Is this Midwest on your radar this winter for downhill skiing and snowboarding? It may not be the famed and rugged mountains of Colorado, Montana, Washington, Oregon, or Idaho, but there are plenty of places to hit the slopes. Head to Wisconsin or Minnesota, and you’ll find some of the best skiing in the Midwest. But how about states like Iowa, Illinois, and Nebraska? These states are a bit more traditional Midwest flat – but you’ll still find plenty of opportunities to click into a pair of bindings and get some exhilarating downhill runs in.
Aside from enjoying the best skiing in the Midwest, the region offers a surprisingly delightful experience for winter enthusiasts. With rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, the Midwest region transforms into a playground for snow lovers. While the Rocky Mountains may get more attention, the Midwest boasts a charm all its own. Fill your winter weekends with cozy ski runs, less crowded trails, and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. The cold, crisp air and soft snow make it easy to enjoy a day on the mountain without the intense hustle found in bigger resorts of the West.
Whether you’re a seasoned skier looking for something closer to home or brand new to snow sports, the Midwest is home to a wonderful variety, offering something for everyone. What’s more, you’ll find many of the top Midwest ski resorts near metropolitan areas, making getting on the slopes for a fun weekend easier than ever. There’s no need to plan an elaborate vacation—just pack up the car and drive a few hours to your winter escape.
Of course, skiing and snowboarding are just the start of things to do in the Midwest this winter. Whether you’re cross-country skiing, snowboarding, or just enjoying a snowy getaway, Midwest skiing has something to offer everyone. You can enjoy all of this, and so much more, at one of our associated Inns, Boutique Hotels, Vacation Rentals, and Bed and Breakfasts in the Midwest. The Midwest Association of Independent Inns connects you to some of the finest, inspected, and friendly places to stay in the Midwest. With their personalized service, warmth, and often unique historical charm, they’re ideal for a memorable ski weekend getaway. Book your getaways today!
Find the Best Skiing in the Midwest by State
Winter in the Midwest doesn’t mean the fun slows down—it only gets better! While the temperatures drop, the excitement heats up with endless opportunities for adventure. Skiing is one of the best ways to embrace the season, and the Midwest offers plenty of top spots to hit the slopes. From family-friendly resorts to challenging trails for seasoned skiers, you won’t have to look hard to find the best skiing in the Midwest.
We’ve broken down some of our favorite places by state in hopes of helping you enjoy a winter filled with fun-filled adventures on the slopes.
Best Skiing in Wisconsin
Head to Wisconsin’s diverse landscapes, and you’ll find some of the best skiing in the Midwest – including the largest ski resort in the Midwest. Wisconsin has more than two dozen ski resorts, and they provide a range of experiences, from beginner-friendly hills to more advanced trails.
- Granite Peak Ski Area, located in the charming town of Wausau, is the largest ski resort in the region and undoubtedly offers some of the best skiing in the Midwest. With over 60 trails, an incredible 700-foot vertical, and a great mix of terrain, it is perfect for skiers of all skill levels.
- Cascade Mountain, located near Portage, is known for its diverse slopes and terrain parks, making it a favorite for both skiers and snowboarders. It’s also some of the best skiing in the Midwest for family trips, with a mix of easy and more challenging trails, plus snowboarding and tubing options.
- Devil’s Head Resort, just an hour from Madison in the scenic Baraboo Bluffs, boasts 29 runs, serviced by six quad chairs, and plenty of fabulous mountain amenities. It’s a well-rounded ski experience for everyone and just minutes from one of the most popular metropolitan areas in the state.
- Wilmot Mountain, located near the Wisconsin-Illinois border, is a fantastic option for Chicago-area skiers. It offers night skiing and well-groomed slopes, but the real highlights are the state-of-the-art learning center, the quad chair that provides quick access up the mountain, and the four fantastic terrain parks.
- If you find yourself along the Mississippi River, don’t miss Mt. La Crosse. Perched on top of the Mississippi River Bluffs, Mt. La Crosse features some of the most challenging skiing in Wisconsin, including an experts-only double black diamond run with a 516-foot vertical drop.
Best Skiing in Minnesota
Winter weekends in Minnesota aren’t complete without at least one trip to Minnesota’s ski resorts. Minnesota’s ski areas offer a wide range of options, from challenging peaks to family-friendly resorts.
- If you’re looking for some of the best skiing in the Midwest, head to Lutsen Mountain in Minnesota. Like Granite Peak, it’s one of the largest ski areas in the Midwest. It offers four peaks and a variety of terrain, not to mention breathtaking views of Lake Superior.
- Spirit Mountain, located in Duluth, is another top-rated place to go skiing in Minnesota. These slopes offer a fantastic mix of beginner and advanced runs and great après-ski activities, all just minutes from the city.
- Giants Ridge is known for its well-groomed slopes and beautiful surroundings. It also offers a mix of downhill skiing, cross-country trails, and snowboarding, making it perfect for families and adventurous skiers alike.
- You’ll find more of the best skiing in the Midwest just outside of the Twin Cities, at Afton Alps. Afton Alps boasts 50 runs across rolling hills and a laid-back, friendly atmosphere, ideal for a quick ski getaway.
- About 20 minutes west of Red Wing, skiers will be delighted to find Welch Village. This spot ranks among Minnesota’s most extensive ski areas with 60 runs, and is home to some of the best skiing in the Midwest.
Other Great Places to Ski in the Midwest
If you’re looking for the best skiing in the Midwest, you can’t go wrong with any of the ski resorts we’ve listed in Minnesota and Wisconsin. They are, arguably, the skiing powerhouses in the Midwest region. Don’t let that fool you, though. There are still plenty of fantastic places to ski in the Midwest, including Iowa, Illinois, and even Nebraska! We’ve listed some of our favorites below.
Where to Go Skiing in Iowa
Iowa offers unexpected yet enjoyable ski experiences across several resorts and is a hidden gem for finding the best skiing in the Midwest.
- Sundown Mountain Resort, near Dubuque, offers 21 well-maintained trails and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It’s a popular spot for skiers and snowboarders alike, with terrain for all skill levels.
- Seven Oaks Recreation in Boone is a quintessential laid-back spot to find some of the best skiing in the Midwest. This ski hill boasts 11 ski runs, various tubing hills, and plenty of terrain for snowboarders.
- If you’re looking for a quick ski getaway in Iowa, head to Mount Crescent Ski Area, just outside of Omaha. Mount Crescent features slopes that cater to beginners and more experienced skiers and is perfect for Iowans and Nebraskans alike.
Where to Find Skiing in Illinois
For more of the best skiing in the Midwest, don’t miss these hidden gems in Illinois!
- Chestnut Mountain Resort is just outside the historic town of Galena and is set amidst some of the most striking landscapes in the Midwest. With stunning river views, it’s undoubtedly where you’ll enjoy some of the best skiing in the Midwest. Chestnut Mountain Resort offers 19 scenic runs and a terrain park, making it a great destination for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
- Villa Olivia, located in Bartlett, is perfect for a quick winter getaway. It offers a mix of beginner and intermediate slopes, plus snowboarding and tubing options for a comprehensive winter getaway in Illinois.
- Another great place to find skiing in Illinois is Snowstar, just outside the Quad Cities area. There are 15 trails here, which offer a variety of downhill excitement for the avid ski enthusiast.
Are There Snowsports in Nebraska?
The short answer is yes, there are snowsports in Nebraska. While the state offers plenty of fantastic trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, the best bet for downhill skiing is to head across the border near Omaha and enjoy a day at Mt. Crescent Ski Area in Iowa. Top choices for other winter sports in Nebraska include Mahoney State Park near Ashland and Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure in Nebraska City.
The Best Winter Getaway Destinations in the Midwest
If you plan to enjoy some of the best skiing in the Midwest this winter, you’ll want to secure lodging for your busy ski weekends. The Midwest Association of Independent Inns is known for its collection of unique, independently-owned properties that offer some of the best places to stay in the Midwest. Guests are welcomed with genuine hospitality that reflects the warmth of the region.
Whether you’re staying at a cozy inn or a stylish boutique hotel, you’ll find the same attention to detail in everything we do, which is what makes our collection of properties the perfect place to stay for cozy ski weekends in the Midwest. Aside from the friendly and warm welcome you’ll enjoy during your stay, one of the best things about our Midwest lodging properties is the variation in accommodations. From charming bed and breakfasts in historic towns to more modern boutique hotels in metropolitan areas, there’s something here for every traveler. From solo adventures to families enjoying vacations together, we’re confident you’ll find your perfect home away from home.
Though every one of our properties excels in their dedication to excellence in hospitality, you’ll find each has its own unique personality. The guest experiences at each property have been carefully curated for the ultimate enjoyment. You’ll find that the lodging fits the local vibe and enhances your travel experience with top-notch amenities and thoughtful touches that make you feel genuinely cared for. Our innkeepers always go above and beyond to provide an experience that’s not just about where you sleep but how you feel throughout your stay. Whether it’s helping you plan local excursions or preparing a special breakfast, the detail-oriented approach ensures every guest leaves with fond memories.
This level of service and dedication to craft is one of the many things that set our properties apart from traditional hotels. If you’re planning a Midwest getaway, these inns are ideally located near popular attractions, yet they also offer peaceful escapes from the busier tourist areas. Whether you’re skiing in Wisconsin or enjoying a cozy winter weekend in Minnesota, the Midwest Association of Independent Inns provides some of the best places to stay in the Midwest. Book your ski weekends today!
