Winter in Michigan is at its peak, making it a great time to plan a snow-filled getaway in Gaylord. This winter wonderland boasts one of the highest elevations of the lower peninsula, with colder temperatures and more consistent snow awaiting families who love outdoor winter sports.
Skiing, snowboarding and other winter sports are available at two winter resorts in Gaylord. Treetops Resort and Otsego Resort both pair outdoor adventure with relaxing activities to unwind after the slopes, and are a short drive away from town for family fun beyond the resort.
How do I get to Gaylord?
Metro Detroit families will only have to drive around three-and-a-half hours from home to reach Gaylord, via the I-75 North highway.Â
Outdoor winter sports for all skill levels
With skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing at two locations, the Treetops and Otsego resorts offer plenty of outdoor winter activities to keep families active and entertained.
Treetops has 1,500 acres of explorable ground, including trails from beginner to advanced levels. Ski and snowboard lessons are also offered using the resort’s Terrain-Based Learning program to help the less experienced advance through each level.Â
For non-skiiers, there are also two trails of Extreme Tubing open from day to night, along with a scenic ice skating rink close to the resort lodge.
Here is the full list of outdoor winter sports at Treetops Resort:
- Skiing and snowboarding
- Extreme tubing
- Ice skating
- Snowshoeing
- Cross-country skiing
- Snowmobiling
- Winter rafting
At Otsego Resort, there are 32 more runs to ski and snowboard through, along with Nordic cross-country skiing trails and advanced terrain parks. Personalized ski lessons by experienced teachers are also offered to help families get comfortable on the mountain.
Otsego also has its own snow tubing courses, with three options of gravity-powered tubing runs for those who prefer an adrenaline rush with lower effort. Snowshoeing and cross country skiing are also available at the resort for a change of pace.
Here is the full list of outdoor winter sports at Otsego Resort:
- Skiing and snowboarding
- Tubing
- Snowshoeing
- Cross-country skiing
Resort activities and day-use options
Families looking to try additional activities will find cozy dining options and restful time away from the slopes at both resorts.
At Treetops, Legends on the Hill and the Halfway Cafe are two dining halls positioned at different points on the mountain to ski in and out for a quick warm up and easy bite. The resort also hosts a Beer and Wine Fest in February for parents looking to learn more about the craft drinks of the area. The kids can have their own fun with a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the grounds.
And, don’t miss the spa at Treetops Resort, offering facials, massages, pedicures and more treatments for a winter refresh.
Otsego Resort also has a handful of award-winning restaurants and inviting cafes to hit up after a ski session. The Duck Blind Grille is great for a family dinner, while the River Cabin is a cozier option for a quick hot chocolate with views of the Sturgeon River.Â
The restaurants and events at either resort are accessible with reservations and appointments; passes are not necessary. If interested in potential deals on activities for pass holders, review the pass web pages for both Treetops and Otsego.
Things to do beyond the resort
Downtown Gaylord is a great family-friendly neighborhood for exploration outside of both resorts. Only a three-minute drive from Otsego and a seven-minute drive from Treetops, delicious restaurants and local winter events are a hop away.
Several special events can be found around Gaylord, with select nights of live music and trivia at Snowbelt Brewery, and semi-pro hockey games at the Otsego County Sportsplex.
Hungry families can venture into Gaylord for a heart-warming meal at Jake and Jill’s BBQ or the laid-back, kid-friendly atmosphere at Alpine Tavern & Eatery. For dessert, head to Alpine Chocolat Haus for hand-crafted treats using local Michigan ingredients.
Where to stay on- and off-site
Treetops and Otsego have lodging options onsite for families looking to stay close to the skiing and snowboarding action. Treetops has two hotel options, with additional condo, cottage and cabin lodging choices. Otsego has three lodge options with guestrooms, along with chalets, townhouses and a roomier lodge for larger groups.
Because of its proximity to both resorts, downtown Gaylord is a great option for a cost-efficient stay. Airbnbs and hotels downtown and in the greater Gaylord area can keep families close to both resorts, as well as the area’s attractions during a winter getaway.
This content is sponsored by Southeast Michigan Ford Dealers. Visit buyfordnow.com. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s Ultimate Family Road Trip Guide.
