How to Go Skiing in Mad River Mountain, Ohio

Less than an hour away from Columbus, Ohio, in the small town of Zanesfield is the Mad River Ski Resort. With 23 different ski trails and 3 terrain parks, the resort is a one-of-a-kind winter wonderland just outside of one of Ohio's busiest cities.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access
• Valid credit card

Instructions

Find Accommodations Near Mad River Mountain

1. Book lodgings through the Logan County Convention & Tourist Bureau by calling 1-888-LoganCo or visiting the Web site (see Resources below).

2. Book a bunk-style room on an authentic Ohio farm. Perfect for families or large groups, these rustic, inexpensive accommodations offer between 5 and 8 bunk beds per room and outdoor restroom facilities.

3. Search for available vacation homes near Mad River for privacy and inspired views of the mountains and valley. Most rental homes in the area can accommodate between 4 and 8 guests inexpensively.

4. Lodge at an economy motel close to Mad River. The nearby town of Bellefontaine has affordable accommodations from internationally known motel chains.

Book Your Ski Trip to Mad River Mountain

1. Buy moderately priced lift tickets in advance through the Ski Mad River Resort Web site (see Resources below).

2. Buy MadMoney before you leave for your trip. MadMoney is available on the Ski Mad River Resort Web site. Similar to a debit card, MadMoney can be used to book lessons, pay for equipment rentals and purchase food at the lodge food court.

3. Contact Mad River directly at 1-800-231-SNOW for information on money-saving packages. Many of these packages can be booked directly over the phone, while others must be reserved in person once you arrive at the resort.

4. Purchase a flight to the Port Columbus International Airport in Ohio, less than an hour's drive from Mad River Mountain.

Prepare for Your Ski Trip to Mad River Mountain

1. Come to the Mad River Resort any time of the week during the winter season. The resort is open every day of the week during peak season. Normal operating hours are from 10:00 am to 9:30 pm during the week and from 9:00 am to 3:00 am on the weekends.

2. Buy weather-appropriate clothing before you leave. While Mad River does rent ski and snowboarding equipment for an affordable price, the resort does not offer clothing rentals.

3. Schedule a private ski lesson to make sure you're ready to hit the slopes. Moderately priced private lessons are available by the hour. Alternatively, you can take an inexpensive general group lesson.

4. Get ready to ski a 300-foot vertical drop and a 1,460-foot mountain elevation.

5. Check the latest snow conditions at the Mad River Mountain Web site.

Tips & Warnings

• Book online to coordinate accommodations, lift tickets and equipment rentals at the same time.