We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. This helps support what we do and in no way costs you a thing.
Wisconsin is home to some of the best ski resorts in the Midwest, offering a wide range of skiing options for all levels of skiers. With its picturesque landscapes, great snow conditions, and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s no surprise that Wisconsin is a popular destination for skiing enthusiasts.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, Wisconsin has something for everyone. From budget-friendly ski resorts to luxury ski resorts, there are plenty of options to choose from. With so many choices, it can be difficult to decide which ski resort to visit. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you choose the best Wisconsin ski resorts for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- Wisconsin is home to some of the best ski resorts in the Midwest, offering a wide range of skiing options for all levels of skiers.
- Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly ski resort or a luxury ski resort, there are plenty of options to choose from in Wisconsin.
- To make the most of your ski trip to Wisconsin, be sure to choose the right ski resort for your needs and follow skiing safety tips.
Why Choose Wisconsin for Skiing?
Wisconsin is a great destination for skiing, with its many ski resorts offering a variety of terrains and amenities. Here are some reasons why you should consider Wisconsin for your next skiing adventure:
- Affordability: Wisconsin ski resorts are known for being affordable, making them a great choice for budget-conscious skiers. Many resorts offer discounted lift tickets, lodging, and packages, making it easier to enjoy a ski vacation without breaking the bank.
- Family-friendly: Wisconsin ski resorts are family-friendly, with many offering activities for kids and adults alike. Some resorts have dedicated children’s areas, ski schools, and child care services, making it easy for parents to enjoy some time on the slopes while their kids are taken care of.
- Variety of terrains: Wisconsin ski resorts offer a variety of terrains, from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging runs for advanced skiers. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll find something to suit your skill level and preferences.
- Great snow conditions: Wisconsin ski resorts typically have great snow conditions, thanks to their location in the Midwest and the use of snowmaking equipment. Many resorts also offer night skiing, allowing you to hit the slopes even after the sun goes down.
- Convenient location: Wisconsin ski resorts are located within easy driving distance of major cities like Chicago and Minneapolis, making them a convenient choice for skiers from the Midwest and beyond. Some resorts even offer shuttle services from nearby airports.
Overall, Wisconsin is a great choice for skiing, offering affordability, family-friendliness, a variety of terrains, great snow conditions, and a convenient location. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, you’re sure to have a great time on the slopes of Wisconsin.
Top Rated Ski Resorts
If you’re planning a ski trip to Wisconsin, you’re in luck! The state has some of the best ski resorts in the Midwest. Here are the top-rated ski resorts in Wisconsin:
Granite Peak
Location: 227200 Snowbird Avenue, Wausau
Granite Peak is the granddaddy of all resorts in Wisconsin. It is known for its sheer size and vertical drop. With 58 runs that drop down off 700-foot Rib Mountain, it has one of the best lift systems in the Midwest. It has plenty of space for beginners and offers a good variety of terrain. However, it is relatively expensive compared to other resorts in the state. The resort is open from November 23, 2022, to April 9, 2023.
Devil’s Head Resort
Location: S6330 Bluff Rd, Merrimac
Devil’s Head Resort is another top-rated ski resort in Wisconsin. It has a vertical drop of 500 feet and 30 runs that cater to skiers of all levels. The resort has a ski school that offers lessons to beginners. It has a good variety of terrain, including tree-lined runs and open bowls. The resort also has a terrain park for snowboarders. The resort is open from December 10, 2022, to March 19, 2023.
Whitecap Mountains Resort
Location: 9106 County Rd E, Upson
Whitecap Mountains Resort is a hidden gem in Wisconsin. It is located in the far north of the state and is known for its lake-effect snow. The resort has a vertical drop of 400 feet and 43 runs that cater to skiers of all levels. It has a good variety of terrain, including tree-lined runs and open bowls. The resort also offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The resort is open from December 17, 2022, to March 19, 2023.
Each resort has its unique features and caters to skiers of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll find a resort that suits your needs.
Family Friendly Ski Resorts
If you’re planning a family ski trip to Wisconsin, you’ll want to choose a resort that caters to all ages and skill levels. Here are two family-friendly ski resorts that are worth checking out:
Cascade Mountain
Location: W10441 Cascade Mountain Rd, Portage
Cascade Mountain is a great choice for families with kids of all ages. With 47 trails and 10 lifts, there’s plenty of terrain for beginners and intermediate skiers. The resort also has a large terrain park for more advanced skiers and snowboarders.
One of the best things about Cascade Mountain is the variety of activities available off the slopes. The resort has a tubing hill, a terrain park, and a snowboard park. There’s also a large lodge with a restaurant, bar, and plenty of seating for families to relax and warm up.
Christmas Mountain
Location: S944 Christmas Mountain Village Rd. Wisconsin Dells
Located in the Wisconsin Dells, Christmas Mountain is a popular family ski resort that offers a wide range of activities for all ages. With 16 runs and 4 lifts, the resort is ideal for beginners and intermediate skiers.
In addition to skiing, Christmas Mountain has a variety of other winter activities, including snow tubing, ice skating, and snowshoeing. The resort also has a large indoor pool and hot tub, perfect for relaxing after a day on the slopes.
One of the best things about Christmas Mountain is the variety of accommodations available. The resort has a range of condos, villas, and townhouses to suit families of all sizes. Plus, with a variety of dining options on-site, you won’t have to worry about cooking after a long day of skiing.
Budget Friendly Ski Resorts
If you’re looking for affordable ski resorts in Wisconsin, there are several options that won’t break the bank. Here are two budget-friendly ski resorts to consider:
Nordic Mountain
Location: W5806 County Rd W, Wild Rose
Nordic Mountain is located in Wild Rose, Wisconsin, and is a great option for families or beginners. The resort has 18 runs, with a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced terrain. Lift tickets are reasonably priced, with adult tickets starting at $45 for a full day. Nordic Mountain also offers rental equipment and lessons for those who need them.
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Nordic Mountain has a tubing hill and a terrain park for those who want to try something different. The resort also has a bar and restaurant on-site, so you can grab a bite to eat or a drink after a day on the slopes.
Tyrol Basin
Location: 3487 Bohn Rd, Mount Horeb
Tyrol Basin is located in Mount Horeb, Wisconsin, and is another great option for budget-conscious skiers and snowboarders. The resort has 17 runs, with a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced terrain. Lift tickets are affordable, with adult tickets starting at $45 for a full day.
Tyrol Basin also has a terrain park for those who want to try their hand at jumps and rails. The resort offers rental equipment and lessons for those who need them. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Tyrol Basin has a tubing hill and cross-country skiing trails.
Both Nordic Mountain and Tyrol Basin offer affordable options for those who want to hit the slopes without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier or snowboarder, these resorts offer a variety of terrain for all skill levels.
Luxury Ski Resorts
If you’re looking for a luxurious ski vacation, Wisconsin has plenty of options to choose from. Here are two of the state’s top luxury ski resorts:
The American Club
Location: 419 Highland Dr, Kohler
Located in Kohler, The American Club is a five-star resort that offers an exceptional ski experience. The resort features a private ski hill with three runs, a chairlift, and a tow rope. The runs are well-groomed and suitable for skiers of all levels. The resort also offers ski lessons for those who want to improve their skills.
The American Club has a range of luxurious amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and indoor and outdoor pools. The resort has several restaurants that serve gourmet cuisine, and there are also plenty of bars and lounges where you can relax after a day on the slopes.
The Osthoff Resort
Location: 101 Osthoff Ave, Elkhart Lake, WI 53020
Located in Elkhart Lake, The Osthoff Resort is another top luxury ski resort in Wisconsin. The resort is situated on the shores of Elkhart Lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The resort has a private ski hill with two runs, a chairlift, and a tow rope. The runs are suitable for skiers of all levels, and the resort offers ski lessons for beginners.
The Osthoff Resort has a range of luxurious amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and indoor and outdoor pools. The resort has several restaurants that serve gourmet cuisine, and there are also plenty of bars and lounges where you can relax after a day on the slopes.
Both The American Club and The Osthoff Resort offer luxurious ski experiences in beautiful settings. Whether you’re an experienced skier or a beginner, these resorts are sure to provide an unforgettable vacation.
Best Time to Visit
Wisconsin is not a typical ski destination, but it still attracts lots of visitors from neighboring states such as Iowa and Illinois due to its decent size mountains and a large amount of snow. The ski season in Wisconsin generally starts around Thanksgiving and lasts through mid-April.
The best time to visit Wisconsin for skiing and snowboarding is from December to February when the snow is at its peak. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, it’s better to visit in January or February.
It’s important to note that the weather in Wisconsin can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast before planning your trip. Additionally, some of the ski resorts in Wisconsin offer night skiing, which can be a great option if you want to avoid the crowds during the day.
Here are some of the best times to visit some of the top ski resorts in Wisconsin:
| Ski Resort | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|
| Granite Peak | December to February |
| Devil’s Head | January to March |
| Cascade Mountain | December to February |
| Wilmot Mountain | December to February |
| Tyrol Basin | January to March |
Overall, the best time to visit Wisconsin for skiing and snowboarding is from December to February, but it’s important to consider the weather and crowds when planning your trip.
Skiing Safety Tips
Skiing is a fun and exhilarating sport, but it can also be dangerous if proper safety measures are not taken. Here are some skiing safety tips to keep in mind during your next trip to a Wisconsin ski resort:
Wear Proper Clothing and Equipment
It is important to wear proper clothing and equipment when skiing to protect yourself from the cold and potential injuries. This includes a helmet, goggles, gloves, and warm, waterproof clothing. Make sure your equipment is in good condition and fits properly.
Know Your Limits and Stay in Control
Ski within your limits and stay in control at all times. Do not attempt runs that are beyond your skill level. If you are a beginner, stick to the designated beginner slopes. Always be aware of your surroundings and other skiers on the mountain.
Obey Skiing Etiquette
Obey skiing etiquette to avoid collisions and accidents. Yield to other skiers who are downhill from you, and do not stop in the middle of a run. If you fall, move to the side of the run as quickly as possible.
Stay Hydrated and Rested
Skiing can be physically demanding, so it is important to stay hydrated and rested. Take breaks throughout the day and drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. Know your limits and take breaks as needed.
Be Aware of Weather Conditions
Be aware of weather conditions and adjust your skiing accordingly. If it is snowing heavily or visibility is poor, stick to runs that are familiar to you. If conditions are too dangerous, consider taking a break or calling it a day.
By following these skiing safety tips, you can help ensure a fun and safe skiing experience at any Wisconsin ski resort.
Final Thoughts
Wisconsin is home to some of the best ski resorts in the Midwest. From Granite Peak’s huge resort and highest vertical drop to Little Switzerland’s family-friendly atmosphere, there’s something for everyone. Here are some key takeaways from our research:
- Granite Peak is the largest and most popular ski resort in Wisconsin, with 58 runs and an impressive 700-foot vertical drop.
- Other top-rated ski resorts in Wisconsin include Cascade Mountain, Christie Mountain, and Devils Head.
- Ski resorts like Little Switzerland and Sunburst are great for families and beginners, with smaller slopes and affordable prices.
- Many ski resorts in Wisconsin offer more than just skiing, with activities like snowboarding, tubing, and snowshoeing available.
- Accommodations at ski resorts in Wisconsin range from cozy cabins to luxurious lodges, with options to fit any budget.
Overall, Wisconsin is a great destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts of all levels. With a variety of ski resorts to choose from and plenty of activities to enjoy, it’s no wonder that Wisconsin is a popular winter vacation spot. Whether you’re looking for a challenging run or a family-friendly atmosphere, you’re sure to find it at one of Wisconsin’s top ski resorts.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Wisconsin Ski Resorts
What are the longest ski runs in WI?
The longest ski run in Wisconsin is at Granite Peak, which is 2.5 miles long. There are also several other ski resorts in Wisconsin that have runs over a mile long, such as Whitecap Mountains Resort and Big Powderhorn Mountain.
What are the best Wisconsin ski resorts for beginners?
The best Wisconsin ski resorts for beginners are Cascade Mountain, Devil’s Head Resort, and Granite Peak. These resorts have a variety of easy runs and offer ski and snowboard lessons for beginners.
Which Wisconsin ski resorts have cabins?
Many Wisconsin ski resorts have cabins available for rent, including Granite Peak, Devil’s Head Resort, and Whitecap Mountains Resort. These cabins are a great option for those looking to stay close to the slopes.
Does Wisconsin have good skiing?
Yes, Wisconsin has good skiing. While it may not have the same reputation as some of the larger ski destinations in the western United States, Wisconsin has a variety of ski resorts that offer great skiing and snowboarding for all levels. From beginner-friendly runs to challenging terrain for advanced skiers, there is something for everyone in Wisconsin’s ski resorts.
