With the first day of winter officially behind us, it’s time to roundup the best spots around Madison for snow-filled fun.
Ski’seasons greetings:
Alpine Valley Resort
📍Elkhorn | 💰 $40-84 (lift) + $10-50 (rentals) | 🚘 ~ 1 hr, 15 min from 608
Focusing on emulating the experience of skiing out west, Alpine Valley hosts 20+ runs for ranging abilities, ample lifts + tow ropes, plus a massive beginners area — perfect for your first ski of the season.
Cascade Mountain
📍Portage | 💰 $40-86 (lift) + $35-119 (rentals) | 🚘 ~ 45 min from 608
Cascade Mountain boasts 40+ runs, multiple terrain parks, and a robust ski racing program. Every member of the family or friend group is sure to find a way to spend a day at Cascade.
Pro tip: Cascade Mountain also has a 900’ ft shoot for snow tubing
Devil’s Head Resort
📍Merrimac | 💰$30-73 (lift) + $8-39 (rentals) | 🚘 ~ 50 min from 608
This full-service ski resort is built into the glacier-formed, Baraboo Bluffs — providing epic scenery for anyone on the mountain. With one of the highest ski peaks in the state, the slopes here are pampered arguably more than the guests.
Pro tip: kids under 5 ski free
Sleigh all day:
Elver Park | 📍1250 McKenna Blvd.
The largest community park in all of Madison, spanning over 250 acres, Elver Park holds the crown for best sledding in town as its built-in lighting allows for sledding after dark.
Olbrich Park | 📍3527 Atwood Ave.
While Olbrich is most commonly celebrated for its world-class garden, the property also features spacious hills + gorgeous views perfect for playing in the snow.
Bascom Hill | 📍1872 Lincoln Dr.
Participate in the age-old UW-Madison tradition of traying — riding down the Bascom and Observatory hills on a cafeteria tray.
Shoe-in spots:
Cross-country ski permit is required for all marked trails — shoeing allowed on designated trails only.
Vilas (Henry) Park | 📍1602 Vilas Park Dr. | 💰$5-25 (rentals)
Trek one of Madison’s oldest community parks along the north shore of Lake Wingra. Rentals are available Wednesday through Sunday on days with safe conditions.
Indian Lake County Park | 📍8183 WI-19, Cross Plains
This park offers nearly 500 acres of land perfect for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sledding + more. Be sure to check out the section of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail that also winds through the park.
Pro tip: get cold during the day? Pop inside of the park’s log cabin warming house for a quick break.
Aldo Leopold Nature Center | 📍330 Femrite Dr., Monona
The award-winning trails + nature center offer a great venue for fun in the snow alongside some of Wisconsin’s most unique habitats.
Pro tip: join in on a Candlelit Snowshoe Hike on Sat., Jan., 15.
Did we miss your favorite snow day hangout? Send us a message and let us know where else Madisonian’s can spend a day outdoors this season.
