By Day: Take to the groomed and tracked trails of Champion Hill Nordic Trails, just off U.S. 31 on Marshall Road in Honor. In the summer, the Nordic center is a golf course, but come winter, the rolling greens are groomed and tracked for skating and classic skiing. This is no griddle-flat golf course skiing. The over 25 K of trails wind up, down and around small knolls dotted with pine trees. After a K or so they started to climb. The downhills are worth the climb—wide swaths that leave plenty of room between you and the trees. Champion Hill Nordic Trails is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The cozy clubhouse is stocked with ski rentals and snacks. Trail passes are $9 adults; $8 seniors over 60; $7 ages 9-17; free 8 and under; $25 family pass. 231-882-9200
By Evening: Lucky for you tired and hungry skier. Some of the best Mexican food in Northern Michigan is just several miles south on U.S. 31 at The Roadhouse in Benzonia. Nurse a Don Juan margarita (1800 tequila, grand marnier and house sour mix) while you wait for the Roadhouse skillet: A platter of fresh grilled peppers and onions with tequila marinated steak and jerk chicken, smothered with monterey jack, then baked golden brown and served with sour cream. You may want to settle into your booth for a little siesta before you head home. 231-882-9631.
More on Hitting the Slopes
- The Michigan Ski Guide: Lower and Upper Peninsula
- Great Places to Learn to Ski—At Any Age
- Three Ski Towns to Explore
- Ski Town Take-Out
- Hot Apres Ski Towns
- Ski Guide: Swank or Spare?
- Post Slope Spa Treatments
- Where to Get Your Skiis Tuned
- Our Favorite Ski Slopes Names
- Master the U.P. Backcountry on Skiis
- Money Saving Tips for the Ski Season
- Ski and Snowboard Clothing and Gear for Northern Michigan Ski Slopes
- Interview with Slopeside Bartender
- Air Born: Ski Jumping in the U.P.
- Mackinac Island Ski Getaway
- The Ultimate Guide to Winter
- 2009 Ski and Snowboard Pass Deals at Northern Michigan Ski Resorts