The hum of snow guns can be heard up and down the slopes across Northern Michigan, and three of the big ski spots have already announced some of their downhill runs will open as soon as this weekend. More could be added to that list by the end of this week. For ski enthusiasts, it’s go time: Check your gear, check your schedule and make plans to get in some early winter powder time.
So far, the three most popular ski spots between Boyne Falls and Harbors Springs will be spinning their chairlifts this weekend: Boyne Mountain, Boyne Highlands and its across-the-road neighbor, Nub’s Nob.
Here are the details so far:
Boyne Highlands near Harbor Springs
What the resort is saying: “Winter season begins at 9:00am on Friday, December 3rd for our season passholders, Ikon passholders, and resort lodging guests only. Daily lift tickets for the public will be available on Saturday, December 4th and Sunday, December 5th.” Lift tickets are now on sale.
What the resort is saying: “Lifts start spinning at 9am on Friday, December 3 for season passholders, Ikon, and resort lodging guests only. We open up to all on Saturday and Sunday, December 4-5.
“Catch turns on Victor, Hemlock, and Boyneland via Mountain Express and Boyneland chairlifts from 9am-4:30pm. Plan is to then focus on snowmaking midweek and re-open DAILY for the season on December 10. Who’s ready to rip?!” Get lift tickets here.
What the crew is saying: “The hill will be open for skiing and riding with limited terrain from Friday, December 3 through Sunday, December 5. The lifts will spin from 9:00-4:30. We will then close the slopes beginning Monday to take advantage of every snowmaking opportunity.”
Details: 3 runs open: Sno Pro, Smooth Sailing, Big Time. The Green, Yellow and Purple lifts will spin Dec. 3, 4 and 5 9am to 4:30pm. Buy tickets online at www.nubsnob.com

Nub’s Nob has a Winter Garden area, one of its spots for grab-and-go food and drinks when you’re taking a break from hitting the slopes.
Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville: No opening date yet. Snow guns are running. Check here for updates: Crystal Mountain | Facebook
Caberfae Peaks in Cadillac: Snow making is underway. Keep checking Caberfae’s Facebook page for an official announcement: Caberfae Peaks | Facebook
Shanty Creek in Bellaire: Snow is being made. Check the resort’s Facebook page for opening day details: Shanty Creek Resorts | Facebook
Mount Bohemia in Mohawk: Check its Facebook page for updates: Mount Bohemia | Facebook
Treetops in Gaylord: Snow guns are on. Watch the resort’s Facebook page for an opening day announcement: Treetops Resort | Facebook
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