Wisconsin skiing is a great pursuit in this state during the winter months are the time to visit. Wisconsin might not be a mountainous state, but it is quite hilly, and gets its fair share of snow most winters. While the highest point here only tops out at 1,951 feet above sea level, this doesn't mean that you can't find some good downhill runs when visiting the Wisconsin ski resorts. In addition to downhill skiing, those who are looking to ski in Wisconsin can also take to the numerous cross-country tracks found across the land. Many of the best hiking trails in the state are converted into cross-country skiing tracks during the winter.

When planning Wisconsin ski vacations, finding a proper resort is generally part of the plan. Should you be looking to go cross-country skiing, then you can simply head to an area state park or wilderness area. As for downhill runs, the Alpine Valley Resort is one of the best places to go. Found in the southeastern part of the state, Alpine Valley is one of the more popular Wisconsin ski resorts, partly because of its proximity to Milwaukee and Chicago. The Alpine Valley Resort offers 21 slopes, and since they range in difficulty, all levels of skiers will be able to find a challenge here. The Alpine Valley Resort is also a good golf destination in the warmer months, and there is lodging available on the slopes whenever you visit. The 123 guest rooms at the lodge here are somewhat basic, but they more than serve most visitor's needs. Cascade Mountain is another good Wisconsin skiing destination for those who are visiting the southern part of the state. Just 30 minutes from Madison, Cascade Mountain offers speedy lift chairs that help to move the weekend crowds up the hillsides, and there are no less than 34 different trails to enjoy. The main ski hill at Cascade Mountain is 460-feet tall, so you can work up some good speed from top to bottom. The mogul runs are especially challenging if you're looking to push it.

While there are some good Wisconsin ski resorts in the southern part of the state, you can also find some great choices further north. In the northwestern part of the state, those who are looking to enjoy some Wisconsin skiing can make a break for the town of Bruce. It's there where you'll find the Christie Mountain Ski and Snowboard Area. You can hit mogul runs, jump off a few cliffs, and even ski among the trees at Christie Mountain, and there are also some more basic runs that beginners can stick to. Many Wisconsin ski resorts are adding fun and challenging terrain parks, and you'll find some good ones at Christie Mountain. Rails and jumps abound at the four Christie Mountain terrain parks, so you can work on your tricks when you're not cruising downhill. In the central part of the state, Granite Peak is another great place to ski in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin Map

Granite Peak, which can be found near Wasau, overlooks the scenic Rib Mountain State Park, and you might find yourself thinking that you're in Vermont or somewhere else in New England while hanging out here. Completely revamped, this ski area is fast-becoming a top place to go skiing in the Midwest. The skiing terrain at Granite Peak extends over 400 acres, and there are 74 slopes that are all serviced by high-speed lifts. A 700-foot vertical drop awaits you here, so you can expect some big thrills, and at nightfall, the illuminated slopes loom over the small city below. Like many Wisconsin ski resorts, you can ski at night here if you haven't gotten your fill during the day. Other good spots for Wisconsin skiing include the Devil's Head Ski Resort, which like Cascade Mountain is close to both Madison and Baraboo, and The Whitecaps Mountain Resort, which can be found upstate near the Michigan border.

Since there are many good destinations to choose from for those who want to ski in Wisconsin, you might try to hit more than one area during your trip. All of the Wisconsin ski resorts that are recommended in this article are close to lodging and dining establishments, so you can enjoy a complete ski-related getaway. You'll also find that the top Wisconsin ski resorts offer lessons, so even if you're a beginner you can enjoy the sport. Other activities that you might also enjoy during a wintertime Wisconsin vacation include ice fishing and snowmobiling, among others, so you don't have to stay indoors just because it's cold and snowy out.