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Best Ski Slopes For Kids Near Detroit

Whooooosh! Now's the time to hit the slopes with the kids in tow. Not convinced? Check out the recommendations below for the best places around for little snow bunnies. The wintry weather pounding the state makes it the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors and create lasting memories with the kids. Many ski areas are located only a hop, skip and a jump away from the D. So grab your gear and pack the kids into the car because you're going skiing!
Alpine Valley
6775 Highland Rd.
White Lake, MI 48383
(248) 887-2180
www.skialpinevalley.com

Located in White Lake, Michigan, Alpine Valley is a about 45 minutes away from Detroit. With 25 slopes encompassing all skill levels, there is a range of runs that caters to everyone form novices to seasoned experts, and everything in between. Kids will love the skiing and snowboarding, featuring three different options for varying terrain. Children ages three and four are welcome to sign up for private lessons, while those aged five to 12 might want to enroll in one of the "Outer Space" themed classes offered on the slope. After a long day on the slopes, order a round of cocoa for the fam and talk about all the fun you had today.

Related: Tips For Keeping Your Kids Active In Winter

Mt. Brighton Ski Area
4141 Bauer Rd.
Brighton, MI 48116
(810) 229-9581
www.mtbrighton.com

Head over to Mt. Brighton for a family day filled with adventure. This resort is less than 45 minutes away from the D, making it a great option for a day of skiing and snowboarding that isn't far from home. The great thing about this ski area is that there are a ton of easy trails, perfect for beginners and those looking to spend a leisurely day with the entire family. Ski lessons are available, and girls won't want to miss the ultimate opportunity for specialized instruction - taught by Olympic gold medalist Lindsey Vonn! There are 25 slopes with plenty of lifts to get you out on the powder instead of spending the day waiting around because sometimes kids aren't the most patient individuals in the bunch. And neither are their parents…

Related: Best Free Winter Activities For Families In Metro Detroit

Mt. Holly
13536 S. Dixie Hwy
Holly, MI 48442
(248) 634-8269
www.skimtholly.com

With almost 20 slopes, you'll be hard pressed to have anything but a grand time whooshing down the slopes at Mt. Holly. A short trip on 75 will take you to the ski area in under 45 minutes. Nine black diamond runs and the longest run in southeast Michigan make this a stellar spot to hang with the family. There's also a good mix of beginner, intermediate and expert slopes where the gang can test their skiing prowess. Kids ages five to 10 will have a blast at one of the Kindersparks sessions - perfect to learn the basics and practice skills in a group setting, all while being expertly guided by a pro.

Pine Knob Ski And Snowboard Resort
7778 Sashabaw Rd.
Clarkston, MI 48348
(800) 642-7669
www.skipineknob.com

Head North, drive for about 40 minutes, and once you hit Clarkston, the kiddos will be only minutes away from an exhilarating ski experience. With 17 runs, including beginner, intermediate, expert and even some double diamond, there's no room for little ones and older kids to get bored. Even better is the long list of classes for a wide range of ages. There are group lessons for ages five to 10, a Junior Development Racing Program and even a middle school program that preps younger skiers for team racing.

Boyne Mountain
1 Boyne Mountain Rd.
Boyne Falls, MI 49713
(231) 549-6000
www.boyne.com

At almost four hours away, Boyne Mountain is one ski area that screams long weekend getaway! So pack the car up, take 75 North and get ready for a weekend of true bliss. The mountain features over 400 acres available for skiers, and definitely offers kids something they can write home about. Because in addition to 60 stellar ski runs and killer snowboarding with massive drops, there's an indoor waterpark! Avalanche Bay adds another level of excitement to the typical ski vacation. Reserve your room at the Mountain Grand Lodge and Spa, it's actually connected to the waterpark. Kids will love being so close to all the action.

After receiving a BA in Photography from Savannah College of Art & Design, Nicole Wrona began working with a diverse range of musicians. In addition, she is a freelance writer for numerous publications. Her work can be found at www.metalleaves.com and Examiner.com.

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