Northern Michigan is a stunning region with a wealth of natural beauty and world-class amenities. Whether you're looking for a vacation home, a second property, or a permanent residence, this region has something to offer everyone. At Brook Walsh Real Estate, we specialize in real estate in Northern Michigan, offering expert guidance and a carefully curated selection of the finest homes and estates in the area.

Whether you're searching for a cozy cabin, a luxurious estate, or something in between, we can help you find the perfect place to call your own. In this blog category, you'll find valuable resources and expert insights on buying and owning real estate in Northern Michigan.

15 Best Reasons to Visit Deer Lake: Michigan’s Hidden Gem

Discover 15 compelling reasons why Deer Lake in Michigan is a must-visit destination. From scenic views to boating, camping, and family fun—experience nature’s hidden treasure.

Introduction to Deer Lake

Introduction to Deer Lake

Nestled just outside the charming town of Boyne City, Deer Lake is a sparkling freshwater haven that offers serenity, recreation, and natural beauty all in one place. This picturesque lake, tucked within the scenic landscape of Northern Michigan, is more than just a peaceful retreat—it's a year-round destination brimming with activities and scenic charm.

Originally appreciated by local settlers and Native American tribes, Deer Lake has evolved into a beloved getaway for…

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12 Best Ski Runs in Michigan – Top Spots for Skiing | Ultimate 2025

Ultimate 2025 is your go-to guide for Michigan skiing adventures, from family-friendly slopes to expert-only terrain.

Why Michigan Is a Hidden Gem for Skiers

Michigan’s winters may not be as famous as the Rockies’, but don’t let that fool you. With lake-effect snow and an average seasonal snowfall topping 250 inches in some regions, Michigan skiing offers consistent, fluffy powder that rivals many western resorts. Plus, you’ll find runs for every skill level—from gentle green circles perfect for first-timers to heart-pounding double-black diamonds for adrenaline junkies. Toss in cozy lodges, family-friendly amenities, and affordable lift tickets, and you’ll see why Michigan is…

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Choose Your Boyne Mountain Winter Adventure: Ultimate 7 Thrills

Boyne Mountain Winter Adventure offers world-class skiing, snow tubing, Nordic trails, and family fun in Northern Michigan.

Welcome to your guide for the ultimate Boyne Mountain Winter Adventure! Whether you’re carving fresh tracks on powdery slopes, zooming down a snow tube run, or cozying up by a roaring fire, Boyne Mountain delivers a full spectrum of snowy thrills. In this comprehensive article, you’ll discover everything from expert ski runs and terrain parks to family-friendly activities and après-ski delights. Get ready to plan your unforgettable Boyne Mountain Winter Adventure today.

1. Introduction to Boyne Mountain Winter Adventure

Introduction to Boyne Mountain Winter Adventure

Boyne Mountain Winter…

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Bindings are the performance link between your boots and your skis. For your safety, they release you from the ski when the pressure exerted on them exceeds their release settings. (Click here to see all Northern Michigan Ski Lifestyle Homes for Sale)

 Person carrying skis

Today's popular integrated ski/binding systems simplify the decision-making process for some. But for those considering a non-integrated system, this article can help narrow your search. (Click here to see Northern Michigan's finest collection of ski-in/ski out vacation rentals)

The Basics of Ski Bindings

The two rules of ski bindings:

  1. They must be compatible with your chosen boots.

  2. Never adjust your binding settings yourself. Have a professional do it.

Bindings consist of a toe…

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Downhill ski poles need to be strong enough for planting turns, light enough so your arms don't tire, and flexible enough to withstand hard falls. (Click here to see all Northern Michigan Ski Lifestyle Homes for Sale)

 Close up of a skier's lower legs, boots, ski's and ski poles at the top of a ski run overlooking a beautiful mountain range and partially cloudy sky

If you're a beginner, a good ski pole is any pole that fits. As you become more experienced, you may want to try different materials for a better strength-to-weight ratio. (Click here to see Northern Michigan's finest collection of ski-in/ski out vacation rentals)

Pole Fit

To fit a pair of ski poles to you, wear shoes or stand in your ski boots. With the poles upside down—grips touching the floor—grab the pole just underneath the basket so that the top of your thumb touches the basket. Your elbow should now be at a 90° angle.

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Ski boots are the key link between your body and your skis, so finding boots well-matched to the size and shape of your feet is a high priority. (Click here to see all Northern Michigan Ski Lifestyle Homes for Sale)

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  • Ski boot construction consists of a hard outer shell for support and soft liner for cushioning and warmth. Most adult boots are "front-entry overlap" designs, meaning that they open in the front like hiking boots and are secured by three or four buckles. Some kids' boots are "rear-entry" style. These models open in the back, which makes them more comfortable and user-friendly for beginners.
  • Focus on fit and performance as a way to narrow your search—style and color are secondary considerations. If at all possible, have…

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It was a very exciting find for Brook Walsh, NorthernMichiganEscapes.com founder, and Associate Broker for BrookWalsh.com. He had been working diligently to contact owners of ski-in/ski-out properties at Boyne Mountain Resort for a client looking to purchase a highly sought after property in the Edelweiss Club gated community. Brook used his powerful network to reinvigorate an expired listing and successfully negotiated the sale.  (Click here to see all Boyne Mountain Homes for Sale)

ABOUT 02787 ZERMATT LANE IN BOYNE MOUNTAINS EDELWEISS GATED COMMUNITY

The home itself is a gorgeous town and Country 4 bedroom home on a 5-acre estate parcel with detached 1200 sq. ft., 2 bedroom guest cottage, and an additional 3 car garage. This prime…

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On the hunt for a vacation home in Trout Creek Resort in Harbor Springs, MI? Then you don’t want to miss this charming home in close proximity to Lake Michigan! This classic 2BR condo boasts a tiled fireplace updated painted interior, private patio, central air conditioning, comfortable furniture, and a flat-screen high definition television This property is active in a rental program, it features a king bed, one queen bed, and a sofa sleeper. Offered fully furnished, the benefits of Trout Creek ownership include 3 pools, hot tub, fitness center, fishing pond, nature trails, x\c ski trails, clubhouse, and seasonal shuttle. (Click here to see Northern Michigan's finest collection of Harbor Springs, MI vacation rentals)

Focused on…

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Northern Michigan’s Tunnel of Trees on M-119 is one of the state’s most iconic attractions. The scenic road winds from Harbor Springs, north of Petoskey, to Cross Village. (Click here to see all Northern Michigan Waterfront Lifestyle Homes for Sale)

Ranked among the most scenic roads in the nation, the Tunnel of Trees is especially breathtaking in spring when trilliums carpet the forest floor bordering the road and in autumn when the hardwoods are aflame in brilliant colors. (Click here to see Northern Michigan's finest collection of vacation rentals)

M-119 begins at the north end of Petoskey, but it doesn’t officially become The Tunnel of Trees until north of Harbor Springs. From there, the state highway becomes very narrow, running 20 miles…

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This Harbor Springs condominium represented great investment potential for Brook Walsh, Northern Michigan Escapes founder and Broker. The Trout Creek Resort property was purchased by his client for $125,000 who leveraged the team at Northern Michigan Escapes interior design and remodeling division to completely modernize this dated condo. As a result of the transformation, his client was able to use a 1031 exchange to offset the $80,000 capital gain. (Click here to see Northern Michigan's finest collection of vacation rentals)

ABOUT 4749 S PLEASANT VIEW AT TROUT CREEK RESORT IN HARBOR SPRINGS

This beautifully designed, three-bedroom, two-bath villa with attention to detail and cutting edge technologies: practical (E.G.: Insulated…

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