Long-Shuttered Michigan Ski Area Could Reopen, With a Twist

Originally posted on Powder | By Ian Greenwood | Last updated Jul 18, 2025 2:50 PM ET

A Michigan nonprofit has announced plans to reimagine and revive Sugar Loaf (not to be confused with Sugarloaf, Maine) a long-shuttered and beloved ski area that, more than two decades ago, served skiers with a small collection of lifts.

The new version of Sugar Loaf, as the Leelanau Conservancy described it in a recent announcement, would be a public space with Nordic skiing and human-powered backcountry ski access. Hiking and mountain biking are other proposed activities.

The nonprofit doesn’t intend to operate chairlifts or charge guests at Sugar Loaf, the Detroit Free Press reported. Infrastructure on the property would include several pavilions, viewing benches, an outdoor gathering space, and a sledding hill, among other improvements.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to restore a place that holds deep meaning for so many," said Tom Nelson, Executive Director of the Leelanau Conservancy, in a statement.

"We envision Sugar Loaf as a place where people of all ages and abilities can hike, bike, cross-country ski, play, and reconnect with nature—where conservation and community come together on the mountaintop,” Nelson added.

Ski touring is also being considered for the property.

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The Leelanau Conservancy said that it’s nearing its fundraising goal for the project. It still needs $1.6 million to hit its fundraising goal of $8 million.

The funds will go towards restoration, land maintenance, stewardship, trail construction, and infrastructure, the nonprofit added. Donations can be made by following this link.

Once this fundraising goal is met, the Leelanau Conservancy will be given the 285-acre property by its current owner, who has chosen to remain anonymous. The owner has already funded the clearing of Sugar Loaf’s decaying ski infrastructure.

Ross Satterwhite, a representative for Sugar Loaf’s current owner, said in a statement, “Ownership feels this land should belong to the community. Its goal has always been to see Sugar Loaf preserved and reopened to the public, not developed.”

Sugar Loaf, back in the 1970s, was a roaring, popular ski area that saw between 3,000 and 4,000 visitors a day. But in 2000, Sugar Loaf closed, leaving a void for local skiers.

However, with the new plan from the Leelanau Conservancy, the ski area could once again become an outdoor hub, even if it looks a little different.

This article first appeared on Powder and was syndicated with permission.

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