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More ski areas we love
Boyne Mountain, Boyne Falls, Michigan Zipline over, ski down or catch air at some of the Midwest’s best slopes. After a day outside, relax with a massage at the lavish Solace Spa, or channel your inner teen in the Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark. Accommodations range from luxurious hotel rooms and suites to mountain cabins and villas. From $152. See reviews and ratings. (800) 462-6963; boyne.com
Giants Ridge, Biwabik, Minnesota Black-diamond thrills, family-friendly tubing and cross-country treks through hushed woods await at this resort in Minnesota’s Iron Range, 70 miles north of Duluth. You’ll find cozy yet spacious places to stay at the Lodge at Giants Ridge and the Villas at Giants Ridge. Rooms from $150. (800) 688-7669; giantsridge.com
Granite Peak Ski Area at Rib Mountain State Park, Wausau, Wisconsin Six chair lifts, including two high-speed, serve almost 80 percent of the 74 runs at 700-foot-high Granite Peak. Experienced skiers and snowboarders shred black-diamond runs; the same lifts serve acres of beginner slopes and mile-long intermediate runs. End your day at the charming Jefferson Street Inn in downtown Wausau. From $109. See reviews and ratings. (715) 845-2846; skigranitepeak.com
Lutsen Mountains, Lutsen, Minnesota With 90-plus runs on four North Shore mountains, a first-time visit can feel a little overwhelming. We suggest Moose Mountain, with its red gondola and views of Lake Superior. Lodging at Eagle Ridge Resort makes exploring the area easy. From $119. See reviews and ratings. (218) 663-7281; lutsen.com
Shanty Creek Resorts, Bellaire, Michigan Three ski villages provide a variety of powder play, including ski runs, terrain parks and a tubing hill. Ivan’s tavern-style restaurant serves local craft beers and specialty pizzas, and Lakeview Restaurant offers more refined dining, including small plates of tender lamb pops with sweet fig jam. Guests retreat to comfortable modern hotel rooms or condos. From $161. See reviews and ratings. (800) 678-4111; shantycreek.com
— Lisa Meyers McClintick and Maggie Ginsberg-Schutz
(A version of this story appeared in Midwest Living® January/February 2013. Prices and other details are subject to change, so please check specifics before making travel plans.)
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