Hickory Hills Park and Ski Area
Charming vintage ski area with beginner-friendly slopes, a disc golf course, and scenic trails in Traverse City.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, fresh snow
Hickory Hills Park and Ski Area
Best Time
Fewer crowds, fresh snow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Charming vintage ski area with beginner-friendly slopes, a disc golf course, and scenic trails in Traverse City.
"Affordable fun for families and a challenging disc golf course make this a local gem."
🎯 Arrive Early for Rentals
Gear can go fast! Renting equipment might involve a wait, so plan accordingly.
🏂 Snowboarder Rope Lift Tips
Rope lifts can be tricky for snowboarders. Practice balance and be prepared for a learning curve.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Bunny Hill
Base of the ski area
Perfect for first-time skiers and young children, offering a gentle introduction to the slopes.
Disc Golf Course
Throughout the park
A challenging and wooded 20+ hole course, with expansions planned. Great for a scenic walk too.
Vintage Lodge
Main lodge building
Cozy up by the fireplace after a day on the slopes in this charming, retro lodge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Winter Fun for All Levels
Beyond the Slopes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Rentals
Gear can go fast! Renting equipment might involve a wait, so plan accordingly.
🏂 Snowboarder Rope Lift Tips
Rope lifts can be tricky for snowboarders. Practice balance and be prepared for a learning curve.
💰 Affordable Fun
Lift tickets and rentals are reasonably priced, making it a budget-friendly option.
🥾 Disc Golf & Hiking
Don't miss the extensive disc golf course or the scenic trails for a walk.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Rentals
Gear can go fast! Renting equipment might involve a wait, so plan accordingly.
🏂 Snowboarder Rope Lift Tips
Rope lifts can be tricky for snowboarders. Practice balance and be prepared for a learning curve.
💰 Affordable Fun
Lift tickets and rentals are reasonably priced, making it a budget-friendly option.
🥾 Disc Golf & Hiking
Don't miss the extensive disc golf course or the scenic trails for a walk.
🚫 No Sledding Allowed
Sledding is not permitted, which has caused some frustration for visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hickory Hills is praised for its affordability and beginner-friendly ski slopes, making it a great spot for families and new skiers. The disc golf course is a significant draw for enthusiasts. However, some visitors find the rope lifts challenging, especially for snowboarding, and there are mixed feelings about recent course changes impacting accessibility.
"The bunny bill is great for kids. I don’t like the rope lift. I’m a strong guy and it’s hard to grab on to the rope and keep your balance. My kids couldn’t go up the bigger hills.
It does have a nice eating area and fireplace.
It was a busy day and I had to wait for 1-2 hours for someone to return their gear so I could go on the hills.
The gear was nice and so was the service.
The price was a little cheaper
$ 28 for lift ticket
$25 for rentals"
Brent Little
"Couldn’t go sking because no snow also got a tick on my leg but I think this is the highest place in traverse city"
No Thing
"Won't allow sleds... What about handicap people....? Discrimination at its best. It's courtesy to not run over people regardless of what you use going down a hill. Disc golf course ruined by new "better" course. I used to be able to par a few times.. now I can't play there anymore, I am not a Olympic athlete ok. It used to be fun. Now it's privatized. Should be more inclusive, more understanding. For God sake it's a hill. Why are you regulating nature"
kay drielts
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hickory Hills Park is located in Traverse City, Michigan. It's easily accessible by car, offering a scenic drive through the area. Parking is available, and expansions are planned for the disc golf area.
Information on public transport to Hickory Hills is limited. It's generally recommended to drive to the park.
For skiing, the rope lifts are the primary mode of transport up the slopes. For disc golf and hiking, well-marked trails and tees guide you through the wooded terrain. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lift tickets are priced around $28, offering an affordable option for skiing.
Ski rentals are available for approximately $25, making it convenient for those without their own equipment.
Information on advance ticket purchases is not readily available. It's advisable to check their official website or contact the park directly for the most up-to-date ticketing information.
While specific discount programs aren't widely advertised, the general pricing is considered quite affordable compared to larger resorts.
Operating hours can vary based on season and snow conditions. It's best to check the official Hickory Hills website or social media for current hours of operation, especially during the winter ski season.
🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience
Absolutely! Hickory Hills is highly recommended for beginners and families, with a dedicated bunny hill perfect for learning.
Snowboarders may find the rope lifts challenging to navigate, as they are not as snowboard-friendly as chairlifts. Some users have reported issues with their boards getting caught.
Yes, the park features 4 km of cross-country ski trails, offering a different kind of winter adventure.
The lodge offers a nice eating area and a cozy fireplace, providing a warm place to relax after hitting the slopes.
Snow tubing is available and is a popular activity, especially for families looking for some downhill fun.
🎫 ⛳ Disc Golf & More
Hickory Hills boasts a fantastic, wooded disc golf course with over 20 holes and cement tees. Expansions are planned, adding more holes and a larger parking area.
While the course is wooded and can be challenging, it's generally considered playable for various skill levels. Some users feel it's become less accessible for casual players due to course changes.
Yes, the park offers trails that are great for walking and enjoying nature, especially when not covered in snow.
Specific pet policies are not detailed in the provided information. It's recommended to check with the park directly regarding their pet regulations.
The park features rolling hills, making it suitable for skiing and disc golf. It's described as the highest place in Traverse City by some visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the rope lifts can be a bit tricky for very young children to manage independently, parents can assist. The park's overall atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly. Consider arriving early, especially on weekends, to secure gear rentals without long waits.
💰 Budget Travelers
Beyond skiing, the park offers a free disc golf course and hiking trails, providing additional recreational opportunities at no cost.
🏌️ Disc Golf Enthusiasts
While the course is highly regarded, be aware that some long-time players feel recent changes have made it more geared towards advanced players.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Slopes: Skiing and Snowboarding
It's important to note that snow conditions can vary, and checking the forecast or park updates before your visit is recommended. The park's vintage charm is part of its appeal, offering a more intimate and less commercialized ski experience compared to larger resorts. The vintage lodge with its fireplace provides a welcoming atmosphere to warm up after a day on the snow.
While the ski area is a highlight, it's worth mentioning that sledding is not permitted, which has been a point of contention for some visitors seeking more varied downhill activities.
Disc Golf Paradise
However, some long-time players have expressed concerns that recent course modifications have made it less accessible for casual players, shifting the focus towards a more competitive experience.
For those interested in disc golf, it's advisable to check for any course updates or specific rules before visiting. The park's commitment to improving the disc golf facilities suggests it will continue to be a prime location for the sport in the Traverse City area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit