Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Multiple ski resorts are located throughout Wisconsin, but are much less common in Illinois due to the state's flat terrain. While these ski resorts are not as extreme as those found in the Rocky Mountains or Canada, decently sized hills offer enjoyable skiing or snowboarding during the winter months.
The only part of Illinois that is hilly enough for skiing is in the northernmost part of the state. Chestnut Mountain is in Galena, and actually is one of the largest ski resorts in the Midwest. A 475-foot vertical drop exists at Chestnut Mountain, as well as 19 runs ranging from beginner to expert. Its lodge has 119 rooms, with a hot tub and pool area.
Chestnut Mountain Resort
8700 Chestnut Drive
Galena, IL 61036
800-397-1320
www.chestnutmtn.com
Located near the Illinois-Wisonsin border near East Troy, Alpine Valley is a multi-purpose resort that offers golf and rock concerts in the summer, and skiing in the winter. With a vertical of 388 feet, a top elevation of 1260 feet, and 20 runs (including one that is 3000 feet), Alpine Valley attracts both Wisconsin and Illinois residents to its 90 acres.
Alpine Valley Resort
County Road D
Elkhorn, Wisconsin 53121
262-642-7374
www.alpinevalleyresort.com
Devil's Head is located next to Lake Wisconsin in the small town of Merrimac. This south-central location offers 268 acres of skiable area, with 28 runs and a top elevation of 995 feet. It also has 10 chairlifts, one magic carpet and one rope tow, as well as three terrain parks for snowboarders.
Devil's Head Resort
S6330 Bluff Road
Merrimac, WI 53561
608-493-2255
www.devilsheadresort.com
Granite Peak is one of the oldest ski areas in the country and a popular north-central ski area, with the most vertical feet in the state (700). It has 74 runs, a top elevation of 1950 feet, and an 8-total lift system. Granite peak also offers some night skiing, snowmaking, two terrain parks and a close proximity to the Central Wisconsin Airport.
Granite Peak Ski Area
3605 North Mountain Road
Wausau, WI 54401
715-845-2846
www.skigranitepeak.com
Near the Michigan border in northern Wisconsin, the Whitecap Mountains have 43 ski trails, a 400-foot vertical drop and nine lifts. A total of 500 acres of terrain and three mountains are skiable at Whitecap, offering one of the most beautiful landscapes in the state with views of Lake Superior's shoreline. Difficulties range from beginner to expert.
Whitecap Mountains Ski Resort
9106 W County Road E
Upson, WI 54565
715-561-2227
www.skiwhitecap.com