Treetops Resort Michigan Winter Getaway in Gaylord MI | Downhill Skiing, Snowboarding, Snow Tubing | Northern Michigan Winter Adventures and Things To Do
Article: Treetops Resort Michigan Winter Getaway in Gaylord MI | Downhill Skiing, Snowboarding, Snow Tubing | Northern Michigan Winter Adventures and Things To Do
Hey Everyone! Let's Embrace Winter This Year! Get Outside and PLAY!
As lifelong residents of Michigan, Chris and I fully embrace winter! Chris, a Yooper through and through, holds a particular fondness for winter sports, especially in the snowy landscapes of Northern Michigan. Our recent winter getaway to Treetops Resort in Gaylord, Michigan was a thrilling outdoor adventure that we can't wait to share with you!!
Our weekend was packed with exhilarating activities, from the swift rush of downhill skiing and snowboarding to the playful twists and turns of snow tubing. Each moment at Treetops Resort was a celebration of Michigan's winter wonderland!
Chris and I were invited to stay the weekend to share our experiences with you. All opinions are our own.
Watch Our Exciting Experiences at Treetops Resort! They Can Be Yours Too!
What To Expect During Your Stay
Treetops Resort, located in Gaylord Michigan, is a perfect Michigan winter vacation destination with unrivaled hospitality. This picturesque ski resort offers an idyllic retreat for families, couples and friends seeking both adventure and relaxation.
You can enjoy on-site lodging, restaurants, indoor and outdoor pools, salon and spa, laundry, meeting rooms, bar, and TONS of winter sports all in one spot!
Our Fun Instagram Videos From Treetops! Get Inspired!
How To Get To Treetops Gaylord MI
Treetops Resort is located at 3962 Wilkinson Road, Gaylord, Michigan 49735. Their phone number: 989-732-67111
Treetops in Gaylord Michigan is situated on a ridge that overlooks the scenic Sturgeon River valley so it's very pretty! The snow-covered landscape is just breathtaking during all four of Michigan's seasons!
- Tree Tops is 3 hours and 20 minutes, 327 miles from Detroit
- Tree Tops is 1 hour and 20 minutes, 65 miles from Traverse City
- Tree Tops is 2 hours and 50 minutes, 185 miles from Grand Rapids
- Tree Tops is 3 hours and 18 minutes, 213 miles from Holland
- Tree Tops is 57 minutes, 62 miles from Mackinaw City
- Tree Tops is 2 hours and 56 minutes, 186 miles from Munising
- Tree Tops is 2 hours 25 minutes, 145 miles from Tahquamenon Falls
A convenient airport for Gaylord Michigan is Northern Michigan’s regional airport, Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) is serviced by American, Delta, and United. It's about an hour and 20 minutes to Traverse City.
No Snow At Home? There's ALWAYS Snow at Treetops Resort in Gaylord MI!
At Treetops Resort, It's Always a Snowy Michigan Paradise!
Treetops Resort in Northern Michigan MAKES THEIR OWN SNOW
...so, even you only have a dusting of snow at home, Treetops is a snowy Michigan winter wonderland!
We got up early to watch the snow machines do their thing and it's pretty impressive! These snow machines work their little butts off so you have fantastic snow for all your fun outdoor winter activities like downhill skiing and tubing. (Humm do snow machines have butts? Everything has butts, don't they?)
Bring your snow gear (or rent it there) and play outside this weekend! Life is short, let's embrace winter!
FUN Things To Do During Your Treetops Resort Michigan Winter Getaway
OH My GOSH! There is something fun to do for EVERYONE, even if you don't ski or snowboard! That's what makes this ske resort a top spot for winter getaways in Michigan for families and couples.
Winter adventures include:
- Downhill Skiing
- Snow Tubing
- Snowboarding
- Bon Fires
- Outdoor and Indoor Swimming
Visit the Jones Activity Center on site at Treetops Resort for tons of Michigan winter adventures!
- Cross Country Skiing
- Snowshoeing
- Dog Sledding
- Sleigh Rides
- Fat Tire Snow Biking
- Ice Skating
Like Indoor Activities too?
- Book a session at the Salon and Spa in the Treetops Lodge
- Go swimming in the indoor pools
- Take the kids to the Children's Center at the Treetops Inn
- Get some indoor exercise at the Fitness Center
Let's Talk About Our Favorite Eats at Treetops...Their Food Is ♥
Let me get this out there right away because I want you to remember this...
GET THE FREAKIN CHICKEN WINGS at the Sports Bar.
I'm not kidding.
The Garlic Parmesan wings are hands down the best wings Chris and I have ever had. And we've eaten A LOT of wings over the years. I mean you can order other wing flavors like BBQ but the garlic parm has my heart.
Between mouthfuls we kept saying, "DANG. These are soooo good!" Crispy, juicy, flavorful...everything I ever wanted in chicken wings. Swoon.
Other Great Spots to Eat At Treetops Resort
Now that I've gotten over my chicken wing obsession (well, not really) I can move on to tell you about other great restaurants at Treetops Resort.
- First, get fuel for your day with a delicious breakfast at Legends Restaurant. Sit next to the windows for a lovely view of the ski hills.
Chris and I dined on delicious fresh fruit, pastries, eggs, bacon, sausages, toast and other fantastic breakfast meal items on the buffet. It was all delicious! Of course, you can have coffee and orange juice too. Chris had hot chocolate because when you are on vacation...
You can grab snacks, lunch and dinner at several spots on the resort property.
- Legends
- Sports Bar (the wings, remember?) They also have pizza, burgers, salads and more.
- Hunter's Grille
- Halfway Cafe
Why we love eating at Treetops: We are so happy there are onsite restaurants so you can eat and get back to the fun! It such a perfect stress free winter vacation for kids, couples, friends and families.
If you LOVE down hill skiing, check out our HUGE list of the best ski resorts in Michigan!
Why stay home this winter when you can get outside and enjoy the great outdoors? We promise you will have fun this winter and maybe find a new winter sport that you love!
Incredible Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding at Treetops Gaylord Michigan
As soon as it get cold in Northern Michigan, winter enthusiasts are ready for adrenalin filled adventures on fresh snow.
...And Treetops Resort in Gaylord MI is ready!
- Treetops Resort's season begins in early December (as soon as temps drop enough to make snow!) and ends in March.
This northern Michigan ski resort caters to a wide variety of skill levels for downhill skiers. They have easy, intermediate, most difficult (black diamond) and expert only (double black diamond). So if you are just learning how to stand up in a pair of skis or have years of experience, you'll have a blast at this Gaylord Treetops Resort.
The downhill ski hills and chairlifts are well maintained as safety is a priority at this Michigan ski resort. Treetops makes their own snow, so don't worry if you don't have snow at home!
- Don't forget....A valid lift ticket is required and can be purchased online or at the Skier Services building.
How Many Downhill Ski Runs Are There at Treetops?
- Treetops has 23 downhill ski runs over 1,500 acres of snow-covered hills! It's a sight to see!
Need Help? Take Pro Lessons!
This is the year to learn a new skill! Treetops offers snowboarding and skiing lessons so you can gain the skills and confidence to be fully engaged during your Northern Michigan winter getaway.
Gear Rentals
Did you just take a class and want to try your new skills on the slopes? Rent your equipment at Treetops Resort in Gaylord MI! You can rent:
- Downhill Skis
- Cross Country Skis
- Snowboards
- Snowshoes
It is highly recommended to reserve your rental gear at least two days before your trip.
Treetops Resort is a Fantastic Michigan Winter Getaway for Couples and Families
Why is Treetops Resort one of the best winter getaways in Michigan?
We saw so many couples and families skiing, tubing, laughing and playing in the snow making memories together. It was heartwarming to see.
There's great food at several on-site restaurants, comfortable lodging, cozy firepits to warm up a bit, professionally run outdoor winter activities, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, top notch equipment, affordable downhill skiing for adults and kids, friendly staff, children's center, and so many fun things to do! It's a northern Michigan winter wonderland and very safe....Chris and I love it!
Extreme Tubing at Treetops is Top Notch For Safety AND FUN!
First off, I want to say, Chris and I were blown away by the professionalism, safety and quality of the extreme tubing hills at Treetops Resort.
I'm going to be honest when I say I was wary about going tubing before I arrived. First, I wasn't excited about the idea of being smashed into by a group of kids. Second, I didn't want to drag my tube up a hill. That would be fun for about 30 seconds (or 12 seconds.)Third, I was worried about flying off my tube and break my coccyx (again).
--->Boy, was all my worries wrong...thankfully.
Here's what really happened. We were thrilled to discover Treetops takes safety, organization, and equipment quality very seriously.
1. There is a Treetops Resort worker that controls each run down the Extreme Tubing hill. They make sure you are seated correctly, answers any questions, waits until the last person is off the hill at the bottom, and then asks you the most important question of the day....
"Do you want to go straight down the hill or SPIN!?" We all giddily screamed, "SPIN SPIN SPIN!" So much fun!
2. It can't get any easier to get back up the hill. Seriously. At the bottom you walk a few feet with your tube (there's a handle to help you easily pull it) to the MAGIC CARPET which is a moving conveyer belt. You simply stand there as you glide to the top of the hill! ZERO work, my friends. Which means more tubing fun!
3. You won't fall off the tube. The hill is very smooth and lovely...like butter. And this girl loves her butter. Trust me on this one. Just do it.
Also, you can attach your tube to two, three, four or five other tubes for a screaming zip down the hill. OR you can go by yourself...it's faster that way in my opinion.
Our Take on Tubing? It's a hard yes. You must do it. We LOVED IT! Perfect winter getaway in Michigan for families! Fun for all ages. You are never too old to have fun at Treetops!
Treetops Resort Main Lobby and Check In - So Pretty!
The Main Lobby, located in the Treetops Lodge is such a beautiful area! There is a lovely stone fireplace with comfy chairs and a couch to hang out. Bar 81 is located right behind the fireplace.
The check-in area has incredible high ceilings, lovely photos of the resort adorn the walls and there's a shop to buy apparal to stay warm and fashionable!
Grab Drinks and Snacks at Bar 81
Want to relax in the evening after a day of winter fun and adventures?
Chris and I loved Bar 81 located in the Treetops Lodge. It's the first place we stopped after arriving around 6:00 pm on the first day of our Treetops Resort Michigan winter getaway. It's a cozy spot to relax and have a beverage.
Treetops Resort Michigan Winter Getaway On-Site Lodging
There are several options for on-site lodging at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, MI. One of these will surely meet the needs of your family or group. Chris and I stayed in the Treetops Lodge.
- Treetops Lodge (Main Lobby, Fitness Center, Salon and Spa, Pool, and Bar 81)
- Treetops Inn - Laundry on-site, Children's Center, Indoor and Outdoor pools
- Treetops North Condominiums
- Treetops North Townhouses
- Treetops Chalets
Sherry's excited to relax in the room! There's a very comfortable couch, TV, mini fridge and microwave in our room in the Treetops Lodge.
Some rooms have patios or balconies which is great! I love getting outside for fresh air, checking the weather temps and just enjoying the lovely views!
What We Like About Treetops Resort
Chris and I love that Treetops is a one stop shop for our all our winter activity and vacation needs. Plus, they make their own snow so we don't have to worry about it. We love the on-site restaurants, laundry, pools and fitness center. Even if you don't downhill ski, there are several other less extreme options for you.
Plus, there was great signage everywhere so we could easily drive, walk or find our way around. There is also a helpful map that you can get at the Main Lobby.
Cool Things to Do Nearby
See Michigan Elk!
So guys, you HAVE to go check out the INCREDIBLE elk in Gaylord Michigan! We have a map of the Best Michigan Elk Viewing Spots near Treetops Resort! Kids and adults alike love it!
Go Cross Country Skiing at Forbush Corner!
Address: 4971 W Co Rd 612, Frederic, MI 49733
Chris and I HIGHLY RECOMMEND spending an afternoon at Forbush Corner for cross country skiing or skate skiing. The hills and trails are well maintained, there is a lovely firepit to warm up and the equipment we rented was top notch. My ski boots were so comfortable!
Chris and I took a cross country ski class and we were blown away by the professionalism and quality of teaching. Plus the staff was so patient, thoughtful and friendly.
Forbush Corner has a great ski shop where you an rent and buy quality gear. We plan to go back again in about two weeks, we loved it so much.
YouTube Video Below
More Fun Things To Do This Winter
Author: Sherry Trautman
Author | Sherry Trautman is a seasoned business owner and a multifaceted content creator, deeply entrenched in the world of travel in Michigan. With her extensive background in writing, editing, photography, marketing, website design, web mastering, social media, and publishing, she is the driving force behind the acclaimed Michigan Travel site "Travel-mi.com." A lifelong Michigander...read more about Sherry Trautman
What To Bring To Treetops
Here are some packing tips!
We recommend packing two pairs of most outdoor items as they will get wet. We went through two pairs of gloves and hats over two days as they take a while to dry, especially if it is actively snowing or drizzling outside. Dress in layers. You will need ski pants, gloves, hats and boots for the tubing hills so you don't get wet and stay warm. Of course, bring your own skiing gear.
When to Go
Treetops makes their own snow, so you can go as soon as they open for the season in early December. Check their website for details.
How to Get To Treetops Resort
Treetops Resort is located in Gaylord, Michigan which is in Northern Michigan. See our map below.
What To Budget
It's best to spend some time on Treetops Resort's website to determine all of the winter activities you and your group wish to do. Each winter activity has a fee and if you need to rent equipment you will need to factor that in that cost too.
At the time of this writing, lift tickets were around $25 per person per day. Extreme tubing is around $20 per person. Also plan on meals, drinks and snacks for the day plus any rentals or training you may need.
Check the Treetop Resort website for lodging pricing as it depends on the day of the week and where you are staying on the resort.
FAQ's people are asking!
Answer: Treetops Resort makes their own snow so you can plan your visits beginning in early December. Check their website for booking and activity details.
Answer: You can go on horse-drawn carriage rides which is a lovely winter experience at Treetops Resort.
Answer: Be sure to visit Call of the Wild Museum located at 850 S Wisconsin Ave, Gaylord, MI 49735. See displays of Northern American Animals while hearing sounds of the forest! This museum is also home to Bavarian Falls Park where you can play mini golf and go carting.
Also, consider visiting the Otsego County Historical Museum located at 320 W Main St Gaylord, MI 49735. Stop in to view a wide variety of displays illustrating the history of Otsego County. Admission is free.
Answer: There are 24 ski runs at Treetops Resort in Gaylord
Answer: Cross country skiing, snowmobiling, down hill skiing, winter hiking, snowboarding and dog sledding are a few popular outdoor adventures in Gaylord MI.
Answer: Consider visiting the Otsego County Historical Museum located at 320 W Main St Gaylord, MI 49735. Stop in to view a wide variety of displays illustrating the history of Otsego County. Admission is free.
Answer: It is a 3,300-acre destination for families, couples and friends!
Answer: Be sure to dine at Big Buck Brewery located at 550 South Wisconsin Ave, Gaylord, MI 49735! They offer pasta, steaks (I'm looking at you, Bistro Filet!) and tons of shareables! There's also Abi's Bistro and Alpine Tavern and Eatery. Also check out Bennethum’s as they offer a scratch-made menu of seafood, steaks, craft cocktails and more in a cozy rustic environment.
Answer: Gaylord MI is not far from Traverse City, Charlevoix, Petoskey and Mackinaw City. Grab our guides for each of these fun cities along Lake Michigan's shoreline! Oh and there's lots of fun things to do in Mackinaw City in the Winter!
Answer: There are several restaurants in Gaylord MI. We recommend Big Buck Brewery, the The Iron Pig Smokehouse and The Pine Squirrel Bar & Grill.
Other local restaurants include Abi's Bistro, Alpine Tavern and Eatery, and Bennethum’s. If you prefer chain restaurants, Buffalo Wild Wings or Applebee's are good choices.
Answer: Treetops Resort is definitely known for their incredible downhill ski and snowboarding hills. They also offer horse-drawn carriage rides which is an incredible Michigan wintertime experience. Their resort offers unparalleled hospitality, safety and quality experiences. It's a perfect winter weekend getaway for families, couples and groups of friends.