About me: I am an experienced skier of 20 years, having skied "out west" Utah and Colorado, New England, and several small eastern and Midwestern "resorts". My viewpoint is it's better to ski a small hill (great to work on technique and get lessons...yes, even advanced skiers can use coaching!) than sit on the couch. I have a 4 year old that I just started in the ski school.
I recently moved to Ann Arbor area and I've been to mt Brighton once...I never saw "non-epic" Brighton to compare.
Here is my review, covering each amenity...
1) Lift ticket line: Lines were relatively long, so I can understand frustration at first as exhibited by reviews below. HOWEVER, don't let this deter you. What reviews do not mention below is that the "preferred program" pass (free) has the option to add a credit card to your pass! Stand in line once...then after that, you can skip the line and just get your pass scanned by the snow on future visits and it automatically charges you the discounted preferred pass rate. I was at lift in 5min while others waited in line at window. That's what I'd call EPIC. This RFID tech is what I see a lot of out west at the large resorts, and I find it very convenient when hauling my kiddo (she has her own pass, too!).
2) Ski School: Mixed feelings, but very happy now. When I called to inquire (two separate occasions), I spoke with a gentleman who was a bit overbearing, rude, and quite frankly, nearly drove me away to another local area to seek lessons. But I let it slide since this place is so close to my house. Great decision. The ski school desk folks were VERY nice, helpful, and really made setting up my young daughter's pass and lessons simple. But in fairness, it was a weekday and things were slow. The 3/4 year old group lessons were fantastic...I was a bit weary of who the instructors would be as 3/4 age group needs a "teacher" that can handle toddlers. On two separate weekday lessons, we got "Chris" and he was awesome with the kids...very patient. My daughter now LOVES skiing...I thank him.
3) Ski Hill: Small, short...but entertaining for a few hours! I was blessed with great snow, and a couple of the steepest runs had bumps. That was a fun opportunity to work on technique! But once again, I had really low expectations! The new quad chairs were nice...other patrons said this was a huge improvement. I can imagine this is true based on some of the older lifts I experienced on backside. In the end, I'd say comparable to any other resort in SE Mich, so considering cheap tickets with preferred program and the proximity to my house, no point driving any farther.
4) Terrain Park: looks well designed and modern, but not my thing so I'll leave it at that.
5) Dining: At first, we turned "right" into what appears to be old side by the ski shop. Not impressed...mainly area high school ski racing clubs were setup with their snacks, etc. Then we went to "other" side...wow, what a difference. This is where the money was spent. Much nicer and new, but a bit "cold" for my taste...in other words, I prefer more log cabin style "warmth" but this is more modern cafeteria vibe. Full bar was a pleasant surprise...a few beers on tap, but not the craft beer selection I've become accustomed to here in Michigan. Lunch was decent, but once again, I'm used to mediocre over-priced lodge cafeteria fare.
6) EPIC: Great move Vail - well played. I think Epic Mix is fun - checking vertical is cool and some badges are funny! I think Epic Pass deals are brilliant. Considering my last trip to SLC (Alta, PCMR, Solitude) cost me over $450/person for 5 days. If I have a trip planned, I'd happily choose an Epic family resort now if for $600, I can ski locally all season for free. Very smart business move - it's working.
All in all, I am very happy with our experience...I've gone skiing twice there now, and my daughter will be going for her 3rd lesson in as many weeks. Hope Vail keeps it up, as some of these positives may wear off in time if Vail isn't committed to the concept. read more