This Wisconsin Ski Lift Ride Leads To The Most Stunning Fall Foliage You've Ever Seen
By Ben Jones|Published September 02, 2022
×
Ben Jones
Author
Ben Jones is at heart an adventurer who delights in inspiring others. A former reporter and photojournalist, he explored towns large and small as a Wisconsin correspondent for USA Today. He later became a lead photographer and senior copywriter for an award-winning destination marketing agency, before founding Boldland Creative, a company that produces photography, video, and other content for travel destinations. Jones has completed photography and content projects in more than 15 states and when he’s not looking through a camera or at his Macbook you’ll find him exploring the world’s lakes and forests.
For some of the best fall colors in Wisconsin, head up to the treetops. A Wausau-area ski hill offers a dazzling sky-high fall color show and all you need to do to enjoy it is sit back and enjoy the ride. Granite Peak’s Fall Scenic Rides will take you to one of the highest, and prettiest, spots in Wisconsin, and this ski lift ride is the best way to see Wisconsin’s fall foliage to celebrate the season. Here’s what you need to know about this incredible autumn experience.
Towering above the Wausau area, Rib Mountain offers some of the best views in Central Wisconsin. It stands 1,942 feet above sea level and 741 feet above the local terrain. Local legend suggests the “rib” name is due to Paul Bunyan being buried here.
The mountain is open to the public via Rib Mountain State Park, and it’s a beautiful place to explore in any season. The park covers more than 1,500 acres, and it has 15 miles of trails. There’s also a 60-foot observation tower.
Rib Mountain is also home to the Granite Peak ski area, which is especially gorgeous in the fall. The mountain and much of the surrounding area is covered with trees that explode with color in September and October.
While there’s a lot to explore on foot in the park, for the best views, pick up a ticket for the fall color ride. The six-person chairs will slowly and safely take you up the mountain so you can see all of the dazzling fall colors.
The ride can be paired with a scenic fall color hike – just get off at the top, explore the trails and when you’re ready to go down, just get back on the lift.
After completing the ride, head to the resort's Historic Chalet Deck and 10th Mountain Division Hut. It is serving the Wisconsin fall classics – cold beer and brats!
The Granite Peak Fall Scenic Rides are very popular so you’ll want to purchase advance tickets. See ticket information and fall ride dates on the Granite Peak website. While you’re in town, here are some more amazing ways to enjoy fall in Wausau.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.