Lutsen Mountains, Granite Peak, and Snowriver: Your Ultimate Midwest Ski Holiday Destination

Published on December 19, 2025

For this holiday season, Lutsen Mountains, Snowriver Mountain Resort, and Granite Peak will be inviting family and winter fun ski activities. These midwest ski destinations have memories to offer with their snowy mountains, planned holiday activities, and winter holiday travel deals. These destinations will make for a family holiday vacation to remember.

Lutsen Mountains: A Snowy Winter Wonderland

Nestled along Minnesota’s North Shore, Lutsen Mountains is set to provide an unforgettable holiday experience for visitors. Thanks to a strong start to the winter season, the resort is covered in fresh snow, with around 70% of its terrain expected to be open for the holidays. Guests can enjoy scenic gondola rides and take in the stunning views of Lake Superior’s snow-covered landscape.

During the Holiday Week, Lutsen will host live music performances and vibrant festive events, making it a great choice for families seeking both adventure and relaxation. For the ultimate New Year’s celebration, the resort will ring in 2026 with a spectacular fireworks display at Midnight on the Mountain. Visitors can relax in alpine-inspired lodges, enjoy skiing or snowboarding, or take part in festive activities, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Snowriver Mountain Resort: The Ultimate Winter Escape

Located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Snowriver Mountain Resort is an excellent destination for families looking to enjoy a true winter getaway. The resort is experiencing one of its best snow seasons yet, with more than five feet of natural snow already fallen, and another 40 inches accumulating in the opening weekend. Snowriver is gearing up for the holiday season with nearly 90% of its terrain expected to be open, offering some of the best early-season skiing conditions in the region.

During Christmas Week, families can enjoy groomer rides, scavenger hunts, s’mores, and torchlight parades. As the year draws to a close, the resort will host a New Year’s Eve celebration with fireworks and live entertainment, providing a magical end to the year. The resort’s friendly atmosphere and exceptional service make it a top choice for those looking for a festive family retreat.

Granite Peak: A Nostalgic Midwest Ski Experience

Granite Peak, located in Wausau, Wisconsin, is famous for its family-friendly vibe and nostalgic holiday atmosphere. This year, the resort is experiencing one of the snowiest starts to the season in recent memory, with over a foot of natural snow already blanketing the slopes. With 90% of its terrain expected to be open, Granite Peak is set to offer excellent skiing conditions for visitors during the busy holiday season.

Granite Peak’s Holiday Family Fest is a major highlight, featuring fun activities like scavenger hunts, s’mores by the fire, and a spectacular fireworks display. Additionally, the resort will host the Jingle Jam rail event and offer night skiing, giving guests plenty of ways to celebrate the season. The entire family will enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and exciting events as the mountain community comes together to celebrate the holidays.

Special Holiday Packages for Families

For families looking to maximize their winter vacation, Midwest Family Ski Resorts offers special lodging packages designed to provide the best value. The Extended Holidays lodging package combines multi-day discounts on lift tickets with bundled rental discounts for those booking three to five-night stays. These packages make it easy for families to enjoy a winter vacation without breaking the bank.

Tips for Travelers: Planning Your Ski Vacation

1. Book Early: With the holiday season being one of the busiest times of year, it’s important to book lodging and lift tickets in advance to ensure you secure your preferred accommodations.
2. Dress in Layers: The weather in the Midwest can change quickly, so be sure to pack layers to stay comfortable on the slopes. Don’t forget your waterproof outerwear and gear for wet or snowy conditions.
3. Check Snow Conditions: Before you travel, check the snow conditions and weather forecasts for each resort. Snowriver, Granite Peak, and Lutsen Mountains have reliable snowfalls, but conditions can vary, especially as temperatures fluctuate during the season.
4. Participate in Local Events: Each resort hosts family-friendly events, from torchlight parades to live entertainment. Be sure to check the event schedule at your chosen resort to make the most of your visit.
5. Take Advantage of Ski Rentals: If you’re new to skiing or snowboarding, most of the resorts offer rental packages. Renting equipment is a convenient option for those who don’t want to haul gear to their destination.

Why Choose Midwest Ski Resorts?

Midwest Family Ski Resorts is renowned for offering a unique experience that blends scenic beauty, top-notch ski conditions, and warm hospitality. With a focus on family-friendly environments and diverse winter activities, these resorts are perfect for anyone looking to embrace the holiday spirit while enjoying the outdoors. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking views at Lutsen Mountains, exceptional snow at Snowriver, or nostalgic charm at Granite Peak, these resorts promise to provide a memorable holiday experience.

Plan Your Winter Escape

Midwest Family Ski Resorts is the perfect spot for the family to bond over the holidays. With an easy booking process and a variety of winter activities to choose from, it’s a winter trip that you won’t forget.

Check the resorts’ websites for the most current info and to make a reservation.