Ski and Snowboard News, Deals, and Events

Granite Peak, located on towering Rib Mountain overlooking the city of Wausau, is one of the Heartland's largest ski areas. With a 700-foot vertical drop and over 70 runs it has something to offer for everybody in the family to enjoy. The Peak will be celebrating with Winter Frolic, a time for the family to come and frolic together in the snow and learn to ski or ride, Dec. 20-25. Complimentary two-session group ski lesson and free children - 12 and under - ski or snowboard rental with the purchase of at least a three-day lift ticket. Reservations are required for the group lesson.

You can bring your toddler as well, according to GM Vicki Bauman. "We take children as young as three. They are taught in half-day or full day sessions in a special area that includes a Magic Carpet lift and a yurt, which the kids love, for snacks and rest periods. We encourage family time on the slopes."

"Older children" - at least 21 years old - will enjoy live entertainment in the Peak's new lounge, called - what else? - the New Saloon. Maybe they are going to have a naming contest in the near future.

The Peak works with a select group of 20 prime hotels and lodging places around the greater Wausau area and through the CVB. A family can easily save $100 or more on multiple-day vacations by ordering a complete package online - tickets, lodging, rentals, and lessons if needed. "If you stay three or more days, the third day of both lift tickets and lodging is half price. The longer you stay, the more you save, but you can only reserve the special on line," said Bauman.

Visit OnTheSnow.com's 2008 Holiday Guide for a library of news stories and features about special holiday events from visits by Santa (even his reindeer) to where the best parties are planned for New Year's Eve at the world's mountain resorts.