THE PORKIES (TOP)

The Porcupine Mountain Ski Area lies on a beautiful north facing 640 foot vertical drop slope overlooking Lake Superior and the rest of the Porcupine Mountain range to the west. Because of the Lake effect and the elevation, annual snowfall averages 180 inches, providing the bet natural snow conditions in the Midwest.

"The Porkies" are a great family ski area with a large number of the slopes rated beginner and intermediate. Fifteen runs are serviced by triple and double chair-lifts. All runs provide a spectacular view of Lake Superior. A full service chalet provides all the services from snacks to equipment repair and the large stone fireplace is a favorite.

Cross country skiers enjoy over 45 km of trails. A special lift ticket will get you to the Nordic trails south of the alpine area. There are three rustic rental ski cabins adjacent to the Nordic trail system. Call the park for reservations. (906) 885-5275. Hill conditions are at www.skitheporkies.com.

MONT RIPLEY (LEFT)

Mt. Ripley offers skiers great conditions due to Ripley's new high tech snow making system which has doubled snow making from last year. The new snow-guns make more snow with less energy. With the annual snowfall of over 20 feet, starting in early December accompanied with cold nights, 2007 / 08 is off to the best start in over a decade. With 24 runs from 2,000 to 3,200 feet long and a vertical drop of 440 feet the Michigan Tech University facility is open for all to enjoy. The hill offers a double chair lift, a new Copper Hoist lift on the east side and T-bar capable of handling 3600 skiers and snowboarders per hour.

"At Mont Ripley we don't have a terrain park, we are a terrain park. This is due to the large number of natural jumps, man made jumps, grind rails and unique topography." explained Nick the manager. "Back country skiing Is available on the Trestle Run, Cannonball, Buddha Bowl and Copper Chute."

Cross Country Sports Gravity shop at the chalet offers quality ski, snowboards, boots, clothing, goggles, waxes, and overnight repair by an expert staff. Rental equipment is available at the hill and the rental shop carries snowboards, snow blades, and new Salomon shape skis.

The Mont Ripley Ski and Snowboard School offers a wide variety of lesson packages. Warmth comfort, food and lockers are available in the hills chalet. Mont Ripley is located one half mile east of the lift bridge in Hancock. Half, full day and two day tickets are available. Call 906-487-2340, or visit skimontripley.com for more info.

MT. BOHEMIA (LEFT BOTTOM)

With the highest vertical, (900ft.) deepest powder, the four areas of Mount Bohemia provide the most adventure for the advanced skier. With 49 runs (65% gladded), the area has the largest back country glade in the mid west which is home to one of the largest bands of cliff drops in north America. With so much variety and the largest selection of expert terrain, Mt. Bohemia is the extreme skiers dream.

Trailside cabins sleep 4 and are located at the bottom of Prospector run. This allows you to stay on the mountain and ski right out your door for first tracks in the morning.

Extreme skiers with winter camping skills and gear, can camp on Mt. Bohemia for added adventure. It is the first ski area in the mid west to allow skier and riders to pitch their tents in the designated winter campground area, allowing you the thrill of sleeping under the northern lights. Your comfort is assured in the comfortable yurts, housing the snack bar, office and rental areas. Call for times at 1-888-937-2411 or check them out online at www.mtbohemia.com