Hickory Hills and Hickory Meadows

Hickory Hills has 5k+ hilly kilometers of beginner to advanced cross-country ski trails, as well as a 1k lighted cross-country loop for night skiing. Snowmaking and grooming operations have expanded and provide an exceptional Nordic experience. Cross-country ski rentals are now available at the lodge. With a purchase of a season pass, Nordic skiers may enjoy the trails prior to the Hickory Hills lodge opening. Nordic skiers should be advised grooming will occur on these trails may occur during park hours. Adjacent to Hickory Hills is Hickory Meadows, a mostly flat, multi-use 6k groomed trail. The trail is shared with walkers and snowshoes, and winter cyclists. Homologated Certification The Hickory Hills Nordic course was awarded homologation certification by the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) in 2023. With this stamp of approval, Hickory Hills becomes the only homologated cross-country ski course in Michigan’s lower peninsula and joins two other homologated courses in Michigan, both in the Upper Peninsula: Ishpeming and Houghton. There are only 37 homologated courses in the United States. Homologation or “course approval” was awarded following a multi-year effort coordinated by volunteers of VASA Ski Club, City staff, and the non-profit Preserve Hickory that included preparing specific documents describing the course, site visits, and a report by an FIS Homologation Inspector. The homologation process confirms that the technical requirements of FIS have been met, and it allowed local organizers to discuss protective safety needs, course preparation, and use of the facility with the inspector. Nordic Updates and Conditions Interested in receiving Nordic updates for Hickory Hills and Hickory Meadows during the season? Email hickoryhillsnordic@gmail.com and make a request to receive Nordic grooming updates during the season. Hickory Hills has 4.5 hilly kilometers of Beginner to advanced cross-country ski trails on the west side of Traverse City. There are also snowshoe trails winding through the surrounding forest, as well as a 1 Km lighted cross-country loop for night skiing. John Kostrzewa notes, "The trail is only partially lit, but visibility from the Alpine area lights and the Nordic sections that are lit, make it easy to see on all 4.5K of this challenging loop." NORDIC Ski rentals (classic nowax skis) are available at Hickory Hills. Hickory Hills has a New Lodge under construction, plus the old warming hut and bathrooms. Trail map for Hickory Meadows: https://natureiscalling.org/hickory-meadows