The Best Way to Experience Alaska: A Luxury Land & Sea Itinerary
March 2, 2026Overall Rating: ★★★★★
Introduction
Four true seasons. Endless adventure. And a resort that somehow manages to feel both action-packed and effortlessly relaxing. From soaring above the trees on the iconic SkyBridge Michigan to championship golf, cozy après-ski vibes, and family-friendly indoor fun, this resort is the kind of place that surprises you in the very best way.
Now you may be saying to yourself, Boyne Mountain is NOT luxury — how did it make it onto this page? And you are absolutely correct. Boyne Mountain does not pretend to be a five-star, white-glove luxury resort. It isn’t The American Club or The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island.
But here is the thing: what it lacks in ultra-polished luxury service, it makes up for in sheer volume of amenities, natural beauty, and all-season adventure. If you are fortunate enough to travel to Northern Michigan — one of the Midwest’s most underrated vacation destinations — you will be hard-pressed to find a better all-around resort experience.
Located in Boyne Falls on 175 acres along the shores of Deer Lake, Boyne Mountain is a true four-season resort in Michigan. And no, do not confuse it with its sister property, Boyne Highlands Resort. The Highlands is lovely — but in terms of amenities, activities, and energy, The Mountain wins.
Winter ski resort. Spring golf getaway. Summer lake escape. Fall foliage retreat. There is ALWAYS something to do here — from skiing and snowboarding to championship golf, spa days, hiking, and one of Michigan’s best indoor waterparks.
Accommodations: ★★★☆☆
Boyne Mountain offers a wide range of lodging options, from traditional hotel rooms to full multi-bedroom condos — ideal for couples, families, or multi-generational travel.
At the heart of the resort is the Bavarian-inspired Grand Mountain Lodge, perfectly positioned near the slopes, spa, shops, restaurants, pools, and the waterpark. If location matters (and it does), this is where you want to be.
My personal go-to is Unit 314 — a two-bedroom, two-bath condo with an additional kids’ bunk space, full kitchen, sitting room, and balcony. If we need extra room, we request the adjoining King hotel room 316. Together, they create a spacious slopeside retreat with front-row views of the ski runs. If you’re booking, request these rooms — the views and convenience are unmatched.
The rooms are well equipped but beginning to show some wear. Thankfully, a much-needed renovation is on the horizon.
For a more unique experience, consider the newly renovated Edelweiss chalets. Set mid-slope, your Polaris vehicle whisks you (and your luggage) to a true alpine retreat. Think deluxe bathrooms, cozy lodge vibes, sauna, heated benches, and a cold plunge bucket. It’s rustic luxury with a Michigan twist.
Ski-in/ski-out condos at Disciples Ridge and Creekside are also popular, though you lose immediate access to the Grand Lodge amenities. I would personally avoid the older Clocktower and Alpine Village units due to their age.
Dining: ★★★☆☆
Dining at Boyne Mountain is solid but not destination-worthy. The on-property restaurants provide convenient, family-friendly options, though culinary excellence is not the focus.
- Everett’s (in the Grand Lodge): buffet breakfast and casual lunch/dinner service.
- Forty Acres Tavern: lively slopeside restaurant with strong cocktails (my husband insists you order the Ginger Bourbon Smash). Winter igloo dining is a fun touch.
- Trophy Room: dependable pizza and breadsticks.
- Stein Eriksen’s: hearty entrees and themed buffet nights.
- Beach House at Deer Lake: summer-only dining with beautiful sunset views over the lake.
The good news? Petoskey and the surrounding Northern Michigan area offer some excellent dining options just a short drive away — and that guide is coming soon.
Activities: ★★★★★
This is where Boyne Mountain absolutely shines as one of the best all-season resorts in Michigan.
Skiing – ★★★★☆
As one of the premier Michigan ski resorts, Boyne has made major investments in snowmaking technology and lift upgrades. The addition of Disciples 8 — an 8-person high-speed chairlift — dramatically reduced wait times and improved access to terrain.
No, you cannot compare Northern Michigan skiing to the Rockies or the Alps. But for Midwest ski resorts, this is some of the best terrain and infrastructure you will find.
SnowSports Academy – ★★★★☆
From daycare to private ski lessons, Boyne’s ski and snowboard school is impressive. Whether you have toddlers on their first skis or teens perfecting black diamonds, their instructors are patient and professional.
SkyBridge Michigan – ★★★★☆
Open year-round, this architectural marvel is the world’s longest timber-towered suspension bridge and offers panoramic views across Northern Michigan’s rolling hills and forests.
There is a gentle sway — just enough to remind you that you are quite high up — and the glass floor section is not for the faint of heart. Go at sunset if possible. The golden light makes the entire experience feel surprisingly romantic for what could have been just another resort attraction. It’s an unexpected Midwest highlight.
Golf – ★★★☆☆
Boyne Mountain is located in the heart of Northern Michigan golf country, and the resort’s two championship courses offer 36 holes of scenic mountain golf.
The Alpine Course is the more forgiving layout, beginning with a climb up the mountain before cascading downhill toward Deer Lake. Wide fairways, elevated tees, and sweeping views define the round. It is relaxed, beautiful, and enjoyable.
The Monument Course is more architecturally playful, with undulating greens and strategically placed bunkers. It demands more thought and precision, offering a classic championship golf experience.
If you are planning a Michigan golf trip, there are several nationally ranked courses within easy driving distance, making Boyne an excellent home base.
Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark – ★★★★☆
Once the largest indoor waterpark in Michigan, Avalanche Bay remains a year-round family favorite. With alpine-themed slides, a climbing structure, raft rides, lazy river, and play areas for all ages, it’s perfect for rainy summer afternoons or winter ski breaks.
Bonus: Dip N Dots and an Après Ski bar for the adults.
Spa: ★★★★☆
Now we arrive at my personal favorite.
The Spa at Boyne Mountain is FABULOUS. While I reserve five stars for spa sanctuaries like The American Club, The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island, The Cloister at Sea Island, or Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, this spa holds its own in Northern Michigan.
If you book a treatment, plan to stay the entire day. Multiple relaxation lounges, hot tubs, steam room, sauna, indoor/outdoor pool access — it’s the ultimate Michigan spa retreat.
Their massage therapists and estheticians are exceptional. I highly recommend requesting Shawn or Jerrica for massages or body treatments.
Along with the wonderful spa treatments they also offer a variety of salon appointments. My new barometer for salons is the use of an amazing product called Dazzle Dry. This is a regular nail polish that sets in five minutes and has the strength and longevity of Shellac without the harmful after effects. You remove the Dazzle Dry just like regular nail polish and your nails are undamaged underneath. If the salon doesn’t offer Dazzle Dry, I don’t go.
Whether for a solo reset, girls’ weekend, corporate retreat, or bachelorette party, this spa consistently delivers.
Other Adventures
Ski biking, tubing, mountain biking, ATV tours, horseback riding, pickleball, tennis, hiking, boat rentals, kids camps — the list truly goes on. As a Midwest adventure resort, Boyne Mountain simply does not let you get bored.
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Final Thoughts
If you are planning a Northern Michigan vacation and want one central resort with endless activities, Boyne Mountain is the place to stay.
It may not be ultra-luxury — but it is high-energy, amenity-rich, and perfectly positioned for year-round adventure travel in Michigan.
And if you are booking the Grand Mountain Lodge? Request Room 316 (King) or Condo 314 for the best slopeside views and proximity to everything. Trust me on this one.
