Discover Northeast Minnesota: The Premier Ski Destination for All Levels
Minnesota might not be the first place to come to mind when it comes to alpine skiing. But with destinations among the best in the region, Northeast Minnesota is the place to be for everyone from beginner skiers to experts and everyone in between.
Giants Ridge in the Iron Range is perfect for a family adventure up north. The resort offers 35 downhill runs and a new high-speed ski lift. Explore Giant Ridge’s 165 acres of skiable terrain, with up to a 500-foot vertical rise.
Giant Ridge is also home to two terrain parks: Placid Terrain Park, catered toward beginners, and Garmisch Terrain Park, the larger of the two.
If you are new to alpine skiing or just want to challenge yourself, the instructors at Giants Ridge’s Snow Sports Academy are your best friends. And thanks to rental options onsite, you do not have to worry about bringing your gear on the trip.
And if skiing is not your thing, check out the resort’s snow tubing park for some fun in the snow.
With plenty of lodging and dining options in the area, Giants Ridge has everything you need for an unforgettable ski trip.
In Duluth, Spirit Mountain boasts 22 downhill runs, 175 skiable acres and a 700-foot vertical drop, not to mention stunning views of Lake Superior. The mountain’s longest run stretches an impressive 5,400 feet. And with the largest terrain park in the Midwest, thrill-seekers need look no further.
Need a rest? Spirit Mountain has a chalet at both the top and bottom of the mountain to warm up and grab a bite. And enjoy ski-in, ski-out access to the mountain with the resort’s mountain villas.
With onsite rentals and a variety of season pass options, you can enjoy Spirit Mountain all winter long.
The alpine skiing experience at Lutsen Mountains is undoubtedly top-notch. As mid-America’s largest ski resort, visitors can enjoy 95 runs and four terrain parks across four mountains. And make sure to take advantage of slope side dining options. The area also boasts 10 feet of annual snowfall.
And Lutsen Mountains’ new eight-passenger gondola and high-speed chair make getting to the top of the mountain a breeze. Savor the views of the mountains and Lake Superior on your way up.
With a variety of ski and stay lodging packages, there are options for families, solo skiers and couples.
The alpine skiing tradition goes way back at Mount Itasca, near Grand Rapids. European settlers first began holding a ski jumping tournament there in 1906. The tournament was later moved to Ole Mangseth ski jump, which can still be seen by skiers at Mount Itasca today.
Skiers can still participate in the tradition of ski jumping at Mount Itasca, with jumps of 8, 15, 20, 40 and 70 meters.
Mount Itasca has terrain fit for all skill levels. And because the facility has sophisticated snow-making capabilities, the ski season starts early at Mount Itasca.
