Lumber was the original industry and remains the backbone of our economy today. Some of the most important products manufactured in Marathon County are paper and food packages, lumber and building materials, dairy products, electric motors, boxes, road building, industrial machinery, veneers, and red granite monuments.

With the recent improvements at Granite Peak, it’s getting harder to make a distinction between skiing out West and skiing close to home. Granite Peak has the terrain variety, the long runs, and the reliable snow that you’d expect to find only after spending a few hours in an airplane. Luckily, it’s close to home, and easy to reach with a short drive on well-maintained interstate highways … no airport hassles, no rental car, no long travel day… just great skiing.

Four distinct seasons are enjoyed in the Wausau Area. Granite Peak Ski Area has the highest skiable downhill run in the state, 73 kilometers of groomed cross-country ski trails, 750 miles of groomed snowmobile trails, sheets of indoor ice for hockey, curling and figure skating, plus snowshoeing or sledding..

Summer offers golfing, hiking and biking on the trails of our beautiful parks, fishing, swimming, sailing, boating or canoeing on the rivers or lakes. Wausau’s famous Whitewater Park offers spectators the opportunity to view world-class canoe and kayak competitions.

Fall is a wonderful time to enjoy the beauty of Central Wisconsin. The forests surrounding the Wausau area become painted with autumn’s rich reds, golds, and ambers. The observation tower atop Rib Mountain provides a panoramic view of the breathtaking colors.

There’s a lot more of everything than you might think in Wausau/Central Wisconsin. Historic Downtown Wausau is considered required shopping. Begin by parking your car at the Wausau Center Mall. Offering 60+ stores, this regional shopping center is anchored by Sears, JCPenney, and Younkers. When you’re ready to head outdoors, walk out onto 3rd Street. Start at the historic Washington Square and explore this brick paved walkway lined with specialty stores, restaurants, and attractions.
Life’s so Good in the Wausau Area!