Best Skiiing In Indiana: is Paoli Peaks or Perfect North Slopes Better?

Written by Kirstin Harrington
Published: March 7, 2023
© Susan B Sheldon/Shutterstock.com
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There are several ski resorts in many of our bordering states, but there are only a few in Indiana. The good news is that there are many spots to go skiing or snowboarding close to Indianapolis since it’s in the heart of the Midwest. There is a ski hill within practically any price and for every ability level, based on how far you’re willing to travel.

Perfect North Slopes
Skiers of all skill levels like Perfect North for skiing and snowboarding since it has trails spanning from beginner to double black diamond.

©Kit Leong/Shutterstock.com

Perfect North Slope Visiting Information

Just west of Cincinnati, 90 minutes from Indianapolis, is the closest ski area called Perfect North Slopes. Perfect North offers ski and snowboarding training, rental of equipment, dining options, and a ski lodge where you can stay warm or enjoy seeing your loved ones go to the slopes. 

Skiers of all skill levels like Perfect North for skiing and snowboarding since it has trails spanning from beginner to double black diamond. The Terrain Parks, where even Olympic competitors have trained, are one of the main attractions.

Children under the age of 12 can purchase an eight-hour lift pass for $42, while adults pay $52. The cost of snow tubing is $23 for kids and $28 for adults. Tickets for snow tubing are good for two hours on Friday through Sunday or for the entire day on weekdays.

Skiing at Perfect North Slope

There isn’t a lift ticketing system in place nationwide for Perfect North Slopes. Pass holders can ski at many mountains with a single purchase if they have a pass like Epic, IKON, or Mountain Collective. The 23 ski trails at Ideal North Slopes are served by 11 ski lifts, gondolas, and/or trams. 

With a total skiable area of no more than 100 acres, Perfect North Slopes is thought of as a smaller-than-typical ski resort. The slopes at Pristine North Slopes receive 25 inches of snow annually on average.

Beginner-friendly skiing may be possible on The North Slopes, however, it varies based on the ski routes you take. Even though it has 75% of its trails are classified at or above the intermediate ski level, there is still an overall difficulty rating that places it in the lowest half of all ski resorts in North America. Simply put, there’s plenty of space for snow bunnies still learning the ropes! 

Perfect North Slope
Beginner-friendly skiing may be possible on The North Slopes, however, it varies based on the ski routes you take.

©Clyde Super Slide – Perfect North Slopes – License

Staying at Perfect North Slope Resort

When searching for a place to stay in the neighborhood, you will find special package deals at the hotel of your choosing, whether you’re seeking the ideal bed and breakfast, motel, or extended stay. 

Comfort Inn and Suites, Best Western, and First Farm Inn are just a few of the places you can stay when visiting Perfect North Slope. They each have different amenities and are a short distance from the slopes!

Make sure to ask for the Perfect North Slopes package when making your hotel reservation. In order to get ready for a fantastic day of snowboarding or skiing, make sure you have everything for the evening and enjoy your stay!

Paoli Peaks Visiting Information

French Lick, Indiana
An Indiana popular vacation spot, a winter wonderland with skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing is located near the town of French Lick.

©SevenMaps/Shutterstock.com

An Indiana popular vacation spot, a winter wonderland with skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing is located near the town of French Lick. There are numerous reasons to visit Paoli Peaks, which is roughly two hours from Indianapolis. It provides lessons, a variety of runs, and even close-by lodging in the well-known town of French Lick. 

Paoli Peaks offers slopes for skiers of all skill levels, from novice to black diamond. More seasoned skiers and boarders will find a new challenge in the two freestyle terrain sections. You can get to the path of your choice via a chairlift or a carpet lift. 

Children under 12 can attend for $39 during the week or $42 on weekends and holidays. Adults pay $42 during the week and $49 on weekends and holidays.

Skiing at Paoli Peaks

It has a 300-foot vertical drop and a peak elevation of 823.5 feet for skiers and snowboarders. A total of 4.1 miles of marked trails are available at Paoli Peaks Ski Resort, with 25% of those trails being best for beginning skiers, 55% of trails being best for intermediate skiers, and 20% (0.8 mi) of those trails being best for more experienced and expert tier skiers and snowboarders. All of this is readily available thanks to their eight ski lifts.

Staying at Paoli Peaks Resort

They have a 45,000-square-foot ski and snowboard complex with all the amenities you could possibly need for a day on the slopes! Ski & Snowboard Rental, a Cafeteria-Style Restaurant & Pizzeria, a comfortable ski bar for those over 21, a Ski Patrol First Aid Station, a Group Sales Office, and a Ski & Snowboard School are all located inside the ski lodge. 

Together with their ski slopes, they have a sizable terrace outside that extends around the back of the lodge. Since Paoli Peaks is solely a day lodge, they do not provide overnight accommodations at the property. But don’t worry, they collaborate with a lot of nearby hotels to assist make your stay even better.

There are several nearby hotels, including The Wise Old Owl, Pakota Four Seasons, French Lick Cabins, and Best Western Plus. Many of these places offer discounts for those hitting the trails, saving you even more money on your trip! 

Bottom Line

One of these ski resorts isn’t necessarily better than the other. Which one you decide to go to depends on what you’re looking for in a winter getaway. If you want something smaller, homier, and better for beginners, Perfect North Slopes may be for you. On the other hand, if you want more options, a luxurious experience, and plenty of trails for experts, Paoli Peaks is calling your name! 

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Indiana Snow
An Indiana popular vacation spot, Paoli Peaks is a winter wonderland with skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing is located near the town of French Lick.
© Susan B Sheldon/Shutterstock.com

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About the Author

When she's not busy playing with her several guinea pigs or her cat Finlay Kirstin is writing articles to help other pet owners. She's also a REALTOR® in the Twin Cities and is passionate about social justice. There's nothing that beats a rainy day with a warm cup of tea and Frank Sinatra on vinyl for this millennial.

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