Just One More Run!

Wrapping Up The 2017 Ski Season

By Kristi Kates | March 11, 2017

Whether your idea of a perfect day at the ski resort is cruising leisurely down a green circle run or carving it up fast on a tough black diamond, your days of doing either in northern Michigan are coming to an end as spring approaches. But never fear, ambitious skiers! There are still plenty of ski season wrap–up events on the way over the next month or so, so strap on those boots and let’s check out the highlights.

Celts and Kayaks at Crystal Mountain: March 17–18
This unique take on the St. Patrick’s holiday keeps things festive, from the Shamrock Search and Pot of Gold challenge to the Celtic Dance and hunt for the once–a–year “Leaping Leprechaun.” If you’re brave enough, you can even sign up, snag some equipment and try your paddles at the weekend’s trademark event, the Kayak on the Snow Race. For more information, visit crystalmountain.com.

Carnival Weekend at Boyne Mountain: March 17–19
The whole weekend is yours in Boyne Falls for the annual Carnival Weekend at the ski slopes, which blends St. Patrick’s Day and Mardi Gras into one big snowy blowout. This year’s event includes music from ‘80s band The Breakfast Club alongside skiing, snowboarding, zipline rides, a food truck rally and more. For more information, visit boyne.com.

Krazy Daze at Boyne Highlands: March 17–19
Right alongside Boyne Mountain’s spring festivities is Boyne Highlands’ version, at which the sister resort offers up many similar events. From live music to the always soggy Ski over the Pond to festive face painting to the Silly Slalom and more, the Highlands says goodbye to another ski season with its own brand of krazy. For more information, visit boyne.com.

Mardi Gras at Nub’s Nob: March 18
Nub’s annual spring fling is back with the Petoskey Steel Drum Band providing the tunes as you take on the Pepsi Challenge races, participate in the costume contest, cheer on your favorite Crazy Couple, listen to tunes from Patrick Ryan and splash your way through the Soaker Cup at this family–oriented event. For more information, visit nubsnob.com.

Blarney Stone Rail Jam at Shanty Creek: March 18
Snowboarders take over the Monster Energy Terrain Park starting at 1pm at this Shanty Creek spring event, with three judges keeping an eye on the boarders throughout this fun, daring competition that offers the opportunity to show off your skills and win lift tickets for the upcoming 2017–2018 ski and boarding season. For more information, visit shantycreek.com.

Short’s Rocks the Mountain at Treetops Resort: March 18
This end–of–season bash is essentially an all–day party at Treetops, with live music from A Brighter Bloom and Sweet Tooth along with the famed Leprechaun on Stilts, the Slush Cup, corn hole games and a range of brews from Short’s Brewing Company in Bellaire; wear shorts and get a lift ticket for $5 bucks. For more information, visit treetops.com.

Ski League/Family and Friends/Boyne Downhill Races at Boyne Highlands: March 25–26
Whether you’re part of one of Boyne Highland’s official ski league teams, are associated otherwise (the Family and Friends race is open to all ages and abilities) or just want to watch the action–packed competition at the Olympic and Leprechaun levels, this annual trio of end–of–season ski races makes for a fun March weekend in Harbor Springs. For more information, visit boyne.com.

Snow Challenge at Schuss Mountain: April 1–2
Set your skis aside temporarily and take part in (or just watch!) Schuss’ late–season slopes transform into a track for side–by–side uphill truck racing, with modified trucks and jeeps hitting the gas to race to the top. It’s a fun, loud event for a great cause, with a portion of the proceeds going to help Michigan’s disabled American vets. For more information, visit shantycreek.com.