If downhill isn't your thing, or you want a quieter day in the snow, Bellaire has good options for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, from groomed resort trails to more than 30 miles of hilly woods north of town.
Nordic trails at Shanty Creek (Schuss Village)
Shanty Creek Resorts runs Nordic trails from Schuss Village, near Schuss Mountain. For the 2026–27 season they're projected to open December 26, 2026 and run through March 13, 2027.
| Day | Projected hours |
|---|---|
| Saturdays, Sundays and holidays | 9am – 5pm |
| Mondays and Thursdays | 9am – 4pm |
| Fridays | 10am – 4pm |
| Tuesdays and Wednesdays | Closed |
Shanty Creek season pass holders (SuperPass) use the Nordic trails free, and there's a cross-country-only pass for skiers who don't need the lifts. The resort also offers snowshoe tours. Check Shanty Creek for passes, rentals and conditions.
Glacial Hills Pathway & Natural Area
Just north of Bellaire, Glacial Hills is a county natural area of roughly 800 acres with about 31 miles of trail through hardwood forest and steep glacial hills. It's best known as a mountain biking trail, but it's open in winter for skiing, snowshoeing and fat biking.
- Trailheads: Eckhardt Road, Vandermark Road and Orchard Hill Road, north of Bellaire
- Grooming: sections are groomed in winter, mostly for fat bikes, through a partnership between the Friends of Glacial Hills and local supporters including Short's Brewing Company
- Terrain: hilly. Ungroomed sections can be tough on skis, so snowshoes are often the better choice
Antrim County manages the property. Call (231) 533-6265 for current rules and conditions.
Snowshoeing tips
Snowshoeing is the easiest way to explore the woods in winter, with no lessons needed. Good options near Bellaire:
- Glacial Hills for hills, views and a real workout
- Shanty Creek's snowshoe tours for a guided outing
Rentals
Shanty Creek rents equipment at the resort. Check their site for Nordic ski and snowshoe rental details before you go, especially on holiday weekends.
Tips for beginners
- Start on groomed trails. Shanty Creek's Nordic trails are the easiest place to learn.
- Dress in layers. You'll warm up fast. A light, breathable layer beats a heavy coat.
- Go midday when it's warmest, and finish before dark.
- Bring water and a snack. Cross-country skiing burns more energy than you expect.
- Check conditions. Grooming depends on snowfall, especially at Glacial Hills.
Where to stay
Alm Haus and Northwoods Treehaus are both about five minutes from Schuss Village and its Nordic trails, and Overlook Bellaire is a short drive from Glacial Hills. Every home has a hot tub for afterward.
Alm Haus
A renovated Northwoods chalet 5 minutes from Schuss Mountain, with a hot tub under the pines, triple-queen bunk room, game room and stargazing dome.
Check dates and book direct →
Northwoods Treehaus
A 1960s A-frame in the pines at Schuss Mountain Resort, with three kings, a stone fireplace, a bunk room with arcade and a treetop hot tub.
Check dates and book direct →
Overlook Bellaire
A 2021 modern home on 10 private acres above Bellaire, looking out over Intermediate Lake. Sauna, cold plunge, hot tub and a game room.
Check dates and book direct →Frequently asked questions
Where can I cross-country ski near Bellaire, Michigan?
At Shanty Creek's Nordic trails at Schuss Village, and on the Glacial Hills Pathway just north of Bellaire.
Are the Glacial Hills trails groomed for skiing?
Parts of Glacial Hills are groomed in winter, mainly for fat biking. The terrain is hilly, so ungroomed sections are better on snowshoes.
Do Shanty Creek season passes include cross-country skiing?
Yes. SuperPass holders use the Nordic trails free, and there's also a cross-country-only pass.
Sources
Nordic dates and passes from Shanty Creek Resorts (2026–27 season). Glacial Hills details from Antrim County and local trail groups. Checked October 2026.