Beautiful wide open rolling terrain, nestled in the picturesque U.P. is how I would describe Pine Mountain. Perfect for beginner & intermediate skiers & home to one of Michigan’s few ski jumps, this a resort you don’t want to miss. This was my first time taking the kids to ski by myself and we had an absolute blast! The Snow covered Pine Trees and spectacular views of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula made for a magical day. Keep Reading for Important Information.

Things to Know: Pine Mountain is actually in the central time zone so depending on where you’re traveling from you could encounter a time change. We drove down from Marquette which was about an hour and a half drive where we gained an hour on our way down and lost an hour on the way back. No wonder we were starving for lunch at 12:30! Keep Scrolling for Terrain info

Lets Talk Terrain: There was a high school race going on the day we were there so the 2 person lift was pretty locked up on the west side of the mountain where the more challenging runs are located, but we were still able to explore a good chunk of the resort from the main 3 person lift. Lots of greens and blues that all run together & through the trees at different points so you never feel like you’re doing the same run over and over.  Unfortunately, the East side of the mountain was closed, I’m guessing because it was a weekday. According to the trail map I think there are some more challenging runs in that direction as well. If you have little ones or brand new beginners, they do offer a rope tow learning area. I would compare the green runs at Pine Mountain to those at Crystal Mountain, very easy and great for beginners to gain confidence.

About the Lodge: The main lodge had cubbies and tables where you can change into your ski boots or have a picnic lunch. They also have a small cafeteria with your typical eats. Nothing fancy, but super thankful they were open because we did not come prepared with lunch. Word on the street is the restaurant on the main floor of the hotel has awesome food! They had a HUGE deck which connected to a sports bar as well. I imagine that’s the place to be on the weekends. 

Details: If you’re skiing with someone special don’t forget to bring a padlock for the Love Lock Fence. The story goes, you’re supposed to engrave or write your names on the lock, attach it to the fence and throw away the key on pine mountain to symbolize your unbreakable love. Bring your own lock or buy one in the cute ski shop and add it to the fence. I thought about doing one with the boys because hey a mom and her sons can have an unbreakable love too right?! Next time, for sure. I love this tradition!!  

Overall, the boys and I really enjoyed our day at Pine Mountain. If you’re in the U.P. I would definitely recommend a visit. While it may not be the biggest resort around they make up for it with great snow and endless charm. Every one we encountered was very friendly…staff, ski patrol, local skiers. Also, make sure you stop in the ski shop, they have an AWESOME selection of hats and quite a nice array of ski gear. I was pretty impressed! Book your stay at Pine Mountain Resort today https://www.pinemountainresort.com/accommodations/

Follow me on Instagram @mom_in_the_mitten or my FB Group Mom in the Mitten for all things Michigan and a little Fashion because well, that’s what I LOVE! For more info on Pine Mountain specifically, you can click on my Ski the U.P. highlight on IG for my stories from our trip. According to locals, people come from all over to party the weekend Pine Mountain hosts the professional Ski Jumpers. Sounds pretty incredible, let’s take one more look…