A Guide to a Skiing Weekend in the Brighton Howell Area

November 22, 2024

The Brighton Howell Area in southeast Michigan offers enthralling downhill skiing and snowboarding options and scenic cross-country trails. The abundance of trails and skiing opportunities make this area the perfect winter getaway destination. Pack up your snow pants, boots, and skis for a skiing weekend in the Brighton Howell Area.

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Downhill Skiing

If you’re looking for the ultimate downhill skiing destination in Southeast Michigan, Mt. Brighton is the place to be. This Vail-owned Ski Resort offers exhilarating slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and skill levels. Ski and snowboard enthusiasts flock to Mt. Brighton for the halfpipe, 14 conventional trails (26 trails in total), five ski lifts, seven surface lifts, and two full-service restaurants – all spanning 130 acres.

When planning your skiing weekend to the Brighton Howell Area, bring the whole family. Mt. Brighton offers a children’s ski school and ride center with group lessons starting as young as three years old.

Don’t break the bank getting all new equipment. On Wednesday nights, Mt. Brighton offers rentals for $5! The Ski Package includes skis, poles, boots, and a helmet. The Snowboard Package includes a snowboard, boots, and a helmet.

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Cross-Country Skiing

With over 50,000 acres of parks and state recreation land, the Brighton Howell Area offers various trails perfect for cross-country skiing.

Kensington Metropark

📍: Milford

Kensington Metropark turns into a winter wonderland once snow falls. The park boasts 12 miles of groomed cross-country skiing trails. The trails within Kensington Metropark range from beginner to intermediate levels. Along the way, you’ll experience beautiful views of snowy fields, winter birds, and picturesque woodlands. Resources and amenities can be found at the ski center, which has public restrooms, limited food service, and rental equipment.

Huron Meadows Metropark

📍: Brighton

Huron Meadows Metropark is one of the only parks in Southeast Michigan that offer both skate-style and classic cross-country skiing. Skate-style skiers can choose from more than 11 miles of groomed trails on moderate terrain with rolling hills. Skiiers looking for classic skiing can choose from 15-plus miles of groomed trails over easy to moderate terrain. This Metropark also has snow-making capabilities, so be sure to check the conditions even if the snow is looking sparse because the Bucks Run trail may be open!

The Ski Center, located in the Golf Starter Building, offers classic-style and skate-style ski rentals. On your skiing adventure, head here to warm up, use the restroom, or get a quick snack.

Island Lake Recreation Area

📍: Brighton

Spanning over 4,000 acres, Island Lake Recreation Area houses three options for cross-country skiing. Skiiers can choose from 18 miles of trails – West/Blue Loop (9 miles), East/Yellow Loop (5 miles), and the Paved Bike Trail (4 miles).

Mike Levine Lakelands Trail State Park

📍: Pinckney

Part of the Great Lake-to-Lake Trail, the Mike Levine Lakelands Trail State Park stretches 34 miles. There are five trailhead locations offering easy access to the trail. Although the trail may not be groomed regularly, it is one of the most popular spots for hikers, bikers, equestrian riders, and cross-country skiers.

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Add downhill or cross-country skiing in the Brighton Howell Area to the itinerary when planning your next winter getaway. Before planning your trip, request a visitors guide and sign up for our newsletter to receive the most up-to-date information. Be sure to tag @explorebrightonhowellarea and use #ExploreBHA in your posts for a chance to be featured on our blog or social media channels!

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Outside Activities Participant Sports