Thompsonville Live Cam

Crystal Mountain is a popular ski resort and year-round vacation destination that has a rich history dating back to the mid-20th century.

The resort was founded in 1956 by a group of local businessmen who wanted to create a ski hill in the northern Michigan area. They initially purchased a 35-acre parcel of land, which eventually grew to over 1,000 acres.

In the early years, the resort had a single chairlift and a few runs, but it quickly expanded and added more lifts and trails. By the 1970s, Crystal Mountain had become a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders from all over the Midwest.

In the 1980s, the resort began to diversify its offerings and added a golf course, tennis courts, and other summer activities. Today, Crystal Mountain is a year-round destination with skiing, snowboarding, golf, mountain biking, hiking, and more.

Throughout its history, Crystal Mountain has remained a family-owned and operated resort, and it has a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. It continues to be a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike, and it has received numerous accolades for its skiing, golf, and overall resort experience.

Betsie Valley

The Betsie Valley is a region located in Benzie County, Michigan, USA, that includes the Crystal Mountain Resort and several nearby towns and attractions. The region is named after the Betsie River, which flows through the area and into Lake Michigan.

The Betsie Valley has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century, when the region was primarily used for logging and farming. The town of Thompsonville, which is now home to Crystal Mountain Resort, was originally founded as a lumber camp in the 1850s. As the timber industry declined, the region began to transition to tourism and recreation.

In the early 20th century, the Betsie Valley became a popular destination for summer visitors who were drawn to the area's natural beauty and outdoor activities. The opening of Crystal Mountain Resort in the 1950s further solidified the region's reputation as a premier vacation destination.

Today, the Betsie Valley is a year-round destination that offers a wide range of recreational activities, including skiing, snowboarding, golf, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and kayaking. The area is also known for its charming small towns, historic sites, and scenic drives, such as the famous M-22 highway.

Betsie Valley Geography

The region is named after the Betsie River, which flows through the valley and into Lake Michigan.

The Betsie Valley is a relatively small area, encompassing about 50 square miles. The terrain is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and agricultural land. The valley is surrounded by the Manistee National Forest to the east and north, and by the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to the west.

Crystal Mountain Resort is located in the heart of the Betsie Valley and covers over 1,500 acres of land. The resort is situated on a ridge overlooking the valley and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The Betsie River is a major feature of the valley and provides recreational opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and other water-based activities. The river flows for about 54 miles from its headwaters to its mouth at Lake Michigan, passing through several towns and communities along the way.

Overall, the Betsie Valley is a beautiful and scenic region that offers a wide range of outdoor activities and natural attractions for visitors to explore and enjoy.