Four Fantastic Ski Resorts and Slopes Across Illinois

Jan 9, 2025

Today we’re highlighting some of the best and brightest gems for skiing and snowboarding across Illinois, so you can check off one of your New Year’s resolutions: Learn to Ski and Snowboard! Illinois has an incredible selection of slopes to choose from that will get your heart racing. From thriving ski resorts to family friendly lessons to mountain terrain for cross-country treks, you’re going to love these four winter sports destinations. So grab your winter boots, your warmest coat, put on your gloves and hat and let’s hit the road for a day on the slopes.

Chestnut Mountain Resort is just a short 2.5 hour trip from Chicago in the Driftless Region. This stunning state of the art facility boasts 220 skiable acres along with a 20,000 square foot ski center with apparel shop, equipment rental, and skiing school. There are 19 different trails to choose from: 4 beginner trails, 11 Intermediate level, 3 advanced, and the Far Side Terrain Park for snowboarding. The winter terrain park offers a chance for newcomers to snowboarding to gain confidence and practice, as well as offering numerous challenging options for the intermediate and experienced boarders. Visitors also rave about the resort’s stunning location along with the magnificent views of the area you’ll get to see from the lodge restaurant that overlooks the river; Summit Food and Spirit is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with gourmet American fare and hearty yet cozy meals to refuel you.

Four Lakes is a true hidden gem if you’re looking to learn the ropes on the slopes and find some family-friendly skiing and snowboarding, located in Lisle. Newcomers love this destination for its affordability, gentle bunny slopes for beginners, and larger slopes for intermediate riders. It’s also a great option if you’re feeling a little rusty after some time off and want a refresher. Plus, the slopes have just opened for the season as of Wednesday, January 8th, with snowmaking capabilities covering the slopes with fresh powder on warmer afternoons.

Villa Olivia in Bartlett has something fun in store for you no matter what winter sport you prefer: Skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing! There are 7 ski runs in total, and the facilities offer night skiing for those who prefer a quieter excursion. Warm winter days wont’ slow you down, either, as the slopes have snowmaking capabilities to help. Sign up for some of the guided classes and learn something new, or head right to the lift if you’re ready to rock! Passes are available for regular visits, so you can save some cash for new gear. Check the website for regular updates on weather conditions, but with state of the art snow-making things should be ski-ready at a moments notice even if Mother Nature won’t cooperate.

Ski Snowstar Winter Sports Park is located in Andalusia, just minutes away from Quad Cities. This family friendly resort has 28 acres of scenic slopes with its 15 runs for daytime and night skiing options, plus a snow-tubing park. Plus, there’s full mountain snowmaking capabilities so there’s never a shortage of snow coverage. The park offers Daily Flex Pass options so adults and kids can ski any time during the day for a 4 hour period. The park offers a school for all ages and abilities, including a dedicated children’s learning center, so everyone will have a chance to hone their skills on the skis or board. Snowstar also offers four different eateries at multiple price points and styles: The Lodge, Peak’s Tavern, Fireside Lounge, and the Snack Shack.