Swiss Valley Ski & Snowboard Area

As part of your winter stay in Southwest Michigan, plan a day to enjoy the fresh air while swooshing down the slopes at Swiss Valley Ski & Snowboard Area in Jones. Swiss Valley is open seven days a week and offers equipment rentals, a ski and board shop with a service center and onsite dining. For people new to downhill sports, Swiss Valley has a strong reputation in the region for being one of the best places to learn how to ski or snowboard.

Swiss Valley’s at-a-glance snow report will provide you with everything you need to know about which trails and lifts are open, the current base, new snowfall amounts, daily hours and other relevant timely updates. 

The Closest Michigan Skiing and Boarding Slopes to Chicago and Indiana

When looking for a place to ski in Michigan, you will find that Swiss Valley ranks as the best place to go in Southern Michigan. The slopes are such a popular destination that they draw people from Indiana and the Chicago area. The reason for Swiss Valley’s popularity is the number of runs, variety of terrain types and the highest slopes in Southwest Michigan. 

Swiss Valley Lift Tickets & Rentals

Lift ticket rates vary depending on the day of the week and time of day. There are reduced rates for juniors (age: 6-12), and children 5 & under ski free with paying adults. Discounts are available for groups, homeschoolers, college students, seniors and active military. Ski or snowboard rental is $25 and helmet rental is $10. These rates are subject to change.

Swiss Valley Shop & Service Center

Swiss Valley has its own onsite ski and board shop located in the lower lodge. You can purchase new and consignment gear, equipment, clothing and apparel along with Swiss Valley branded souvenirs. There are even opportunities to try out equipment before you buy. If you have skis, boards, boots and poles that you are no longer using, the shop may be able to sell them for you and turn your used equipment into a Swiss Valley gift card (some restrictions apply).

Swiss Valley knows how important it is that your gear performs well and therefore offers a wide range of services to ensure that you get the best out of your equipment.  Services include waxing, sharpening, repair and more. 

PSIA & AASI Directed Instructors

If you are new to skiing and snowboarding, take advantage of the lessons offered at Swiss Valley. These programs, starting for as little as $25, are available for individuals of all skill levels and are taught by instructors certified by the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) and the American Association of Snowboard Instructors (AASI). Programs include private and semi-private lessons for kids age 8 and younger, Valley Kids for kids age 8 and older, and progressive lessons that can be tailored to individual skill levels, abilities and needs. To schedule a lesson, call 269-244-5635 Ext. 245.

For advice for beginners, check out the blog First-Time Skiers and Snowboarders: Tips Before Your First Run Down the Slopes. 

Swiss Valley Slopes & Terrain Parks

Swiss Valley has a varied terrain that is perfect for skiers and riders of all skill levels. There are 11 groomed runs, a peak of 225 vertical feet and the trails are lighted so that you can enjoy skiing at night. The slopes are serviced by two quad chairlifts, one triple chairlift and four rope tows in the learning area. For more advanced skiers and boarders, there are two terrain parks — The Ditch & Shanda’s Nomadic Park, which have 42 features in rotation.

Onsite Dining & Fireplace Lounge

Dining is available onsite with a superb view of the ski area. The Chalet menu features appetizers, burgers (the Chalet burger is rated as the best burger in Cass County), salads and more. You can also enjoy beer and wine including a variety of locally produced products. If you are in a hurry to get back to the slopes, try Cafe 225’ and its grab-and-go selection. To avoid the lunch rush, come in before noon or after 1:30 p.m. On weekends, Cafe 225’ even features a variety of breakfast options. 

Another lodge favorite is relaxing and warming up at the Fireside Room, which features large picture windows that overlook the race hill and terrain parks. Be sure to take a moment to appreciate the more than 50 years of winter sports fun at Swiss Valley by viewing the historic photos that line the walls. 

Additionally, there is a party room that you can rent for birthday parties and other celebrations. Look forward to a beer garden and picnic area that are planned to open soon. 

More Winter Fun in Southwest Michigan

Because Swiss Valley is located only an hour to the east of St. Joseph and Benton Harbor, we highly recommend planning a ski trip during your visit to Southwest Michigan. While here, take advantage of the wealth of winter activities the region offers including family-friendly events, a Makers Trail featuring locally crafted wines, beers, ciders and spirits, and the inspiring art and culture along the Creative Connections path. Because there is so much to enjoy, be sure to book a room at one of our nearby hotels so you can have more fun tomorrow. Our winter sunsets, by the way, are definitely worth staying for!