Champion Hill Opens for XC Skiing

Destinations

Tue, Dec  13, 2005 - By Amy Stone, Nordic Director

Cross-country skiing is a new business venture for Champion Hill Golf Course, located in Northwest Michigan’s Benzie County. Champion Hill is just 30 miles Southwest of Traverse City between Beulah and Honor. Located at one of the highest points of Benzie County and within a few miles of Lake Michigan we have the advantage of lake effect snow and terrain that can vary from flat to rolling. There is an elevation difference of a few hundred feet between some of the trails. With over 22 Km of groomed trails and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, the Platte Lakes, and Crystal Lake, there are trails that all types of skiers will enjoy. The trails, which are groomed for both skate and classical skiing, wind through 370 acres of wooded and open terrain.

Beginner skiers looking for a shorter trail with gentle slopes will enjoy the North and South EZ trails. The Scenic trail, which is the main and longest trail (9.1 Km), offers a variety of terrain and excellent views. Anyone looking for some hill work and a challenge will find both on the Switchback trail which winds through the wooded areas of the property. These trails are just a few examples of what Champion Hill has to offer.

The trailhead is located at the Champion Hill clubhouse, which is 2 ½ miles South of US 31 on Marshall Road, just west of Honor. The clubhouse has ski rentals, a waxing table, and snacks along with hot drinks. Skiers can pay a daily fee of $9.00, $8.00 for seniors, $7.00 for juniors (8 and under free), or $25.00 for a family. Season passes and group rates are also available. For more information call (231) 882-9200 or check out our website at www.championhill.com.

Champion Hill is open now. See trail reports in the Trail Reports section of NordicSkiRacer.com.