Cross-Country Ski Trails
The Best Cross-country Ski Trails in Northern Michigan
Cross-country skiing in northern Michigan is a staple winter activity as soon as the snow flies. From the Vasa Pathways ski trail in Traverse City to a day exploring Crystal Mountain Resort, there are dozens of great places to enjoy Nordic skiing in northern Michigan.
Adventure starts at Brick Wheels. We’re proud to be the biggest dealer of Fischer skis in the region, backed by rental skis and snowshoes that make getting into winter sports more accessible for individuals and families.
The Best Places to Cross-Country Ski in Northern Michigan
From Traverse City, there are dozens of places to ski within an hour's drive in any direction. We’ve put together three of our favorite places to cross-country ski in Traverse City or nearby. Find time during your winter season to cross these must-ski trails off your list!
Hickory Hills Recreation Area
Located right in Traverse City, Hickory Hills is owned and operated by the City of Traverse City. Hickory offers downhill skiing, Nordic trails, disc golf, and mountain biking for year-round recreation and fun. Once the snow flies, skiers enjoy challenging trails along the ski hill’s southern ridge and flat, looping trails on the 112-acre nature preserve called Hickory Meadows. Nordic ski passes are required for skiing near the ski hill and are strongly encouraged on the Hickory Meadows property as well.
Vasa Pathways
Comprised of 3, 5, 10, and 25-kilometer loops, the Vasa Pathway is an expertly maintained and groomed trail located just 10 minutes east of the city limits. Designed to utilize the area’s natural rolling terrain, each loop offers a mix of hills, descents, and flats, plus well-marked wayfinding and other amenities. Portions of the Vasa Pathways are used for the North American Vasa, the marquee Nordic ski and fat bike race in northern Michigan for nearly 50 years.
Traverse Area Recreational Trails relies on grooming badge sales to keep the Vasa in prime shape. Purchase your grooming badge today!
Crystal Mountain Resort and Spa
The cross-country ski trails at Crystal Mountain are some of the best in the state! With over 25 kilometers of trails and 2km of lit trails for night skiing, it’s tough to ski it all in a single day. The Resort is located 45 minutes south of Traverse City, making it a popular day trip for visitors staying in TC.
Day passes are required at Crystal Mountain.