Real Estate Statistics
| Average Price | $465K |
|---|---|
| Lowest Price | $92.9K |
| Highest Price | $1.3M |
| Total Listings | 11 |
| Avg. Days On Market | 116 |
| Avg. Price/SQFT | $215 |
Property Types (active listings)
Crystal Mountain Resort Homes for Sale
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Check out this video for a look at Crystal Mountain Resort in Thompsonville, Michigan, or click here to read about Crystal Mountain Resort Homes for Sale
Crystal Mountain resort Homes for Sale
Crystal Mountain offers a wide range of ownership options, from the studio and hotel rooms to big four- and five-bedroom townhomes, as well as building sites, cabins, and resort homes, as well as fractional and full ownership properties.
There are never two properties precisely identical, so let the Crystal Mountain real estate expert assist you in finding the ideal property for your needs.
Crystal Mountain History
A COMMUNITY-BUILT MOUNTAIN
What is today considered one of North America's top family attractions by publications such as Conde Nast Traveler and Fodor's Travel began as a small group of Benzie County neighbors looking for a place to ski. It is this spirit that has kept Crystal Mountain going for almost 60 years and will keep it going for decades to come. This is, above all, the narrative of a mountain that was built by a community.
THE START IN BUCK HILLS
Buck Hills Indicator
It all started as a class project. Ward Creech, a geography teacher, and Benzonia High School administrator, assigned his students the task of locating the finest location in Benzie County for a ski slope. The Buck Hills Range was chosen as the ideal combination of terrain and snowfall after extensive research and consideration.
Buck Hills Ski Area first opened its doors in 1956. An outdated pick-up truck engine powered the initial rope tow. A warming house was constructed from donated lumber, thanks in large part to Althea Petritz's perseverance. Everyone helped groom the three downhill trails, including Buck, which is still a favorite today, by sidestepping uphill to create what was called "corduroy" back then. But this was just the start.
BUCK HILLS TURNED INTO A MOUNTAIN
Buck Hills made the leap to Crystal Mountain Resort in 1960, which happened to be a leap year. Ed Abbey, a Toledo businessman, led the charge on behalf of a group of 96 stockholders, many of whom lived near Crystal Lake, the mountain's eponymous source. With the new name came a slew of improvements, including a new lodge with dining and 21 accommodations for overnight guests, as well as a year-round heated pool slopeside.
The resort's first chairlift, located on Main Street, is only a short distance from the Lodge. Obstacles arose, as they do in any construction job. The lift, for example, had to be airlifted in from Switzerland. Then there was the issue of the language barrier. The instructions were written in German, so Crystal's first mountain manager, Keith Van Duzen, had to go to Karl Luedtke in Frankfort for a translation.
INTRODUCTION TO THE FOUR SEASONS
Roasted Ox
By 1966, the resort's ownership had shrunk to just a few people, and it was clear that in order to stay a winter playground, it would have to earn revenue all year. Summer was still a time to meet at the mountain, even though golf didn't arrive until the late 1970s.
With a round of beef, corn on the cob, coleslaw, baked beans, and strawberry shortcake, the Wednesday Night Ox Roast was a hit. Adults pay $2.95, while children pay $1.95.
Between ski seasons, the cadence of marching band drums and the rhythm of bouncing basketballs kept the pace up. Dave Bing, an NBA Hall of Famer who subsequently became the mayor of Detroit, organized a summer basketball program. While the nearby Interlochen Center for the Arts is known for its excellent artists, Crystal hosted a number of high school musicians.
If the marching bands weren't performing, the Crystalettes from Ball State University could always be found delighting in dinner groups every Wednesday through Sunday.
AN EXAMPLE OF A COIN FLIP
According to legend, sole possession of Crystal Mountain was decided by a coin flip between George Petritz and Robert Meyer in 1981. The winner would make the first offer, with the other party having the option to accept or counter with a superior offer. The coin's rise and descent saw Mr. Petritz make the first offer, which Mr. Meyer accepted, after an eloquent partnership of gravity and fate.
Since then, Crystal Mountain has been run by a family. To put it another way, it's owned by a family of downhill and cross-country skiers. Kayakers, too. The list could go on and on. When it comes to playing outside, the Petritz kids got it straight from George and Althea, while the MacInnes family joined in the mid-eighties with the same enthusiasm. Since 1956, living a life of action and appreciation for nature has been a work of love.
THE BUSINESS OF THE FAMILY
Numerous families have left their imprint on the resort's history, but two couples, in particular, have left a lasting impression. Althea, Chris, George, and Jim would each bring unique talents, work ethic, perspective, and leadership to the table, which would be lauded by everyone from the US Navy to the Governor of Michigan.
Petritz, George and Althea George, and Althea Petritz have been with us since the beginning. Althea continues to practice yoga and is active long into her ninth decade, despite George's death in 2010. Her exuberant enthusiasm for winter sports contributed to the development of the resort's 58 downhill ski trails, and her many years of dedication to the resort's gardens continue to inspire its beauty today.
George, a Navy Cross recipient and successful businessman, would roam the grounds in his signature blue coat, sowing a seed that is now deeply established at the resort: "A firm is known by the people it keeps." He was meticulous in his hiring, interviewing individuals for positions ranging from vice president of marketing to room cleaning personnel.
Jim and Chris MacInnes are a husband and wife team.
In 1985, Jim and Chris MacInnes moved to the family business from southern California. Both are addicted to the rush of adrenaline. Chris, the President, is a St. Lawrence University Hall of Fame downhill skier, and Jim, the CEO, is a former motocross racer. Jim worked for Ultrapower Incorporated as Director of Venture Management, developing renewable energy generation initiatives, and Chris worked for McCulloch as a Consumer Products Manager.
The duo exemplifies the ideal blend of experience, knowledge, and vision that has steered Crystal Mountain through three decades of dynamic growth and development in both life and business.
A VILLAGE VISION
Crystal Mountain began an iterative master plan in 1990, which would steer the resort through more than $100 million in development over the next quarter-century. It all started with the creation of the Peak Fitness Center in the resort's heart, which was later expanded in 2009 to accommodate Crystal Spa.
A pedestrian-friendly village emerged piece by piece, from the Crystal Center to the Park at Water's Edge, Michigan Legacy Art Park to the Crystal Coaster Alpine Slide, MountainTop to the most recent expansion to the Inn at the Mountain, attracting as many, if not more, guests during the summer and fall as it does when the lifts are running and the hills are covered in snow.
To many individuals, Crystal Mountain represents a variety of things. There are 58 downhill paths and 36 championship golf courses on the property. It's a place where some people exchange wedding vows and others share new ideas. It's a location where folks may connect with others while still getting some much-needed alone time. It is known as "our heart's home" by Althea Petritz, and it pulls people back year after year, season after season, to weave the pages of their own lives into its historic past.
Crystal Mountain Community Highlights
activities at Crystal Mountain
At Crystal Mountain, your one-of-a-kind experience begins! While visiting our winter paradise, take in the fresh, crisp air.
Whether you're riding a Fat Tire Bike, snowshoeing, or riding a Horse Drawn Surrey, you'll make experiences that will last a lifetime.
Winter
- Fat Tire Snow Biking. Enjoy the splendor of northern Michigan on two wheels this winter by going for a Fat Tire bike ride. Rent a Fat Tire snow bike and explore our 12 kilometers of winter biking tracks. All riders must have a trail pass, which is included in all rentals.
- Horse Drawn Surrey Rides. A team of lovely Belgian horses will whisk you away through our winter wonderland. The ride closes with complimentary hot chocolate. The Crystal Center will be the pick-up and drop-off location in Surrey. The rides last between 20 and 25 minutes.
- Ice Skating. Our ice skating rink, located in Barr Park in the center of Crystal's village, is open to guests for a few spins. Prior to ice skating, all guests must get a rink pass from the Park at Water's Edge and complete a Winter On-Site Recreation Waiver. Ice skates are available at the Park at Water's Edge on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Snowshoeing. Except for the downhill slopes and cross-country paths, snowshoeing is permitted on all Crystal Mountain property. Michigan Legacy Art Park is also a lovely place to go snowshoeing. Until the top trails are groomed for cross-country skiing, visitors are allowed to snowshoe throughout the Art Park. Guests can snowshoe between the Art Park trailhead and the outdoor amphitheater, which features over 20 sculptures, once the pathways have been plowed.
- Cross Country Skiing. Put on your skis and go off on 25 kilometers of Nordic tracks at your own pace. The first 4 kilometers are even lit up for night skiing! Crystal Mountain's cross-country skiing route network was voted the best in Michigan by Midwest Living Magazine readers. Trail passes can be purchased at the Kinlochen Nordic Shop.
- Archery. At Crystal Mountain's archery range, you can try your hand at archery with a bow and arrow. Targets and shooting lanes have been installed on the tennis courts. Our range is beginner-friendly, but demanding enough for the seasoned archer, with target distances of 30 feet.
- Outdoor Laser Tag. Our Outdoor Pool & Water Playground has been transformed into a wintry laser tag course with plenty of concealed obstacles and routes for creeping up on your opponents.
- Outdoor Hot Tub. After a day on the slopes, come unwind in the Park at Water's Edge's Outdoor Hot Tub. The Park at Water's Edge will give one towel to each guest.
- Michigan Legacy Art Park. Michigan Legacy Art Park is a thickly wooded 30-acre preserve with 1.9 kilometers of hiking trails on the grounds of Crystal Mountain. Over 50 sculptures, poetry stones, and an outdoor amphitheater may be found in the Art Park. explains the history and culture of Michigan. The Art Park also offers year-round guided tours for both students and adults, as well as events like the Summer Sounds Series.
- Family Crafts. This kit allows children to design and adapt their own cuddly animals. A Crystal Mountain brand t-shirt for your buddy, stuffing and a birth certificate are all included in the Build-A-Buddy kits.
- Complimentary Activities. HUNTING FOR SCAVENGERS - Pick up a Photo Treasure Hunt or one of our ever-changing seasonal scavenger hunts at the Park at Water's Edge. Available on a daily basis.
AN EXTREMELY ENJOYABLE PLAYGROUND - A play area with a sandpit, swings, slide, and more is located next door to the Mountain Adventure Zone! Available on a daily basis.
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Crystal Mountain is only a short drive from the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which is located along the shores of Lake Michigan in northern Michigan's Benzie and Leelanau counties. The North and South Manitou Islands, as well as 35 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, are part of this 70,000-acre national park.
Sand dunes that stand 460 feet over Lake Michigan can be found in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Trillium blossoms and birch, pine, beech, and maple trees spread hills and woodlands. Lakes and rivers that meander. The islands of the castaways Sunsets—awe-inspiring, memorable sunsets!
The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in northern Michigan attracts thousands of visitors each year. From the famed Dune Climb to quiet beaches, this year-round national park is sure to provide an unforgettable experience. Take a day excursion to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore from Crystal Mountain.
Summer
- Crystal Coaster Alpine Slide. The Crystal Coaster Alpine Slide takes you to the top of the mountain on the Loki Quad chairlift, then down a 1,700-foot-long curving track on a specially-designed sled. In this action-packed thrill coaster with dips, high-bank bends, and stunning views, you control the speed.
- Outdoor Pool & Water Playground. Crystal Mountain's Park at Water's Edge is a one-acre outdoor water playground where kids of all ages can have a splashtastic time. A 4,200-square-foot pool with a zero-depth entry pool, aquatic playground, water basketball, and three lap lanes is the park's showpiece.
- Chairlift Rides. Take in the fall foliage from the greatest vantage point in northern Michigan! Rides on the scenic chairlift will be sold in one-hour increments. Guests must check-in and are at the chairlift ready to ride to the top within that hour. Take as much time as you want to take in the views from the top!
- Biking. Pedal through our charming village center or relax in the tranquility of our woodland surroundings. A range of route and terrain alternatives are ideal for the on-the-go family.
- Edge Adventure Course & Zipline. Our Edge Adventure Course is a 20-foot-high rope and zipline course that runs beside our outdoor pool. Participants will be challenged and excited by the course's four elements. Each guest is secured in a Swiss-made Saferoller continuous belay system by our Aerial Park staff. After that, adventurers must cross a dilapidated bridge, hop from swing to swing, balance on the Burma Bridge, and finally zip over the water on a 130-foot zipline!
- Vertical Edge Climbing Wall. The Park at Water's Edge's Vertical Edge Climbing Wall is a thrilling 32' climbing wall. Climbers will be outfitted with beginner, intermediate, and expert climbing routes by certified instructors on-site.
- Archery Tag. This innovative, fast-paced activity combines dodgeball and archery. Participants are kept safe by foam-tipped arrows and inflatable barriers with protective headgear.
- Hiking. Hike the Crystal Mountain paths for a peaceful or energizing experience. There are miles of fantastic hiking paths on-site, including a 1.6-mile loop through the famed Michigan Legacy Art Park.
- Outdoor Movie. To watch a movie under the stars, bring a chair or blanket. The films range from G to PG 13, so there's something for everyone. The event is free to attend and will take place in the Mountain Adventure Zone.
- Disc Golf. Make it a challenge or a solo experience. Play a round or two of disc golf on Crystal Mountain's nine-hole course. Our Disc Golf course is located near the summit of Loki and may be reached by foot via a defined path or by chairlift during Alpine Slide hours.
- Tubing, Canoe, and Kayak Trips on the Platte River. The neighboring Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which was named the Most Beautiful Place in America by Good Morning America in 2011, offers a relaxing ride along the Platte River.
- Tennis & Pickleball. On one of our outdoor tennis and pickleball courts, work on your backswing. The courts are across the street from our Golf Practice & Learning Center on Mountain Center Road.
- Archery. At Crystal Mountain's archery range, you can try your hand at archery with a bow and arrow. Targets and shooting lanes have been installed on the tennis courts. Our range is beginner-friendly, but demanding enough for the seasoned archer, with target distances of 30 feet.
- Outdoor Laser Tag. Our Outdoor Pool & Water Playground has been transformed into a wintry laser tag course with plenty of concealed obstacles and routes for creeping up on your opponents.
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Crystal Mountain is only a short drive from the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which is located along the shores of Lake Michigan in northern Michigan's Benzie and Leelanau counties. The North and South Manitou Islands, as well as 35 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, are part of this 70,000-acre national park.
Sand dunes that stand 460 feet over Lake Michigan can be found in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Trillium blossoms and birch, pine, beech, and maple trees spread hills and woodlands. Lakes and rivers that meander. The islands of the castaways Sunsets—awe-inspiring, memorable sunsets!
The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in northern Michigan attracts thousands of visitors each year. From the famed Dune Climb to quiet beaches, this year-round national park is sure to provide an unforgettable experience. Take a day excursion to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore from Crystal Mountain.
Accommodations
Crystal Mountain, northern Michigan's leading family resort, offers a variety of hotel alternatives to suit everyone's needs. Choose between a spacious ski-in/ski-out condo at the top of the mountain, a tranquil woodland cottage, or a quaint hotel room in the heart of Crystal Mountain — within walking distance of restaurants and stores, as well as a full-service spa and fitness center.
Crystal Mountain is the ideal place to call home when you're away from home.
Bungalows at Crystal Glen
The Bungalows at Crystal Glen are clustered around a traditional village plaza and connected to the rest of Crystal Mountain by lushly manicured walkways.
Cottages at Water's Edge
Enjoy a trip with the family to a charming little cottage. The cottages' lovely architecture and closeness create that particular space away from home.
Crystal Colony
These studio accommodations with excellent furniture represent the Up North environment with a contemporary twist, making them ideal for a short break.
Hamlet
The exquisite decor and excellent furniture in our Hamlet hotel rooms reflect an updated Northern Michigan aesthetic. It can accommodate up to four people.
Inn at the Mountain
Relax and unwind in these modern and well-appointed rooms, which are excellent for both work and play and provide the conveniences of home and office.
Kinlochen
The Thistle Pub & Grille and the Pro Shop/Nordic Center are both located here. Our Betsie Valley golf course just steps away from the slopes and the first tee.
MountainSide
A wonderful place to reconnect with family and friends. These large flats have ample space for a group to congregate or to rest in a quiet spot.
MountainTop
In the winter, ski in and out, and in the summer, relax in the solitude of the MountainTop pool. Year-round, spectacular vistas abound from your deck-side overlook.
Pinehurst
The Pinehurst Condominium area is home to these charming rooms. Sleeps 2 to 4 people.
Pinehurst Green & Resort Homes
These large apartments are ideal for gatherings with family and friends.
WinterGreen
Our WinterGreen condominiums provide a warm refuge with a modern Up North vibe.
Dining
- Thistle Pub and Grille, KINLOCHEN. The Thistle Pub & Grille is a fine dining establishment with a seasonal cuisine that changes with the seasons.
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Betsie River Pizza & Subs, THE LODGE. Pizza, breadsticks, deli-style subs, wings, and salads are available. In-room delivery is available from Betsie River Pizza and Subs.
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Mountain Market, INN AT THE MOUNTAIN. The Mountain Market has the right accompaniments for an afternoon picnic, late-night nibbles, or gifts for friends and family back home, with a focus on local goods.
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Clipper Cafe, THE LODGE. Burgers, sandwiches, snacks, sides, a salad bar, and soup station, as well as hot and cold beverages, are available only throughout the winter.
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Bru Bar, INN AT THE MOUNTAIN LOBBY. Specialty coffee drinks, wine, artisan beer, cocktails, and baked products sourced locally are all available.
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Waffle Cabin, MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE ZONE. Warm-up with a delicious waffle treat or a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate!
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Vista Lounge, THE LODGE. Winter Only - Warm up this winter with a table at Crystal Mountain's Vista Lounge.
Shopping
- Mountain Market. The Mountain Market has the right accompaniments for an afternoon picnic, late-night nibbles, or gifts for friends and family back home, with a focus on local goods.
- Crystal Spa. Crystal Spa, which is housed within the Peak Fitness Center facility, offers a variety of services to help you relax and rejuvenate.
- Kinlochen Pro Shop. Our golf and cross-country ski operations are based out of the Kinlochen Shop. Across from the Thistle Pub & Grille on the first level of Kinlochen.
- Mountain Sports. Mountain Sports has clothing and accessories for both summer and winter. Located on the Lodge's second floor.
- Peak Boutique. The Peak Boutique, located in the Peak Fitness Center, sells active clothes for men and women, as well as swimsuits, fashion and athletic accessories, gifts, and logo items.
- Water’s Edge Shop. Check out Crystal Mountain t-shirts, toys for kids, souvenirs, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What town is Crystal Mountain Resort in?
Crystal Mountain Resort is a resort and convention center located just west of Thompsonville in Weldon Township, Benzie County, Michigan. Crystal Mountain is a census-designated place in the resort's vicinity.
Is Crystal Mountain a Boyne resort?
No, Crystal Mountain is not a Boyne resort? Och-Ziff Capital Management purchased all six of CNL Income Properties' ski resorts leased to Boyne in 2016. On March 31, 2017, John Kircher, the business's 20-year CEO and son of co-founder, traded his shares in the company for Crystal Mountain.
Eager to learn more about Crystal Mountain Resort Lifestyle homes for sale? Connect with Brook Walsh today! We'll be happy to help you through every step of the process.
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