The City of Traverse City is targeting a December 19 opening date for Hickory Hills Ski Area, assuming favorable conditions for snow and snowmaking.

To prepare for the ski season, disc golf baskets have been removed at Hickory Hills. Season passes for the ski area are on sale now. Alpine season passholders can also use Nordic trails at no additional charge. The city will open the Hickory lodge on Monday, December 8 for season pass purchases/pickup and merchandise sales. That will be followed by a public open house on Wednesday, December 10 "for the community to meet the team, learn more about the season, check out the offerings of concessions, and see equipment such as a PistenBully up close," according to the city's Bay Brief. "Season pass purchases, pass pickup, and merchandise sales will also be available."

Once the season begins, day passes can be purchased onsite at the ticket window. A variety of rentals are available for both alpine and Nordic skiing. During winter break, Hickory Hills will be generally operating though closed on the dates of December 24, 25, and 31 and January 1. When TCAPS has scheduled days off, the ski area will open at 11am. New this season, Hickory will open early at 1pm on scheduled TCAPS half/early release days. Early openings will not take place on snow days.

City software now allows for waivers to be completed online ahead of time and money added to passholder accounts to use at Hickory (such as for snacks and merch). Those looking to score gear ahead of the season can check out the annual VASA Ski Club swap event on Saturday, November 22 at Brick Wheels. VSC members get in one hour early at 9am, followed by general public hours of 10am-1pm. New and used cross-country ski gear (boots, poles, skis, bindings, bags, roller skis, etc.) will be featured. Gear can be dropped off to be sold on Friday, November 21 from 4pm to 7pm.