Chestnut Mountain facts for kids

Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort in winter

Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort is a fun place for skiing and snowboarding in Galena, Illinois. It's about 20 miles southeast of Dubuque, Iowa, in Jo Daviess County. You can see the resort from far away, even up to 10 miles!

This resort first opened in 1959. It has two restaurants, a lodge with 119 rooms, an indoor pool, and a hot tub. There are 19 ski runs for all skill levels: 4 for beginners, 11 for intermediate skiers, and 3 for advanced skiers. There's also a special snowboarding area called "The Far Side". To get to the top of the mountain, you can use one of their two quad chairs, four triple chairs, or two surface lifts.

The Ski Center: Your Adventure Starts Here

Chestnut Mountain has a large ski center that's about 20,000 square feet. This is where you can find everything you need for your day on the slopes!

Inside, there's a shop where you can buy ski clothes and gear from popular brands like Rossignol and Burton. If you don't have your own equipment, no problem! The rental area has over 2,400 sets of skis and snowboards ready for you. This means you can quickly get your gear and head out to the snow.

The Ski Center also has a ski school where you can learn to ski or snowboard. Plus, there's a first aid station in case of any bumps or scrapes, and a tuning shop to keep your skis or board in top shape.

Chestnut Mountain also has a special Children's Center for younger kids. And if you're really good, you might even join the Chestnut Mountain Race Team!

Fun All Year Round

Chestnut Mountain isn't just for winter sports. When the weather gets warmer, there are lots of other exciting things to do!

You can play a round of mini golf or enjoy the playground. A popular attraction is the Alpine Slide, where you ride a sled down a special track. A ski lift takes you back up to the top. You can also take boat rides on the Mississippi River from late May through October.

Chestnut Mountain is also proud to host the Winter Special Olympics of Illinois every year.

Summer Adventures at Chestnut Mountain

When the snow melts, Chestnut Mountain turns into a summer playground!

Alpine Slide Thrills

The Alpine Slide is a super fun ride! You hop on a sled and zoom down a 2,050-foot track. It's a thrilling ride that takes you all the way down to the banks of the Mississippi River. After your ride, a lift takes you back up the mountain. From the top, you get an amazing view where you can see three different states!

Mississippi River Cruises

Want to explore the river? You can take a 1.5-hour river cruise on the Mississippi. On the cruise, you might spot some wildlife. Your tour guides will also share interesting facts about the river's history and unique landscapes. It's a great way to see the beauty of the area from the water.

Soaring Eagle Zip Line

For an exciting bird's-eye view, try the Soaring Eagle Zip Line. It gives you an incredible perspective of the Upper Mississippi River Valley as you soar through the air.

Explore with Segway Tours

If you prefer to stay on the ground, Segway tours let you explore the natural paths around Chestnut Mountain. It's a unique and fun way to see the scenery.

Golfing Fun

Chestnut Mountain has an 18-hole mini golf course, perfect for some friendly competition. They also have a 9-hole disc golf course if you want to try something different.

Biking Trails

Biking is another fantastic way to enjoy the mountain's beauty. There are trails that let you pedal through the scenic landscape.

Winter Sports: Skiing and Snowboarding

Chestnut Mountain is famous for its winter activities, especially skiing and snowboarding.

Slopes for Everyone

The slopes at Chestnut Mountain are designed for all skill levels. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, you'll find a run you love. The mountain has a 475-foot vertical drop, and its 19 runs stretch for 3,500 feet. You'll find everything from easy green runs to challenging black diamond trails.

To get back up the mountain, you can use one of their nine lifts. These include two quad chairs, four triple chairs, two conveyor lifts, and one surface lift.

Snowboarder's Paradise

Chestnut Mountain is also a fantastic place for snowboarders. It has been named the top-rated Midwest snowboard park by Transworld for three years in a row! So, if you love snowboarding, "The Far Side" terrain park is the place to be.

Special Olympics at Chestnut Mountain

Chestnut Mountain is proud to host the annual Special Olympics winter games. This amazing event brings together about 400 athletes from across the state for a three-day competition.

Competition Events

Athletes compete in three main winter sports:

• Alpine Skiing (downhill skiing)
• Cross-Country Skiing (skiing across flat or rolling terrain)
• Snowshoeing (walking on snow with special snowshoes)

Each athlete can compete in one event.

A Celebration for Everyone

The Special Olympics event is more than just a competition; it's a big celebration! It starts with an exciting opening ceremony that includes a parade through downtown and a torch run. Law enforcement officers help the athletes carry the torch, which lights a cauldron to officially start the games.

There's also a winter games reception where families can meet, socialize, and learn about the event's sponsors. The event ends with a victory dance, giving the athletes a chance to celebrate their achievements and have fun with friends from all over Illinois.