Believe it or not, there are places you can ski near Central Illinois this winter. Your kids will love it!
Skiing? On the prairie? Is this a joke?
No joke, there are places within a day’s drive that will get your little ones on some skis. It might not be serious powder like our friends out west have, but it works.
We asked our readers where they take their kids skiing around Central Illinois, and they answered.
Editor’s Note: These recommendations are taken from our readers on our Facebook page. We do not endorse any of these places. Always check directly with the facility before you plan a trip!
Chestnut Mountain, Galena: “Chestnut Mountain in Galena. The kid ski instructor there was amazing and has been teaching there for 20-30 years. He said he is coaching the third generation of families now.”
Cascade Mountain, Portage, Wis.: “Best part is kids ski free with paid adult!”
Snowstar Winter Sports Park, Andalusia: “Snowstar is smaller, and near the Quad Cities.”
Swiss Valley, Jones, Michigan: “Just went to Swiss Valley in Michigan. Great instructors if learning and very small if new at it. It was a fun beginning place!”
Sundown Mountain Resort, Dubuque, Iowa: “Kid friendly and also fun for adults. Great things to do with kids in Dubuque as well when you are not on the slopes!”
Devil’s Head Resort and Convention Center, Merrimac, Wis.: “Devil’s Head in WI is kid-friendly.”
Wilmont Mountain, Wilmont, Wis.: Newly remodeled with a $13 million expansion by Vail resorts, we hear the Wilmont Mountain ski center located on the border of Illinois and Wisconsin is in much better shape than it used to be.
So pack up the car and introduce your little ones to skiing before the season is over. Some places close as early as the second week of March so make your plans today!
Did we miss your favorite place to take kids to ski (near-ish) Central Illinois? Email us and let us know.