The onslaught of winter brings cold temperatures and plenty of snow to Indiana, making skiing an ideal sport for locals and visitors alike. December through February are the coldest months of the year with temperatures dropping below the freezing mark. The winter months begin in the end of November with the largest snowfalls usually happening during January and February. With an average annual snowfall of twenty-four inches, an Indiana ski vacation can be the perfect way to get the most out of the winter months.

There are three major Indiana ski resorts to choose from when planning a winter ski holiday. With skiing being one of the top things to do when temperatures turn cold, it's best to do some advance planning as the slopes can get quite busy and many Indiana cabins, lodges, and hotels get booked up quickly. If you're planning to ski in Indiana with your family, Pines Peak Family Ski Area in Valparaiso is an excellent choice for all ages. Four lifts whisk skiers to nine great ski trails throughout the area. Pines Peak is one of the most unique for Indiana skiing. The mountain was carved by glaciers that also formed Lake Michigan, another popular spot for Indiana vacations. The ski resort enjoys an annual snowfall of thirty-six inches, a summit elevation of 860 feet and a 150-foot vertical drop. From beginners to experienced skiers, there are trails for every level.

South of Richmond lies Perfect North Slopes, another of the popular Indiana skiing areas offering a total of eleven lifts serving more than twenty ski trails. If you're planning an Indiana ski vacation to this area, Indiana vacation packages are available through many of the nearby Indiana hotels, bed and breakfasts, and lodges. Perfect North Slopes enjoys a summit elevation of 800 feet and a 400-foot vertical drop. Averaging almost twenty inches of annual snowfall, it's great for skiers and snow boarders alike. As with most Indiana ski resorts, night skiing is available making it easy to avoid daytime crowds in the busier months. Two and three hour snow tubing tickets are also available, appealing to smaller children who don't ski.

Indiana Map

Due south of Bloomington visitors will find Paoli Peaks Ski Area. If you plan to ski in Indiana and you're looking for the biggest slopes, you'll find them at Paoli Peaks. With the mountain elevation reaching more than 900 feet and a 300 foot vertical drop, intrepid skiers will find plenty of challenges at Paoli. Fifteen trails are served by eight ski lifts while a Tube Park and Snow Camp offer younger crowds even more to enjoy during an Indiana ski vacation. Special holidays and events, like Christmas day, bring about many great deals at Paoli like half-day rates. If you're planning on an Indiana skiing trip be sure to check the resort's calender of events to ensure you've planned ahead as special events bring about busy slopes.

All Indiana ski resorts offer skis, poles, snowboards, and boots for rent. Indiana's three major resorts also offer ski lessons with certified instructors. Each of the areas are surrounded by a variety of accommodation choices, including high end inns and lodges as well as cheap hotels and many packages and bargains to choose from. If you're planning to ski in Indiana, you'll be relishing in one of the most exciting winter activities in the state as well as some of the best winter scenery around.