Spring/Summer/Fall

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Miles of sand beach, bluffs that tower 450’ above Lake Michigan, lush forests, clear inland lakes, unique flora and fauna make up the natural world of Sleeping Bear Dunes. High dunes afford spectacular views across the lake. An island lighthouse, US Life-Saving Service stations, coastal villages, and picturesque farmsteads reflect the park’s rich maritime, agricultural, and recreational history.

Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tours

Enjoy some of the many Vineyards throughout Northern Michigan. Throughout the recent years the Northern Michigan area have become growers of some of the best wine in the World. These vineyards continue to improve with every vintage and have some of the best views in the World to go with it! With too many to name and all within a short drive away, you will be sure to please any palate.

Click Here for a list of the Northern Michigan Wineries!

Hiking/Bicycling Trails

One thing that you will not find a shortage of is the beautiful trails of the Benzie County. With trails available for all levels, there is sure to be a trail that is perfect for the whole group. Less than 5 minutes away is the famous Betsie River Valley trail which spans 22 miles long and ends at Lake Michigan, but all of the trails listed below or within a short drive and worth checking out!

Breweries, Distilleries, Cideries and Meaderies

One of the many benefits to being in an area with such rich history in farming is Benzie County’s ability to have access to all types of locally grown food, but the drinks are the real rockstars. Whether it is a Cocktail from Iron Fish Distillery, a Beer from 1 of the 6 local Breweries or anything from Mead, Cider, Wine or Beer from St. Ambrose Cellars (As Shown), A Northern Michigan Booze Tour should be in your future. 

Golf

Northern Michigan is a golfer’s dreamland and Benzie County is certainly nothing short of world class golf. Some of the highest rated courses in the country are right in our backyard. With lush greenery, topographical elevation changes and crystal blue waters all around every course will have something to make every golfers eyes sparkle. Only problem is that there are so many that you’ll be coming back for years just to keep trying new ones. Oh wait….that is a great problem!

Check out a list of the courses in the area here

Wintertime Fun!

Snowmobiling in Northern Michigan

Snowmobiling is some of the most fun that you can have in the winter. The Benzonia Rustic Resort is only a short drive to the trails throughout Northern Michigan. Park at the resort and just unload and you are ready to ride straight to the trail from here! 

Click here for a Benzie County Snowmobile trail map.

Downhill Ski/Snowboarding

Northern Michigan has always had a rich history in winter sports and Downhill skiing/snowboarding is right there at the top of the list. With Crystal Mountain just 15 Minutes away and over another half dozen within an hour. You can check out a variety of hills with one central location to relax in peace and quiet here at the Benzonia Rustic Resort.