SUMMER trip - Crystal Mountain vs Boyne?
I know it's tough to think summer vacas right now buuuut...I'm a planner :)
Considering bringing my family (10 & 6 yr olds) to either Crystal Mountain or Boyne Mountain for a week in August. We love lake resorts in the Northeast, but we seem to have exhausted all the similar destinations in our area and want to try something new! Just getting started in my research, but seems these 2 resorts check our boxes. Hoping for some local insight around which would be most worth the trip!
Both Crystal Mountain and Boyne Mountain are fantastic summer destinations, and each offers a unique set of activities and amenities, especially for families with young children. Here's a detailed breakdown of both options to help you decide which might be the best fit for your trip in August.
- Crystal Mountain:
- Location: Crystal Mountain is located in Thompsonville, Michigan, near the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which is a beautiful area with picturesque views and plenty of outdoor activities. It's also close to Crystal Lake, making it a great choice for families who enjoy water-based activities.
- Activities: Crystal Mountain has a range of activities for families, including hiking, mountain biking, ziplining, and a fantastic outdoor pool. It’s known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with plenty of activities designed for young kids, including a kid’s adventure zone and nature trails. In the summer, you can also enjoy tubing and a variety of lawn games like cornhole and giant Jenga.
- Accommodations: The resort offers family-friendly lodging options such as suites and condos, which are great for families looking for a home-like experience. These accommodations have kitchenettes, allowing you to cook your own meals if you prefer that option. The resort also has an on-site restaurant for convenient dining.
- Nearby Attractions: Besides the resort itself, Crystal Mountain is close to some great natural attractions, like the aforementioned Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which is perfect for family hikes, sand dunes, and beautiful beaches. Crystal Lake offers clear, shallow waters that are ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, making it a great option for your younger kids.
- Boyne Mountain:
- Location: Boyne Mountain is located in Boyne Falls, Michigan, about an hour’s drive north of Crystal Mountain. The resort is larger and offers a more resort-style experience with many options for both outdoor and indoor activities.
- Activities: Boyne is known for its family-friendly vibe and offers a great variety of summer activities. In addition to the usual outdoor recreation like hiking, mountain biking, and ziplining, Boyne also features a water park, alpine slide, and a larger variety of indoor options like an arcade, indoor pool, and spa. Boyne’s “Adventure Park” features a climbing wall, go-karts, mini golf, and more, making it a great choice if your kids love diverse activities.
- Accommodations: Boyne Mountain offers a mix of hotel-style rooms and condos. There are more options for larger families and group accommodations here, which could be convenient if you prefer more space or want to be able to prepare meals in your room. Boyne also has several on-site restaurants and bars, as well as a more lively atmosphere.
- Nearby Attractions: Boyne Mountain is also near Lake Michigan, making it easy to access water-based activities like boating, kayaking, and fishing. Additionally, you’re not far from Boyne City, which offers cute shops and restaurants along the waterfront. Another highlight is the nearby Boyne Highlands, which offers additional golf courses and hiking trails for a day trip.
Summary of Key Differences:
- Crystal Mountain: Smaller, more relaxed, ideal for families who enjoy a peaceful environment with plenty of outdoor recreation. Great for those looking for a more nature-based experience with easy access to local attractions like Sleeping Bear Dunes and Crystal Lake.
- Boyne Mountain: Larger resort with more amenities, including a water park and more indoor activities. A great choice for families looking for a more diverse range of activities, especially if you want something with more variety and options on-site for entertainment.
Ultimately, both resorts offer a great family experience, but the choice depends on what kind of vacation experience you're after. If you want a more laid-back, nature-focused trip, Crystal Mountain might be your best bet. If your family enjoys a bustling resort with lots of amenities and activities for kids, Boyne Mountain would be the better choice. Either way, both will provide a memorable experience for your summer trip!
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