Cannonsburg Ski Area: Ski Lessons, Snowboarding, Tubing, & More

If you like to get out and get active in winter, we’ve got the perfect destination for you right here in Grand Rapids. Cannonsburg Ski Area has been thrilling snow lovers since 1965 with a combination of outdoor activities for all ages.

Visitors can ski downhill and cross country, snowboard in freestyle terrain, fat bike on groomed trails, snowshoe through a forest, and hit the fast and fun tubing lanes – all just 20 minutes northeast of downtown Grand Rapids.

Cannonsburg features 21 ski runs from beginner to advanced, including a long run of 1,500 feet that has a 250-foot vertical drop ­– the highest vertical in southwest Michigan. Nine lifts, including three chair lifts, four rope tows and a magic carpet, get you back to the top of the slopes. A second magic carpet services the largest tubing facility in the state.

Five terrain parks are designed to encourage natural progression as you develop your skills. There are 13 miles of trails for fat biking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. When you need a break, you can enjoy some delicious food and local craft brews in The Cedar Lounge Restaurant.

In short, it’s easy to spend the entire day here adrift in snow sports bliss. Oh, and don’t fret if there’s no snow outside your window, Cannonsburg can manufacture snow as long as temperatures are in the low 20s.

Here's a brief look at what else you can expect when you visit.

Ski Lessons

If you’re a first-time skier (or snowboarder), or you’re looking for some help to tackle more advanced slopes or terrain parks, you can take advantage of private lessons (for three or fewer people) or group lessons (for four or more people).

Experienced instructors will assess your experience and goals, and provide individualized coaching. They’ll help make sure your boots fit correctly and that the straps are right. They’ll also instruct you on how to put skis on in the snow and how to slide the skis along on flat ground.

You’ll learn about body position, how to use the magic carpet or tow rope, and how to actually ski down the hill - and stop at the bottom.

More advanced skiers learn more advanced tactics, like dynamic parallel turns. There are even a few instructors who teach ski tricks.

There are a limited supply of lessons available, so it’s best to book in advance. You can call 616-874-6711 and ask for the Ski & Ride desk, or email lessons@cannonsburg.com.

Want to introduce a child to skiing and snowboarding? Cannonsburg Kids is a weekend learn-to-ski-and-ride program for 6-12 year-olds of any ability level. Running Saturdays and Sundays from 10am-1pm, these non-private group lessons are designed to help youngsters learn, progress and feel more confident on the hill. Online reservations are required.

Equipment Rentals

Don’t want to travel with your winter gear? Don’t have winter gear? Moosejaw at Cannonsburg has you covered. You can rent skis ($35/day), snowboards ($35/day), and helmets ($15/day).

Moosejaw can also provide a range of maintenance services, from waxing and edge sharpening to ski binding adjustment and boot work. It carries a great selection of gear and clothing for purchase, as well. 

If you need snowshoes, you can rent them from Cannonsburg’s main office at a rate of $15 for the first two hours and $10 for every additional hour.

Tube rentals are included with the price of admission to the tubing hill.

Pricing

Lift ticket prices at Cannonsburg range from $35 to $55, depending on your age, the day of the week and the time of the day. Kids six years and older are admitted free.

Cannonsburg also sells season passes, starting at $359 for an individual. Punch cards, which can save you 50 percent off the regular lift ticket prices, are also available for kids ages 7 to 10 and adults 11 or older. The punch card allows you to pre-pay and punch your card as you go, for great convenience.

Tubing tickets are $20 on weekdays and $25 on weekends and holidays. Tickets are good for two hours of tubing. Note that a waiver is required and all participants must be at least 42” tall.

Fat tire bikers, cross-country skiers and snowshoers can purchase an all-day trail ticket for $5, or a season pass for $35.

Hours

Winter ski and snowboard hours are:

• Monday to Friday: 12pm-9pm
• Saturday & Sunday: 9am-9pm

Winter tubing hours are:

• Wednesday to Friday: 4pm-9pm
• Saturday & Sunday: 10am-9pm

Extremely cold or unusually warm winter weather can impact days and hours of operation. Be sure to check Cannonsburg’s website and social media to confirm schedules. Closings will also be announced early in the day on the Cannonsburg phone line (616-874-6711).

Events

Regular winter events include adult ski race leagues and a variety kids’ programming: 

• Mountain Minnies, for girls ages 3-5
• Mini Mountaineers, for boys ages 3-5
• Snow Cats, a junior development program for kids ages 8-14 

Cannonsburg also hosts a variety of special seasonal events. Past events have included winter triathlons, spring 5K runs, summer movies on the hill, fall haunted attractions, kids’ adventure camps, outdoor concerts and more. Check the resort’s website and social media for details on upcoming seasonal events.

Looking for a special place to hold your wedding, birthday party, corporate retreat or other gathering? Cannonsburg offers unique indoor and outdoor venues for weddings and other events.

Beyond Winter

Cannonsburg really shines in the winter, but it’s a great place to escape to throughout the year. Hike, bike or run over varying terrain on 13 miles of trails in any season. Soar through the skies on a zipline from summer through fall. Enjoy a stunning view, some delicious tacos and a great selection of adult beverages on a massive deck. Cool down on a hot day with some ice cream from The Sweet Spot. Follow Cannonsburg on Facebook for the latest on “off-season” happenings.

Hours and prices are subject to change, so you might want to confirm them before you visit by calling or visiting Cannonsburg on the web. Then enjoy the snow!