Boyne Falls, Mich. — While most ski slopes at Boyne Mountain Resort and across Michigan are showing signs of summer, one hill is still holding onto winter.
Boyne Mountain has kept one ski run open on weekends, allowing visitors to ski in shorts and t-shirts—a rare experience this late in the season.
“You’re doing it more for bragging rights than for perfect snow,” said Kyler Phillips, a resort staff member. “That’s part of the fun.”
Phillips described his unique day, skiing at Victor Glacier after spending the morning on Mackinac Island. “That’s the epitome of Michigan,” he said.
The resort’s plan to keep skiing going this late was carefully prepared, according to Kari Roder. “We made a lot of snow and decided to keep at least one run open to extend the season,” she explained. “Last season started rough, so we planned ahead. We built the necessary infrastructure last summer and knew exactly what we wanted to do.”
Victor Glacier has been open on weekends from morning until early afternoon since the warmer weather began. Keeping the snow in good shape requires daily maintenance.
“We check on it every day,” Roder said. “The groomers have been working all morning to move the snow around. The pile at the bottom is about 10 feet tall. It’s shrinking in width, so we spread it out. There’s even a corner with untouched snow.”
To celebrate the extended season, Boyne Mountain Resort is hosting a party this Saturday. Skiers can enjoy one last run of winter fun. Lift tickets will cost $25, and the hill will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.