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.
Fall Fun Weekends
Discover the magic of fall at Crystal Mountain. 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 15, 2026, 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 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.
Upcoming Events
Fall is officially here, and so are some awesome events! If you're ready for an epic ride, check out the Peak2Peak Mountain Bike Classic. Or, test your grit during Ruck The Mountain. For something a little more low-key, you'll love our annual Scarecrow Walk, where our staff gets to show off their creative side. We've got something for everyone this season, so come on out and have some fun!
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)
Hit the Trails & Waterways
Local Hiking Trails
Peak foliage turns our corner of northwest lower Michigan into a kaleidoscope of colors, best viewed at a slow pace. Pack a thermos, pick a trail, and see why this region comes alive in the fall.
Nearby Biking
Crisp autumn weather makes the cycling trails around Crystal Mountain ideal for riders of all skill levels. From easy on-site loops to scenic forest singletrack, grab your gear and explore northern Michigan’s fall colors on two wheels.
Canoe & Kayak Trips
Paddling northern Michigan's rivers and inland lakes offers a front-row seat to peak autumn foliage. It's one of the most serene ways to soak in the fall views!
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.
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.
