Ski at Sundown in Dubuque

Sundown Mountain Resort just west of Dubuque is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Photo: Travel Dubuque.

If you’d like to hit the ski slopes without a big trip out west, try Sundown Mountain Resort. The scenic resort near Dubuque offers an easy getaway to give your turns a tuneup.

Most of the 21 trail runs are easy to intermediate, and lessons are available, but a 475-foot drop challenges more advanced skiers and snowboarders, too. Snowboarders can practice tricks at the two terrain parks, and unlike most resorts out west, Sundown Mountain keeps its slopes open after dark. Plus, you can count on plenty of powder since the resort makes its own snow.

Find stay-and-ski packages at several area hotels, including the Hotel Julien Dubuque, with its fine dining, spa and Riverboat Lounge, where you can enjoy an apres-ski drink.

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