How to Go Skiing in Crystal Ridge, Wisconsin

Crystal Ridge is located just minutes outside of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, making it the ideal weekend getaway for Midwest outdoor enthusiasts. This small ski area packs a punch with some of the more challenging runs in the region, all while maintaining a family-friendly vibe. It features a 245-foot drop and a top elevation of 290 feet.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Book Accommodations for Your Ski Trip to Crystal Ridge

1. Book nearby accommodations through the Milwaukee Convention & Visitors Bureau Web site (see Resources below). You can also call [phone] for more information on local lodging.
2. Check out the strip of affordable hotels and motels in the Franklin suburbs of Milwaukee. Look for low rates off Hwy 94 on Rosen Street and College Avenue.
3. Make the commute in from Milwaukee and book a stay at one of the downtown area hotels. Keep in mind that weekend rates are often lower for downtown hotels since business travelers have gone home.

Plan Your Ski Trip to Crystal Ridge

4. Get to Wisconsin's Crystal Ridge by taking I-94 east toward Lake Michigan.
5. Get a snow report online at the Crystal Ridge Web site (see Resources below) to find out which trails are open.
6. Buy a lift ticket in person. Weekday tickets are the cheapest for adults, but weekend lift tickets for both day and night skiing from 5 to 10 p.m. can also be affordable.
7. Skip the hassle of packing your own skis and rent instead. Skis and snowboards are available on site.
8. Sign the kids up for the Crystal Kids package, which includes a three-hour lesson, lunch and a special Crystal Ridge ski bib.
9. Start the day off on one of the intermediate runs (which make up half the trails) and then hit one of the more advanced runs (about 30 percent) to show off your skills.

Tips & Warnings

• Lessons are available from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily.
• Book your reservations online if you'd like to take your pick of room styles and see up-to-date pictures of accommodations.
• Crystal Ridge is open weekdays from 4:30 to 10 p.m., weekends from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and evenings from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• The ski season at Crystal Ridge runs from early to mid-December through mid-March.
• Renting a snowboard requires a hefty deposit.

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