When you think of skiing in the United States, the characteristically-flat Midwest probably isn’t the region that comes to mind. However, ski resorts in the states Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Minnesota can offer locals and people visiting nearby cities a place to hit the slopes without too much travel. Check out one of these resorts next time you are in America’s heartland.
Lutsen Mountains
Located in Minnesota with sweeping views of Lake Superior, Lutsen Mountains is one of the best ski resorts in the Midwest. Guests have access to all 4 mountains at the resort with a single ski pass. The resort has 95 runs, which vary from easy to expert, and 7 lifts up the mountains. The majority of runs are rated intermediate to advanced. The park boasts its “best kept secret” is its 60 acres of tree skiing runs.
After a day on the slopes, skiers can grab a bite at one of the resort’s restaurants and spend the night at one of the chalets, lodges, or inns on site. The resort offers live music on the weekends as well.The skiing season typically runs through late November through mid-April, but spring and summer visitors can hike, mountain bike, or try out the alpine slide at the resort.
Cascade Mountain
Less than three hours from Chicago, Cascade Mountain in Wisconsin is a great day trip option for those living in or visiting the Windy City during the winter ski season. The mountain has 48 trails consisting of everything from bunny slopes to advanced runs, and it hosts three terrain parks. With 11 lifts, skiers will not have to wait long to get to the summit of Cascade Mountain. The resort also has nighttime skiing for those wanting a unique experience.
For visitors that want the thrill of going down the mountain without much effort, the resort also has a 900-foot long snow tubing chute. While Cascade does not have overnight lodging, it does have several restaurants and places to refuel and warm up during your day on the mountain.
Granite Peak
Another Wisconsin-based resort, Granite Peak offers 68 runs, 4 mogul runs, and 3 terrain parks. The resort has 7 lifts to drop skiers off on the main mountain as well as on the more technical terrain on each side. The runs themselves vary from easiest to extremely difficult, so there is something for skiers of all levels. The resort also has nighttime skiing on the weekends.
Granite Peak has snack bars and restaurants on site, and it has live music on the weekends. On Wednesdays, the resort hosts an adult racing league for skiers to get in the competitive spirit.
Chestnut Mountain
On the western border of Illinois, Chestnut Mountain is also less than 3 hours from Chicago. This resort is smaller than the others on the list with only 19 runs that vary from easy to expert, but Ski Magazine ranked it a Top-10 Midwest ski resort. Chestnut Mountain also has a terrain park with over 25 rails and its own lifts.
The resort offers fun for families year-round. During the summers, visitors can glide down alpine slide, play mini golf and disc golf, mountain bike, and even zip line. The resort has lodging year-round, too.
Mount Bohemia
Mount Bohemia offers some of the most technical and challenging terrain in the Midwest. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where Mount Bohemia is located, is surrounded by three Great Lakes that cause the area to get a lot of dry snow. The resort does not groom the snow, so skiers always get fresh powder. The resort has 8 sections of the mountain to explore, 2 lifts, and the longest runs in the Midwest. This resort is for experienced skiers only!
This December, Mount Bohemia is opening Voodoo Mountain, which will be the first spot in the United States east of the Rocky Mountains to offer cat skiing. Voodoo Mountain will have just 100 acres this first year, but the resort plans to have up to 1,200 acres on the mountain in the future.
Skiers can also check out the Nordic Spa with their ski pass. The spa offers saunas, hot and cold water exposure, and other wellness practices. The resort also has bars, restaurants, and lodging to help skiers rest and refuel.
