Looking for some really incredible views on your Northern Michigan fall color tour? Head to these ski resorts. While you might overlook the views and fun that chairlifts provide during ski season, autumn is a whole different story. Fall color chairlift rides offer some of the most secluded and breathtaking vistas of Michigan’s vibrant foliage.
Shanty Creek Resort // Bellaire
Shanty Creek Resort is offering our favorite way to see the fall colors—from way up high!—with scenic fall color chairlift rides throughout the fall season. The round-trip ride on the Blue Chairlift in Shanty Creek’s Schuss Village heads to the top of Schuss Mountain. Enjoy spectacular views as you traverse the mountain and some of the best fall color photo opportunities from the top of Schuss Mountain.
Copper Peak // Ironwood
The Copper Peak adventure ride allows guests to experience the same heights as athletes who have flown down the hills in years past. As if the 810-foot chairlift ride didn’t provide enough of a stunning view, visitors are then invited to take an elevator 18 stories up for the highest unobstructed 360-degree vista in the Midwest. From there, experience a breathtaking view overlooking 2,500 square miles, which include the stunning fall colors along Lake Superior, three states and even Canada on a clear day.
Crystal Mountain // Thompsonville
Take a ride on the Crystal Clipper chairlift and bask in panoramic views of Crystal Mountains’ picturesque villages and three Northern Michigan counties. Take advantage of the resort’s other activities, too, including outdoor laser tag and an alpine slide.
Porcupine Mountains // Ontonagon
The Upper Peninsula is known for its stunning beauty, especially in fall. While there are plenty of places to see the Northern Michigan fall colors—Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is one of the best. Visitors can ride the chairlift to the top, then choose to either hike or ride the lift back down. Either way, the trip offers beautiful views overlooking Lake Superior.
Boyne Highlands Resort // Harbor Springs
When fall rolls around at Boyne Highlands, the resort offers a uniquely beautiful perspective with a ride on the Heather Express chairlift. Youʼll be able to see Little Traverse Bay, Harbor Springs, Petoskey and as far as the Mackinac Bridge on a clear day.