Crystal Mountain Ski Report

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Last Updated: January 1, 2026

Happy New Year from Crystal Mountain, Michigan! Crystal Mountain ski resort in Michigan offers 58 runs, ranging from beginner to expert level, spread over 102 acres.



Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast

Hourly Snowfall


1"

Past 24 Hours

2.0"

Snowpack

°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity


Summary

As we kick off 2026, skiers and snowboarders can expect a modest snow refresh, with 0.7 inches forecasted in the next 24 hours and up to 3 inches over the next five days. Overnight temperatures hovered just above freezing at 31.4°F, maintaining a thin but skiable base. Current snowpack depth is just 2 inches — significantly below the seasonal average — so expect limited terrain and early-season conditions. Groomed runs are open but may be patchy in areas; caution is advised, especially for beginners.

Despite the lean start to the season, the resort buzzes with energy both on and off the slopes. Crystal Mountain’s charming “Town Village” and a full calendar of winter events are turning heads, offering guests plenty to enjoy beyond skiing. A recent national ranking has once again placed Crystal Mountain among the top ski destinations in the country, a testament to its family-friendly vibe and ongoing investments — including a new ski lift set to debut this season. As we await more snow, now’s the perfect time to enjoy the crisp mountain air, explore early-season runs, and take in the beauty of northern Michigan.

Snowpack Percent Normal

52%

Max Recorded Snowpack

28"

Snowfall Past 24 Hours

1"

Snowfall Past 48 Hours

3"

Snowfall Past 72 Hours

5"

Snowfall Next 24 Hours

1"

Snowfall Next 72 Hours

2"

Snowfall Next 5 Days

4"

Terrain Surface

NA

Powder Score

NA
       

Weather Forecast

Seasonal Comparison

Year over year snow water equivalent


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 Benzonia 5.3 S, Mi.

Regional Snowpack Depth

Snow levels measured from Benzonia 5.3 S, Mi


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 Crystal Mountain.

Historical Air Temperature

Temperature fluctuations at Crystal Mountain


Recent air temperature fluctuations at Crystal Mountain impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.

About the Area


The Crystal Mountain Ski Resort in Michigan is located in the northern part of the state, near the town of Thompsonville. The resort is situated in the rolling hills of Benzie County, with several nearby mountain ranges including:

1. The Manistee National Forest, which features the nearby Manistee Mountains and offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, biking, and fishing.

2. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which features towering sand dunes along the Lake Michigan shoreline and provides stunning views of the surrounding area.

In terms of the ski resort itself, Crystal Mountain offers a variety of runs and slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The resort features a vertical drop of 375 feet and a total of 58 runs spread across 102 skiable acres. Additionally, Crystal Mountain offers a terrain park for freestyle skiers and snowboarders, as well as several lifts to access the different areas of the mountain.

The best trails for advanced skiers are Buck and Thistle, while novice skiers can enjoy the easier North Face and Sidewinder. Many people are unaware that Crystal Mountain was originally a golf course, converted into a ski resort in 1956. For beginners, we recommend taking the Crystal Cruiser, a scenic lift that offers an easy ride for first-timers. The best apres ski bar is the Vista Lounge, which provides a cozy atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and a beautiful view of the slopes.

Crystal Mountain FAQ


How much snow did Crystal Mountain receive over the past day?

The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.


What's the weather like at Crystal Mountain today?

Weather today, isolated snow showers before 10am, then scattered snow showers after 1pm. mostly cloudy, with a high near 18. wind chill values as low as -1. west wind around 10 mph. chance of precipitation is 30%.


How much new snowfall is forecasted for Crystal Mountain this week?

Crystal Mountain is expected to receive up to 3.64" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.


What are ski area conditions in Michigan like right now?

Ski enthusiasts, take note: recent snowfall across the country has brought fresh powder to several beloved slopes, with a mix of weather patterns that could affect your plans in the coming days. In Washington state, Nohrsc Sawmill Ridge reported a modest 2 inches of new snow over the last 24 hours, with a substantial 170-inch base, despite the forecast of ... Read more