Treetops Resort is blessed with an abundance of highlights—among them natural beauty, snowfall, and a welcoming atmosphere. This resort on the northern tip of Michigan's Lower Peninsula is as popular in the wintertime as it is during the dog days of summer. When the weather is cold, resort guests enjoy the thrill of downhill skiing, relaxing by the fire, and everything in between. After the snow melts, the Treetops ski area transforms into a fine Michigan golf destination, the home of the top-rated Rick Smith Golf Academy.

The Treetops ski resort is located just a few miles outside of Gaylord in northern lower Michigan. It's easy to access from Interstate 75, which leads south to Flint and Detroit. US-131 and US-27 also provide easy routes to cities in both central and western Michigan such as Lansing and Grand Rapids. If you'd prefer to arrive by air, you could make arrangements to fly into the small Gaylord airport or the Cherry Capital Airport about an hour west on the Leelanau Peninsula. The staff from the Treetops ski area can meet you at the airport and provide transportation to the resort for up to six people at one time. This add-on service should be arranged at least two weeks in advance.

No matter how you arrive at the Treetops Resort, you'll find a lot to enjoy here. Michigan skiing is a favorite activity during the winter season, which stretches from November into March or April of a cold year. The ski area, which averages 175 inches of snow a season, features 23 ski runs as well as three chairlifts and a pair of two ropes. With 80 acres of skiable terrain and a 275-foot vertical drop, the Treetops ski area is suited to people of all abilities. Half of the trails are rated intermediate, with 20 percent rated for advanced skiers, with the remaining 30 percent for beginners. Lessons are available for first-timers and those who want to sharpen their skills.

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At the base of the mountain slopes, the warming hut is an excellent place to relax and watch the crowds enjoying their outdoor adventures—no skiing skills needed. The Treetops ski resort also offers other things to do, including a terrain park with challenges and thrills for the snowboarding set. Tubing and Nordic skiing are other favorite wintertime activities. The onsite rental shop can equip you with everything you need to enjoy the resort's outdoor options.

After a day on the slopes, it's nice to have a place to cozy up and relax. Besides being one of the area's premier ski areas, the Treetops ski resort is also an option for overnight accommodations. This Michigan resort offers 238 guest rooms and condominiums overlooking the various scenic areas, including the ski area, golf course, or the lush forest. In the lodge, you can lounge by the fireplace, watch the large TV, and chat with the other guests. In your room, you'll find plenty of private space, and the non-smoking rooms all are equipped with digital cable and Internet access. Upgrades to the deluxe room adds on more space, a sitting area, and a refrigerator. The condos offer even more space with multiple bedrooms and a fully-stocked kitchen. Ski chalets, another options for overnights, are located just minutes from the slopes. Whichever of the rooms they've reserved, guests of the Treetops Resort have another option for relaxing.

The spa is easy to find on the lower level of the lodge. Both men and women are encouraged to make appointments massages and other treatments designed to pamper. Salon services are available too, as are a sauna, hot tub, and fitness room. In all four seasons, stay-and-play packages are available.