Skiing and Snowboarding in Wisconsin 2024-2025

Wisconsin is not your typical ski destination; however, due to decent-sized mountains and a large amount of snow, it attracts lots of visitors from such neighboring states as Iowa and Illinois. The state boasts numerous resorts, perfect for skiers of all skill levels, be it beginners, experts, or someone who has experience every slope in the world.

Ski Season in Wisconsin

The ski season in Wisconsin generally starts around Thanksgiving and lasts through mid-April. However, in southern areas, such as Wisconsin Dells, the season runs from December through March. January is normally the snowiest month in the state, so if you're after ample snow, consider traveling during this time. But beware of crowds as January is generally considered a high season for the resorts.

Resorts in Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a beautiful area in the southern part of the state that lies on the Wisconsin River. It's famous for its sandstone formations and recreational facilities. In winter, it serves as one of the most popular skiing and snowboarding destinations. All three major ski resorts in the area—Cascade Mountain, Devil's Head, and Christmas Village—are located on the southwest bank of the Wisconsin River. There is a wide variety of lodging in the area. Devil's Head and Christmas Mountain Village have lodges and cabins right next to ski areas operated by the resorts.

Cascade Mountain Resort

Cascade Mountain is perhaps the most popular resort, which is located between Madison and Wisconsin Dells. It has 44 runs and ten ski lifts. Cascade Mountain can offer some excitement on its longest 5,300-foot (1,600-m) run called "Far Out". The resort also boasts several après-ski options, including exquisite eateries, such as Peak Cafe and Peak Bar, Coffee Shop in the Chalet, The Snackbar, and The Cookout. You can also experience tubing at its finest in the resort's Tube Park, which starts operating slightly later than ski slopes.

Tickets & Season Passes

The regular price of season passes ranges from $159 to $$799, depending on the pass. Some passes offer unlimited access to the resorts, while others are strictly for tubing or night skiing. Open-close lift tickets cost $79 for adults, $69 for children between 13 and 17 years old during non-peak season, and $89 and $99 during peak season. Night tickets, which can be used during the last 5 hours of the night, cost $43 during non-peak and $55 during peak.

Devil's Head Resort

Devil's Head is the third largest resort in the Midwest, surrounded by the glacier-formed Baraboo Bluffs. With 300 acres (120 ha) of terrain and 30 runs, it offers plenty of variety for riders of all levels. Situated 44 miles (71 km) away from Madison, the resort boasts a terrain park and one of the best cross-country trail systems in the state. You might also enjoy cross-country skiing on the resort's 3.5-mile (5.6-km) track next to Glacier Golf Course.

Lift Tickets & Passes

The Unlimited Pass costs $499, while Jr/Sr Unlimited Pass can be purchased for $449. Family Pass costs $1399, while Off-Piste Pass, which can be used during from Sunday through Friday, costs $299. Lift tickets vary around $85-259 for adults, $75-239 for children between 6 and 12 years old, and seniors over 60 years old.

Christmas Mountain Village

Christmas Mountain Village is a small resort that is great for families and beginners. Most of the runs are either easy or intermediate. A golf resort during the summer, Christmas Mountain Village is filled with snow and skiers during the winter season. Besides skiing on the resort's vast terrain, you can also experience thrilling tubing. Christmas Mountain Village is in close proximity to Lake Delton village, which boasts many accommodation options, although the resort has plenty of lodging as well.

The Mountain Top at Grand Geneva in Milwaukee Area

Another popular resort in southern Wisconsin is The Mountain Top at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, which offers 20 ski runs and an exciting terrain, ideal for skiers of all ages. It's a perfect destination for the whole family that features a cozy Christmas village, sledding, ice-skating, and various fun activities such as igloo-building. Children will also enjoy an exclusive Ski with Santa event in December. The resort also provides lodging next to the ski area, villas as well as various recreational facilities. Lake Geneva is favored by Chicagonians that flock here to take a break from the hectic life in a big city.

Season Passes & Lift Tickets

Individual season passes cost $275 for adults, $175 for students between the ages of 13-17, $150 for juniors from 7 to 12 years old, and $50 for children six and under. College Student Season Pass and Senior Season Pass both cost $199. The prices are due to increase after October 31st. Military Discounts are available. Lift tickets cost $60-75 for adults, $25-50 for children 7 to 11 years old, and $10 for children six and younger, although they can ride for free if you purchased a rental at the resort.

Hours

The lifts operate from 9 am until 9 pm on Fridays, Saturdays, and holidays, from 9 am to 8 pm on Sundays, and from 12 pm until 8 pm from Monday through Thursday, except for holidays.