A unique Indy Pass road trip in the upper Midwest would be to combine a trip visiting northern Wisconsin and Michigan's Upper Peninsula for skiing at three of the Heartland's larger ski resorts; Granite Peak, Pine Mountain, and Big Powderhorn.

In these final days of winter (Spring Equinox is March 19) we wish you the luck of the Irish to receive the new snowfall coming.

January is Learn to Ski and Snowboard month, and throughout the Midwest ski areas are offering discounted lesson programs. Michigan offers the only statewide program, which is available at ski areas throughout the Wolverine State. None of the other Heartland state associations offer a statewide program for easy access, cost, and simplicity. The nice thing is that if you live near either one of Michigan's peninsulas you can cross the border and enroll in a ski area near you.

Three old-time Midwest ski areas that have aged well join the “baby boomer” generation. Turning 55 this season are Big Powderhorn, Michigan’s UP, and Welch Village, located in the deep river valleys southeast of the Twin Cities. Chestnut Mountain, the senior member of the group, turns 60 this season.

For Midwestern skiers that like to get in a lot of slope time around the country outside the Heartland, a few new options are available for this season.

January is Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month. Throughout the Midwest ski areas are offering discounted lesson programs. Michigan offers one of the best programs for cost and simplicity, and it’s available at ski areas throughout the Wolverine State.

A couple of Midwest old time ski areas that have aged well turn 50 this season. Big Powderhorn, Michigan’s UP, and Welch Village, located in the deep river valleys southeast of the Twin Cities celebrate the Big 5-0.

Blackjack LLC, owner of Blackjack Ski Resort, has executed an agreement to acquire next door neighbor Indianhead Mountain Resort, and the deal is expected to be consummated by the end of the month. 

It’s the winter that just keeps on giving. Don’t put those skis or boards away just yet. Check out these events and lift and lodging packages taking place this weekend and into mid-April across the Heartland.

How would you like to ski or ride every day all over Michigan this winter for $600? Not just one area, but 20 of the top ski areas scattered across the Wolverine State and including Minnesota’s Wild Mountain. 

How would you like to get a free lift ticket to your favorite ski resort every time you fill your gas tank? Well, you can. Here's how: