Man skiing at Boston Mills/Brandywine Ski Resort
Travel

4 Places to Ski in Ohio this Winter

These favorites across northeast and central Ohio offer downhill thrills without ever leaving the state.

Make sure to check each location’s websites before traveling for updates on conditions.

Boston Mills/Brandywine: These twin ski areas are just a few miles away from each another in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Together, they offer 84 skiable acres, 17 ski and snowboarding trails, three terrain parks (one at Boston Mills, two at Brandywine) and 16 lifts. Brandywine also has the Polar Blast Snow Tubing Park. Tickets allow for admission to both ski areas (as well as Alpine Valley), although snow tubing requires a separate fee. Lessons are available, and both areas have lodges with a bar and cafeteria-style restaurants. Visit website for addresses of each ski resort. 800/875-4241, bmbw.com

Skier at Snow Trails (photo by Nate Wolleson)
Snow Trails: Located just a mile and a half from I-71 near Mansfield, this family-owned and -operated business opened in 1961 as the first North American ski resort as far south as Ohio. Skiers and snowboarders can tackle a total of 19 trails, including the Timberline Trail, which is the longest in the state at 2,200 feet. Five terrain parks are on-site, including one for beginners. Afterward, grab a snack and drink at The Last Run Bar and Deli. 3100 Possum Run Rd., Mansfield 44903, 800/644-6754, snowtrails.com

Person teaching kids how to ski at Alpine Valley (photo courtesy of Vail Ski Resorts)

Alpine Valley: Built in 1965, this Geauga County resort prides itself on gentle slopes, lots of space and beginner lessons for those new to skiing and snowboarding. The environment is inviting to the inexperienced, and the 72 skiable acres allow visitors to spread out. Alpine Valley has four lifts, six trails and a terrain park. More advanced skiers can have fun here, too, as the trails vary in difficulty. After you’re done skiing, hit the lodge for coffee or hot chocolate. 10620 Mayfield Rd., Chesterland 44026, 440/285-2211, alpinevalleyohio.com

Snowboarder at Mad River Mountain (photo courtesy of Vail Ski Resorts)
Mad River Mountain: Mad River Mountain in Logan County is the state’s largest ski resort. With 15 trails, nine lifts and a vertical drop of 300 feet, it caters to skiers and snowboarders alike. Newbies can book lessons or opt for the thrill of Ohio’s largest tubing park. Mad River Mountain has trails for all skill levels and a terrain park crafted for all abilities. After a day on the slopes, warm up inside Ohio’s largest ski lodge, where you can grab a snack from the cafe or cocktail at the bar. 1000 Snow Valley Rd., Zanesfield 43360, 937/599-1015, skimadriver.com

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