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When one thinks of the Great Lakes, skiing may not be the first sport that comes to mind. Maybe it's fishing, golfing or even hunting. However, the Great Lakes region has some of the best ski resorts, both for families and for singles, as do other more famous regions of the country.

MICHIGAN

Boyne Resort is actually three resorts in one. There is Boyne Mountain, Boyne Highlands and Bay Harbor. All three offer the best in Northern Michigan skiing, while still having a great value.

Boyne Mountain is great for families and those who are young at heart. They have a large arcade, Michigan's largest indoor water park and an on-site day care for those who aren't up for skiing quite yet. The ski season begins on Thanksgiving and runs until the beginning of April. When you get tired of downhill skiing, there is ice-skating, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling on site. Boyne Mountain is the closest to Boyne Falls, a quaint town with a charming atmosphere year round. Boyne Mountain even has an airstrip out the back if you want to fly in!

Boyne Highlands is the northernmost of the three, located in Harbor Springs and perfect if you want to get away. The Highlands offers a sauna at the base of the mountains, a cafeteria and on-site daycare. Other activities include dog sledding, hayrides and hiking excursions.

Bay Harbor is in the midst of the three resorts, located directly on Little Traverse Bay. Its cozy setting has rooms which each feature a fireplace, a kitchen and a private porch. Perfect for the romantic getaway or a honeymoon.

Whether you have a group and want to stay in a four-bedroom cabin or you are on a romantic weekend and want a room in the spa, the choice is all yours. Boyne Resorts offers 1 to 3 bedroom villas, hotel rooms that sleep 2 to 6 people, mountain cabins, rooms in the spa and rooms along the creek. The prices begin at $234 a night for 2 nights, 2 people with 2 lift tickets and go up to $760 per night for 2 people and 2 lift tickets. Special packages are available for lift and lodging and begin at $75/night per person.

WISCONSIN

Granite Peak in Wausau, Wisconsin is one of the oldest ski resorts in the United States. It opened in 1937 on a 700-foot tall hill, which is now home to 72 runs, ranging from easy to diamond level. Granite Peak can accommodate couples in any one of the local Bed & Breakfasts or families in one of the 16 nearby hotels. Granite Peak has specials beginning at $81 per night per person, which includes lodging and a lift ticket. Rates go up depending on how many people and how many nights you are staying.

Entertainment at the resort includes concerts with regional and local bands. Other amenities on-site include fine dining, a grill a coffee bar, a tavern and a rental shop. Make reservations well in advance, as Granite Peak is a very popular destination during the snowy months!

If you have never skied on lake effect snow from the Great Lakes, you are missing out. Some of the best powder skiing happens right after a lake effect event. Don't miss out this year!

Learn more about this author, Tina Musial.
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