Iron County Lodging Association
Collage of winter activities at Ski Brule, including snowboarding, skiing, tubing, and Olympic gold medalist Nick Baumgartner with an American flag.

Ski Brule Winter Kickoff in Iron County, Michigan

As the snowflakes start to fly across Michigan's Upper Peninsula, there's one name on every skier's mind, Ski Brule. Whether you're a first timer, a race camp regular, or just dreaming of a cozy Thanksgiving meal in the Northwoods, November and December at Ski Brule are packed with everything you need for a classic Up North winter escape.

If you're looking for the perfect kickoff to ski season or a festive family getaway you won't want to miss these events. Here's what's coming up, and how to make the most of your Iron County adventure.

Opening Day Ski Brule: Be First on the Snow

A smiling family with children posing together in ski gear on a snowy slope at Ski Brule, Iron County, Michigan.

November 21, 2025

The excitement starts as soon as the snowmakers fire up. Ski Brule is known for opening early (and staying open late into spring), thanks to a top-tier snowmaking team that works around the clock at the first sign of cold weather.

What to Expect:

Opening Day: Friday, November 21, 2025 (weather permitting)
 
Early Trails: Log Jam, Bambi Trail, and Bunny (serviced by Big Bear Chairlift and Bambi Tow Rope)
 
Lift Tickets: Just $30 (ages 10+), and kids 9 & under ski FREE all weekend
 
Rentals Available: Bear's Den, the Rental Center, and Lodging Office
 

Thanksgiving at Ski Brule: Food, Family, and Fresh Snow

Ski Brule Thanksgiving menu . turkey, ham, rolls, mashed potatoe and gravy, vegetables and salad, dessert and one beverage

Thanksgiving in Iron County is something special and Ski Brule's Main Lodge is the place to be for a festive feast surrounded by new friends and mountain scenery.

Thanksgiving Ski Race Camp

November 27–30, 2025

For skiers serious about skill-building, the Thanksgiving Race Camp at Ski Brule is legendary. It's the perfect launchpad for young racers, masters, and everyone in between.

young Skier carving down a snowy slope in Iron County, Michigan, with trees in the background.

Why It's a Must

  • World-class snowmaking = reliable early-season conditions
  • Coaching staff includes USSA-certified pros and former elite athletes
  • Video analysis, technique clinics, evening seminars, and more
  • Open to all ages—grouped by skill level

Training Schedule

  • November 27, 28, 29, 30
  • 8:00am - 2:00pm

 

Pricing Schedule

  • Single Day: $100
  • Full Camp (Nov 27–30): $38

A firework display atop the ski brule slopes , skier with their lights making the trek to the top at night

Ring in 2026 on the Slopes

December 31, 2025

There's no better place to ring in the new year than on the slopes of Ski Brule. Here's what's in store:

All-Day Skiing

Lifts open 9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Night skiing 4:30–7:30 PM

Main Lodge Dinner

6:00–8:00 PM

Prime rib, turkey, ham & more

blue firework icon

Fireworks Spectacular

9:00 PM at Big Bear Trail

Torchlight parade included!

Meet an Olympian!

Cozy Cabin in the woods with a soft layer of snow

Make it a Weekend Getaway

Wherever you're coming from, Iron County's lodging options make it easy to turn these events into a true Up North adventure. Cozy cabins, family motels, and slopeside condos all waiting for you.

Don't Miss a Moment

Stay in the loop for more winter fun, from live music to kids' activities and holiday happenings throughout Iron County.

Events, Holidays, Skiing, Things to do, Winter and tagged , , , , , .

Rewarding Places to Stay in Michigan

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AmericInn
by Wyndham

906-214-2308
906-265-9100
40 E Adams St
Iron River, MI 49935

Chicaugon-Lake-Inn-front-entry-1024x679-square-landscape-19887756cc5b4810e55a6baff1261e73-ou8yfm5cjhep
Chicaugon
Lake Inn

906-265-9244
1700 County Road 424
Gaastra, MI 49917

Lakeshore-Motel-Ice-Lake-sun-over-water
Lakeshore Motel
Ice Lake

906-265-3611
1257 W Ice Lake Rd
Iron River, MI 49935

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Pioneer
Lodge

800-362-7853
373 Brule Mountain Rd
Iron River, MI 49935

lodge
Ski Brule
Village

800-DO-BRULE
906-265-4957
397 Brule Mountain Rd
Iron River, MI 49935

tallpines
Tall
Pines

906-822-7713
1968 US 141 Highway
Amasa, MI 49903

Iron County Michigan 2025 Visitor Guide

Iron County Michigan Visitors Guide

Iron County is one of the Upper Peninsula’s best kept secrets. From camping to fishing, hunting to canoeing, mountain biking to forest bathing – no matter your interests, the great outdoors and clear crisp air await you here.

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