

How do you know it's time to bust out that thicker coat? Is it when you see the first frosty surprise on your morning stroll? Or when that chilly morning breeze decides to stick around for the day? Either way, it's unanimous - bring on the winter coat!
So, while some of us are scrambling to find our favorite pea coat, scarf, or winter boots that are still dusty from last year's snowfall, others are grabbing their ski jackets, helmets, and snowboards, all set for a waxing! Skis will be taken down from the wall, no longer just decorations sparking stories of achievements, funny mishaps, and photo worthy moments. The snow makers and resort staff are back on the slopes, getting the lifts up and running, all geared up for another fantastic ski season in Galena! With two ski resorts nearby, winter sports enthusiasts and beginners alike can rejoice as the resorts prepare for opening day!
Embark on an exhilarating winter adventure at Chestnut Mount Resort and Sundown Mountain Resort, where you'll find top-notch slopes, expert lessons, and high-quality rentals. Chestnut Mountain Resort boasts an array of 19 ski slopes and snowboard trails, including a heart-pounding 475-foot vertical drop and 3,500 feet of runs catering to all skill levels. The resort promises an unforgettable experience for guests of all ages, with highlights such as the seven-acre Farside Terrain Park, the largest in the Midwest, open from Thanksgiving Day through St. Patrick’s Day. Offering a full range of ski and snowboard rentals, lift options, and ticket choices, Chestnut ensures comfort and convenience for every visitor. Meanwhile, Sundown Mountain Resort stands out as the Midwest’s premier ski destination, featuring 85 acres of terrain, 21 picturesque trails, and cutting-edge snowmaking technology. Recognized with the prestigious NSAA Award of Excellence, Sundown offers diverse terrain suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
Ah, the thrill of learning something new and conquering that first challenging slope after leaving the beginner's area! It's like a rollercoaster of excitement and joy, one i've only had the pleasure of a handful of times! As thrilling as I find the experience, I must acknowledge and give credit to those with the skill to conquer such feats of adventure!
Sundown is where it all began for me, with its bustling lodge filled with eager skiers and snowboarders, it brings back fond memories of my first lessons and family trips. And then there's Chestnut, where even though I had a mishap, the overall experience was still so amazing! Learning and taking that first big run can be a bit daunting, as I found out with a tumble into fluffy powder. But what stands out the most from that day are the moments spent with my loved ones - watching my little brother learn to ski and witnessing his pure joy on a black diamond run, or sharing laughs with my partner Adrian and his friend Jeff in the lodge!
Those memories are what keep me eagerly waiting for the slopes to open again!