Mount La Crosse

09/26/05

The place for steep slopes without heading West.

by Contributor

The Scene
Those who say Midwestern steep skiing is an oxymoron haven't been to Mt. La Crosse in western Wisconsin. Perched atop a rocky, rugged bluff overlooking the Mississippi River Valley, this ski and snowboard area features some of the steepest runs and toughest terrain in the Midwest. From the tabletop summit, the view of wooded bluffs and small farms scattered throughout the valley below is like a rustic Currier and Ives print. Runs cascade down the hill in a refreshingly random fashion over rocky glades.

The Slopes
La Crosse's double-black diamond run, Damnation!, is arguably the only slope in the Midwest that truly deserves the rating and is touted as the steepest run between New England and the Rockies. Mileaway and Thunderation are two great cruisers that descend in opposite directions from the summit. Mt. La Crosse has runs to suit all levels of skiers.

Vital Stats
Vertical drop: 516 feet
Top elevation: 1110 feet
Lifts: 3 and one rope tow
Skiable acres: 100
Beginner terrain: 30 percent
Intermediate terrain: 40 percent
Advanced terrain: 30 percent
Snowboarding: Full facilities