Property Planning_Content Page_SEGroupReport

Rib Mountain State Park Recreation Needs Assessment

Prepared by SE Group

In June 2021, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) received a report prepared by SE Group [Exit DNR] to help inform the DNR’s process to update the Rib Mountain State Park (RMSP) master plan.

SE Group was contracted by the Greater Wausau Prosperity Partnership [Exit DNR] to evaluate existing and potential downhill skiing and mountain biking opportunities at RMSP. The consultant analyzed the existing layout and operations of the downhill ski area and developed a set of potential alternatives for future management. The report also provides an analysis of mountain biking needs and opportunities in the region as well as alternatives for developing a network of trails at RMSP.

The DNR held a public input period on the SE Group Report from June 14 – July 14, 2021. For more information on the Rib Mountain State Park Master Plan, please visit the Rib Mountain State Park Master Plan web page.

SE Group Report

SE Group Report [PDF, entire document - 20 MB]

Appendix A [PDF, entire document - 13 MB]

Appendices B to E [PDF, 6 MB]

Additional Background

The DNR initially intended to contract with a consultant to provide expertise in: (1) analyzing the downhill skiing operation and develop potential alternatives for the future and (2) developing mountain bike trail design options. Due to funding needs related to the COVID-19 public health emergency, the DNR had to divert the money it had allocated for this work. The Greater Wausau Prosperity Partnership stepped in and raised the necessary funds and retained the services of SE Group, a recognized expert in downhill skiing design and management. SE Group brought on an expert in mountain bike trail design for the project as well.