Top 9 Biggest Ski Resorts in the Midwest

Midwest skiing includes resorts with notable skiable acreage and vertical drop, often surprising visitors who expect smaller terrain. Lake-effect snow from the Great Lakes supports strong winter conditions across parts of Michigan and Wisconsin. Several resorts pair natural snowfall with heavy snowmaking coverage to maintain reliable conditions. Nub’s Nob provides 238 acres, 427 feet of vertical, and 97% snowmaking coverage. Big Powderhorn offers 253 acres, about 420 feet of vertical, and 90% snowmaking coverage. Devil’s Head and Afton Alps each provide around 300 acres, with 100% snowmaking coverage and vertical drops of 500 feet and 350 feet respectively. The list ranks the top nine Midwest resorts by total skiable acreage.

"With 238 acres of skiable terrain, Nub's Nob in Harbor Springs, Michigan, has 53 runs to choose from. Averaging 123 inches of annual snow, the resort is also significantly covered with 97% snowmaking capabilities. On the slopes, eight chairlifts, one rope tow, and one conveyor provide access to 427 feet of vertical descent."

"Located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Big Powderhorn in Bessemer, Michigan, offers 45 ski trails across 253 acres of skiable terrain. With an annual average of around 200 inches, the heavy lake effect snow greatly complements the 90% snowmaking coverage. Nine double chairlifts and a tow rope whisk riders away for around 420 feet of vertical drop."

"Devil's Head, in Merrimac, Wisconsin, features 30 trails throughout 300 acres of skiable terrain. With limited natural snowfall, around 55-65 inches annually, the resort depends on snowmaking on 100% of the terrain. Six lifts and two carpets give skiers and riders access to 500 feet of vertical drop."

"Afton Alps, located in Hastings, Minnesota, provides guests with 300 acres of skiable terrain and 50 trails to explore. Since the resort averages between 50-60 inches of natural snow a season, they rely heavily on snowmaking systems that covers 100% of the slopes. 350 feet of vertical is accessed by 15 chairlifts, two carpets, and two tow ropes."

Read at SnowBrains