This Northern Michigan resort has everything you need for a great snowcation. You’ll find lots of family-friendly fun for skiers and non-skiers.
Thanks again to Pure Michigan for hosting my visit. This article contains affiliate links.
3 Villages in 1 Resort
If you are not familiar with Shanty Creek Resorts, it might be a little confusing in the beginning, because the property is REALLY large.
What originally started as two separate ski resorts, located 2 miles apart, has now become one 4500 acre playground for year-round adventure.
There are three villages (Summit, Cedar Village, and Schuss) that makeup Shanty Creek Resorts.
Snowboarding/Skiing at Schuss Mountain
Schuss Mountain offers 42 runs, 3 terrain parks, and 6 lifts. Equipment rentals and lessons for all ages and skill levels are available. I really enjoyed skiing at Schuss.
We definitely ran out of time before we ran out of fun!
Ski on a Bridge
Schuss Mountain has two unique features that I’ve never seen before in the beginner ski area. You can ski on a bridge and also ski through a tunnel on your way to the chairlift.
Ride in a Skibra
Beginner skiers and snowboarders can take a ride across the parking lot to the beginner slopes in the complimentary Skibra. Plus it’s just fun to say that you rode in a Skibra.
Try Cross-country Skiing
Cross-country skiing was a bucket list moment for me. I’ve been downhill skiing many times, but I had never tried cross country skiing until my visit to Shanty Creek.
If downhill skiing is your point of reference, you will find cross-country skiing to be very different….especially when you try to slow down.
Cross country skies maneuver with less stability which allows you to ascend hills.
We tried to pick up a few pointers from Nick Nerbonne during our time on the trail. He made it look so easy!
Cross-country skiing was a great workout and I would definitely be open to trying it again. I would recommend dressing in layers because you will warm up quickly.
Rentals are available at the Nordic Center at Cedar River Village. If you have your own equipment, you will find Nordic trails at each village.
Go Snowshoeing
If you enjoy a slower pace, Shanty Creek Resorts offers 4500 acres to explore. Rentals are available at the Nordic Center at Cedar River and have access to the multi-purpose Nordic trail that goes through the Cedar River Golf Course.
Try Fat Tire Biking
The extra large tires make the bike surprisingly stable on the snow or sand in warmer months. If you haven’t tried it, I highly recommend checking it out because it’s a lot of fun!
You can rent Fat Tire bikes form Patrick Boyd’s Paddles & Pedals on holidays and weekends during the ski season at The Lodge at Cedar River that has immediate access to a 5k trail.
Snowboarding/Skiing at Summit Mountain
Summit Mountain offers 11 runs, 1 Terrain Park, and 4 lifts. A Summit only lift ticket is less expensive. If you purchase a lift ticket for Schuss Mountain, you have access to both ski hills.
Go Snow Tubing at Summit Mountain
There are 6 lanes of Alpine tubing and a magic carpet that brings you back up the hill. Snow tubing is fun for all ages and great for groups. You can even link up a few tubes as you go down.
*Children must be 36″ tall and ride in their own tubes.
Kids Can Experience a Dogsled Ride
Kids under 100 lbs. can go for a dogsled ride with beautiful Siberian Huskies at Shanty Creek Resort. Pets that Pull operates rides on Saturdays and holidays on a looped trail.
The dogs are really friendly and LOVE to run!
This is a one of a kind experience that will defiantly make the child in your life’s day!
*Make sure that you call the front desk to make a reservation. (866) 695-5010 ext 3690.
Apres- Ski Entertainment
After a long day on the slopes, you can find fun entertainment options at Ivan’s Cafe located at the base of Schuss Mountain. On Friday, Saturday evenings, and holidays you can enjoy live music.
Complimentary Shuttle Service
Shanty Creek Resort provides complimentary transportation between the three villages of Shanty Creek during peak season, as well as to downtown Bellaire.
The downtown shuttles leave from the Lakeview Hotel Conference Center. Check with the front desk for times.
For $2/person each way, you can take advantage of the taxi service for all three villages as well as the downtown Bellaire area between the hours of 6pm- 2am on Friday and Saturday evenings along with holidays.
Call (231) 533. LIFT (*prices accurate at the time of this article, call for current pricing)
If you are lucky, you might even catch a shuttle with Al when he plays “Michigan’s Legend of Dogman” during a late evening drive.
On-Site Dining at Shanty Creek Resorts
There are three restaurants on site, one located at each village.
During our visit, we ate at the Lakeview Restaurant each morning for breakfast. You can order from the buffet or from the menu.
If you like sweet and savory, I recommend ordering the Wild Berry French Toast and the Spinach, Onion, & Feta Frittata. I ordered one and my friend ordered the other. We split them both which worked out great.
Lunch at River Bistro
For lunch, we at the River Bistro. I tried the Chili & Chips. The chili was the perfect warm up and the Parmesan crisps are amazing!
If you love craft beer, make sure that you order a “Neon Snowsuit” American Black Lager created exclusively for Shanty Creek from Short’s Brewing Company.
Try Local Brews at Short’s Brewing Company
Located at 121 N Bridge St. in downtown Bellaire, Short’s Brewing Company IS the place to be! This brewery prides itself on craft beers made with quality ingredients and endless creativity. There are 20 brews on tap.
I had to try the S’more Stout just because it’s so unique. It’s brewed with graham cracker, milk chocolate, marshmallow, and smoked malt a garnished with a flaming marshmallow.
I was told that it’s best to eat the marshmallow first and then take a drink. I would highly recommend ordering a flight so that you can discover your favorites. If you are not a huge beer fan, Short’s offers ciders too. Order one based on the name just for fun.
The food at Short’s Brewing Company is really good. We tried the “Buenas Tardes” nachos, “Exactly Where I’m At” spinach and pesto dip, and a pizza that uses beer in the dough preparation.
Seriously, you will want to make sure that you stop here!
Lodging at Shanty Creek
Guests can choose between hotel rooms, condos, and rental homes between three villages for lodging at Shanty Creek. It just comes down to preference. There are lodging packages available on the Shanty Creek site.
During my visit, I stayed at The Lakeview Hotel + Conference Center located at Summit Village.
From my room, I could see views of the tubing hill with Lake Bellaire in the background. You can easily access the snow tubing and Summit Mountain’s ski slopes from this location.
The room was equipped with a King bed, full kitchen, spa tub, fireplace, and a balcony. You can easily access the snow tubing and Summit Mountain’s ski slopes from this location.
Location
Shanty Creek is located at 5780 Shanty Creek Road, Bellaire, MI.
Counter service gastropub offers 20 house beers & menu inspired by the band Ween, plus local music
Contact
You can find out more about Shanty Creek from its website.
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Very nice post, it’s very useful article for travel lovers.
I have a son with special needs that has a desire to go snow tubing and possibly trying to ski. Do you have any accommodations for a situation like this?