellaire
March 5 – Slush Cup: One of Michigan’s most popular winter events for over 40 years. Watch the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat as skiers and riders attempt to cross an icy 40′ pond. Some take it to another level with crazy costumes. Other events include a frozen fish toss, snow shovel racing and a seal slide—all part of the traditional wild and crazy weekend.
March 12 – Cardboard Classic: The annual race down Schuss Mountain in a sled you make yourself—from cardboard, tape, and glue only. Prizes for best design, best use of Shanty Creek brand, and fastest sleds.
March 18 – Sardine Special: An SCR Original – While others boast six-for-this or five-for-that, on March 18 pack as many friends, family members, neighbors and anyone else you can find into your car and head to Schuss Mountain. Everyone in your vehicle skis or rides for just $59 per carload.
March 19 – Blarney Stone Rail Jam: Rail jam for both skiers and boarders of all ages and abilities. Located at Ivan’s Alley on Schuss Mtn.
March 26 – Last Weekend Luau: Hawaiian-themed fun on the last weekend of ski season! Activities include saucer races, toilet seat horseshoes, a hula-hoop contest and more.
A two-mountain experience – 31 miles northeast of Traverse City – is a four-season destination. Reservations 800-678-4111 or www.ShantyCreek.com
Carnival Weekend Photo Courtesy of Boyne Mountain
Boyne Mountain Resort – Boyne Falls
Every spring at Boyne Mountain, we celebrate the new season with a party that brings together the festivities of St. Patrick’s Day and the zaniness of Mardi Gras – we affectionately call it Carnival Weekend. Many of you affectionately call it “Crazy Daze.” Whatever you want to call it, just know that this weekend brings the silliness out of us all. Whether you are skimming the pond in our annual Slush Cup or getting jiggy with it during the On-hill Party, you are bound to laugh at yourself and your friends. Carnival Weekend isn’t recommended for kids, just for the adults that want to act like kids again.
Carnival Weekend Ski & Stay Package including Mountain Grand Lodge and Spa accommodations, lift ticket, and buffet breakfast are available from $206 per person, per night. Reservations 800.462.6963 or www.Boyne.com
Photo Courtesy of Crystal Mountain
Crystal Mountain – Thompsonville
March 12 – Spring Fling: Get ready for a fun filled Saturday with events and activities for the whole family to enjoy. Reservations 855-955-5146 or www.CrystalMountain.com
- 11 a.m. Cardboard Classic
- 2 p.m. Kayak on Snow Race
- 4 p.m. Slush Cup
- 8 p.m. Live Entertainment featuring The Feral Cats
Dog Sledding Photo Courtesy of Treetops Resort
Treetops Resort – Gaylord
Dog Sledding, Wilderness Sleigh Ride Dinners, Spa Weekends, and more throughout the month of March await winter weekend enthusiasts. Reservations 866-348-5249 or www.TreeTops.com
Visit www.Michigan.org for more inspirational destinations in Michigan.
About Michael Dwyer