Summertime in Northern Michigan Winter Fun

traditions
2013
Celebrating
50 Years
One Resort • Three Villages • Two Ski Mountains • Four Golf Courses
Summertime in Northern Michigan
Winter Fun: Skiing, Tubing and More
Day tripS from Shanty Creek
Meetings & Events
Hiking & Biking
Microbrews
& Winery Tours
GET YOUR TORCH ON!
Voted one of the
top 25 destinations
in northern Michigan
by Traverse Magazine
Open for lunch
& dinner
Open April - November
11:00 a.m.
Delicious Food
Beverages & Cocktails
Family Friendly
Amazing Sunsets !
231-377-7777
Photo by Lisa Lirones
torch lake, michigan
Visit us on Facebook.com/Docksidetorchlake
traditions
main photo: Brian Walters. inset from top: Beth price, Brian Walters.
W
Contents
2
4
8
15 18 20 22 24 25 28 32 38 40 47
Then and Now
Lodging
Golf
Destinations
Wine
Microbrews
Weddings
Conferences
Dining
Up North
Seasons
Biking and Hiking
Ski and Snowboard
2013 Events Calendar
Produced by MyNorth Media. 148 E. Front St., Traverse City, MI 49684. 231.941.8174. mynorth.com
The year was 1963.
The Beatles invaded
America. AT&T introduced the touch-tone
phone. And the Lodge
at Shanty Creek opened
its doors to its first
generation of guests.
Since then skiers and
golfers have come by
the carload. It’s become
an Up North getaway
for families, conference
attendees, and countless brides sharing their
special day. For most,
once they visit they can’t
help but be drawn back
to the woods and water
and to the beauty that
is northern Michigan.
Where spirits are lifted.
Memories created. And
traditions started.
Today with four championship golf courses,
two ski mountains, lively
dining, and hundreds
of lodging options
throughout its three villages, Shanty Creek still
welcomes guests with a
smile and the promise of
a beautiful day.
The times, they say,
are a-changing. And
a lot has happened in
the past 50 years. But
for Shanty Creek that
was only the beginning.
Join me in a toast to
the future of SCR. And
the beginning of new
traditions.
Cheers.
Chris Hale
Vice President
Shanty Creek Resorts
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Artist rendering of Schuss
Mountain, 1960’s
The Lodge at Shanty
Creek, 1960’s
THEN & NoW
The First Fifty Years
By LINDSEy
SoUTHWELL
2
I
f not for American Steel, the woods and waters
of Antrim County might not have become home
to the showcase setting that is Shanty Creek
Resorts, because a retired steel worker from
Detroit introduced Antrim County to resort life.
Roy Deskin, the son of a coal miner, worked his way
through Detroit’s steel factories to become a magnate
in the industry. After a successful career, he retired Up
North. In 1944, he purchased a home on Torch Lake.
Deskin loved entertaining friends, family and colleagues. But he grew weary of driving all over northern
Michigan in search of good restaurants for his guests.
He decided he would build a social establishment of
his own. Originally Deskin conceived of Shanty as
a private club, but he realized greater potential in a
destination golf and ski resort.
He broke ground in the fall of 1961, and eager to
open his four-season resort, Deskin opened Summit
Mountain for skiing in December 1962. Construction
of the Lodge would not be completed until the following
Shanty Creek Resorts
spring. The 91-room hotel, whose name was based on
an old trapper’s shanty located near the [current day]
7th and 8th holes of The Legend, would open on May
30, 1963, as The Lodge at Shanty Creek.
With skiing and lodging in place, Deskin would
then begin working on the final piece of his four-season
resort—a golf course. He hired course architect William
Diddel, and the pair started orchestrating designs
and construction for the appropriately named Deskin
Course. The course opened in 1968, and today it’s known
as Summit Golf Course.
Meanwhile…
Daniel Iannotti chose to leave a lucrative career as
a stockbroker in Chicago and began tailoring his dream
of opening a ski resort resembling a quaint, Bavarian
ski hamlet. After looking at sites throughout Michigan,
Wisconsin and Colorado, Iannotti settled on a patch of
land just two miles east of Shanty Creek.
Iannotti’s “never-never land” made its skiing debut
in December of 1967. It was called “The Kingdom of
Schuss” and declared itself a new nation. The Kingdom
had its own border-control station, its own money
(the Squaller), its own language (Schwiss), and its
own time-zone (CFT, Central Fun Time). Daniel was
king and his wife, Dorothy, was queen. Their children
were dubbed Prince Daniel and Princess Madelyn.
After opening Schuss Mountain, Iannotti, like
Deskin, expanded to include golf, and built a course
he named the Schuss Mountain Golf Course. Designed
by Warner Bowen, its first nine holes opened in 1972,
and the back nine were added in 1977.
Both Shanty Creek and Schuss resorts would prosper for nearly 20 years. But in 1985, Club Corporation
of America (CCA) saw value in both Shanty Creek
and Schuss Mountain. They purchased the resorts
intending to merge them. This move was bolstered by
the opening of the recently completed Arnold Palmer–
designed championship golf course, The Legend. This
course would help establish northern Michigan as a
sought-after golf destination in America.
Years passed. Various owners continued to add
homes and condominiums to the villages of the growing resort. One major development would sit near
the banks of the Cedar River. In 1999, an all-suite
hotel, The Lodge at Cedar River, was built, and the
masterpiece Tom Weiskopf–designed Cedar River
Golf Course opened. Cedar River Village would form
the third “resort” along with both Summit Village
and Schuss Village.
But despite all of the splendor and beauty of the area
and a devoted staff known for its guest service, Shanty
Creek Resorts would fall on hard times. The property’s
original Deskin hotel had grown tired. Guests were
choosing newer properties in the region. And the resort
struggled to find its niche. Foreclosure would follow.
But a savior would arrive in 2006. An investment
group from St. Louis, Trinidad Resort & Club LLC,
would purchase the resort and instill the capital needed
to renovate the aged Lodge at Shanty Creek. The result:
the Lakeview Hotel and Conference Center once again
shines atop Summit Mountain. And throngs of guests
and groups are once again choosing Shanty Creek for
their ski and golf getaways and their annual meetings
and conferences. Schuss Mountain still maintains its
iconic status in the Midwest ski industry. And Cedar
River GC continues to rake in the accolades.
The three villages of Shanty Creek Resorts create
one of the most scenic destinations in Michigan, boasting nearly 500 lodging options, four championship golf
courses, 55 ski runs, 30km of Nordic trails, multiple
dining options, a complete fitness center and wellness
spa, and endless recreational opportunities across
its 4,500-acres in beautiful northern Michigan.
The original Sardine
Special, 1970’s
Shanty Creek: 50 Years of History
1961 – Construction begins.
May 30, 1963 – The Lodge at
Shanty Creek opens.
Dec 17, 1967 – The Kingdom of
Schuss opens.
1968 – Summit GC opens at
Shanty Creek.
1972 – Schuss Mountain GC
opens.
1997 - Investors purchase the
resort from CCA; begin planning
Cedar River expansion.
1999 – Cedar River GC opens.
1999 – The Lodge at Cedar
River opens.
2006 – Shanty Creek Resorts
purchased by Trinidad Resort
& Club LLC.
1978 - Shanty Creek becomes a
Hilton franchise.
2007 – The Lakeview Hotel &
Conference Center undergoes
$10 million renovation.
1985 - Club Corporation of America
merges Shanty Creek and The
Kingdom of Schuss.
2013 – Shanty Creek celebrates its
50th anniversary.
1986 – The Legend GC
opens.
1988 – The Summit Conference Center expands
Shanty Creek’s hotel.
1997 – The North Face of
Schuss Mountain opens;
expands skiing.
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The Lodge at Cedar River
LoDGING
thethree
VillageS
ofShantyCreek
Brian Walters
SUMMIT • SCHUSS • CEDAR RIVER
4
Shanty Creek Resorts
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The Lakeview Hotel
& Conference Center
desserts. Its lounge offers a simpler menu of burgers,
sandwiches and tavern-style fare. Guests can work
off those calories at the hotel’s fitness center and spa,
which features a complete cardio room, Nautilus and
free weights, plus a three-room spa for massage and
other relaxing treatments.
Outside the hotel are several condominium buildings
that offer guests two- and three-bedroom options, with
either golf course views or ski-in/-out access.
condos overlooking Cedar River’s #18 are among the
most sought-after units in SCR’s inventory.
Shanty Creek’s reservations team will help plan
the village and lodging accommodation that best fits
your group’s size and budget. Call 800-678-4111 or
855-UP-NORTH.
Schuss Mountain
SChuSSmountain
The Kingdom of Schuss, as it was originally known,
still exudes an alpine charm and Old World European
flair—where many homes, villas and condos bask in
the shadow of the iconic mountain. For winter sports
enthusiasts, Schuss Mountain’s skiing ranks among
the best in the Midwest. And the Schuss Mountain Golf
Course delights golfers with its elevation changes and
teasing hardwood forests.
After a day on the slopes, Ivan’s Mountainside Grill
is the obvious meeting spot for skiers and boarders
alike. It is the true last run of the day. Serving up
tavern-style fare, Michigan’s best craft beer and wines,
and a host of other beverages. Ivan’s is also famous for
its après-ski entertainment.
If you’re looking for something a little different
during après-ski, horse-drawn sleigh rides and children’s dog-sled rides board outside of Schuss village’s
main lodge.
Cedar riVer
6
Shanty Creek Resorts
For many, this is Shanty Creek. The flagship
Lakeview Hotel & Conference Center, still gleaming
from its $10-million renovation, shines. Its 183 guest
rooms and suites offer million-dollar views of Lake
Bellaire, miles of pristine hardwood forests nearby,
and out-the-door access to The Legend and Summit
golf courses. In winter, guests have ski-in/-out access
to Summit Mountain’s 12 slopes, accessed by two lifts.
The Lakeview also boasts over 16,000 square feet
of conference and meeting space, including the nearly
10,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom. And brides’ eyes
widen with excitement knowing their wedding reception
will be held in the Bellaire Room. For conference goers,
meeting planners and brides alike, Shanty Creek’s
banquet services team members dot their i’s and cross
their t’s to prepare spectacular plated meals and buffets.
The Lakeview Restaurant’s menu rotates seasonally
to offer a variety of soup and salads, unique appetizers, chic entrées, generous steaks, and homemade
ToP: BRIAN WALTERS. BELoW: JENNIFER BRUCE
SummitVillage
BRIAN WALTERS
O
nce two standalone resorts, the merging
of Shanty Creek and Schuss Mountain in
the mid-’80s, orchestrated by Club Corp
of America, brought together the best of
both worlds. Schuss had long been a dominant skiers’
haven, while the views of Lake Bellaire gave Shanty
Creek the upper hand in summertime. Fast forward to
the late ’90s and the expansion of Schuss Mountain’s
north face: the development of Cedar River Village
and its famed Lodge and masterpiece golf course.
One way to describe the resort is that it’s like
its own small town. After all, Shanty Creek covers
nearly seven square miles, it maintains its own
transportation services, its own water and sewers.
Shanty Creek offers its residents telephone and
Internet services. There are several restaurants.
And of course the four golf courses, three hotels,
and two ski mountains.
Exploring each village is a small adventure unto
itself.
Mention Cedar River and most Michigander’s
instantly think “golf.” But Cedar River is more than
just one of the “Top 1,000 Golf Courses in the World” (as
named by Rolex). It is an actual river that flows through
Antrim County and along the left fairway of #12. The
stream forms the resting place for many a golf ball.
Cedar River shares its name across the entire “third”
village. It is home to The Lodge at Cedar River, a 72
all-suite, one- and two-bedroom hotel whose lower level
features Weiskopf’s Grill, The Pro Shop, and nearly
10,000 square feet of meeting and event space.
Cedar River’s summertime golf practice facility
transforms into a smile factory in winter, SCR’s famed
8-lane tubing park. Its rolling contours cover the hillside while its two handle tow-lifts carry children and
those acting like children back to the top. Another
transformation from summer to winter is the Pro Shop.
Come December the Nordic Center is where SCR’s staff
outfits guests with cross-country ski packages and
snowshoes—two more ways to explore SCR’s stunning
4,500 acres.
With skiing, tubing, golfing and dining, the skiin/-out condos on Schuss’ North Face and the golfside
The Lodge at
Cedar River
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GoLF
the
SpiCe
oflife
By JASoN DEEGAN
8
Shanty Creek Resorts
With 72 golf holes across 4,500 acres,
Shanty Creek Resorts isn’t just one of the
biggest golf resorts in the Midwest, it’s
also one of the best—honored by Condé
Nast Traveler as one of the “Top Golf
Resorts in the World.”
this page: Brian Walters. opposite: Beth price
I
f variety is the spice of
life, a visit to Shanty
Creek Resorts tastes
great every time. The
resort delivers four different
golf experiences: from the family-friendly tees at the Summit
Golf Club to the championship
test at Cedar River Golf Club.
And with three villages close
enough to be convenient but distinct enough to feel
like separate escapes, this resort really does function
as three resorts.
Summit Village embraces the Lakeview Hotel &
Conference Center and The Legend at Shanty Creek.
The Lakeview, Shanty’s flagship hotel, sparkles from
a recent $10-million renovation, with updated guestrooms, a beautiful lobby and the Lakeview dining
room, with its soaring views of Lake Bellaire. Arnold
Palmer’s 18-hole gem, The Legend, continues to amaze
golfers with grand vistas and challenging holes.
Schuss Village consists of forest-side homes,
villas and condominiums reminiscent of a European
alpine village. The iconic Schuss Mountain looms,
while the Schuss Mountain Golf Club provides another
flavor for SCR’s golf guests.
Cedar River Village is Shanty Creek’s most
recent expansion. The Lodge at Cedar River opened
in 1999 and remains modern and inviting. Course
architect and PGA legend Tom Weiskopf pursued
perfection at Cedar River and came pretty darn close.
Together, the Cedar River course and The Legend
course form an excellent one-two punch for golf groups.
Choosing from the myriad of ways to play and
stay at Shanty Creek, golfers can’t go wrong at this
iconic destination resort.
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The legendary flowers
at the first tee box on
The Legend
Cedar River GC #7
[the former] Golf for Women
magazine. For those seeking
a challenge, Schuss Mountain
obliges, weaving a crooked
path that rarely allows players a simple route to the
green. Ten holes dogleg left
or right, and require proper
angles off the tee for an open
approach. No. 18 bends to
the right with water on both
sides—a finishing hole that is
the ultimate final exam.
Summit golfClub
All Hail
the King
10
Shanty Creek Resorts
CedarriVergolf Club
The Legend at Shanty Creek, a 6,764-yard Arnold Palmer design
that officially opened for play in 1986, remains a timeless resort classic course, one that never goes out of fashion. The layout rides ridges
and plummets into valleys for a rousing journey through Northern
Michigan hardwoods. An elevated first tee provides the first glimpse
of the scenic vistas that characterize golf at Shanty Creek. The first
fairway slides dramatically downhill, gently easing players into the
round. A birdie (or better) is very possible. The reward for surviving the
tough second hole comes at the third tee, which reveals a picturesque
view of Lake Bellaire. The par-5 seventh might be the best of them
all. Avoiding a pond off the tee and a creek guarding a narrow green
requires deft shot-making, a theme throughout the day on one of
Michigan’s true gems.
Cedar River Golf Club, established in 1999, more than complements its cross-resort cousin, The Legend, and could easily stand
alone as Shanty Creek’s No. 1 draw. GolfWeek called it a “Top
100 Resort Course,” and Rolex named it among the “Top 1,000
Golf Courses in the World.” The 6,989-yard Tom Weiskopf design
combines playability, scenery and risk-reward elements for an
unforgettable day on the links. Players who can steer clear of
Weiskopf’s bold bunkering tend to play well. Water really only
comes into play on three holes: No. 7, No. 8 and No. 18. The par-4
seventh hole is particularly memorable. It’s a 425-yard cape hole
with a fairway that swings left along a pond, forcing players to
choose how much of the hazard they want to attack off the tee.
More choices for glory come at the drivable 297-yard 13th hole. No.
18, a 604-yard par-5, is one of the longest holes in all the state,
providing fireworks at the finish.
“The Legend started as a beautiful, natural and
spectacular site. It was our purpose to keep it that
way, adding only the exciting physical elements and
features of the game of golf.”—Arnold Palmer, July 1985
ToP: BRIAN WALTERS. BELoW: BETH PRICE.
the legend
BRIAN WALTERS
When Arnold Palmer came to
celebrate the grand opening of
The Legend at Shanty Creek in
1986, northern Michigan was still
a fledgling golf destination, barely
on the national radar. Fast forward:
Golf Digest now considers northern
Michigan among the top dozen golf
destinations in the world. Palmer’s
appearance was a big deal! It
brought notoriety and credibility
to the region. Combined with The
Bear, by Jack Nicklaus, which opened the year
before at Grand Traverse Resort & Spa, Palmer’s
masterpiece at Shanty Creek ushered in a new era
of internationally renowned designers who discovered that terrain carved by glaciers thousands of
years ago was perfect for golf.
Tim Hygh, the former marketing director at
Shanty Creek during the course’s grand opening,
still recalls Palmer’s visit like it was yesterday. The
event attracted celebrities such as then-Governor
Jim Blanchard. “Everybody just wanted to be
around Palmer,” Hygh said. “His personality was
magnetic.” The charms of The Legend continue to
match the aura of The King. All these years later,
both Palmer and his creation still look great and
remain wildly popular with golfers.
Don’t let the scorecard fool
you. William Diddle’s par-71
design, dating to 1968, might
be short by modern standards
at 6,260 yards, and might
seem easy with just 29 bunkers and one pond in play, but
this straightforward parkland
playground is no slouch. Thick
rough and fast greens tend
to fight off scoring binges.
The best chance at posting a
low number would be to take
advantage of the two short
par-5s, the 470-yard 8th hole and the 467-yard 14th hole. A
new set of forward Par Three tees ranging from 95 to 125
yards are making the game easier and quicker for all ages and
skill levels. And new 8-inch cups—in addition to the standard
4.25-inch cups—continue the golfer-friendly theme for today’s
junior and beginner golfers.
SChuSSmountain golfClub
Designed by Warner Bowen, the first nine holes opened
in 1972, followed by the second nine five years later, in 1977.
The 6,922-yard course was recognized for its playability by
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Schuss
Mountain
GC #12
The Legend GC #12
GoLF
My Favorite Things:
SCR’s Best Nine Holes
W
ith 72 holes on four celebrated golf
courses, picking the Best Nine Holes
at Shanty Creek is not easy—almost
as challenging as playing them.
For anyone who’s played SCR’s courses, you know
each is well cared for, each has its own flavor, and
each is a testament to why northern Michigan features some of the best golf in the world. This list is
not intended to be the toughest holes but simply my
“favorite” holes. Some are tougher than others. Some
give players opportunity to score well.
Play all of SCR’s courses and make your own list.
Then send it to me at [email protected].
thelegendgC #12 PAR 3 • 173 yARDS
This lively par three is simply a beautiful hole. Its
setting confirms “this is northern Michigan.” A left
side water hazard sets off the beauty further. Score
well and enjoy the view.
thelegendgC #7 PAR 5 • 501 yARDS
This long par 5 is Arnold Palmer’s favorite on The
Legend. With a right-side fairway water hazard and
the true Shanty Creek protecting its shallow putting
green, this hole is as challenging as it is beautiful.
SummitgC #7 PAR 3 • 197 yARDS
This picturesque hole reminds many golfers that
Summit is definitely worthy of play. On a sunny blue
Michigan day, this hole shines.
SChuSSmountaingC #18 PAR 4 • 397 yARDS
After a playing long round, the finishing hole of
Schuss Mountain doesn’t let up. With two water hazards
The Legend GC #7
and two sand bunkers protecting the green, focus must
be maintained in the shadow of the mountain.
CedarriVergC #18 PAR 5 • 604 yARDS
This is a spectacular finishing hole that requires focus
on every shot. Over 600 yards with elevation changes,
a narrow fairway waist, a blind approach, plus a water
hazard and several traps protecting the putting green—
Tom Weiskopf wasn’t fooling around on this one.
CedarriVergC #7 PAR 4 • 425 yARDS
Cedar River
GC #13
The ball-hungry water hazard of Cedar’s #7 looks
more dangerous than it is. This hole once again
reminds golfers that northern Michigan is a beautiful
setting for a round of golf.
thelegendgC #1 PAR 5 • 496 yARDS
The first hole of The Legend is a downhill beauty.
Easily reachable in two, many golfers score well to
start their round. And the confidence helps when
tackling #2.
SChuSSmountaingC #12 PAR 4 • 369 yARDS
The down-and-up layout of #12 is a stunning design
albeit a formidable challenge. A solid tee shot still
leaves many struggling to find the green in two as the
approach requires a deft iron shot to climb the terrain.
CedarriVergC #13 PAR 4 • 297 yARDS
Unique. That’s an accurate way to describe
Cedar’s #13. A broad oak stands guard in the fairway, forcing golfers to choose left or right for their
approach. After playing it, you may have other words
to describe this hole!
LEFT: BETH PRICE. RIGHT: BRIAN WALTERS. BoTToM RIGHT: ISToCKPHoTo
By BRIAN
KAUTz,
DIRECToR
oF GoLF
Summit GC #7
Growing the Game
Shanty Creek has jumped to the forefront
of the golf industry’s push to grow the game by
making it faster, more fun and family-friendly by
introducing innovative programming.
New forward tees, ranging from 95 to 125
yards, were added to The Summit Golf Club. They
can be used to teach the game to beginners and
juniors. Schuss Mountain GC
went a step further by adding
8-inch cups on the greens in
addition to the regulation-sized
holes. (The Big Cups will be
moved to Summit GC in 2013.)
Some golfers will welcome the
chance to sink putts that normally
don’t go in.
The “Tee it Forward” initiative—supported by a handful
of the top golf organizations—
continues to be a focus as well.
It encourages players to move up a set of tees to
make the game easier, faster and in all likelihood,
more fun.
“our goal is to grow the game’s appeal and
make playing more enjoyable for everyone,” said
Shanty Creek’s Director of Golf Brian Kautz.
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We Love being in the middle of Everything that is
Northern Michigan!
DESTINATIoN
bellaire
s
hanty Creek makes its home near the tiny lakeside burg
of Bellaire, population 1,100. Like the best of America’s
small towns, Bellaire offers a captivating vibe that is both
retro-comfortable and smartly vibrant at the same time.
Visitors find it easy to decompress amid the relaxing pace of Bellaire’s
tree-lined streets and 19th-century architecture, but visitors also
discover satisfying surprise within the town’s inventive restaurants
and boutiques. Step inside Lulu’s Bistro and discover a warmly urbane
atmosphere and national-quality execution of a contemporary menu.
Around the corner at Short’s Brewing, find micobrews of national
acclaim. Across the street at Moka’s, excellently roasted coffee and
WiFi. Down the block, the kitschy fun of Sassy Sunflower and its
gift-shop neighbor Sassafras. We find Bellaire to be a small town with
a large spirit, we think you will, too.
Find out how surprisingly affordable it is to
own your piece of paradise!
Shanty Creeks on site real estate
company
sue nelson
5820 Shanty Creek Rd., Bellaire, Michigan 49615
231-533-7077 (p) 231-533-7078 (f)
www.cbgreatlakes.com
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Skegemog Lake
DESTINATIoN
ChainoflakeS
shanty Creek’s hilly terrain rises alongside one of
middle-America’s most enchanting reaches of water,
a curvy 75-mile string of 14 lakes and connecting
streams called the Chain of Lakes. On The Chain, as
locals often call it, you can boat from one lake to the
next to find whatever kind of watery temperament
you are in the mood for.
Under the waves is
a vast fish-spawning
grounds, and for
fishermen, big fish
cruising the shallows.
torCh lake
Iconic Torch Lake, a renowned
tourist destination, offers up big
water, turquoise hues and an energized sandbar social scene that
lures boaters all summer long.
Skegemoglake
Bordering Torch to the south,
Skegemog Lake is renowned for a particular 7-milelong stretch of cattailled, marshy undeveloped shore
that is an acclaimed natural area. Called Skegemog
Swamp, it’s home to bald eagles, sandhill cranes,
beaver and a never-ending nature show. Under the
waves is a vast fish-spawning grounds, and for fishermen, big fish cruising the shallows.
the reSt of "theChain"
16
Shanty Creek Resorts
left: photo gallery & aerial graphics, llc.
right: todd zawistowski
The Chain also serves up the quiet, smaller waters
of such diminutive lakes as Six Mile Lake and Intermediate Lake and Shanty’s home lake, Lake Bellaire—2.7
square miles of water to explore. These lakes present
the perfect settings for motoring out in a small boat
to fish with your children and grandchildren, paddle
canoes and kayaks, or to indulge in the simple and
timeless joy of swimming in the lush and fresh warm
water of a Michigan inland lake. Lake Bellaire sits
at the midpoint of the chain, a perfect location for
launching days of exploration on the water. From
Lake Bellaire, you can head north to roam the quiet
waters of the Upper Chain; head south to motor the
bigger waters of the Lower Chain.
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wine
Wineries in Northern Michigan
18
Shanty Creek Resorts
tour of some of the many wine tasting rooms tucked
along the twisty two-lanes of Old Mission Peninsula
and Leelanau Peninsula—captivating landscape
guaranteed, designated driver recommended.
East Grand
Traverse Bay View
from Old Mission's
Chateau Chantal
old mission peninsula
A hilly, narrow, undulating ridge that reaches 16
miles into Grand Traverse Bay, Old Mission offers a
classic example of microclimate in action. The big water
bay moderates temperature, the hills offer air flow. Seven
wineries now make wine on Old Mission’s precious 32
square miles, including renowned pioneer Chateau
Grand Traverse, the popular Chanteau Chantal, and
acclaimed newcomer Two Lads.
Across the bay to the west of Old Mission Peninsula,
Leelanau Peninsula forms the other pillar of Northern
Michigan’s wine region. Leelanau, at 2,532 square
miles, is far larger than Old Mission and supports 23
wineries, at last count. The notion of microclimate is
much evident here, as Leelanau terrain rolls out in lovely
ridges, valleys, and shorelines that all seem to fold one
upon the other. The man credited with starting the wine
industry here, Bernie Rink, planted his first vineyard
up the hill from Lake Leelanau in 1964, and his winery,
Boskydel Vineyard, still produces. High profile wineries
today include Black Star Farms, Chateau Fontaine, Bel
Lago, Shady Lane and Gill’s Pier.
angela bRown
leelanau peninsula
angela bRown
W
hen oenophiles talk of the world’s great
wine growing regions, they inevitably
speak of microclimate, a term that
describes the nuanced recipe of hills
and valleys, heat and cold, rain and dry, sunlight and
airflow and more that all goes into creating the flavor
and sugar content of a quality wine grape. Many of
the world’s legendary wine microclimates lie along
the Northern Hemisphere’s 45th parallel, which also
runs through the heart of Northern Michigan’s wine
region. Here, for nearly 50 years, grape growers and
winemakers have worked to understand and flourish
within that microclimate to create a wine industry
that has given rise to roughly 30 producers—and the
number is growing each year. Their success has been
affirmed with a slew of awards from state, national
and international competitions.
Early on, classic cool climate viticulture—riesling
grapes and chardonnay grapes—formed the backbone
of Northern Michigan’s wine offerings, but in recent
years, vintners have put forth remarkable pinot
noirs and other reds to round out the flavor profile.
Today, nine grape varieties are the stalwarts of the
industry here. Five are whites—riesling, chardonnay, pinot gris, gewürtztraminer, and pinot blanc;
four are reds—pinot noir, cabernet franc, merlot
and blaufrankisch. Meanwhile, vintners are ever
experimenting with more grape varieties to continually evolve the industry. Take a day and do a wine
Traditions 2013
19
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miCRobRewS
miCRobRewS
Craft Beer in
Northern Michigan
Short’s Brewing
w
hen a then-24-year-old Joe Short
looked into the dark and abandoned
ex-hardware store on Bellaire’s
mainstreet on Thanksgiving night
of 2002, he launched upon a noble but improbable
mission: gut the shop and turn it into a restaurant and
microbrewery. Now, a decade later, Short’s Brewing Co.
shines as one of the brightest spots on the Midwest’s
microbrew map. It’s a decade that brought more than a
few close calls in the early days, but also national awards
and attention in the microbrew world. Credit Joe’s
inventiveness, never-say-quit attitude and Joe’s wife,
Leah, who brought savvy management and kitchen
skills. Recently Joe Short built upon that reputation
by opening a bottling plant in nearby Elk Rapids, and
today the company’s brews are sold in thousands of
Michigan stores and restaurants. With 60 employees,
Short’s is the third largest brewery in Michigan.
When the Travel Channel surveyed the craft beer scene in America to pick the Top 7 dream
destinations for microbrew devotees, the Grand Traverse Region earned a place on the final rarified
list. And for good reason. The microbrew movement took root here nearly two decades ago and the
fan base grew slowly but steadily as such quality brewers as North Peak, Mackinaw Brewing, Right
Brain Brewery (all in Traverse City) and Short’s Brewing (in Bellaire) proved the undeniable flavor
superiority of handcrafted brew made with fresh northern Michigan water. As the first decade of
the 21st century drew to a close, the momentum behind locally brewed beers took a quantum leap.
Legendary brewer Jolly Pumpkin opened on Old Mission Peninsula, Traverse City’s Seven Monks
Taproom opened with more than 100 beers on the menu, Beards Brewery opened in Petoskey … and
more are on the way. The rise of microbrews is a welcome, rich and fitting addition to the food scene
of Northwest Lower Michigan, a remarkable region that has already received widespread acclaim
for its robust local foods movement and international award-winning wines.
To celebrate Shanty
Creek’s 50th anniversary,
Shanty Creek and Short’s
brewing are releasing a
custom microbrew called
black Diamond. This winterinspired, full-flavored black
lager will make its debut
at ivan’s and will only be
available at SCR outlets all
winter long.
20
Shanty Creek Resorts
beth price
Top: bRian ConfeR. below: juDy STilwell
Black
Diamond
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A special day
outside the
Bellaire Ballroom
weDDingS
here comes the bride
S
It seems that the more the world hastens its pace, the more people are turning
to Shanty Creek as a quiet, beautiful
and sophisticated place to host a destination wedding. Many couples who choose
Shanty had never visited the resort or
even northern Michigan prior to shopping
for a venue. But on a site visit, Shanty
proved irresistible.
Beyond wanting a lovely setting, what
wedding couples value in Shanty is a venue
that scores high marks on warm hospitality, artful presentation of wedding events
and logistics, like ample lodging for all
of their guests and top-rated recreation
for a weekend filled with fun, like golfing
on world-class courses and skiing. Many
couples say Shanty Creek Resorts staff
made them feel that their wedding was
the most important thing happening at
the resort that weekend.
And of course, couples want a wedding
team that covers all the details. That’s
where wedding planner Jenna Foerster
comes in. She works with wedding couples
from the moment they first contact the
resort all the way through the wedding
process. “I love everything about weddings,” she says. “And I especially love
that brides and grooms put such a special
day in my hands and are able to relax and
enjoy their weddings.”
lefT: bRian walTeRS. Top RigHT anD lefT: noRTHeRn aRT pHoTogRapHy. below: paRKeR pHoTogRapHiC
tand on the terrace outside
Shanty’s Bellaire Ballroom, and
prepare to be astonished. To the
west, Lake Bellaire shimmers
at the bottom of a lovely valley, and then
beyond, ridges upon ridges fall away to
the horizon.
They cup Torch Lake, the Grand Traverse Bays, the Great Lake Michigan itself.
Little wonder, then, that so many wedding
couples fall in love with that view and decide
to make Shanty the place for their destination wedding. Many couples choose to have
their ceremony on the terrace, allowing the
unforgettable scene to inspire them from
the moment their marriage begins.
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ConfeRenCeS
Dining
Meetings & Events
Executive Chef
Andrew Reh
S
CR's enchanting landscapes create the setting for meetings,
conferences and special events. Sitting high on a westwardfacing ridge overlooking Lake Bellaire, with condos tucked
into the wooded hillsides and forested valleys, it’s the kind of
place that enables conference attendees to distance themselves from
their bustling day-to-day, dial down the pace and gain perspective for
bigger issues. Equally important, Shanty’s natural setting encourages
people to relax, share thoughts, build relationships, and brainstorm
in fresh and new ways.
Though Shanty Creek exudes a slower pace, it is still completely
plugged-in with over 36,000 square feet of state-of-the-art, WiFiblanketed meeting and event space, including large and small rooms.
When your meetings are done take advantage of world-class golf and
courses designed by Arnold Palmer and Tom Weiskopf, or spend a
day on the slopes when the snow falls. Ask your conference services
manager about innovative team building exercises like your own Iron
Chef Competition or Build-a-Bicycle (the bikes are then donated to
children in the area).
24
Shanty Creek Resorts
beth price
2011 & 2012 Wedding Wire Bride’s Choice Aware Winner
Multiple National Photography Awards
Classically trained at the esteemed Johnson & Wales College of Culinary Arts in
Providence, Rhode Island, Chef Reh served at the White House in Washington, D.C., the
Ritz-Carlton in both Boston and Washington, D.C., and the McCamly Plaza Hotel in Battle
Creek, Michigan, before returning home to Traverse City and joining Shanty Creek’s staff.
He oversees all Food & Beverage operations, leading a strong troupe of restaurant
managers and sous-chefs. His genteel yet authoritative approach is evidenced by the previous
awards including “Best Restaurant Staff” by readers of Traverse City’s Northern Express.
In 2012, he received the “Culinary Star of the Industry” from the Michigan Lodging and
Tourism Association at the annual Governor’s Conference on Tourism.
Chef Reh at
the Lakeview
Restaurant bar
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Butternut
Squash Bisque
Twisted
Pasta
Pork
Rapoza
Lakeview
Restaurant
and Lounge
The most iconic feature of Shanty
Creek is the vast great room that welcomes its guests. inside its three-story
walls of glass are the hotel’s front desk
and the lakeview Restaurant & lounge.
Steeped in rich woods and flanking
grand fireplaces, the room evokes
comfort and serenity. The westward
view with sunsets over lake bellaire
is magnificent. and Chef Reh’s menu
complements the view nicely.
The lakeview serves breakfast, lunch
and dinner—each with a dash of
elegance. The lounge’s big screen
TVs are perfect for catching the lions,
Tigers or Red wings in action. Throughout the year, this is the gathering place
for celebratory brunches including
easter, mother’s Day, and Thanksgiving.
Dining
antrim dinner salad
(1 serving)
1 cup mixed baby lettuce
2 tbs. blue cheese crumbles
1 tbs. chopped pecans
1 tbs. chopped dried cherries
2 tbs. Strawberry poppy Seed
Vinaigrette (recipe follows)
STRawbeRRy poppy
SeeD VinaigReTTe
¾
2
6
½
¼
1
1
1
½
cup granulated sugar
tbs. Dijon mustard
tbs. red wine vinegar
tbs. kosher salt
cup red onion
cup olive oil
tbs. lemon juice
tbs. poppy seeds
cup chopped strawberries
place first seven ingredients in
blender till combined. Remove
and add poppy seeds and
strawberries.
26
Shanty Creek Resorts
butternut
squash bisque
(1 gallon)
2
1
1
1
2
2
2
3
3
1
1½
1
¼
1
½
¹/8
1
1
½
¼
butternut squash, peeled
and diced
yellow onion, diced
carrot, peeled and diced
tbs. minced garlic
tbs. olive oil
cups apple cider
qts. chicken stock
tbs. maple syrup
tbs. honey
qt. heavy whipping cream
tbs. lemon juice
tsp. Sriracha sauce
tsp. ground cloves
tsp. ground cinnamon
tsp. ground cumin
tsp. ground nutmeg
tsp. fresh ground black
pepper
tsp. Kosher salt
stick unsalted butter
cup all purpose flour
1. in a heavy stockpot, heat oil
on low heat.
2. add squash, onion and carrots. Cook until tender. add
garlic, cook 2 minutes.
3. add chicken stock, heavy
cream, apple cider, lemon
juice and honey.
4. Simmer then add Sriracha
sauce, cloves, cinnamon,
cumin, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer 15 to 20 minutes.
5. in a small sauté pan melt
butter over low heat, stir in
flour to make a roux.
6. purée soup with immersion
blender until smooth. add
roux while still blending
7. bring soup to a simmer
stirring constantly until thick.
twisted pasta (8 Servings)
24 13-15 count shrimp, peeled
and deveined
1
1
8
4
8
4
8
8
8
3
3
lb. cooked lobster meat
package fusilli pasta
oz. chicken stock
oz. heavy cream
oz. white wine
oz. lemon juice
oz. unsalted butter, cubed
and chilled
oz. cherry tomatoes, halved
oz. fresh baby spinach
tbs. minced garlic
tbs. olive oil
Kosher salt
fresh ground black pepper
1. Cook pasta; drain and
reserve.
2. in a large pan heat oil over
medium heat. add shrimp,
season with salt and pepper.
Sauté until almost done.
3. add garlic and sauté for
2 minutes. add wine and
reduce by half.
4. add chicken stock, cream,
and lemon juice. bring to a
boil.
fooD pHoToS: beTH pRiCe. Top RigHT: bRian walTeRS. boTTom: iSToCCKpHoTo
Chef Reh’s Recipes
5. whisk in chilled butter one
cube at a time. Remove from
heat.
6. add lobster meat, spinach
and tomatoes. Toss with
cooked pasta.
pork rapoza (8 Servings)
3
8
1
1
1
1
3
8
lbs. boneless pork loin
slices applewood smoked
bacon
fennel bulb, trimmed and
thinly sliced
cup dried cherries
recipe Sauce Rapoza
recipe Spatzle
tbs. olive oil
bamboo skewers
Kosher salt
fresh ground black pepper
1. Cut pork into eight six-ounce
portions.
2. wrap each with a slice of
bacon. Secure with bamboo
skewer.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
grill about 4 minutes on each
side.
4. in a large pan heat oil over
medium heat. add the fennel
and sauté until golden brown.
add spatzle (see recipe
below) and sauté until golden
brown. add dried cherries.
5. Serve with Spatzle on plate.
place pork on top and spoon
Sauce Rapoza (see recipe
below) over pork.
SauCe Rapoza
Sauce Rapoza (8 servings)
SpaTzle, poRK Rapoza
(8 Servings)
1. in a saucepan combine water
and sugar. bring to a boil to
form simple syrup.
2. Reduce until the syrup
begins to caramelize.
3. in a separate pan heat the
brandy, cherries and demi
glace. add to the syrup.
4. mix well with blender;
reduce for 5 minutes.
5. Strain sauce and reserve.
2
¼
2
1
cups all purpose flour
cup cold water
extra large eggs
tsp. salt
1. bring 2 quarts of water to a
boil.
2. place flour and salt in large
bowl.
3. Crack eggs into bowl. whisk
eggs into flour/salt.
4. whisk in water slowly until
a loose, runny dough is
formed.
5. place a colander over pot
of water; add dough and
pass through holes into
boiling water. Stir.
6. boil 3 minutes while stirring.
7. Drain and reserve.
1
1
1
cup water
cup granulated sugar
16-oz. can dark cherries,
drained
6 oz. brandy
2½ cups veal demi glace
flourless
chocolate cake
1¾ lbs. finely chopped milk
chocolate
3 cups heavy whipping cream
7 gelatin leaves
2 ounces pistachio paste
1 cup heavy whipping cream
whipped to soft peaks
1. bloom gelatin in cold water
and strain.
2. bring 3 cups cream to a
simmer, remove from heat.
add gelatin and stir until
dissolved.
3. in a large bowl pour cream
over chocolate, add pistachio
paste. Stir until smooth.
4. fold whipped cream into
mixture.
5. pour into cake pan lined with
plastic wrap.
6. Chill until set.
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Enjoying a sunny day at
Sleeping Bear Dunes
up noRTH
in the middle of it all
Shanty Creek’s allure doesn’t end at the border of its 4,500-acre property. We like to
say Shanty is in the middle of it all, a perfect home base for easy day trips to take in
several of the Midwest’s iconic and most captivating attractions. Head north to catch
a ferry and roam the timeless isle of Mackinac Island, where cars are banned, horses
and bikes rule the roads, and an ancient British fort still stands guard. Shoot over to
the bayside town of Petoskey to shop the famed Gaslight District and grab lunch or
dinner at inventive restaurants, like Spoon and Chandler’s. A short drive southwest is
Traverse City, a vibrant harbor town with miles-long beaches, a nationally renowned
restaurant scene and wine country nearby. Head a bit farther west to explore the national
park at Sleeping Bear Dunes, 45-story-high dunes and 35 miles of sandy mainland
shore on Lake Michigan. And just down the hill from Shanty are Lake Bellaire and
Torch Lake, part of the remarkable Chain of Lakes, a magical 75-mile-long waterway
28
Shanty Creek Resorts
angela brown. inset: anjanette merriweather
waiting to float you away.
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Petoskey
Charlevoix
up noRTH
Day Trips from SCR
Voted as The Most Beautiful Place in America by
viewers of Good Morning America in 2011, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore embraces an
enchanting 106 square miles of ethereal sand dune,
deep forest, two remote islands, 35 miles of mainland
sandy shore and dozens of small inland lakes. And
of course, those 45-story-high sand bluffs that rise
majestically above the vast, shimmering lake.
2. mackinac island
The sound of horseshoes clip-clopping on cobblestone. The jingle of bicycle bells. The occasional boom
of a cannon from historical re-enactments at Fort
Mackinac. This legendary island has drawn resorters
since the late 1800s to find cool summer escape and
rejuvenation. Nothing else like it.
3. traverse city
Rising on the shore of one of the largest and
cleanest freshwater bays on the planet, Traverse
City serves up a fun and sophisticated small town
experience worthy of its esteemed location. Chefs
and restaurants here have created a nationally
renowned food scene, boutique owners put forth
an inventive, high-quality shopping experience,
and a steady flow of festivals and national performing acts, both in town and at nearby Interlochen
Center for the Arts, keep the cultural verve strong.
4. elk rapids
This marina town perches at the mouth of Elk
River, where the waters of the Chain of Lakes spill into
30
Shanty Creek Resorts
Lake Michigan. The Victorian era main street retains
its prim authenticity, and restaurants like the smart
and urbane Siren Hall and the Louisiana-accented
Pearl’s New Orleans Kitchen are destination eateries.
5. alden
A tiny enclave of shops set beside the eastern
shore of Torch Lake and rising along a sharp bend
in the byway, Alden works its way into the hearts of
many. Classic shops like the Alden Mill House spice
store, Afterloon Delights cafe and Alden Outfitters
are icons of a northern Michigan family experience.
6. charlevoix
One of the Midwest’s most magical small towns,
Charlevoix lays claim to a narrow bit of land between
grand Lake Michigan to the west, and, to the east,
legendary Lake Charlevoix and intimate Round Lake.
Come summer, the Round Lake harbor fills with
sailboats rocking shoulder to shoulder at dock and
imaginative boutiques and inspired restaurants draw
visitors to a lively downtown scene. Catch the ferry
to Beaver Island here.
7. petoskey
A Great Lakes resort destination for more
than 100 years, Petoskey has retained the lovely
architecture of its harbor-town roots while keeping
fresh ideas alive behind those Victorian facades.
Find hip eateries like Spoon and Palette Bistro
and Chandler’s. Discover smart, innovative gallery
shows, theater and happenings at Crooked Tree
Art Center. Wander boutiques in one of Michigan’s
most unforgettable downtowns.
Traverse City
Top lefT: CaRly paSzeK. RigHT: anjaneTTe meRRiweaTHeR. boTTom: angela bRown.
1. sleeping bear dunes
national lakeshore
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Roasting marshmallows on a
northern Michigan Beach
SeaSonS
summertime in
northern michigan
Northern Michigan summer is a magic distillation of light and water and land, a time and a place to gather
with the people you love, hit the pause button and let the richest moments of life simply and naturally happen.
Sit around a bonfire and tell stories into the night. Teach a child to cast a bobber into a still summer lake.
Pick up farm market strawberries, pour cream on them and call it dessert, then call it breakfast. Walk a
fairway with your best friend in the morning dew. Northern Michigan summers are made for living life
in the moment, for kicking back, for being who we most want to be and sharing those moments with the
people we most want to be with. Indulge, immerse, dive in. Let life linger for a while in that sweet light of
todd zawistowski
northern Michigan summertime.
32
Shanty Creek Resorts
Traditions 2013
33
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34
Shanty Creek Resorts
231.377.6611 • 6509 Crystal Springs Road • Bellaire
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35
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A colorful view
of Lake Bellaire
from the Lakeview
Restaurant
SeaSonS
fall colors
When the day arrives, there, in the third week of September, and the calendar reads “Autumn begins,”
northern Michigan nature sets off to prove the point. Maple trees radiate red, and aspens glow yellow, and
oaks turn bronze and the tamaracks and the ash and the beech and the birch … they each transform into
their own particular nuanced hue. And that marvelous, multicolored tapestry, spread across thousands of
miles of northern Michigan forest, and played out along sidewalks in dozens of small towns and reflecting
in the shimmering surface of hundreds of lakes, that is northern Michigan in autumn. Combine that color
show with the scent of smoke from woodstoves stoked against the chill and farm markets stacked with
bushel baskets of some of the world’s best apples and the full bounty of fall harvest, and you have one more
bRian
ian wal
walTeRS. Top lefT: CHRiSTopHeR joHn wilSon
glorious season in northern Michigan. And a million more reasons to take it in.
36
Shanty Creek Resorts
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Bombing the trail
at Glacial Hills
biking and hiking
hit the trails
For mountain bikers, trail runners, hikers and nature
seekers, three nearby trail systems offer premium
outdoor adventures and are top-quality extensions of
the Shanty experience.
Glacial hills Pathway
and natural area
A fresh addition for northern Michigan outdoor
enthusiasts, Glacial Hills’ 763 acres of trail-laced
forest recently opened after an eight-year effort spear
spearheaded by a local land conservancy. Hilly glacial
moraines define this land, making ideal terrain for
thrilling mountain bike trails and hikes to inspiring
overlooks. Currently 12 miles of trail are open, and
trail planners at the Grand Traverse Regional Land
Conservancy expect to extend that. Glacial Hills is 3
miles northwest of Shanty.
lefT: Todd zawisTowski. righT: anjaneTTe merriweaTher.
Grass river natural area
Just a few minutes’ drive to the south of Shanty,
Grass River Natural Area, with an interpretive center,
1,443 acres and 7 miles of gentle trail (including 1.3
miles of wheelchair accessible trail) is one of northern
Michigan’s premier and most well respected nature
centers. Add to the adventure
by paddling or power-boating
south down Lake Bellaire and
into the Grass River to tie up at
the natural area’s dock.
Jordan river
Pathway
When Michigan first estab
established the Wild and Scenic River
designation, the Jordan River
was the first river in the state to
receive that honor. Located just
10 miles northeast of Shanty, the river still runs wild
and clean, embraced by an 18,000-tract of preserved
public land. The Jordan River is renowned for trout
fishing, paddling, and an 18-mile hiking trail called
the Jordan River Pathway.
Traditions 2013
39
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A spectacular sunset
over Summit Mountain
ski and snowboard
let it
snow
T
spread: brian walters. inset: chris hale
he first tracks you make
with friends on fresh
morning corduroy; the
final run of the night,
when the chairlift operator says,
“Last one,” as you slide onto the seat.
Those moments are bookends to days
of downhill runs, sometimes thrilling, sometimes just Zen-relaxing,
but always good and soul-satisfying.
Yes, skiing and snowboarding are
about those moments, but even more,
time on the hill or in the terrain
park is about sharing life with family and friends within a beautiful
landscape at a glorious and fresh
time of year. Gather round a table
in the cafeteria, raise a toast of hot
cocoa to times like these, then get
back on the hill!
Traditions 2013
41
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Kids enjoying the view
atop Schuss Mountain
ski and snowboard
A Day on the Slopes
by sTeve
kershner,
direCTor of
snowsporTs
42
T
here’s a wonderful feeling associated with
skiing. Whether it’s because of the familyfriendly nature, the adrenaline of downhill,
or the nostalgia of a snow-covered wonderland, throngs of people around the world love skiing.
So pulling into the parking lot of Schuss Mountain,
bundled from head-to-toe with hats, gloves, scarves,
and more, everyone comes wearing a smile. A day on
the slopes promises fun and excitement. We watch as
families arrive in droves. Moms and dads, brothers
and sisters, this is a day everyone will spend together.
And Schuss Mountain provides terrain for everyone. Sure, this isn’t Colorado, the Swiss Alps or the
Canadian Rockies. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t great
skiing. SCR’s glacial-carved terrain provides some of
the Midwest’s best slopes: the steep of the Face, the
gentle simplicity of Chicken’s Choice and Belle’s Bottom,
the serenity of River Run, and the always-easy Elf
Buster in the beginner-friendly Magic Carpet
area. Add to that the excitement of
shanty Creek resorts
the Monster Energy Park—Purple Daze, Village Way
and the Natty—and skiers and riders will know they
don’t have to get on a plane to experience a memorable
day on the slopes.
Over in Summit Village, Schuss’ little sister, Summit Mountain, overlooks a frozen Lake Bellaire. Summit’s quaint, classic skiing of yesteryear provides a
quieter, simpler environment to that of Schuss. With
the Lakeview Hotel & Conference Center atop the ridge
and looking down, the original Shanty Creek ski area
still inspires family memories year after year.
For those who know, a day on the
slopes is quality time every time.
Top lefT: brian walTers. boTTom righT: judy sTilwell. below: k2 skis
let the Good times roll
While some rush for the first chair, others prefer the last run of
the day into Ivan’s Mountainside Grill for some après-ski drinks and
entertainment. Ivan’s is SCR’s Austrian-inspired tavern that serves
live entertainment, a warm bite, cold drinks and good times. For many,
Ivan’s après-ski environment alone is the deciding factor for choosing
Shanty Creek for their ski getaways.
Originally known as The Ivanhof, Ivan’s was the home of the
Schussycats, a song and dance dinner-theater troupe. Today Ivan’s
carries forward the après-ski tradition with children’s magicians,
comedians and DJs, plus soloists and bands taking the stage until
the wee hours. For sports fans Ivan’s features the largest TV in
Antrim County displaying in HD.
When it comes to filling your belly, Ivan’s menu covers all the bases.
Featuring tavern-style appetizers, burgers and grilled sandwiches,
plus four variations of award-winning mac & cheeses. For quenching a thirst that only a day on the slopes can create, Ivan’s proudly
pours Michigan-brewed craft beers, along with other beer, wines and
mixed drinks. Don’t be surprised if the table next to you shares a
“shot-ski”—a ski that’s been retrofitted with shot glasses designed to
be shot simultaneously.
You can be sure bartenders and the wait staff will serve up cold
drinks, warm smiles and good times until last call.
Ivan’s Mountainside Grill
On Top of
Summit Mountain
By Patti Savant
if not for the imagination and foresight of roy
deskin, shanty Creek would not exist. a successful steel warehouse manufacturer from detroit,
deskin purchased his first bellaire real estate in
1944, where he built a retreat to entertain family,
friends and colleagues.
enjoying the area’s scenery and vibe, he
decided the area needed something more,
something special, to attract people to the area.
such a resort complex would need an attractive
lodge with elegant dining, high quality golf, plus
swimming and skiing facilities. he purchased a
large tract of hilly woodland atop what’s known
today as summit mountain and proceeded to plan
his resort complex.
one point on which area historians disagree is
why the lodge was built atop the ski slopes.
some believe that deskin chose the top of the
planned ski slopes despite repeated advice from
associates; they were adamant that a ski lodge
had to be at the bottom of the slopes. They said
that skiers want to make a last downhill run before
joining the après-ski festivities. ignoring them,
deskin decided that the view from the top was
more important and closed the debate with an
emphatic, “… besides, it’s my money!”
but that’s not the end of the story.
There is perhaps another reason why the
lodge is at the top of the hill. an ulterior motive,
if you will. at that time there wasn’t an available
liquor license at the base of the hill (Custer Township). but a license could be obtained at the top
(kearney Township).
i tend to believe all these factors played into
the final decision to put shanty’s lodge in the
dramatic place it now stands high atop the ridge.
Traditions 2013
43
traditions
traditions
Stomping it at the Monster
Energy Park at Schuss Mountain
Big smiles
prevail at
Cedar River’s
Tubing Park
ski and snowboard
biG
44
shanty Creek resorts
ski and snowboard
But Wait, There’s More!
A
Top: Chris hale. below righT: isToCkphoTo.
In the late 70’s, Jake Burton, the
“father of snowboarding,” had improved
the design of the Snurfer and began selling the first snowboards. From there a
gradual shift from two skis to one board
took hold, and a new freedom on the slopes
exploded at ski resorts across the world.
Wanting to perform airborne tricks
like those seen at skateboard parks,
slopestyle skiers and riders pushed resorts
to develop terrain parks at ski resorts.
Terrain parks include various jumps and
obstacles, known as features, for skiers
and boarders to take advantage of. Among
these features are rails, boxes, tables, and
various sized kickers, or jumps.
For slopestyle skiers and riders, spins,
grabs, grinds, and flips are the moves
that create heroes. These tricks when
“stomped,” meaning completed successfully, receive rave applause. But beware,
when failed the applause can be even
louder. (Note: Flips, aka inverts, are not
permitted within any of Shanty Creek’s
terrain parks.)
Within SCR’s two mountains are six
terrain parks—five at Schuss and one at
Summit. The monster of them all is The
Monster Energy Park at Schuss Mountain,
where today’s boarders and twin-tip skiers
experience Michigan’s best park design
featuring multiple jumps, rails, boxes
and tables. Add an extended jump-line
and an all-natural “natty” park through
the glades, and it’s easy to understand
why Schuss’s reputation as a leader in the
region has spread.
Adding to the buzz in 2013, the Big
Air Launch Pad will push SCR’s status
with riders throughout the Midwest. Its
two kickers will give spectators outside of
Ivan’s something to behold. Also making
its debut in 2013 is Low Rider, a beginner
park that features smaller jumps and rails
so newbies can learn to go big too.
todd zawistowski
Go
s if two mountains and 55 ski runs weren’t
enough, SCR’s winter wonderland has
much, much more fun and excitement to
jumpstart your family memories. So take
off those skis and boots, and get ready to explore the
rest of Shanty Creek’s 4,500 acres.
The sound of laughter and big smiles can be found
in Cedar River’s Tubing Park. The 8-lane park delivers
the exhilaration of childhood sledding with the ease
of handle-tows bringing you back to the top to do it
again! Ride alone, race against your kids, or form a
large band of tubes. There’s no wrong way to go down.
Looking for more excitement? How about snowmobiling! Even if you’re new to snowmobiling, Blue
Sky Rentals can introduce you to the adrenaline of
sledding with a 30-minute introductory guided tour.
For hardcore sledders who already know their way
around a two-stroke engine, sleds can be rented for
4- or 8-hour explorations of the nearby Jordan Valley
Trail System.
Still got film in the camera? (I know, I know.) Bundle
up and take a horse-drawn sleigh ride. Or swing by The
Lodge at Cedar River’s Nordic Center and strap-on a
pair of snowshoes to hike SCR’s 4,500 acres of snowcovered meadows. Or choose classic cross-country or
skate-skiing over 30km of pristine Nordic trails.
By now you might be exhausted. Reboot your system with a massage at the Wellness Spa in Summit
Village. Then sit down for an elegant dining experience
in the Lakeview Restaurant as you watch the sun set
behind an ice-covered Lake Bellaire. You’ve earned it.
Traditions 2013
45
traditions
traditions
2013 events calendar
January
may
January 12 – 13 – MXR
Snow Cross, Summit
Mountain
May 10 – 19 – Lilac
Festival, Mackinac Island
August 23 – 24 – Summer Microbrew & Music
Festival, Traverse City
May 18 – Shanty-toShort’s 5k & 10k Fun Run
sePtember
May 18 – 19 – Blossom Days, Old Mission
Peninsula
September 14 – 15
– Harvest Stompede,
Leelanau Peninsula
May 25 – Petoskey Stone
Festival, Eastport
September 28 – Harvest
Festival, Bellaire
May 25 – Bayshore
Marathon, Traverse City
october
January 19 – Beer &
Boards, Ivan’s in Schuss
Village
January 21 – The Sardine
Special, Schuss Mountain
the
white Pine
stamPede
The Red Lift
Ask local skiers to list their favorite runs at Shanty Creek Resorts, and you’re likely
to hear The Red Lift at Schuss Mountain. That is, if they’re willing to tell you. Largely
considered a secret, the Red Lift on the north face of Schuss provides skiers a quiet solitude.
Here, the shadows are longer, the forests are thicker, and the snow is seemingly deeper.
Riding up the Red Lift almost feels like you’re at another ski resort altogether. No homes,
condos or hotels can be seen. And runs such as Red Hot, Hunchback, Legend, and Nagano
give skiers and riders challenging steeps, while recent additions like Salsa, Little Red Riding
Woods, and Run, Forest, Run offer varying terrain within the awe-inspiring setting.
Just don’t tell anyone.
46
shanty Creek resorts
February 2 – White Pine
Stampede, Mancelona
October 5 – Oktoberfest,
Shanty Creek Resorts
February 16 – Romancing the Riesling, Old
Mission Peninsula
June
May 30 – June 2 –
Mancelona Bass Festival
October 11 – 13 – Apple
Festival, Charlevoix
February 15 – 17 Cherry Capital Winter
WOW!Fest, Traverse City
June 22 – Wine & Art
Festival, Traverse City
november
June 29 – July 6 Cherry
Festival, Traverse City
November 2 – Iceman
Cometh, Kalkaska
march
March 2 – Slush Cup by
Monster Energy, Schuss
Mountain
March 9 – The Cardboard Classic, Schuss
Mountain
Top righT: judy sTilwell. middle and boTTom: brian walTers
chris hale. inset: white pine stampede.
ski and snowboard
for nordic skiers,
few events offer a
true point-to-point
experience. and
only one race in
michigan has been
doing it for the past
35 years.
begun in 1977,
the white pine
stampede traverses
the hills and valleys
of antrim County.
originally a 50km
race, the event, now
in its fifth decade,
features three
distances: 10km,
20km and 40km.
The starting gun
fires at mancelona
high school and the
three-races finish
throughout shanty
Creek resorts’
4,500 acres.
The groomed trail
draws hundreds of
racers to the area
before celebrating
their accomplishments and sharing
camaraderie at shanty Creek resorts
with laughter and
beer from short’s
brewing Company,
a sponsor of the
event. proceeds
from the event benefit the Children’s
hospital of michigan
foundation.
february
March 16 – March Madness, Schuss Mountain
March 23 – 24 – Schuss
Mountain Snow Challenge presented by
Griztek USA
aPril
April 24 – 28 – National
Trout Festival, Kalkaska
April 26 – Short’s to
Short’s Paddle, Bellaire/
Elk Rapids
April 27 – Short’s 9th
Anniversary Party,
Bellaire
July
July 5 – SCR Fireworks
Festival
July 16 – 20 – Alpenfest,
Gaylord
July 20 – 27 – Venetian
Festival, Charlevoix
July 27 – 28 – Alden
Days, Alden
July 30 – Aug 4 – Traverse City Film Festival
July 31 – Aug 3 – Harbor
Days, Elk Rapids
auGust
August 8 – 10 – Antrim
County Fair
August 17 – Rubber
Ducky Festival, Bellaire
August 16 – 18 – Festival
on the Bay, Petoskey
Snowcross on
Summit Mountain
November 23 – Short’s
Brew-Ski Bash, Bellaire
November 23 – The
Great Macaroni & Cheese
Bake Off, Old Mission
Peninsula
Fireworks over The
Lodge at Cedar River
december
December 14 – Light Up
the Night & Soup Cook
Off, Bellaire
December 14 – Tannenbaum Blitzen, Shanty
Creek Resorts
December 25 – Ski
Free with Santa, Schuss
Mountain
December 31 – New
Year’s Eve at Shanty
Creek Resorts
For more events
and updates, visit
shantycreek.com
Slush Cup at
Schuss Mountain
Traditions 2013
47
traditions
brian walters
As the sun sets on Shanty Creek’s first 50 years, we pause to enjoy life Up North,
while tomorrow promises a new day and the beginning of future traditions.
Sunset over Lake Bellaire
48
shanty Creek resorts
r
t
o
'
h
s
s
W
BRE
ING COMPA
121 N BRIDGE ST
BELLAIRE, MI 49615
open
7 days
HANDCRAFTED
FOOD
NY
20 BEERS
ON TAP
live
music
LIFE IS SHORT’S, DRINK IT WHILE YOU’RE HERE
(231)498-2300
WWW.SHORTSBREWING.COM
it’s a beautiful day
est. 1963