How to Enjoy Rib Mountain State Park, Wisconsin
Rib Mountain, formerly Rib Hill, is a four-mile-long ancient quartzite ridge that dates back nearly two billion years. One of the highest spots in Wisconsin, the Chippewa Indians historically used the location as a strategic lookout, and early residents made a pilgrimage up the mountain just because "it was there." Developed as a state park in 1927, the Civilian Conservation Corps further developed the land to include camping areas, hiking paths and ski areas.
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Instructions
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Find the park west of highway 39 and US highway 51, southwest of Wausau, Wisconsin. The physical address is 4200 Park Rd. Wausau, WI, 54401.
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Bring your hiking boots. There are over 13 miles of hiking trails available to you in this 1400-acre park. A brisk climb up the 60-foot observation tower will leave you breathless not only from the walk, but from the views as well. There are also more than eight miles of nature trails that are wheelchair friendly so everyone can enjoy the fresh air and wildlife.
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Get a camping spot. Rib Mountain Park has 30 scenic camping spaces available on a first-come first-served basis, so plan ahead and try to visit on the off-season for your best choice of spots. Remember you'll be surrounded by deer, wild turkey, fox and raccoons, so camp wisely and store your food properly. Be aware that the majority of the camping sites are on the top of this 670-foot-high mountain.
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Bring your skis. Winter means a trip to the Granite Hill downhill ski area and you can lodge there to get the full Wisconsin winter wonderland experience. Part of Rib Mountain State Park, Granite Hill is beautiful year-round.
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Tips & Warnings
Get your tickets online for Granite Hill skiing to save money. You can save a minimum of $6.00 online on some tickets and more on others. Get your admission sticker. You'll need a state-parks sticker to enjoy Rib Mountain, and Wisconsin residents pay $25.00 for an annual pass or $7.00 for a day pass. Out-of-state friends pay $35.00 a year or $10.00 for their one-day visit. Check your travel dates online and make your reservation.
Don't wait until the last minute to book a room at the Granite Hill lodge. Plan your trip well ahead of time for the best selection of rooms and prices.
