Wisconsin’s largest ski resort and the highest vertical drop in the state.

• Opening Date: 27 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 6 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA) - 12 miles (15 minutes)

Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) - 190 miles (3 hours)

Bigger isn’t always better, but Granite Peak’s 700-foot vertical drop and 200+ acres of terrain make it Wisconsin’s largest and tallest ski resort. The north-facing slopes ensure great conditions, complemented by 100% snowmaking coverage. Recent investments in high-speed lifts, snowmaking upgrades and terrain expansion have made Granite Peak one of the premier ski resorts in the Midwest.

A top-tier lift network with 7 chairlifts, including 2 high-speed quads, services 68 trails, which offer a balanced mix of 30% beginner, 35% intermediate and 35% advanced terrain. From groomed cruisers and terrain parks to moguls and glades, there’s something for every skier. Located 3 hours from Milwaukee and an hour-and-a-half from Green Bay, Granite Peak is perfect for a weekend ski getaway. While it can be visited as a day trip, many choose to stay overnight in nearby Wausau, where lodging, dining and après-ski options provide the full ski experience.

Some of the best terrain parks and longest ski runs in the Midwest.

• Opening Date: 2 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 16 Mar 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Baraboo-Wisconsin Dells Airport (DLL) - 20 miles (30 minutes)

Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) - 35 miles (45 minutes)

Nestled close to Wisconsin Dells, a top Midwest vacation destination, Cascade Mountain is centrally located in Wisconsin and offers some of the best skiing in the region. Easily accessible from Chicago, Milwaukee and the Twin Cities, the resort’s 450-foot vertical drop and 175 skiable acres may not match the size of Western resorts, but it makes up for it with nearly 50 well-groomed runs, three terrain parks and long trails stretching 5,300 feet (up to a mile long!). Families will love Cascade Mountain’s "kids 12 and under ski free" policy (five free tickets max. per one adult ticket), making it one of the most affordable family-friendly ski resorts in Wisconsin. The snow tubing park is another big draw, offering winter fun beyond skiing and snowboarding. Wisconsin Dells, just a short drive away, provides plenty of off-slope activities, live entertainment and winter events, making Cascade Mountain a great all-around winter getaway for skiers and non-skiers alike.

A full-service ski resort with breathtaking views and affordable lodging.

• Opening Date: 7 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 6 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) - 41 miles (1 hour)

General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) - 119 miles (2 hours)

In the Baraboo Hills with panoramic views of the Wisconsin River, Devil’s Head is one of Wisconsin’s premier ski resorts, offering diverse terrain and ski-in ski-out lodging. With 30 trails spanning 300 acres and a 500-foot vertical drop, Devil’s Head is one of the best ski resorts in Wisconsin. Its well-designed trail layout separates beginner, intermediate and advanced runs, ensuring a great experience for all skill levels. First-time skiers can enjoy a long, scenic run from near the summit, while advanced riders will find plenty of steep slopes and terrain park features. The resort is just 20 minutes from Cascade Mountain and 30 minutes from Wisconsin Dells, making it a convenient getaway from Milwaukee, Madison or Chicago. On-site accommodations, dining and après-ski options make Devil’s Head a top choice for families and weekend warriors.

Three mountains’ worth of skiing in a scenic, woodsy, lakeside setting.

• Opening Date: 2 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 26 Mar 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Gogebic–Iron County Airport (IWD) - 19 miles (30 minutes)

Duluth International Airport (DLH) - 90 miles (2 hours 30 minutes)

Tucked away in northern Wisconsin, Whitecap Mountains Resort may be a long drive for some—five hours from Milwaukee, four from Green Bay, and four from Minneapolis—but for those who make the trip, it’s well worth it. Located at the western end of the Lake Superior snow belt, Whitecap receives an average of 200+ inches of snowfall per season, often making it the snowiest ski resort in Wisconsin. Spanning three interconnected peaks and 400 skiable acres, the resort features 43 runs, with an even mix of beginner, intermediate and advanced terrain, ensuring an experience for all skill levels.

Whitecap’s remote location and deep woods vibe make it a great escape from crowds. Despite the 2019 fire that destroyed the main lodge, the resort continues to operate with on-site lodging, dining, and rental services, and plans for a new lodge are underway. For Midwest skiers seeking deep snow, uncrowded slopes, and a classic small-mountain feel, Whitecap remains one of Wisconsin’s best-kept ski secrets.

A beginner-friendly ski resort conveniently close to Milwaukee and Chicago.

• Opening Date: 6 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 16 Mar 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) - 31 miles (1 hour)

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) - 59 miles (1 hour 15 minutes)

Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) - 75 miles (1 hour 15 minutes)

Alpine Valley is one of southeast Wisconsin’s most accessible ski resorts, located less than an hour from Milwaukee and a short trip from Madison and Chicago’s northern suburbs. Despite its compact 100-acre size, Alpine Valley maximizes skiing time with high-speed lifts and more than 21 well-groomed trails that cater to all skill levels. The dedicated beginner area and reduced-price lift ticket for three chairlifts and four surface lifts make it a top choice for first-time skiers and families. For those looking to learn, Friday and Saturday evening adult lessons include a guided session, rental equipment and a drink ticket for après-ski relaxation. Night skiing is also available on select trails, ensuring plenty of time to hit the slopes after work or school. As one of the best ski resorts near Milwaukee, Alpine Valley offers an affordable, family-friendly experience with quick access to the slopes, well-maintained terrain and fun après-ski options.

A small but diverse ski area, offering affordable family-friendly fun in Wisconsin’s north woods.

• Opening Date: 7 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 16 Mar 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) - 154 miles (2 hours 45 minutes)

Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) - 158 miles (3 hours)

Perched in northern Wisconsin’s Blue Hills, Christie Mountain packs 33 trails and four terrain parks into 45 scenic acres. While compact, the resort offers an impressive variety, including winding wooded runs up to 0.8 miles long—a rare find for a smaller ski area. Balanced terrain distribution (33% beginner, 24% intermediate, 30% advanced and 12% expert) ensures options for all skill levels, while four terrain parks feature rails, jumps and progressive freestyle elements. Though not as remote as Whitecap Mountains, Christie Mountain is still a long drive from many Wisconsin cities, but it’s only a couple of hours from Minnesota’s Twin Cities, making it an accessible winter getaway. On-site amenities include a cozy chalet, while lodging options can be found in nearby Bruce and Rice Lake, just 20 minutes away. For affordable skiing near the Twin Cities, Christie Mountain delivers great value in a scenic, family-friendly setting.