“Avalanche Bay is an absolute blast! My kids had the time of their lives and can’t stop talking about it! The slides are thrilling and the whole place is so clean and well maintained.”
– Jessica M.
“We had so much fun at Avalanche Bay! There is something for everyone, and the service was great. The staff was very friendly and made our experience fantastic!”
– Mark L.
Avalanche Bay Overview
Avalanche Bay is one of the largest indoor water parks in Michigan, located in the heart of Boyne Falls. Spanning over 88,000 square feet, this incredible water park is part of the Boyne Mountain Resort, making it a perfect destination for families looking for excitement, relaxation, and fun. Whether you are seeking to surf, slide, or simply float, Avalanche Bay has something for everyone.
The water park features a variety of thrilling attractions, including a wave pool, lazy river, and multiple water slides that cater to all ages and preferences. Families can bond together on the larger slides or lounge in the lazy river while soaking up the sun through the high glass ceilings of the park.
Aside from the water attractions, visitors can enjoy amenities such as dining options, a toddler area for the little ones, and a spacious area for sunbathing. The park operates year-round, offering consistent fun regardless of the weather outside.
Themed around mountain adventures, Avalanche Bay immerses guests in a wintry landscape, perfect for families who want to enjoy the thrill of the slopes while staying indoors. The design incorporates various mountain motifs that create a cozy yet exciting atmosphere.
In addition to exhilarating experiences in the water park, visitors can access other activities and entertainment options at Boyne Mountain Resort. Whether you take in the stunning natural scenery, enjoy cozy lodging, or embark on outdoor adventures, Avalanche Bay serves as an ideal hub for winter and summer getaways.
Overall, Avalanche Bay combines a variety of attractions, family-friendly amenities, and a beautiful setting that makes it an excellent destination for vacationers looking to escape the ordinary and indulge in a thrilling aquatic adventure.
How to Plan a Visit To Avalanche Bay
Planning a visit to Avalanche Bay involves several key considerations to ensure that your trip is enjoyable and memorable. Here are steps and tips to help you plan your visit effectively:
- Check the website for schedules and hours: Before heading to the park, visit Avalanche Bay’s official website to check operating hours and any seasonal closures or special events that may be taking place. This will help you determine the best time for your visit.
- Buy tickets in advance: To save time and potentially money, consider purchasing tickets online ahead of your visit. Avalanche Bay often offers discounts for advanced bookings, special promotions, or package deals when combined with accommodations at Boyne Mountain Resort.
- Consider your accommodation options: Stay within Boyne Mountain Resort for convenience, as it is just a short walk to Avalanche Bay. The resort offers various accommodations, ranging from lodge-style rooms to condos, making it easy to find a perfect fit for your family or group.
- Pack essentials: Bring along necessary items for a water park visit, such as swimsuits, towels, flip-flops, sunscreen, and any water toys your children might want. It is also recommended to pack a change of clothes and anything needed for a comfortable day at the park.
- Plan for food and drinks: Avalanche Bay has dining options available, but if you prefer a more economical approach, consider bringing snacks and drinks. Many visitors take advantage of the picnic areas and enjoy a meal before or after their fun in the water.
- Age-specific preparations: If you have young children, be sure to check what attractions and areas are suitable for their age group. Avalanche Bay has a dedicated area for toddlers, which features smaller slides and shallow water, ensuring a safe environment for the younger visitors.
- Set a timeline for your day: Make a loose plan for how you want to spend your time at the park. While it’s important to be flexible, having a rough idea of what slides and attractions your group wants to try can help ensure you get the most out of your visit.
- Check weather conditions: While Avalanche Bay is an indoor water park, checking outside weather can still influence your visit, especially if you plan to enjoy other outdoor activities at Boyne Mountain Resort.
By taking these steps into account, you can make the most of your visit to Avalanche Bay while ensuring that you and your family have an amazing time filled with fun and laughter.
What to Do During a Visit to Avalanche Bay
At Avalanche Bay, there is no shortage of exciting activities for visitors of all ages. Here are some must-try attractions and things to do during your visit:
- Speed Slide: For adrenaline junkies, the Speed Slide is a must-try experience. Featuring steep drops and high-speed descents, this slide delivers an exhilarating rush that will keep thrill-seekers coming back for more.
- The Big Couloir: This slide boasts a 360-degree spin, providing a unique and exciting experience for those brave enough to tackle it. Hold on tight as you whiz around the corners, making this a thrilling choice for friends and family.
- Adventure River: Take a break from the action by floating down the gentle currents of the Adventure River. With its relaxing pace and stunning themed landscaping, it makes for a perfect way to unwind while still having fun.
- Wave Pool: Enjoy the beach-like experience of the wave pool, which mimics ocean waves, making it perfect for swimming or splashing around with family and friends.
- Kids’ Island: This area is designed explicitly for younger children to explore. With smaller slides, shallow pools, and interactive water features, parents can relax knowing their little ones are safe and entertained.
- Relax in the Hot Tubs: After a day packed with excitement, unwind in one of the hot tubs available throughout the park. It’s a great way to relax those weary muscles after hours of thrilling fun.
- Dining Options: Take a break and refuel at one of the park’s dining options. You can find a variety of kid-friendly meals, as well as snacks and refreshing beverages. Dining areas are conveniently situated for visitors to enjoy a meal without straying too far from the action.
- Shopping for Souvenirs: Don’t forget to check out the gift shop for fun souvenirs to remember your trip by. Whether you’re looking for a cute swimsuit or a plush toy, there are plenty of options to choose from.
- Special Events: Keep an eye out for special events hosted at Avalanche Bay, such as themed nights, parties, or contests. These can offer even more excitement and interaction during your visit.
- Outdoor Adventures: If time allows, explore Boyne Mountain Resort with its extensive outdoor activities such as hiking, zip-lining, or skiing. The beautiful surrounding nature offers ample opportunities for unforgettable adventures outside the water park.
By taking part in these attractions and activities, you can ensure that your visit to Avalanche Bay is packed with excitement and fun for everyone in your group. No matter your interests, this water park provides a memorable experience that captures the essence of adventure and family bonding.
When To Visit to Avalanche Bay
Choosing the best time to visit Avalanche Bay depends on various factors including crowds, weather, and special events. Here are some things to consider:
Many families visit during the summer months, as this is when school is out and vacation time for families is at its peak. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, such as early spring or late fall. These times typically have fewer crowds, allowing you to enjoy the attractions with less waiting time.
If you are interested in combining your water park experience with outdoor adventures, winter is an excellent time to visit, especially since Avalanche Bay is located at Boyne Mountain Resort. Visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, followed by relaxing indoor fun at the water park.
Holidays and school breaks may result in increased demand and larger crowds. Popular holidays such as Christmas, New Year’s, and spring break tend to draw more visitors to the park. If you plan to visit during these peak times, be sure to book accommodations and tickets well in advance to secure your spot.
Weekend visits can be busier due to local guests and tourists, making weekdays an excellent option for anyone seeking a quieter experience. Additionally, note that special events like birthday parties and promotional days can attract larger crowds. Checking the park’s event calendar can help you plan your visit accordingly.
Overall, consider your preferences and schedule to decide the most suitable time for your visit to Avalanche Bay. Whether you seek fun in the summer sun or winter entertainment, the park offers an unforgettable experience year-round.
Amenities and Facilities in Avalanche Bay
Avalanche Bay provides a range of amenities and facilities designed to enhance the overall experience for guests. Here are some key features you’ll find at the water park:
- Changing Rooms: Conveniently located changing rooms and lockers provide visitors with a place to store personal belongings while enjoying the park.
- Dining Options: Visitors can fuel up at the various dining venues within the park, with a menu offering kid-friendly snacks, meals, and refreshing drinks for everyone to enjoy.
- Gift Shop: The park’s gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs, swimsuits, and necessary items for a day of fun. It’s a great way to find delightful mementos of your visit.
- Hot Tubs: Relaxing hot tubs are scattered throughout the park, providing a spot to unwind after a day filled with adventure.
- Interactive Attractions: Avalanche Bay includes many interactive water features such as water cannons, splash pads, and small slides to engage visitors of all ages, particularly the little ones.
- Safety Measures: The park ensures guest safety through lifeguard supervision and clearly marked safety information throughout the facility.
- Family-Friendly Environment: The layout of the park is designed with families in mind, providing areas for both excitement and relaxation. Parents can enjoy leisurely time while keeping an eye on their children.
- Events and Parties: The park hosts various events and private party options for birthdays or group gatherings. You can plan special occasions here for extra fun.
- Accessible Facilities: Avalanche Bay is committed to ensuring accessibility for all guests, with convenient entrances, ramps, and modified attractions to accommodate everyone.
- Wi-Fi Availability: For guests who want to stay connected during their visit, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the park.
With these amenities and facilities, Avalanche Bay aims to make your visit enjoyable and comfortable. Whether you plan to spend the whole day or just a few hours, the well-designed facilities cater to the needs of every guest.
Important Tips to Consider During a Visit To Avalanche Bay
Prepare for a Full Day of Fun
Make sure you are ready for a full day by ensuring everyone in your group is well-rested and fueled with a good breakfast. This preparation will set a positive tone for the day ahead and help everyone to enjoy all the attractions at Avalanche Bay.
Another element of preparation is to plan your arrival time. To maximize your time at the park, aim to arrive just when it opens, as many of the slides and pools will have shorter wait times early in the day. Starting early also allows you to claim the best spots for lounging and relaxing throughout the park.
Dress Comfortably
Choosing the right clothing can make a significant difference during your visit. Be sure to wear comfortable swimwear and bring additional layers if you plan to use the hot tubs or sit in chilly areas of the park. Flip-flops or water shoes are also a good option for walking around to help protect your feet while soaking up the good vibes.
Life jackets are often provided by the park for children or anyone who requires them, but if you have a personal one that fits your child well, consider bringing it along. This will provide additional comfort and peace of mind during their time in the water.
Follow Safety Guidelines
Each attraction at Avalanche Bay has its own height and safety requirements. Make sure to familiarize yourself with these guidelines, especially if you’re visiting with children. Discuss these rules with your kids, so they understand what they can and cannot do.
Supervising young children is essential, particularly in areas with deeper water or larger attractions. Lifeguards are present throughout the park, so feel free to ask for help or guidance when needed. Following the safety protocols not only helps keep everyone safe but also allows everyone to have a more enjoyable experience.
How to Get to Avalanche Bay
Getting to Avalanche Bay is easy and convenient, especially if you are traveling to Boyne Mountain Resort, which is the location for the water park. If you are driving, the resort is located near Interstate 75, and you can follow the signs to Boyne Falls. Here are the details:
For those flying, the nearest major airport is Pellston Regional Airport (PLN), about 30 minutes away. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service directly to the resort. Alternatively, the larger Traverse City Airport (TVC) is about an hour and 15 minutes away, offering more flight options.
The complete address for Avalanche Bay is:
Avalanche Bay Water Park
1 Boyne Mountain Rd, Boyne Falls, MI 49713
What People are Saying
“Avalanche Bay was the highlight of our trip! Everything was great, and we loved the variety of slides!”– Melissa K.
“I took my children and we had the best time! There were so many things for them to do!”– Jake R.
“Great day spent with family, the water was warm and the slides were exciting!”– Sarah T.
“A fantastic indoor water park! Clean facilities and friendly staff!”– Robert F.
“Can’t wait to go back! The slides were the best part for my thrill-seeking teens!”– Karen A.
“A perfect family getaway destination with plenty of entertainment!”– Linda W.
Other Nearby Attractions to Check Out
Boyne Mountain Resort
Boyne Mountain Resort offers a plethora of activities beyond Avalanche Bay. In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing across a variety of slopes. In the summer, hiking, mountain biking, and golfing become popular choices for those looking to explore the great outdoors.
The resort also features numerous dining options, shopping locations, and events throughout the year, making it a vibrant destination for all seasons.
Address: 1 Boyne Mountain Rd, Boyne Falls, MI 49713
Kent County Parks
Located a short drive from Avalanche Bay, Kent County Parks offers beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities perfect for families and individuals alike. Visitors can hike, picnic, or spend the day enjoying water activities at nearby lakes.
The parks feature several playgrounds, making it an excellent option for kids to burn off some energy after a day at the water park.
Address: Multiple locations across Kent County, MI
Petoskey State Park
A bit further along the coast of Lake Michigan, Petoskey State Park provides visitors with scenic views, hiking trails, and beach access. It is known for its stunning sunsets and is a recognized spot for finding Petoskey stones, a unique fossilized coral that is a local treasure.
This state park creates a lovely day trip option for anyone heading to Avalanche Bay and wanting some beautiful nature experiences.
Address: 2475 State Park Rd, Petoskey, MI 49770
Final Thoughts
Avalanche Bay provides a unique and memorable experience for families and adventure seekers alike. With its extensive variety of attractions, thoughtful amenities, and commitment to guest satisfaction, this indoor water park has truly become a beloved destination in Michigan. From thrilling waterslides to relaxation spots, there is something for everyone to enjoy!
For those who complete their adventure at Avalanche Bay, plenty of nearby attractions further enhance your visit, ensuring a fun-filled trip for all. Whether you are heading to Boyne Mountain Resort or taking in the surrounding nature, every moment spent in this region is an opportunity for adventure and excitement.
For more travel tips and destination ideas, don’t miss exploring The Tourist Checklist for exciting recommendations and travel inspiration!