Page 18 - SRCG_Spring_HTML_2010

❖Destination Report: Midwest

Chestnut Mountain Resort

By Chris P. Peters
J
Just outside the historic town of Galena lies
Illinois’ premier ski resort. Nestled high above
the Mississippi River, Chestnut Mountain Resort
offers skiing and snowboarding on 220 acres.

The resort opened in 1959 and has gained a
reputation as a popular Midwestern tourist destina-
tion. With a family-friendly atmosphere, Chestnut
Mountain features a 120-room lodge, two restau-
rants, a lounge, game room, indoor pool and hot
tub area. A ski rental service, ski school and
apparel shop ensure visitors will be prepared to
hit the slopes with confidence.

The 475-foot vertical drop runs 3,500 feet
through 19 runs ranging from beginner to expert.
Four triple chairlifts, three surface lifts and two
quads provide speedy access to the top with
practically no lines. With an abundance of inter-

indoor pool, hot tub and sauna are perfect ways to unwind
and relax following a day on the slopes. For overnight
stays, the resort has four floors of rooms, each equipped
with free internet access, television and refrigerator.

Galena’s rich history and 19th century architecture offer
mediate trails, Chestnut Mountain is best suited for the a quaint setting for visitors to enjoy sights, shopping and
average skier and snowboarder. This spacious retreat also restaurants around town. Visitors can explore Galena’s
includes a snowboarding park and freestyle area. historic sites by stopping by the Old Train Depot Visitor
Information Center and picking up a self-guided walking
As outdoor activities come to a close during the evening map of downtown. One-of-a-kind shops are located
hours, there is plenty to do while inside the cozy and throughout town and nearby villages. For example, Cherry
charming rustic lodge. The resort offers dining at the Creek Cottage is a hotel turned shop that offers gifts, fash-
Sunset Grille, an attractive restaurant that lives up to its ions, jewelry and home décor. Family-owned restaurants
name, as guests can relish breathtaking panoramas from like Frank O’Dowd’s Irish Pub & Grill and 111 Main provide
the dining room overlooking the Upper Mississippi River warm hospitality.
Valley. An outdoor dining deck affords views of the trails.
The menu features such items as fresh seafood, steaks, sig- Chestnut Mountain’s thrilling winter environment, along
nature sandwiches, gourmet pizza and delectable deserts. with Galena’s old-time ambience, truly makes Northwest
Illinois a memorable place to visit with friends and family.
An adjacent lounge and bar area entertains adults, while
kids can enjoy the arcade game room. In addition, the Contact: 800-397-1320, chestnutmtn.com

18 ❖ MIDWEST SKIER SPRING 2010 PLANNING ❖ www.skicmsc.org