How to Go Skiing in Raging Buffalo, Illinois

The Raging Buffalo Snowboarding Park was the first of its kind, offering a sanctuary for snowboarders who never felt welcomed when sharing the slopes with traditional downhill skiers. This snowboarding-only facility is one of Illinois's most popular winter destinations. Situated some 45 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, Ranging Buffalo is the perfect place to enjoy some uninhibited fun with friends and family.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access
• Valid credit card

Find Accommodations Near Raging Buffalo Snowboarding Park

1. Book accommodations in nearby Elgin (about 20 minutes away by car) via the Elgin Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Web site (see Resources below) or by calling [phone].
2. Choose from a variety of inexpensive and moderately priced chain hotels and motels in Elgin, Illinois. Most are located near major highways.
3. Explore various themed accommodations packages via the Elgin Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Web site (see Resources below) to get extra perks and save money.

Book Your Trip to Raging Buffalo

4. Call Raging Buffalo at (847) 836-RAGE to book moderately priced lift tickets and season passes.
5. Arrive at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport and make the 40-minute commute to the Raging Buffalo Snowboard Ski Park.
6. Follow IL-31 north to Main Street in Algonquin.

Enjoy Raging Buffalo

7. Hit the terrain day or night, as Raging Buffalo is open until at least 10 p.m. seven days a week.
8. Visit in January or February and catch one of the USASA (United States of America Snowboard Association) snowboarding competitions. From events in the half pipe to downhill motorcross ski races, Raging Buffalo is host to a variety of heart-pumping action.
9. Explore the terrain's five trails and many challenging features, such as table tops, quarter pipes and downhill race courses. The vertical drop is 200 feet.
10. Check the latest snow report at the Raging Buffalo Web site (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Raging Buffalo offers volume discounts online for season passes that could save you and family members hundreds of dollars.
• Park administrators are constantly changing the area's terrain, so check before your trip to see if your favorite half pipes or rails are up.