Wisconsin might not always be the first place that comes to mind when you think about skiing, but there are actually some incredible ski resorts in Wisconsin worth exploring. Surprisingly, the state is home to more than 30 ski hills, each offering something a little bit different. Granite Peak Ski Area consistently ranks as one of the top ski hills in Wisconsin, while Cascade Mountain and Devil’s Head are also popular favorites. Get off the beaten path at places like Whitecap in the northern part of the state. From big mountain energy to a quieter experience, ski resorts in Wisconsin offer something for everyone.
Many of the best ski resorts in Wisconsin are within easy reach for Midwest travelers looking for a quick winter escape, not to mention the host of other great skiing in the Midwest. But winter in Wisconsin isn’t just about skiing. It’s a season filled with outdoor adventures, from snowmobiling and snowshoeing to cross-country skiing and unique experiences like dog sledding. In between the winter chill outside, there are plenty of wineries, breweries, distilleries, restaurants, museums, and unique attractions worth seeing all around the state. There are four seasons of things to do in Wisconsin, and this one is just getting underway!
When it comes to lodging near these ski resorts in Wisconsin, staying somewhere memorable makes all the difference. Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts, Inns, and Boutique Hotels offer some of the most inviting accommodations in the state. With thoughtful hospitality, character-filled spaces, and comfort that feels personalized, these properties give you the perfect place to relax after a day on the slopes or while enjoying other things to do in Wisconsin during winter. But now’s the time to start planning! Book your stay at one of Wisconsin’s charming Inns or Bed and Breakfasts today and experience the best of Wisconsin skiing this winter.
The Best Ski Resorts in Wisconsin
With more than 30 ski resorts in Wisconsin to choose from, planning a snowy weekend getaway is easier than you might think. While the Midwest is often thought of as flat, Wisconsin ski hills tell a different story. The state’s glacial history shaped a surprisingly hilly landscape, creating the perfect backdrop for downhill skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
Ski resorts in Wisconsin come in all shapes and sizes. Some are designed with beginners in mind, while others offer advanced runs that challenge even the most seasoned skiers. Many of these Wisconsin ski hills are close to major population centers, making them convenient for quick day trips or extended winter vacations. Below are the best ski resorts in Wisconsin.
Granite Peak Ski Area
Located at Rib Mountain State Park near Wausau, Granite Peak is often considered the crown jewel of Wisconsin skiing. It boasts a rare 700-foot vertical drop, making it one of the most thrilling ski resorts in Wisconsin. With 400 skiable acres and 75 runs, the variety is unmatched. From gentle beginner slopes to challenging glades and terrain parks, Granite Peak Ski Area delivers a true big-mountain feel in the heart of the Midwest.
Cascade Mountain
Cascade Mountain near Baraboo is another top-rated destination for skiing in Wisconsin. While the vertical drop is around 450 feet, the runs can stretch up to a mile long, giving skiers plenty of room to enjoy. With 50 trails, four terrain parks, and a tubing park, Cascade is perfect for families, groups, and anyone seeking variety in their downhill winter adventure.
Alpine Valley Resort
If you’re looking for ski resorts in Wisconsin near Milwaukee or Madison, Alpine Valley Resort is a convenient choice. It may only offer 90 skiable acres, but it’s well-loved for quick getaways and fun afternoons on the snow. A high-speed lift keeps lines short, and the dedicated beginner area makes it ideal for first-timers. It’s one of the best places to learn and sharpen your skiing skills.
Trollhaugen Outdoor Center
Located in northwestern Wisconsin near the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, Trollhaugen is a popular pick for Midwest skiers. It features 24 ski runs, three terrain parks, and a tubing hill, all of which add to the fun. Trollhaugen is an ideal choice for families and groups of friends seeking a quick and affordable Wisconsin skiing experience.
Mt. La Crosse Ski Area
If steep terrain excites you, Mt. La Crosse Ski Area is where you’ll find some of the most challenging slopes in the state. While it doesn’t offer the same vertical as Granite Peak, the intensity of its runs makes it one of the best ski resorts in Wisconsin for advanced skiers. It’s a destination that keeps adrenaline-seekers coming back year after year.
Nordic Mountain
For a smaller, more intimate ski trip, Nordic Mountain near Waupaca is a true hidden gem among ski hills in Wisconsin. With a 265-foot vertical drop, it’s not the biggest ski hill, but it has plenty of charm. Most trails are rated intermediate to advanced, though there are options for beginners as well. Add in a popular terrain park and a tubing hill with a conveyor lift, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for winter fun.
Devil’s Head Resort
Located in the Baraboo Bluffs near Merrimac in south-central Wisconsin, Devil’s Head is one of the more full-service ski resorts in Wisconsin. It features about 30 runs spread across 268–300 skiable acres, with a vertical drop of roughly 500 feet. This puts it in the upper tier of Wisconsin ski resorts. Its terrain includes a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced trails, along with terrain parks and night skiing options to keep things fresh.
More Great Things to do in Wisconsin This Winter
As fun as these five ski resorts in Wisconsin are, they represent just one piece of the incredible variety of things to do in Wisconsin during the winter. The state transforms into a playground for snow sports and seasonal adventures, offering everything from skiing and snowmobiling to ice fishing and winter festivals. With Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts scattered throughout the state, you’re never far from both exciting activities and a cozy place to warm up afterward.
Below are some of the most popular things to do in Wisconsin in the winter, though this list only scratches the surface of what makes the season so special here.
- The Eagle River region is considered the snowmobiling capital of Wisconsin, and for good reason. Known as the World Snowmobile Headquarters, it boasts more than 500 miles of groomed trails that attract riders from across the Midwest. It’s not the only snowmobiling destination in the state, though. Plenty of other trail systems make Wisconsin one of the best places in the country for snowmobiling.
- Snowshoeing is one of the simplest and most enjoyable ways to explore Wisconsin’s snowy landscapes. Many Wisconsin State Parks feature both groomed and ungroomed trails for snowshoeing, and some Bed and Breakfasts even provide snowshoes for guests, making it easy to head straight out the door for a winter adventure.
- In Madison, winter takes on an urban flair. The city maintains more than 20 outdoor ice skating rinks across its park system, with The Edgewater standing out as a favorite spot for skaters. It’s a fun way to embrace the season while enjoying the lively energy of Wisconsin’s capital city.
- Cross-country skiing is another winter tradition that thrives in Wisconsin. With endless miles of trails, from scenic forest paths to state park loops, there’s no shortage of opportunities to enjoy this classic sport.
- Ice fishing is a must-try winter activity in Wisconsin, especially on Lake Winnebago, the state’s largest inland lake. Known for its thriving sturgeon population, the lake is also home to the annual Sturgeon Spectacular, a three-day February festival in Fond du Lac that combines fishing with live entertainment and winter fun.
- For those who love biking, Wisconsin doesn’t hit pause in the winter. Instead, cyclists swap to fat tire bikes, designed to glide over snow-packed trails. Many popular bike trails across the state remain open and accessible year-round, offering a unique way to experience Wisconsin’s winter landscapes.
Of course, no matter which winter activities you choose, the best part of the trip is returning to the warmth and comfort of a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast. Offering charm, personalized hospitality, and some of the most unique places to stay in Wisconsin, these properties are the perfect way to end your day. Start planning now and discover why winter in Wisconsin is so unforgettable.
