Granite Peak Ski Area

Most out-of-state travelers are surprised to find ski hills in Wisconsin at all, let alone one the caliber of Granite Peak. In 2000, Charles Skinner Jr. purchased the then-18-run hill, changed the name to Granite Peak and spent the next two years transforming it into a 74-run ski destination.

Granite Peak boasts seven chairlifts, including a high-speed, six-seater called the Comet Express. Experienced skiers and snowboarders will enjoy shredding at least 20 black diamond runs, including two moguls and five terrain parks with dozens of jumps and chutes. Beginner and intermediate skiers have three chairlifts at their disposal, as well as the Star Lift Wonder Carpet conveyor, the Rudolph Lift handle tow and more than a dozen beginner runs.

Group lessons ($39 for one hour) accommodate a variety of skill levels, and the sheer number of hills and runs is more than enough to keep any skier engaged all day long. Private lessons, semiprivate lessons and children’s programs are also available; lift tickets and rental equipment are not included in lesson rates.

A cluster of buildings at the base of the hill houses a rental shop, Alpine Learning Center, ski and sport shop, the newly renovated Historic Stone Chalet and the 10,000-square-foot Sundance Chalet and Grill.