The Midwest can’t match the topography of other parts of the country, but it’s snowy winters welcome plenty of hardy adventurers. There isn’t as much sheer vertical in this part of the country, but there’s still plenty of fun to be had. Here are seven of our favorite Midwestern ski resorts!
7. Ski Brule
Why Ski Ski Brule
Near the boundary between Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Ski Brule may not be the most convenient resort for many in the Midwest. But if you happen to be a local-or if you’re willing to make the trip-you’ll definitely enjoy the mountain’s expert snowmaking and meticulous grooming. Trails as long as 1 mi, runs through the woods, a 500 ft vertical, and a season that often lasts until May all combine to deliver an excellent experience for Ski Brule’s modest lift ticket prices. The value and the conditions are worth the drive!
6. Mount Bohemia
Why Ski Mount Bohemia
Unless you happen to live on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Mount Bohemia might make for a long road trip. But its location means that cold Canadian air and Lake Superior’s moisture combine to reliably deliver the biggest snowfalls of any ski resort in the region. There isn’t any beginner terrain, and it’s the only lift-served resort on the continent without any grooming, so it’s not the place to start out. But if you’re ready for a challenge, all of that snowfall, along with the Midwest’s biggest vertical at 900 ft, deliver the kind of bump runs, powder, and tree skiing you might have expected to need an airplane ticket to find!
5. Crystal Mountain
Why Ski Crystal Mountain
Crystal Mountain keeps its guests busy, with instructional programs for kids as young as 3, free skiing for kids under 6, and plenty to do for people who don’t ski or ride—including an award-winning spa! While the mountain doesn’t boast much vertical, its 58 runs offer plenty for every skill level, and half of the terrain is lit for night skiing. Its scenic location on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan lends itself to reliable lake effect snow, but a robust snowmaking system covers the entire mountain just in case. Either way, you can be sure of good conditions!
4. Granite Peak
Why Ski Granite Peak
With 700 ft of vertical and 200 ac of terrain, Granite Peak’s 68 runs might make you think you’re skiing or boarding in a different part of the country. There are runs for every ability and experience level, including dedicated beginner slopes, and the elevation and aspect make for reliably good snow conditions. Recent investments have funded the Midwest’s largest-ever ski resort expansion, and the resort boasts one of the region’s best lift networks. Intermediate skiers have plenty of groomers, and there are terrain parks, moguls, and tree runs to keep more advanced shredders busy. It’s close enough to Green Bay and Milwaukee for a day trip, but nearby Wausau offers plenty of accommodations and dining.
3. Cascade Mountain
Why Ski Cascade Mountain
Only a few hours from Chicago and even closer to Milwaukee and Madison, Cascade Mountain is conveniently close to the year-round attractions in Wisconsin Dells. The 11 lifts service a nice variety of terrain on nearly 50 runs, as well as four terrain parks geared towards every ability level. Kids under 12 with an accompanying grown-up can ski for free. That, and off-slope fun that includes 15 tubing chutes that are 800 ft long and live entertainment throughout the season, make Cascade Mountain an excellent choice for families looking to both stretch their winter vacation budget and keep everyone happy!
2. Chestnut Mountain Resort
Why Ski Chestnut Mountain Resort
Chestnut Mountain offers a modest 19 runs and a single terrain park, but its location in western Illinois is convenient for many Midwesterners and boasts stunning views of the mighty Mississippi. And that terrain park? It’s consistently one of the highest-rated in the region, and so is Chestnut’s beginner terrain. There’s a wide variety of places to eat and sleep near the slopes, plus the nearby town of Galena offers a wealth of other activities such as shopping and galleries, all in a charming setting that seems to belong in another time. Only three hours from Chicago, Chestnut Mountain is also conveniently located for skiers in parts of Iowa, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.
1. Boyne Mountain
Why Ski Boyne Mountain Resort
Boasting 60 runs that cater to all skiing levels and fantastic non-skiing activities, Boyne Mountain is an ideal resort for families. Located more than five hours from Chicago and almost four hours from Detroit, the resort might be a bit out of the way unless you're a local. Nonetheless, it's a great mountain with an extensive snowmaking network ensuring reliable snow conditions. There’s beginner territory that you (or your little ones) can ski without a ticket and there’s also plenty for non-skiers to do, from snowshoeing and ziplining to Michigan’s largest water park. Accommodation choices are plentiful, convenient, and suit every budget.