by Chris Loud

Created on: November 01, 2007

Boyne Mountain Resort, Michigan

This is the jack-of-all-trades as far as ski resorts go in the Great Lakes Region. Boyne offers multiple mountains with slopes for all skill levels. One of the few mountains in this area to be recognized in a Warren Miller film for having the first chair lift in history, the events and sites will not disappoint you. A great ski school and ever growing resort keeps everyone happy. If you like glade skiing, a rare thing in the midwest, Boyne offers 7 acres of skiing amongst the trees. Day lift tickets are around $50, and you will get your money's worth.

Crystal Mountain, Michigan

Voted #1 resort in Midwest by Ski Magazine in 2005, this place has more than enough for the family to do. Not as large as Boyne, but it packs amazing variety on its terrain. Especially for the younger ones with terrain parks, a world class ski school, and NASTAR events every day. With an elongated ridge on this old great lakes dune, the mountain is deceptively large. Spacious lodges and cafeterias provide comfort without the sardine feeling of many midwest resorts. Catch Warren Miller videos on the large screen in the main cafeteria as you rest after a satisfying day of skiing for under $50.

Cascade Mountain, Wisconsin

This is where the adventurous skier roams in the Great Lakes Region. This mountain has four terrain parks and the only Superpipe in the Midwest. The terrain parks cater to all levels, featuring small rails and jumps for the beginner to the longest S-rail in America. So anybody can feel like they're pushing their own personal limits. Also, you can't beat the snow. The location often provides weeks upon weeks of fresh powder. Push your limits for under $50 a day.

Lutsen Mountains, Minnesota

This is the largest and tallest ski area in the region, offering four mountains all interconnected. The vast terrain provides an out-west feel, including the only gondola in the region. If you like your snow, this is the place to go with an incredible amount of natural accumulation provided by the storms from Lake Superior, and also the largest snow making system in the mid-west. This mountain caters mostly to the intermediate and expert, but there is an area for beginners to master their skills. Lutsen is just a hair pricier, at about $55 a day, but you are paying for access to four mountains.

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