Evaluation of proposed Granite Peak ski hill expansion underway

WAUSAU, Wis. - Visitors to Rib Mountain State Park in the next few weeks may notice metal flags in areas of the park as part of a the evaluation of a proposal from Granite Peak Ski Area to expand the area it leases within the park.

The flags will mark areas where the company is proposing to establish new beginner and intermediate runs west of the existing leased property and advanced runs east of the existing property along with additional chair lifts to serve the new runs.

The survey work is expected to begin next week.

"This will help us develop an assessment of the proposal this spring and summer," said Jeff Prey, a park planner with the Department of Natural Resources.

The park, located on one of the highest points in the state just west of Wausau in Marathon County, has offered alpine skiing since the 1930s. Since 2000, the ski area has been operated under a 30-years lease. The ski area currently leases 385 acres of the 1,627-acre park and is proposing to lease an additional 150 acres.

For more information about the park search the DNR website for "Rib Mountain" and for information about the proposed lease expansion search "Rib Mountain master plan amendment."