By Traversecrets6 min6/23/2024

Discover the Charm of Hickory Hills: Traverse City's Four-Season Playground

Imagine a place where the community gathers, adventures are endless, and memories are made season after season. Welcome to Hickory Hills, Traverse City’s cherished recreational haven.

Hickory Hills: Traverse City's Beloved Outdoor Retreat

Nestled in the heart of Traverse City, Hickory Hills offers a unique blend of adventure, history, and community spirit. This city-owned and operated family ski area has been a cornerstone of local recreation since 1952. With its scenic wooded setting, eight runs, and five rope tows, it's a favorite spot for both novice and seasoned skiers. Night skiing and a 1k lighted cross-country trail ensure that the fun continues well after sunset.

Why Hickory Hills is Special

Hickory Hills is more than just a ski area. It's a place where generations of local families have learned to ski, snowboard, and enjoy the great outdoors. The small but mighty hill provides an authentic sense of home, with memories that last a lifetime. The views from the top of Swede slope, overlooking Grand Traverse Bay and Downtown Traverse City, are nothing short of spectacular.

Year-Round Recreation at Hickory Hills

Hickory Hills isn't just a winter wonderland. It's a four-season recreational gem that offers a wide range of activities throughout the year.

Winter Activities

During the winter months, Hickory Hills boasts 16 runs, including a bunny hill with a conveyor lift for beginners. Nordic skiers can enjoy a 5k trail that meanders through the woods. The Ski Patrol ensures safe skiing and offers first aid services.

Spring, Summer, and Fall Activities

When the snow melts, Hickory Hills transforms into a hub for hiking and disc golf. The existing trail network is perfect for hiking, and the award-winning disc golf course features two 18-hole layouts that challenge players of all skill levels.

Hickory Meadows: A Nature Lover's Paradise

Adjacent to Hickory Hills is Hickory Meadows, a 112-acre nature preserve with 6 kilometers of trails. These trails, groomed for skiing in winter, offer scenic views and opportunities for snowshoeing, hiking, and dog walking year-round. It's a great spot for wildlife viewing and enjoying open spaces.

Modern Amenities and Community Spirit

Hickory Hills has recently undergone significant upgrades, including a new lodge and maintenance building, expanding its ski terrain to 16 runs. The addition of a dedicated terrain park and a conveyor lift on the beginner slope, "Fast Tammy," ensures that there's something for everyone. The expanded snowmaking capabilities also enhance the guest experience, making the ski season more reliable and enjoyable.

A Community Legacy

Each run at Hickory Hills is named in honor of those who have supported the area over the years, reflecting the community's deep connection to this beloved spot. The legacy of Hickory Hills lies in the hundreds of local youth who have grown up skiing its slopes, creating memories that will last a lifetime.