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Winter Weekend Getaways

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Winter Weekend Getaways

As Winter 2026 approaches, the desire for well-deserved winter getaway grows by the day! What better place to experience the seasonal chill than at one of the numerous resorts scattered across the stunning backcountry regions of the Midwest? Join us as we explore the scenic slopes of our favs for a 2026 Winter Weekend Getaway in Michigan , Minnesota , and Iowa !




1. Boyne Mountain - Boyne Falls, MI

Size: 415 acres | Vertical: 500' | Runs: 65 | Terrain Parks: 5 | Avg. Snow: 110" | Lifts: 10 | Trail Map
Seeing the approach of an annual opening, Boyne Mountain finds itself as a winter wonderland set for visitors! Whether visiting the slopes or sticking around for local happenings, the front-row views of Clock Tower Lodge at the heart of the Boyne Mountain resort provides classic comfort for all lengths of vacation! All stays offer prime ski-in/ski-out access, complimentary year-round pool and sauna, and plenty of additional offers in-house for entertainment! But if the slopes are not your preference, the 35km of Boyne Nordic Trails offers a beautiful cross-country skiing experience unlike any other in the Boyne region! Lessons for beginners at discounted rates and individual packages open the trails to every type of skier. And after a long day, Trophy Room Pizzeria & Pub at Clock Tower Lodge with its upbeat atmosphere and great selection of pub classics is sure to keep you from going hungry! For both convenience and enjoyment, Boyne Mountain stands out among some of the best in North Michigan.

For additional information on local events and attractions for the Petoskey & Boyne area, be sure to check out the Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau.

Clock Tower Lodge
2800 Boyne Mountain Rd., Boyne Falls, MI | (855) 688-7024 | Website

Boyne Mountain Nordic Trails
1 Boyne Mountain Rd., Boyne Falls, MI | (231) 549-6088 | Website

Trophy Room Pizzeria & Pub
1 Boyne Mountain Rd., Boyne Falls, MI | (231) 549-7283 | Website




2. Snowriver Mountain Resort - Wakefield, MI

Size: 370 acres | Vertical: 538' | Runs: 73 | Terrain Parks: 2 | Avg. Snow: 109" | Lifts: 7 | Trail Map
Snowriver Mountain Resort stands as one of the largest and most scenic winter resorts of the Northern Peninsula with over 370acres of shredding slopes, forested expanses, and a wonderful community about it! Being at the heart of the Ironwood region, Snowriver Mountain Resort holds to its efforts of hospitality and character are what keep it above the rest of Ironwood's competitors. When looking for a place to stay during the visit, look no further than Jackson Creek Studios! Situated on-site with studio and lodge rooms that are both pet-friendly and set for large events, this collection of condominiums provides for all types of groups with every expected amenity for the resort available! In need of some entertainment? Theatre North in downtown Ironwood has proven itself for two decades of local productions with a few options to check out whenever you're in-town! As for good eats, Olde Suffolk Ale House has more than your appetite in mind with plenty of tavern food and a homey atmosphere fit for any casual get-together!

For additional information on local events and attractions from the Ironwood & Wakefield area, be sure to check out the Ironwood Tourism Council.

Jackson Creek Studios
500 Indianhead Rd., Wakefield, MI | (906) 229-5181 | Website

Theatre North
825 N. Lake St., Ironwood, MI | (906) 932-4371 | Website

Olde Suffolk Ale House
125 S. Suffolk St., Ironwood, MI | (906) 932-3198 | Website




3. Giant's Ridge - Biwabik, MN

Size: 202 acres | Vertical: 500' | Runs: 35 | Terrain Parks: 2 | Avg. Snow: 34" | Lifts: 7 | Trail Map
When the season calls for a snow shredding getaway fit for winter or any other time of the year, Giant's Ridge fulfills all of your wants as a year-round destination. As for what the ridge has to offer as the readers choice of winter resorts, an extensive recreational area with a myriad of adventure opportunities from tubing to snowshoeing and fat-tire biking makes this the best for all types of outdoor activities! One of its most action-packed sites, the Garmisch and Placid Terrain Parks, has a variety which makes for a memorable run every time! And when you need a bite to eat, the Burnt Onion Kitchen & Brews provides for any taste after your daily runs with an affordable, New American style of eatery! With a busy day, stepping away from Giant's Ridge for some rest would not hurt which is why Greengate Guesthouses and cozy countryside accommodations make for the perfect space to rest! A perfect distance from the resort and sporting a count of perfect properties, this stay is sure to be a family favorite!

For additional information on local events and attractions in the Biwabik and Aurora area, be sure to check out the Iron Range Tourism Bureau.

Garmisch & Placid Terrain Parks
6329 Wynne Creek Dr., Aurora, MN | (800) 688-7669 | Website

Burnt Onion Kitchen & Brews
6329 Wynne Creek Dr., Aurora, MN | (800) 688-7669 | Website

Greengate Guesthouse
400 Main St., Biwabik, MN | (213) 290-2607 | Website




4. Sundown Mountain Resort - Dubuque, IA

Size: 55 acres | Vertical: 475' | Runs: 21 | Terrain Parks: 2 | Avg. Snow: 19" | Lifts: 6 | Trail Map
For a mountain experience for all ages and skill sets, Sundown Mountain Resort is the perfect choice with its 21 trails and dedicated learning areas across the mountain set to work by its professional staffing which round out this resort to be one of the best in the Midwest! In search of high-octane winter sports while on the slopes! The Annual WIJARA Race held at Sundown Mountain and other venues offers an impressive spectacle for any sports fans to adore! Looking for something more laidback? Check out Ben's Den and The Barn, a pair of outdoor experiences set on the mountain, where hot cocoa and campfires keep you warm throughout your snowy journey! Whenever it is time to get off the mountain and grab a bite to eat, there is nothing better nearby than Tips Up Food & Spirits at North Lodge with their top tier bar & grill style food in addition to live music and great atmosphere daily! With Sundown, there is a little bit of something for everyone!

For additional information regarding upcoming events in the Dubuque, IA area, check out the Dubuque Visitors Bureau.

WIJARA Racing at Sundown
16991 Asbury Rd., Dubuque, IA | (563) 556-6676 | Website / Website

Ben's Ben & The Barn
16991 Asbury Rd., Dubuque, IA | (563) 556-6676 | Website (Den) / Website (Barn)

Tips Up Food & Spirits
16991 Asbury Rd., Dubuque, IA | (563) 556-6676 | Website




5. Ski Brule - Iron River, MI

Size: 150 acres | Vertical: 500' | Runs: 17 | Terrain Parks: 3 | Avg. Snow: 108" | Lifts: 11 | Trail Map
For an all-around great experience with idyllic runs and quiet expanses, Ski Brule is the place to be! Our last pick for winter getaways has a reputation for their availability. What does this mean? Their runs are often open when other resorts are not, their staffing is personable and open, and all of their services are quite affordable! And what better way to enjoy that than staying at the Pioneer Lodge, the historic lodge at Ski Brule? The traditional lodge-style rooms amenities to all guests making for a pleasant stay! As for food, Ski Brule with Brule Saloon has a proper variety of bites throughout the skiing season! In the morning and afternoon, the Brule Cafe experience provides tavern and breakfast foods alongside warm drinks! In the evening, the Hillside Dining Room provides hearty meals alongside any beverage you can think of! It may be a smaller resort but Ski Brule has plenty to offer!

For information on local events and attractions in the Iron River, MI area, be sure to check out the Iron River Visitors Bureau.

Pioneer Lodge at Ski Brule
397 Brule Mountain Rd., Iron River, MI | (800) 362-7853 | Website

Brule Saloon
397 Brule Mountain Rd., Iron River, MI | (800) 362-7853 | Website

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