If you are looking for Ohio ski areas, you may be pleasantly surprised at what you can find in this state. Though many people think of Ohio as a spring or summer holiday destination, Ohio has some great skiing up for grabs during the winter months. Downhill skiing in Ohio, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and winter hiking are some of the fun things do to in the colder months. Ohio ski conditions are fairly good although some winters can be fairly mild.

Average annual snowfall in the northern part of the state is the best reaching 50 inches of snow. Ski resorts in Ohio do make their own snow as well. Many make snow that covers 100% of the ski area offering better conditions then Mother Nature might provide. The ski season generally runs from December to March and sometimes evens through April.

Located in Mansfield in the northern area of the state, Snow Trails was Ohio's first commercial resort for skiing in Ohio. This Ohio ski area has a 300 foot vertical drop, base elevation of 1,174 feet with the longest run at 2,000 feet. Ohio skiing here encompasses over 200 acres that are 100% lit. Four triple lifts, 2 doubles and a ski carpet is the transportation available to the 13 different trails.

This ski resorts located off Highway I-71 between Cleveland and Columbus. Hours are from 10:00am to 9:30pm Monday to Friday and from 9:00am to 9:30 pm on Saturday and Sunday. All day lift tickets are $30.00 for adults and $20.00 for kids but make sure to check for special deals. Rentals are also available. If planning a ski trip to Mansfield consider making the drive to Cleveland for choice city attractions such as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Pro Football Hall of Fame or check out Jacobs Field for an Indians ball game.

For Ohio skiing, snowboarding and tubing head to Clear Fork just 15 miles south of Mansfield on State Route 97. Clear Fork is one of the smaller ski resorts in Ohio offering seven full runs and three kiddie runs. There are a variety of lifts including a quad, triple, double, and handle bar. At the cozy base lodge, there is an assortment of food stops for hungry skiers.

Ski Ohio here and look out for the great "all day two for one" specials before buying lift tickets. Day, half-day, mid-day and night skiing in Ohio are all available at Clear Fork. Lift ticket prices vary from $17.00 to $39.00 so be sure to inquire before purchasing. Monday through Friday hours are 10:00am to 10:00pm and Saturday, Sunday and holidays the hours are from 9:00am to 10:00pm.

When looking to ski Ohio at a bigger location Boston Mills Brandywine is the biggest of ski resorts in Ohio. These are two Ohio ski locations in one! Located in Peninsula, Ohio just north of Akron, Ohio skiing here is some of the best skiing in the entire state. Nearby and on the mountain visitors can find lodging, shops, services, bars and restaurants. There is also a ski school for beginners.

Ohio skiing at Boston Mills Brandywine includes over 15 trails with quad and triple chairlifts as well as surface lifts. Trails range in variety from beginner to expert. All day, morning, half day, evening and late night skiing are available and rates are between $25.00 and $39.00 so check before purchasing. Artfest is one of the special summer events happening at this Ohio ski resort since 1972. Fine crafts and arts are showcased with more than 320 artists displaying their work

Alpine Valley and Mad River Mountain are two more popular Ohio resorts offering exciting skiing in Ohio. Though Ohio winter temperatures tend not to be too extreme in cold, it's best to pack well and wear layers to adjust to the varying temperatures. Skiing in Ohio can be really exciting so make sure to watch out for the best winter weather reports!