While I have water skied many times, I have yet to experience the thrills of snow skiing. If and when that day comes, one of the places I will certainly keep on my list of “places to visit” will be Chestnut Mountain Resort.

Located in Galena Illinois, Chestnut Mountain has become a premier Midwest skiing destination with its nineteen trails that span 220 rolling acres with a total vertical drop of 475 feet.

The resort boasts state-of-the-art snow grooming and the largest snowmaking system in the Midwest. Chestnut’s hard working crew makes sure that the trails stay looking and feeling like fresh snow all the time. Thanks to two quads, four triple chair lifts, and three surface lifts, lines are virtually non-existent during the ski season.

Skiing is not the only activity Chestnut Mountain offers. Midwest snowboarding, Mississippi River cruises, mini golf, bike rentals and even a 2,050 ft Alpine slide are just some of many activities a traveler will find at this resort.

Not a skier but still looking for a special retreat? Chestnut Mountain offers some very exclusive Galena lodging options and amenities. How about an indoor pool, sauna, and jacuzzi, a game room, spa services, casual dining and free wireless Internet (very important for the tech-savvy traveler). Their rustic lodge includes one hundred twenty comfortable rooms, making this full service resort the perfect choice for everything from group and family trips to romantic getaways.

Be sure to check their events calendar for a list of things to do in Galena Il where you can even sign up to receive text messages on special promotions as well as ski conditions. They also offer news via email as well.

Chestnut Mountain is also happy to cater to conference, banquet and even weeding events with their 5,400 square feet of meeting and function space.

To check availability, visit their online reservations system or for more information, be sure to download their full-color brochure (PDF file).