Very interesting question, I haven't thought about this before without academics playing a role.
I agree with you on Wisco, the program tradition and history probably set a great atmosphere around the team where it's possible to really get into it. The consistently cool temperatures (compared to OK State, etc.) would also be pretty awesome for training, and I also have no problem running in the snow.
NAU seems like an awesome place to build a great aerobic base and have a nice variety of places to run, since it's at a nice altitude and in the mountains. I haven't ever met anyone from the team, but I would assume they have a bit of a chip on their collective shoulders, having been so close to winning NCAAs but never actually doing it. There are also a decent amount of local pros, which means there's potential to create some really cool experiences if they can get involved with them.
Michigan State is actually surprisingly great for training, especially XC. They have miles and miles of dirt roads around campus, and (according to a friend who runs there) coach Drenth has a way of tailoring workouts to the individual that is really effective, and it seems to be working. Plus, they have camp in northern Michigan, which I think is one of the most under-appreciated running destinations there is.
I don't have any evidence for this one, but Cal has just always seemed like a really cool place to be.