
Do you après-ski? Like many skiing destinations around the world, après-ski in northern Michigan is as much a part of the skiing culture as skiing itself. From sipping craft beverages and snacks in igloos or heated tents, to swapping out your skis for a pair of ice skates, here are six activities for those hours when you’re not on the slopes.
Hit the Spa
If you're the type of person that's looking for more of a low-key après experience, you'll find spa services to soothe your muscles after an exhilarating day on the slopes. If you’re skiing at Crystal Mountain Resort, schedule your visit to the Crystal Spa where you’ll find a variety of relaxing and rejuvenating services. If you’re on the hills in Traverse City at either Mt. Holiday or Hickory Hills, you’re not far from Spa Grand Traverse at the Grand Traverse Resort. Hang up your skis and head over there for a cozy and relaxing experience.
Sip Local Libations
A few drinks are part of any post skiing itinerary. After a day on the slopes at Crystal Mountain, head over to Base Camp at Iron Fish Distillery where you can sip craft beverages in your own personal heated tent (parties of 2-6 people). If you’re in Traverse City, Grand Traverse Distillery, Traverse City Whiskey Company, and Mammoth Distilling are all options where you can find classic cocktails and cherry-infused spirits.
Dine Out
Don't let hunger settle in after a few hours on the slopes! Whether you're looking for snacks, appetizers or main courses, there are plenty of options to choose from. Warm up with a hot chocolate and a decadent pastry, grab a few friends and share a round of appetizers before round two on the hills or call it a day and settle in with a hearty winter meal. The best part of it all is that you won't run out of places to go!
Go Tubing
Tubing has all the thrilling speed of a toboggan run or a sledding hill – except that you get to sit in the middle of a big soft inner tube and ride down a groomed hill. And when you get to the bottom, there’s a towline waiting to take you back to the top so you can do it all over again. It’s an exciting activity for thrill-seeking couples, groups, and families. Hit the hills at Mt. Holiday or TimberLee and you’ll see what all of the excitement is about!
Trade in the Skis for Skates
Maybe you’re a pro at ice skating or maybe it’s a new sport for you, either way, it’s all about having fun on the rinks in northern Michigan. Both Centre Ice Arena and Howe Arena have open skate options. There’s also a rink located in Barr Park in the heart of Crystal Mountain’s village. Skate rentals are available at all three locations.
Light Up the Night
Take in a northern Michigan winter sunset. The sun goes down early in the winter, but that doesn’t mean the sunsets are any less stunning. When the clouds are clear and you find a scenic overlook, the scenery is remarkable! Grab a blanket and head to one of these spots: The Crystal Clipper chairlift at Crystal Mountain, Frankfort Beach, Bryant Park in Traverse City, or the scenic overlook by Chateau Grand Traverse on the Old Mission Peninsula.