Geared more towards the medium to advanced skier, Marquette Mountain is one of the highest energy mountains to ski in the Midwest because of its proximity to Northern Michigan University and the hordes of skiers from there that call Marquette Mountain home. It has a young lively crowd looking for a challenge on the slopes. For northern Michigan it has the toughest trails for the lowest price so many of the high school and college skiers get to practice a lot and end up winning major championships.
Some of the more spectacular events are the big air competitions where skiers and snowboarders compete in jumping. If you are there when the competitions are on, make sure to take a camera! Stand as close as you can safely and stand underneath shooting up to get some radical shots of people flying through the air!
If you are a free style skier and snowboarder, their mountain terrain park is very popular and hosts tons of competitions throughout the season. It has multiple "up" ramps with good big landing spaces.
There are a few really easy trails for beginners however, so it also makes a good family ski destination that is affordable and offers a satisfying variety of skiing for all levels of skiers.
A highlight is the constant high quality snow making that ensures trails stay open and enjoyable. When you get to the top, stop and breath and take in the scenery before heading down the hill. There is a superb view from the top of Lake Superior, one of North America's largest and most stunning lakes that stretches from Michigan to Ontario, Canada. The resort gets approximately 210 inches of snow a year, has two double chair lifts, 1 triple chair lift, and 1 paddle tow lift. There are three groomers working the slopes every day on the 25 runs although you will be pleased with the many powder days you find there.
Marquette Mountain has it all: a great mountain terrain park, competitions, events, racing lessons and programs, snowboard lessons, night skiing, ski shop, bar, and dining. The White Water Cafe serves sit down lunch and dinner and the "T" Bar is fun for meeting for drinks and listening to live music on the weekends.
There is no lodging on the grounds but there is an ample selection of mid to low price motels within a couple of miles. For dining right in Marquette, there is a Thai/Chinese restaurant, Cajun Creole restaurant, chophouse, brewery...well, a huge variety of restaurants and nightlife!!
For those who do not ski in your group, there is snowmobiling and traditional upper Michigan ice fishing within a short drive.
If you go to the Marquette Mountain web site and click on the Store link, you can purchase online your ski tickets, locker passes, ski school tickets and gift cards as well as specially priced packages for families and groups.
Lest you think this is only a winter ski destination, think about visiting in the summer because it has a huge variety of hiking trails to enjoy as well.
