Midwest Skiing at Granite Peak Ski Area in Wisconsin

Looking for great Midwest skiing? Check out Granite Peak Ski Area in Central Wisconsin.

Granite Peak Skiing at Rib Mountain in Wausau, Wisconsin

Earlier this year, we enjoyed our second March ski trip to Granite Peak. This Midwestern ski resort is located within Rib Mountain State Park in Wausau, Wisconsin.

Granite Peak Ski Area at Rib Mountain State Park in Winter

Granite Peak Ski Area Review

Granite Peak Moutain is Wisconsin’s biggest and oldest ski area. There are 60 trails spread out over 200 acres.

This ski resort has a vertical drop of 700 feet with trails for all abilities, making it great for groups. There is a little something for everyone.

2022 Opening Day: November 23
weather and snow permitting

Depending on the weather, the snow will be a combination of machine and natural snow. We found the trails to be well marked and groomed.

The staff running the chair lifts are friendly and helpful. We only encountered momentary stoppage.

Reservations are required for weekend and holiday skiing at Granite Peak Ski Area. Make them early, as it often sells out.

The rental equipment at Granite is well maintained. The rental shop is well laid out and organized.

Take a Break from the Slopes

Granite chalet has a restaurant and bar. Bathrooms are available on both levels.

There is a large patio area with heaters. There are several high-top tables. Three long fire pits surrounded by Adirondack-style chairs make for a comfortable place to take a break from skiing or watch for skiers if you are just sitting it out.

outdoor area at the Ski Chalet at Granite Peak Ski Area

Parking is free at Granite Peak. The lot is close to the chalet, making it easy to go to your car for a break or to get something. We saw several groups tailgating in the lot.

The ski shop is well-stocked and reasonably priced.

Night Skiing at Granite Peak

Skiing at night is a lot of fun at Granite. The night session, which has reduced fees runs from 4 pm to closing.

The mountain is well-lit. The views of the city of Wausau are amazing!

Lights of Wausau Wisconsin as seen from Granite Peak Ski Area

My Skiing Abilities

I am somewhere between a beginner and an intermediate skier. I ski straight down parallel on green runs. My top speed on this trip was 25.5 mph, which just edged out my husband who is an intermediate skier.

I took Comet Express to the top five times. The first time trying out Birch, which is a blue run. This was a bit of a challenge for me and I sidestepped most of it. I got into my head that it was too hard.

The other four runs were on Miracle, which is also a blue run. My husband coached me through it the first time down, having me crisscross the steeper top part. I got more confident on subsequent runs.

My skiing is much like my mountain biking, which uses the same color rating for trails. I ride green trails with ease but need more practice and confidence on blue trails.

Granite Peak is one of my favorite Midwest ski areas and is great for families with variable ski abilities. The nearby town of Wausau has a lot going on. Make sure to drive around to the top of the mountain to check out Rib Mountain State Park. The views are incredible!