Caberfae Peaks

The "Mighty C" is the granddaddy of downhill skiing in Michigan, opening in 1938 (the same year as Alta).

It remains "skiing like it used to be" - low key, inexpensive, down to earth. The resort doesn't spend a lot of money on snowmaking and grooming, and the ticket prices reflect that frugality.  You can get a season pass for under $100 and lift tickets for under $10  if you look around for deals.  This means that conditions can be a bit spotty if it hasn't snowed recently.

  About a dozen years ago they brought in some dirt and added more vertical to their two peaks, making for the highest elevation (but not the biggest vertical drop) of any lower peninsula resort.  Adding vertical is a worthy endevour, however the top of each hill has that "cramped" feeling that you get at the manmade hills.  Once you're about 1/4 of the way down, however, it opens up and feels much more spacious, especially on the South Peak.

Speaking of the South Peak, that's where the action is for intermediates and above - be sure to time you trip for when the South Peak is open (it opens later in the year and closes earlier than the North Peak.)  They tend to leave large portions of the South Peak terrain ungroomed, so skiers who prefer their snow au natural  learn to love the south peak.

The lodge is fairly new, but spartan.  Lift geeks that enjoy seeing vintage gear still in use will be thrilled.

There's a long easy beginner trail leading from the top of the North Peak, and a fair amount of easily accessible beginner terrain.

Bottom line - look for deals (internet, ski shops, etc.) and time your trip for when there's fresh snow.