Fall Golf and Much More at Crystal Mountain
Recent Autism Certification will put families at ease
By Tom Lang
There’s no secret that fall golf in Northern Michigan is a dynamic treat of color bursts all around for those who like to play outdoors, and the views and scenes at Crystal Mountain are certainly up to the task.
The fiery reds, deep oranges and golden yellows generally start to pop as the calendar officially turns fall in late September each year in Benzie County.
"We’re excited to embrace autumn in northern Michigan and show our guests how beautiful this time of year is,” said Jen Roberts, Recreation Manager. “When the trees begin to change color, we know the perfect spots for them to soak in the views, whether it’s on a bike, chairlift or just a taking stroll on our hiking trails.”
And, of course, on the two golf courses at Crystal Mountain.
The Mountain Ridge course is home to the Michigan Women’s Open each June, but you don’t have to play like a pro to enjoy the majestic views and fun challenges of this unique course. Each hole is cut through trees at the base of, and traversing down the backside of the famous ski runs.
On the long, winding journey from 15 green to the 16th tee, make sure to stop for a minute at the scenic overlook of Benzie County’s Betsie Valley along the cart path, or at the 17th tee; nothing but colorful trees as far as you can see across four counties.
While not having the significant elevation changes as its sister course, Crystal’s Betsie Valley Golf Course is also a huge treat with fall colors plus the panoramic meadow views filled with wildflowers, water features and wildlife.
Crystal is the first Michigan resort that’s Autism Certified:
Some people with autism may find traveling to new places overwhelming. Crystal Mountain recognized this and took the opportunity to train its staff to better prepare and welcome all guests to the resort.
“One in six people has a sensory need, and one in 36 children is diagnosed with autism – those are some astounding numbers,” said Jennifer King, Senior V.P. of human resources for Crystal Mountain. “So, hearing that kind of information and those kinds of statistics, we knew that we wanted to be a part of this program (the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards) along with other employers and businesses in this region, in order to make a difference for our all of our guests.”
The resort has sensory guides available for guests with autism to help them determine which activities and areas are best for them.
New Dual Alpine Slide:
Crystal Mountain’s Crystal Coaster Alpine Slide is now open. Any day-guest or house-guest at the resort must not miss the new and improved – and only – dual alpine slide in Michigan. It’s like a luge track but without ice, complete with high bank turns, tunnels, and dips. Riders sit up straight on the sled outfitted with wheels and riders utilize a hand brake to adjust the speed. Riders must take the Loki chairlift up the mountain to the start line where they’ll take in spectacular views before flying down on the coaster. Two parallel runs twist downward 1,600 feet to the bottom of the ski hill. It’s a very safe way to be wildly adventurous.
Crystal Mountain Scholarship Invitational:
August 9-10 is the annual Crystal Mountain Scholarship Invitational, played on both Mountain Ridge and Betsie Valley golf courses. Money raised goes to the Crystal Scholarship Foundation (CSF) which helps qualifying Crystal Mountain employees or their dependents further their education. Scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate the four pillars of solid character, strong work ethic, community service and academic proficiency.
The Foundation has funded more than $70,000 in scholarships since 2021 thanks to generous community donations and the golf tournament’s proceeds.
