Crystal Mountain is a Blast in Summer!
My family loves Crystal Mountain in summer.
I’ve been going since I was a little kid. Now that I have a family of my own, it’s one of our favorite Michigan summer getaway destinations. Plus, it’s so close to Traverse City and all that Up North Michigan has to offer!
On our latest summer weekend there, we tried as many of their seasonal activities and attractions as we could and we were absolutely WOWED!
When it comes to kids and families, Crystal Mountain knows what they’re doing.
From the friendly staff, family-friendly lodging options, amazing dining choices, and endless activities geared toward all ages, Crystal Mountain has thought of it all.
Read on to discover why “visit Crystal Mountain” should be on your summer bucket list.
in this article
Crystal Mountain SUMMER Bucket List
Crystal Mountain is an easy drive from nearly anywhere in Michigan. You’ll be there before your kids get antsy and the ice in your cooler melts.
Plus you will find endless activities and things to do for all ages at Crystal Mountain. Here are some of our favorites:
1 – Ride the Crystal Mountain DUAL Alpine Slide
Upon arriving, my kids immediately spotted the Crystal Coaster Alpine Slide.
You ride a chairlift to the top of the mountain and then you ride down a curved track on a specially designed sled. You are in control of the speed the entire time, making it perfect for ages three and up.
My parents live nearby and they joined us for a few hours of fun. Everyone in our group age 4 – 65+ agreed that the Crystal Mountain Alpine Slide is a blast!
My youngest squealed with delight every time she went down the slide, chanting, “faster, faster, faster!”
Don’t be intimidated by the slide or riding the chairlift. The crew at the top and bottom of the mountain are helpful and encouraging. They will gladly answer any questions and help you navigate the chairlift.
2 – Bike the Trails
If your family enjoys biking, I suggest checking out the biking trails around Crystal Mountain in summer.
They have trails to meet every ability level, from paved sidewalks to a technical hilly singletrack. They even connect to the 10-mile Betsie River Pathway.
The rental process was very easy and they have bikes, bike trailers, and helmets for all ages and skill levels. The staff is there to adjust seats and make sure everyone feels comfortable before hitting the trails.
There are also places to lock up your bike if you bring a bike from home.
Nearby Northern MI Fun
Lake Michigan Overlook
Incredible views
Fishtown
Stroll the shops, hit the beach
TC Festivals & Fun
Cherry Festival, beaches & more
3 – Explore the Sculptures at the Michigan Legacy Art Park
If your kids are like mine, they are early risers and wake even earlier when traveling. If you find yourself looking for a morning activity, the Michigan Legacy Art Park is perfect.
It’s a 30-acre preserve located on the Crystal Mountain property with 2 miles of hiking trails. Along the trails, you will find over 50 sculptures.
My kids ran through most of it, anxious to see who would be first to spot the next piece of art.
4 – Soak up the Outdoor Pool Area
Crystal Mountain in summer means a lot of pool time.
The weekend we were there was hot and the outdoor pool was the place to be. The pool was busy, but never too crowded.
There were multiple lifeguards on duty. As a mom to three kids ages 6 and under, I took note that the lifeguards were engaged.
A large portion of the pool is also zero entry and 3′ deep or less. The deeper side is separated by the lily pads. It’s a great set-up for all ages.
My kids quickly took to the slides, water guns, and lily pads. They were very excited to discover that the pool has an area where even my 4-year-old could touch the bottom and shoot hoops.
The pool area also features a playset.
We spent most of the day at the pool and had a delicious lunch at their Beach House café. Its poolside location makes it a convenient choice for lunch, snacks, or ice cream while enjoying the pool.
I loved that we didn’t need to dry everyone off and head back to the room or find a restaurant.
5 – Be Brave at the Edge Adventure Course & Zipline
While at the pool, my kids were able to watch others take on the challenge of the Edge Adventure Course and Zipline. After lunch, they were ready to give it a try themselves.
I figured if the kids were doing it, I would, too. It was a blast! I’m so glad I decided to join in on the adventure.
The Adventure Course was the highlight of the trip for me.
Seeing the mix of a little fear and a lot of determination on my kids’ faces as they made their way across the ropes course was priceless. The zipline at the end is a blast and makes you want to go back for more.
6 – Climb the Vertical Edge Climbing Wall
My kids loved the Vertical Edge Climbing Wall. The staff at the wall were amazing. At first, my kids were a bit apprehensive. The staff made sure my kids felt safe the entire time.
They were so encouraging and helped them navigate the wall by coaching to the next foothold. My kids climbed a handful of times, making it a bit higher each time.
Like just about everything else at Crystal Mountain, the climbing wall isn’t just for kids. I saw plenty of adults, including my husband, climb.
Each side of the wall offers a different challenge, making it fun for all abilities.
7 – Fly High on the Bungee Trampoline
New this summer is the impressive Crystal Bungee Trampoline. Up to four participants (ages 6+) may jump at one time and reservations are recommended.
8 – Do all of the Family Activities
I was amazed at the amount of activities beyond the pool, zipline, and Alpine Coaster.
Every day Crystal Mountain offers a new schedule of crafts and events for all ages.
Activities range from building birdhouses to tie dying t-shirts, to family campfires and s’mores.
At the Park at Waters Edge, you can rent movies, borrow board games, and pick up photo scavenger hunt cards.
The Mountain Adventure Zone offers yard games, a playground, and basketball courts.
9 – Take Chairlift Ride
While we were there, we were able to enjoy a chairlift ride to the top of the mountain where we listened to live music.
It was very family-friendly, with parents enjoying the music while kids ran up and down the mountain. It was the perfect way to end a fun-filled day.
Bonus: If you’re on top of the mountain at dusk, you can watch the sunset and see Lake Michigan in the distance. It’s a sight to see! (Chairlift hours vary, please check.)
10 – Get in a Round of Golf (or Two!)
Find two beautiful golf courses at Crystal Mountain in summer.
Take on the more challenging Mountain Ridge, with significant elevation changes and wide open tee shots.
Or get a more laid back experience at the newly-renovated Betsie Valley with scenic views (and probably a lower score).
They even offer lessons for all ages.
11 – Try Laser Tag, Archery, Disc Golf & More
We had an action-packed weekend.
Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to check out some other activities such as Laser Tag, Archery, and Disc Golf.
But they all looked like so much fun, we might have to move them to the top of the list when we return.
12 – Day Trip it to Nearby Attractions
You in the center of the action when you stay at Crystal Mountain. In addition to all of the onsite amenities, you’re just minutes away from some of the best nature attractions in the world.
Here are just a few places you need to consider adding to your itinerary:
Nearby Traverse City Fun
21 Things to do with Teens
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TC’s BEST FAMILY RESTAURANTS
Yummy flavors & family-friendly places to eat
Toddler-Approved Fun
Stroll the shops, hit the beach
Unexpected Adventures
Off-the-beaten path in Traverse City
Multi-Gen Trip Ideas
Activities, eats & stays for all ages
Festivals & Fun
Traverse City’s best things to do in the summertime
3 – Explore the Sculptures at the Michigan Legacy Art Park
If your kids are like mine, they are early risers and wake even earlier when traveling. If you find yourself looking for a morning activity, the Michigan Legacy Art Park is perfect.
It’s a 30-acre preserve located on the Crystal Mountain property with 2 miles of hiking trails. Along the trails, you will find over 50 sculptures.
My kids ran through most of it, anxious to see who would be first to spot the next piece of art.
4 – Soak up the Outdoor Pool Area
Crystal Mountain in summer means a lot of pool time.
The weekend we were there was hot and the outdoor pool was the place to be. The pool was busy, but never too crowded.
There were multiple lifeguards on duty. As a mom to three kids ages 6 and under, I took note that the lifeguards were engaged.
A large portion of the pool is also zero entry and 3′ deep or less. The deeper side is separated by the lily pads. It’s a great set-up for all ages.
My kids quickly took to the slides, water guns, and lily pads. They were very excited to discover that the pool has an area where even my 4-year-old could touch the bottom and shoot hoops.
The pool area also features a playset.
We spent most of the day at the pool and had a delicious lunch at their Beach House café. Its poolside location makes it a convenient choice for lunch, snacks, or ice cream while enjoying the pool.
I loved that we didn’t need to dry everyone off and head back to the room or find a restaurant.
Family Lodging Options at Crystal Mountain
From standard hotel rooms to stand-alone houses, Crystal Mountain has something to fit every family’s needs.
We are a family of five and often struggle to find accommodations that work well for our family.
I’ve stayed at Crystal Mountain in summer several times, and I can honestly say I’ve always been happy with my accommodations.
Each unit and its location at Crystal Mountain has various advantages.
I would suggest narrowing down your search based on your budget and then choosing a unit based on its proximity to the activity you’re most interested in doing.
Many units have fun bunks or sleeping cubbies, which are perfect for kids.
All the units I’ve been in are tastefully decorated, clean, and very family-friendly.
We most recently stayed at Kinlochen , which has a charming Scottish castle-like feel to it.
The 3 bedroom, 2 bath unit in Kinlochen was more than enough space for our family.
All units in Kinlochen have a fully equipped kitchen which I find so nice when traveling with kids.
Thistle Pub and Kinlochen Plaza are located on the 1st floor of the building, providing an easy and tasty dining option.
Family Dining Options at Crystal Mountain
The dining options at Crystal Mountain in summer are plentiful and tasty. All the restaurants are kid friendly.
THE BEACH HOUSE
The Beach House is the perfect place to grab a quick hot dog or sweet treat.
It’s super casual and has outdoor picnic table dining. The Beach House is located right next to the pool, climbing wall and adventure course.
Each unit and its location at Crystal Mountain has various advantages.
BETSIE RIVER PIZZA AND SUBS
Betsie River Pizza & Subs is also a great option for families. Offering tasty pizza, subs and salads. It’s takeout only. If you’re staying on site, they will deliver to your room, something that we’ve taken advantage of many times.
MOUNTAIN MARKET
The Mountain Market is a mini grocery store. They offer a nice variety of staple grocery items as well as some grab and go sandwiches, salads and wraps. If you forgot diapers, sunscreen, or maybe need one more box of macaroni and cheese, this is the place for you.
WILD TOMATO
We dined at Wild Tomato breakfast buffet each morning, which was perfect for our family.
With so many options, we found our favorites and left fueled up, happy, and ready for a full morning of activities.
BRU BAR
The kids might not think it’s important but the parents will appreciate knowing that coffee’s on at the Bru Bar. Grab-and-go breakfast items, like muffins and yogurt parfaits are available, too, for a quick alternative.
Crystal Mountain in Summer Really is Michigan’s Best Kept Secret!
We Had So Much Fun – When Can We Go Back?
Before we even left, my kids were asking when we could come back or if we could stay for one more day!
I asked each of my kids about their favorite memory from the weekend. They had a hard time narrowing it down to just one thing. I don’t blame them. It was so much fun! I think they loved all of it. I know my husband and I did.
Here’s to squeezing in a visit to Crystal Mountain this summer before school starts and then again for winter skiing.
But Crystal Mountain in summer is an incredible destination for families and adults, too!
Crystal Mountain // 12500 Crystal Mountain Dr, Thompsonville, MI 49683-9742
