A band of heavy lake effect snowfall will impact far northern Lower Michigan and the eastern end of the Upper Peninsula through early afternoon. Snowfall rates exceeding one inch per hour and a rapid reduction in visibility can be expected. Travelers driving north on I-75 in Cheboygan county need to be aware of rapidly changing driving conditions. Snowfall intensity is expected to let up after 200pm.
A crisp winter morning greets skiers and riders at Challenge Mountain today, Dec 15, 2025, with overnight lows dipping to a brisk 19°F—ideal conditions to keep the slopes firm and fast. Challenge Mountain ski resort in Boyne City, Michigan offers a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels.
Wind
Humidity
The current snowpack stands at a solid 12 inches, nearly matching the seasonal average at 98%, and with a Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) of 2.2 inches, the base is holding strong. Light snowfall is expected throughout the day, delivering an additional 1.3 inches in the next 24 hours, with a total of 3 inches forecast through the next five days—perfect timing to freshen the trails before the weekend rush.
As Michigan ski resorts contend with warmer trends, Challenge Mountain continues to shine with its adaptive skiing programs and inclusive approach, recently spotlighted in local news for empowering individuals of all abilities to experience the slopes. Nearby resorts like Boyne Mountain are celebrating milestone anniversaries, but Challenge Mountain holds its own as a gem of community and adventure. Expect machine-groomed runs, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere today—an excellent day to hit the slopes or plan your visit ahead of the holiday season.
Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) shows how much water the snow holds. This is ideal for year-to-year tracking of real snowfall and water resources. Measurements from Gaylord 9ssw.
Snowpack depth measures how much snow has accumulated in the area. This is a key indicator of powder quality, trail coverage, and how epic your runs are going to be this season at Challenge Mountain.
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Challenge Mountain impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
The Challenge Mountain Ski Resort in Michigan is located in the northern part of the Lower Peninsula and is surrounded by several mountain ranges and aspects that provide a unique skiing experience. Some of the pertinent mountain ranges and aspects near the resort include:
1. The Huron Mountains: Located to the northwest of the resort, the Huron Mountains provide a rugged and challenging terrain for advanced skiers looking for a thrilling experience.
2. The Porcupine Mountains: Situated to the west of the resort, the Porcupine Mountains offer a variety of ski trails with varying levels of difficulty, making it a popular destination for skiers of all skill levels.
3. The Sleeping Bear Dunes: To the east of the resort, the Sleeping Bear Dunes provide stunning views and challenging slopes for skiers seeking a more scenic and adventurous skiing experience.
4. The Upper Peninsula Highlands: Surrounding the resort on all sides, the Upper Peninsula Highlands offer a diverse range of skiing opportunities, from groomed trails to backcountry skiing in untouched wilderness areas.
Overall, Challenge Mountain Ski Resort in Michigan offers a unique combination of mountain ranges and aspects that cater to skiers of all levels and preferences, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
The best trails for experienced skiers are the three black diamond runs, while beginners can take advantage of the gentle slopes on the green circle runs. A little-known fact about the resort is that it was founded in 1981 by a group of parents looking to provide skiing opportunities for children with disabilities. For beginner skiers, the resort offers lessons with certified instructors. After a day on the slopes, the best apres ski bar is The Beach House, which has a cozy atmosphere and a great selection of drinks and food.
The ski area received -1" of new snowfall since yesterday.
Weather today, snow showers, mainly before 1pm. high near 20. west wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. chance of precipitation is 80%. new snow accumulation of less than one inch possible.
Challenge Mountain is expected to receive up to 3.36" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
Skiers and snowboarders, take note: Recent snowfall and forecasts indicate a mix of conditions across the nation's slopes. In the Pacific Northwest, Nohrsc Sawmill Ridge in Washington State has received a light dusting of 2 inches in the last 24 hours. Although the base remains a healthy 170 inches, the weather looks unsettled with haze and a slight chance of ... Read more