Marquette Mountain averages 210 inches of snow every winter. This Upper Peninsula ski resort receives all of this powder because of its strategic location not far from Lake Superior. Once the lake-effect snow machine kicks into gear, the ski area receives plenty of fresh snow that's excellent for skiing in Michigan. Of course, there's snowmaking equipment to take over if fresh snow isn't in the forecast. With so many choices for lodging near Marquette Mountain, you can warm up after spending a day packed with outdoor adventure during the northern Michigan winter.

With one of the highest vertical drops in northern Michigan at 600 feet, the Marquette Mountain Ski Area presents a challenge to even the most skilled winter sports enthusiasts while providing a place for beginners to have fun. Along with Ski Brule, another Upper Peninsula winter sports resort, Marquette Mountain is located in a scenic setting that seems perfectly tuned for outdoor adventure. In season, which is longer here than most Midwestern resorts, 169 skiable acres of terrain welcome all.

Downhill skiing, of course, is one of the most popular things to do at Marquette Mountain. Here, 25 runs and an uphill capacity exceeding 5,000 people an hour mean you can hit the slopes without spending your time getting out of someone's way. Beginners will want to stick to the 15 percent of the trails rated for beginners. Of the total, 50 percent offer moderate difficulty, while the remaining 35 of the the runs have been declared difficult. Five nights a week, the lights come on, so you can enjoy skiing after the sun has gone down.

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Snowboarders also have a place at the Marquette Mountain Ski Area. Three separate terrain parks offer plenty to thrill free-style fans, including hits, trails, and rails. The ski/snowboard school ensures that visitors to this Michigan resort primed for winter sports can enjoy these outdoor pursuits regardless of their abilities. The certified guides are really enthusiastic about winter sports, and they are certified by the Professional Ski Instructors of America. Group lessons cost the same as lunch, while private lessons cost a bit more, but you can focus on a singular subject. Some students want to start at the beginning, while others need tips for the best ways of getting on and off the chairlifts. More experienced snowboarders and skiers can sharpen their skills, too. The guides are skilled in tailoring lessons for kids and adults of various skill levels.

During your day filled with outdoor adventure, you'll need a chance to take a break. The rental store can equip you with everything you need for Michigan skiing, while the onsite cafe opens for lunch and dinner, offering a family-friendly atmospheres and plenty of hearty choices that will give you the energy you need to enjoy a day on the slopes of Marquette Mountain Ski Area. Adult visitors are welcome the bar, which serves daily drink specials and live music on the weekends.

You'll also find the chance to relax at any of the choices for lodging near Marquette Mountain. The majority of the nearby Michigan hotels are located in the surrounding town of Marquette, and many of these have partnered with the resort of offer ski packages at a great price. You will be delighted at how low some of these room rates are; you can enjoy a ski getaway without spending a fortune. When you pick lodging near Marquette Mountain that includes breakfast and an indoor pool, you can pack even more value into your vacation.