Crystal Fourth
What’s better than the Fourth Up North? A four-day Independence Day celebration at Crystal Mountain
If you’re dreaming of a Fourth of July getaway where adventure meets relaxation, and every moment is filled with fun, come to Crystal Mountain. It’s the perfect basecamp for your holiday weekend, where the charm of Northern Michigan blends seamlessly with a vibrant resort community. Mark your calendars, because July 2 - 5, 2025, is your chance to experience the magic.
Adventure Awaits
Crystal Mountain is renowned for its incredible array of on-site activities, ensuring you'll never have a dull moment. For the golf enthusiasts, both championship courses, Mountain Ridge and Betsie Valley , will be open, with a special Family Golf Scramble on Betsie Valley for some friendly competition.
But the fun doesn't stop there! Get ready for thrills on the Crystal Coaster Dual Alpine Slide , where you control the speed as you zip down 1,600 feet of track with new tunnels and high-bank turns. Test your limits on the Edge Adventure Course and Zipline , an exciting aerial challenge that culminates in a thrilling ride over the outdoor pool.
Looking to explore? Bike rentals are available to pedal around the charming village, cruise mountainside neighborhoods, or hit the serene single-track trails. Plus, Crystal Mountain's trails connect directly to the scenic Betsie River Pathway, and isn’t too far from the Betsie Valley Trail recently designated a Pure Michigan Trail.
Relaxation is Just a Splash Away
While adventure beckons, Crystal Mountain also excels at providing opportunities for ultimate relaxation. The Park at Water’s Edge is a refreshing oasis for all ages, featuring a 4,200 sq. ft. pool with a zero-depth entry, an aquatic playground, and lap lanes. And for those seeking a tranquil soak, there’s the outdoor hot tub which is also available for private rentals after hours.
For an even deeper dive into tranquility, experience Crystal Spa , the Midwest's first LEED-certified spa. Here, an impressive menu of massages, facials, body treatments, and nail services awaits both men and women. Spa guests are encouraged to arrive early and linger after their service to fully enjoy the secluded Crystal Spa hot tub, relaxation lounge, infrared sauna, and eucalyptus steam rooms. Many visitors fall in love with the Crystal Spa's signature scent, Lavender Mint, which you can take home with you by purchasing the lotion, hand soap body wash, or other signature product.
One of the best things about Crystal Mountain is its unique blend of excitement and tranquility. Parents can comfortably unwind at places like Level4 Lounge while kids enjoy yard games in Barr Park just below.
Fourth of July Festivities You Won't Want to Miss
Crystal Mountain pulls out all the stops for Independence Day. One of the most popular and fun traditions is the Bike & Golf Cart Parade , where guests deck out their rides in red, white and blue, and compete for prizes. It's the perfect event to capture the spirit of Independence Day.
Then there’s the Star Spangled Bash which promises an evening of music, dancing, carnival games, delicious barbecue, and more. And to keep the holiday spirit alive, join the July 5K Fun Run , where everybody earns a commemorative medal.
While Crystal Mountain doesn't host its own fireworks, there are multiple nearby firework shows to choose from to ensure you get your fill of dazzling displays.
SEE Independence Day Activities »
Stay Your Way: Accommodations for Every Group
Crystal Mountain offers a wide variety of accommodations to fit every group size and preference, from cozy hotel rooms to spacious MountainTop Townhomes and MountainSide Resort Homes that can host up to 12 people. Most options are within walking distance of all the activities, shopping, and dining, and a convenient resort shuttle is always available.
As a houseguest, you'll also enjoy fantastic perks , including access to the Peak Fitness Center and fitness classes , indoor and outdoor pools, Michigan Legacy Art Park , scenic chairlift rides , and tennis and pickleball courts . Plus, houseguests receive discounts on golf !
Savor the Flavors
Dining at Crystal Mountain is a treat, with options like the Wild Tomato , Betsie River Pizza and Subs , Beach House , and The Thistle . For those who prefer to cook, the Mountain Market offers local produce and goods to stock your in-accommodation fridge.
Should you wish to explore beyond the resort, the family-friendly Iron Fish Distillery is less than two miles away, and charming downtown Frankfort is just a 20-minute drive, offering even more culinary delights.
Explore Northern Michigan Gems
Crystal Mountain serves as the ultimate basecamp for exploring the breathtaking beauty of Northern Michigan. Take a day trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for stunning vistas and towering dunes. Discover the quaint towns of Frankfort (with its beautiful Lake Michigan beach) or Beulah on the shores of Crystal Lake. For river enthusiasts, floating down the Manistee, Betsie, or Platte rivers is a must-do. And don't miss the panoramic views from Arcadia Overlook!
For those craving a taste of city life, Traverse City, the "Cherry Capital of the World," is only about 30 miles away, perfect for a day of wine tasting, waterscapes, and unique shops before returning to the peacefulness of Crystal Mountain.
An Insider Tip: Meet Blue!
Have you even visited Crystal Mountain if you haven’t met the official Resort K9 Ambassador? Blue is a 3-year-old Golden Retriever who certainly plays an important role at Crystal Mountain greeting as many people as he can. He loves meeting new people, so be sure to stop by Crystal Mountain Realty at The Inn at the Mountain to give him some love.
A Trip Worth Turning Into A Tradition
Spending the Fourth of July "Up North" is an unbeatable experience, especially when it’s within a drivable distance (or fly into Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City) and offers the perfect mix of getting away and unwinding. Crystal Mountain truly provides a unique village vibe community nestled in the peaceful beauty of Northern Michigan.
This July, don't just celebrate Independence Day at Crystal Mountain, make long-lasting summer memories. Call ahead and speak with a reservation agent about your ideal trip to Crystal Mountain, and they will help you plan the perfect visit.