In the northern Midwest we are fortunate to enjoy four seasons of outdoor adventure. Abundant snow can be expected most winters and, though it may bring a few hassles, getting outside to enjoy the snow is one of the great pleasures of our region. If snow is in short supply in your neighborhood you are only a short drive to one of the many resorts where plenty of white fluffy powder can be found.
Though we’re not known for mountains, the gently rolling hills and valleys of the Upper Midwest are ideal for beginning skiers and learners of all ages. The season offers many outdoor options – skiing, snowboarding, sledding, snowshoeing and more – and the end of the day brings the reward of a crackling fire and warm company.
Here’s an abbreviated round-up of some of the ski hills in the Great Lakes Region.
Minnesota
Lutsen Mountain Resort
Lutsen Mountain on the shores of Lake Superior north of Duluth, Minnesota boasts the deepest and most reliable snow of the region – more than 10 feet in the average year. Whoa! And just in case, the weather doesn’t cooperate, they can make snow. Lots of it. The resort is open daily from mid-November to mid-April and offers more than 1,000 acres of action with 95 runs and 8 lifts. Lodging options are plentiful with more than 3,000 rooms available in the area including rustic Northwoods lodges overlooking Lake Superior.
Lutsen Mountain Resort
Area – 1,000 acres
Vertical Rise – 1,088 feet
95 runs
8 lifts
Adult daily lift ticket price $105
Illinois
Chestnut Mountain
Chestnut Mountain, tiny by ski resort standards, is a perfect option for beginners and the youngest skiers. In the nearby resort town of Galena, Illinois boutiques, galleries, gourmet bistros and plenty of wine await you for apres ski. The area is home to a lovely array of small resorts, inns and B&Bs. In addition to dining and shopping, history buffs will enjoy the town’s historic sites including the preserved home of President Ulysses S. Grant. Chestnut Mountain ski hill features 19 trails over 220 acres. With a modest 475 foot vertical drop, it’s perfect for newbies. Lessons are available for all ages.
Chestnut Mountain
Area – 200 acres
Vertical rise – 475 feet
19 runs
6 lifts
Adult daily lift ticket price $70 on weekends, $50 on weekdays
Wisconsin
The rolling hills of Wisconsin are home to more than 30 ski hills and many are near the state’s family resort towns. Treat yourself to a hearty dinner at one of Wisconsin’s unique Supper Clubs after a day on the slopes.
Granite Peak at Rib Mountain
This resort in central Wisconsin near Wausau and a short drive from Milwaukee, Madison and the Twin Cities features varied terrain with steep chutes, long groomers, mogul runs and even 5 terrain parks for thrill seekers.
Granite Peak at Rib Mountain
Vertical Rise – 700 feet
74 runs including 3 mogul runs
10 lifts
5 terrain parks
Adult daily lift ticket price $105
Cascade Mountain
With its close proximity to Wisconsin Dells, the fun is just beginning when the lifts close for the day. Lodging packages are available at Dell’s resorts where families can enjoy indoor water parks, spas, and a wide variety of dining and entertainment.
Cascade Mountain
Area – 160 acres
Vertical rise – 460 feet
34 runs
9 lifts
Adult daily lift ticket price $89
Northern Michigan
The mitten state knows snow sports. Just ask any Michigander. With so many options it wasn’t easy to select just a few.
Boyne Mountain Often called the crown jewel of Michigan’s winter sports scene, Boyne Mountain is the largest and most well-equipped ski resort in the state. Every imaginable option for enjoying the outdoors can be found – skiing, snowboarding, cross country, snowshoe trails, even zip lining and horseback riding are offered. For those who prefer indoor pursuits, the area boasts beautiful lodges with spas and water parks. Lodging options include a range of hotels, rental homes and ski-in-ski-out locations. Nearby, the resort towns of Harbor Springs and Traverse City offer abundant shopping and dining options.
Boyne Mountain Resort
Area – 415 acres
Vertical rise – 500 feet
60 runs
7 terrain parks
10 lifts
Adult daily lift ticket price $74 to $105
Southwest Michigan
Southwestern Michigan’s ski hills, though small compared to their Up North relatives, provide a perfect spot for families and beginners to enjoy a day on the slopes. And you can’t beat the proximity to so many of Michigan’s lovely coastal towns. Bittersweet and Timber Ridge Resorts, just a short drive from Holland, South Haven, and Grand Rapids, offer quick access to snow day. And how could I resist including this Swiss-themed destination? Swiss Valley, tiny but so close to St. Joseph, Michigan City and South Bend, deserves a brief mention for the hot spiced wine and other après ski cocktails at the slopeside Chalet alone.
Bittersweet Resort
Vertical rise – 350 feet
20 runs
7 lifts
Adult daily lift ticket price $70 on weekends, $52 on weekdays
Timber Ridge Ski Area
16 runs
2 terrain parks
8 lifts
Adult daily lift ticket price $60 on weekends, $48 on weekdays
Swiss Valley
Vertical Rise – 225 feet
11runs
3 lifts and 4 tow ropes
2 terrain parks
Adult daily lift ticket price $53
