Fall Fun in Benzie County
Crystal Mountain's fall foliage will be on full display during the month of October. You don't want to miss out on the vibrant colors and serene atmosphere of northern Michigan this autumn! Start planning your leaf-peeping trip with our helpful guide on what's happening around Crystal Mountain and Benzie County.
Scenic Chairlift Rides
Ascend to new heights and witness the breathtaking beauty of fall from a bird's-eye view. Hop on a chairlift ride and take in the panoramic view of four counties, where colorful leaves stretch out before you like one of Monet's masterpieces. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, photographer, or simply seeking a moment of peace, this scenic chairlift ride is sure to leave you breathless. Available Saturdays in September for $10 and Saturdays and Sundays in October for $15.
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Fall Fun Saturdays
Discover the magic of fall at Crystal Mountain on Saturdays in October. Take a chairlift ride to soak in a sea of vibrant leaves, then thrill-seekers can zoom down the new dual Crystal Coaster Alpine Slide or bounce to new heights on the Crystal Bungee Trampoline . For a more leisurely pace, explore Benzie County on a bike ride along 12+ miles of trails. Whether you're looking for a day trip or an extended stay, Crystal Mountain has plenty of accommodations to suit your needs. And don't forget about the fun fall activities for the whole family, including a scarecrow walk (created by Crystal Mountain team members!), pumpkin carving , and more.
Crystal Spa Days
Unwind and rejuvenate at Crystal Spa this fall. Our 18,500-square-foot sanctuary offers a haven of tranquility amidst the changing leaves. Enjoy Crystal Spa Days , happening October 1 - November 17, 2024, with special savings on a variety of treatments. Indulge with complimentary access to our eucalyptus steam rooms, infrared saunas, relaxation lounge, and outdoor hot tub before and after your service!
Fall Golf
Trade the sweltering summer heat for the crisp autumn air and tee off on Crystal Mountain's championship golf courses. As you navigate meticulously manicured fairways, soak in the mosaic of color around you. Take advantage of special fall golf rates , including discounts for juniors , and make your autumn getaway unforgettable.
Take A Road Trip
Michigan's Gold Coast is a top spot mentioned in Travel + Leisure magazine's list of America's Best Fall Color Drives . Just 12 miles from scenic highway M-22, which winds along Lake Michigan's coastline, Crystal Mountain is rated by Fodor's Travel among the country's 15 Best Resorts for Fall Getaways . Our favorite spots include:
- Point Betsie Lighthouse (Frankfort, Michigan; 22 miles from Crystal Mountain)
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (Benzie & Leelanau Counties; 25 miles from Crystal Mountain)
- M-22 Scenic Highway (Benzie, Leelanau and Manistee Counties; 22 miles from Crystal Mountain)
- Arcadia Overlook (Arcadia, Michigan; 14 miles from Crystal Mountain)
- Fishtown (Leland, Michigan; 42 miles from Crystal Mountain)
- Grand Traverse Commons (Traverse City, Michigan; 30 miles from Crystal Mountain)
Go Wine Touring
Neighboring Leelanau County sits on the same parallel as the French wine region of Bordeaux. The wines themselves are matched only by the breathtaking landscape.
Hit the Trails & Waterways
View the northern Michigan landscape from some of our favorite biking paths and rivers!
- Betsie Valley Trail: This bike and hike trail extends from nearby Thompsonville to Frankfort, but the nine-mile ride from Beulah to trail's end at Lake Michigan includes a nice stretch along Crystal Lake, the Betsie River, and Betsie Bay.
- Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail: Located in Leelanau County. Whichever direction you choose from the Dune Climb, whether the easier ride to Glen Arbor or the more challenging trip toward Empire, you won't be disappointed.
- Betsie River: Experience one of northern Michigan's most pristine rivers from the unique vantage point of a canoe or kayak. Visit our neighbors at Betsie River Canoes and Campground to reserve a river trip!
- Platte River: This mellow float trip down the lower Platte River is located in nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and is a must-see when the colors begin to change. We recommend taking a trip with our friends at Riverside Canoes .
Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail Info »
Stay & Explore
With so much to see and do, Crystal Mountain is the perfect destination for your fall getaway. Book your stay today and experience the beauty of northern Michigan.