Snowy landscape with buildings and trees under a sunlit sky.

Why Vacation to Snowriver

Ski lift over snowy slopes at sunset, with a colorful sky.

Getting Here is Half the Fun

Snowriver sits in the heart of Michigan’s western Upper Peninsula, an easy, scenic drive from major Midwestern cities like Milwaukee, Chicago, Minneapolis, and Green Bay. Forget the airport lines and delays; your vacation begins the moment you hit the road. The drive north winds through pine forests, frozen lakes, and quiet towns until you reach Snowriver Mountain Resort.

Skier in red jacket navigating snowy forest trail.

Michigan’s Biggest Mountain Adventure

At Snowriver, lake effect snow meets Midwest convenience. Westerly winds off Lake Superior blanket our slopes with nearly 20 feet of snow each season, creating some of the most reliable conditions in the region. Across two distinct peaks, Jackson Creek Summit (formerly Indianhead) and Black River Basin (formerly Blackjack), you’ll find 400 skiable acres, 60 runs, and Michigan’s only high-speed lift. With glades, groomers, and lake-effect powder days that just keep coming, Snowriver turns every run into a memory worth making.

Explore the Trail Map

20 feet Of snow
60 Trails
400 Acres
2 Mountains
1 High-speed lift
Historic theater on a small-town street with parked cars and flags.

Small Towns, Big Character

Down the road, you’ll find a collection of U.P. towns that capture the region’s rich heritage and warm spirit. Ironwood, Bessemer, Ramsay, and Wakefield are all within a short drive. Locals call themselves “Yoopers,” and their pride runs deep. Experience that down-to-earth culture at neighborhood favorites like Club 28, Tacconelli’s, or Cold Iron Brewing. Stroll through historic downtown Ironwood or visit the Stormy Kromer Factory, home to Michigan’s most iconic winter cap.

Explore Local Flavor

Snow-covered waterfall flowing into a calm river, surrounded by trees.

Wilderness & Northern Lights

Snowriver’s wild surroundings make every visit feel like an adventure. Just minutes from the slopes, you’ll discover frozen waterfalls, snowshoe trails, and scenic drives through the Ottawa National Forest and Porcupine Mountains Wilderness. Chase the Aurora Borealis dancing across winter skies, this area sees some of the Midwest’s best Northern Lights displays, especially during peak solar years.

Discover the Outdoors

Aerial view of cabins by a pond and surrounded by lush greenery.

Cozy Nights & Northern Hospitality

When the lifts stop spinning, the U.P. warmth kicks in. Settle into a slopeside condo, the freshly renovated Main Lodge, or the Jackson Studios, offering access to our sauna, pool, and hot tub, perfect for unwinding after a day on the mountain. Grab dinner at a local pub, catch live music at the resort, or simply watch the snow fall from your window. Here, the nights are peaceful, the stars are bright, and the hospitality feels like home.

Explore Lodging Options

Two people cross-country skiing through a snowy forest trail.

Winter Fun for Everyone

Off the slopes, there’s no shortage of family fun. Try snowtubing at Mt. Zion, cross-country skiing on the world-class ABR Trails, or fat biking along snow-packed forest routes. Visit the Downtown Art Place, see a show at the Historic Ironwood Theatre, or take the kids ice skating or bowling for a classic Midwest evening.

Plan Family Activities

With deep snow, friendly faces, and boundless adventure, Snowriver isn’t just Michigan’s biggest mountain—it’s a true Midwest escape.

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Skiers glide through snowy forest trail in winter setting.