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Wisconsin isn’t exactly known for mountainous geography – in fact, our highest point is called Timm’s Hill. But up north near Wausau, Granite Peak at Rib Mountain State Park provides skiing with one of the tallest spots in the midwest. This awesome ski resort is welcoming to skiers and snowboarders and its 75 runs are split evenly by difficulty level, with one-third each dedicated to beginner, more difficult and most difficult runs.
With tons of variety, long runs, many lifts and the kind of reliable snow you’d only expect to find out west, Granite Peak is a stellar skiing and snowboarding spot that appeals to folks of all ages and abilities. Add in a variety of ticketing deals, night skiing and a women’s snowsports program as well as a terrain park, concert series and rentals and you’ve got the perfect spot in north central Wisconsin.
The first ski area on Rib Mountain dates back to 1937, making it one of the first ski areas in North America. Today, the 700-foot vertical drop of the Mountain is the third-highest in the midwest, making this a premier skiing destination.
While the 75 runs, 700-foot vertical drop and six terrain parks are good enough to make Granite Peak appealing, what makes this spot so great is how committed they are to making skiing and snowboarding accessible for people of all ages and abilities.
With their premier location, Granite Peak could easily cater only to those most experienced skiers looking for challenging runs close to home, but the runs here are divided equally between beginners, casual skiers and hard core snow bums. There's actually something for everyone here.
From kids programming to ticketing specials encouraging women to hit the mountain with friends, Granite Park provides access for those of all ages and abilities.
Regular visitors have said that they might have learned to ski somewhere else, but they became good skiers at Granite Peak. The variety of runs and varying difficulties allows skiers and snowboarders to grow and learn. The high-speed lifts mean no long lines and quick trips back up the mountain, so there's more time on the snow.
There are a variety of lifts at Granite Peak, including the big six-person gondolas and a couple of high speed lifts that get you back on the snow in no time.
And in addition to providing warmth, food and drink, the chalets here are also home to concert series, meaning your day at Granite Peak can go on beyond your legs' ability to hold you up.
There's a reason Granite Peak is a Midwest skiing destination. The large hill drop, the huge amount of runs, the average snowfall and the professional way it's run are just a few.
If you're just heading there for one day, your best bet is to buy the $76 all day ticket online ahead of time. If you're planning more than one or two visits, the $499 season pass is the way to go.
But there are also a ton of different ways to visit more inexpensively, including $29 night skiing, mid-week specials and two-for-one nights during the week.
Wisconsin is totally spoiled to have such a beautiful, well-run and diverse ski resort right here in one of our state parks. Anyone who loves to ski or snowboard - or is looking to learn how - really needs to visit.
