Shanty Creek Resort - Summit Village

Shanty Creek Resort's Summit Village is an adventure-packed destination offering year-round family fun in the heart of northern Michigan. Winter brings excellent skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids, while summer transforms the mountain into a playground with mountain biking trails, golf, swimming pools, and scenic chairlift rides. The resort's all-in-one-place setup means families can enjoy multiple activities without the hassle of packing up and driving between locations.

• ✓Ski and snowboard lessons tailored for children with patient instructors
• ✓Summer mountain biking on beginner-friendly trails
• ✓Scenic chairlift rides offering stunning views of Lake Bellaire
• ✓Indoor and outdoor pools for year-round swimming
• ✓Golf courses with junior programs

1. 1.Book ski or bike lessons in advance during peak seasons as they fill up quickly, especially holiday weeks and summer weekends.
2. 2.Multi-day stays offer the best value since you can spread activities across several days without kids getting overtired.
3. 3.Bring layers year-round as Michigan weather changes quickly, and mountain temperatures can be cooler than valley temps.
4. 4.Check the resort's activity schedule upon arrival for family-friendly events like bonfires, s'mores nights, and guided nature walks.
5. 5.Rent equipment on-site to avoid lugging gear from home, though bringing your own helmets ensures proper fit for kids.

Winter weekdays (January through February) offer the best snow conditions with smaller crowds, while mid-June through August provides perfect weather for summer activities. Avoid peak holiday weeks like Christmas and spring break if you prefer shorter lift lines and more instructor attention for kids.

This is a full-service resort with multiple dining options including casual family restaurants and grab-and-go cafes. Prices are on the higher end, with lift tickets, equipment rentals, and activity fees adding up quickly, so budget accordingly. The Summit Village area has convenient parking near the main lodge.

Skiing typically runs December through March depending on snow conditions. Mountain biking and summer activities operate Memorial Day through early October. The resort stays open year-round with indoor amenities, but spring (April-May) and fall (late October-November) have limited outdoor activities. Check ahead for specific opening and closing dates each season.

Short's Brewing Company in Bellaire (10 minutes away) offers excellent burgers and a welcoming family atmosphere. For a quick bite, head to Bellaire Market and Deli for sandwiches perfect for picnicking between activities.