By Kevin Passon, Antigo Daily Journal
Kettlebowl Ski Hill is about more than just snow.
Volunteers and those enjoying the ski hill Feb. 6 were invited to dress appropriately and celebrate Hawaiian Day. This past Sunday was Football Day. Coming up Saturday will be a donation drive to benefit the Langlade County Humane Society, and Feb. 27 will feature a celebration of Mardi Gras.
Kettlebowl Ski Hill has been around for 65 years and is maintained by volunteers from the Langlade County Ski Club Inc.
Whether you’re 2 or 72, it’s a unique and inexpensive place to ski, as well as meet neighbors or make new friends. There are several runs with different challenges along with a snowboard terrain park. Rental equipment is available.
On Sunday, a 4-year-old was seen trying out his new snowboard on the Bunny Hill. He made it up the tow rope, tried several times to snowboard down the hill but fell. But he got up and tried again and again. Finally, he snowboarded down the hill without a fall.
There is also the Kettlebowl cross-country trail. Working with the Langlade County Forestry, Parks and Recreation Department, the trail can be used every day of the week. About 100 yards from the gate, a new access to the trail has been opened. Also, the ski hill has some new equipment to groom and track the trail.
At the end of the season, there is a fun day with lots of contests, prizes costumes, etc. Tentatively, March 5 will be this year’s fun day.
The ski hill is regularly open from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Ticket prices are $5 for adults, $3 for students through high school, $2 for children 6-12 and free for those 5 and younger.
Antigo Ski brings a trailer out every weekend for gear rentals. They have ski and snowboard equipment. Rental prices are $20 ages 6 and older, and $15 for anyone 5 and younger.
For non-skiers, there is a chalet where they can sit and watch the skiers and snowboarders.
For more information, follow the Kettlebowl Facebook page.
The ski hill is located at N6875 Highway 52, Bryant.