There is no disputing that Minnesota is a great place to ski. With an average of over 54 inches of snowfall each year and over 12,000 miles of snowmobile trails, the state boasts some of the best conditions in the country for winter sports enthusiasts.
Best Ski Resorts In Minnesota
1. Afton Alps
Source: aftonalps.com
Afton Alps is a ski resort located in the St. Croix River Valley, just southeast of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota. The resort features 300 acres of skiable terrain with 97 trails serviced by 12 lifts. Afton Alps is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and its extensive beginner and intermediate terrain. The resort also offers night skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
Other facilities:
-Rental shop
-Ski school
-Lodge
Exact Location: 6600 Peller Ave S Hastings, MN 55033
2. Buck Hill
Source: buckhill.com
Buck Hill is a ski area located in Burnsville, Minnesota. The resort features 15 trails serviced by 5 lifts. Buck Hill is known for its excellent beginner and intermediate terrain, as well as its freestyle terrain park. The resort also offers night skiing and snowboarding.
Other facilities:
-The resort has a ski school and rental shop.
-There is a day lodge with a cafeteria, bar, and fireplace.
-The resort has a ski patrol and offers first-aid services.
Exact Location: 15400 Buck Hill Rd, Burnsville, MN 55306
3. Powderhorn Mountain Resort
Source: powderhorn.com
Nestled in the picturesque Powderhorn Valley of the Colorado Rockies, Powderhorn Mountain Resort is one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets. This family-friendly resort offers something for everyone, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging black diamond runs.
Other facilities:
-The resort also has a Nordic Center, which offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails.
-A variety of lodging options are available at the resort, including hotels, condos, and vacation homes.
Exact Location: Powderhorn Mountain Resort is located in Mesa County, Colorado, about 30 miles southwest of Grand Junction.
4. Lutsen Mountains
Source: lutsen.com
Lutsen Mountains is a premier ski and snowboard destination located in the heart of Minnesota’s North Shore. With 95 runs spread across four interconnected peaks, Lutsen offers visitors a truly unique alpine experience.
Other facilities:
– The resort also offers night skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
– There is a restaurant on site.
– There is a ski school for beginners.
– There are rental facilities for equipment.
Exact Location: Afton Alps is located in the St. Croix River Valley, just southeast of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota.
5. Giants Ridge
Source: lodgeatgiantsridge.com
Giants Ridge is home to some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Minnesota. Located in the scenic Mesabi Iron Range, this resort features over 50 miles of well-groomed trails and breathtaking views of Lake Superior.
Other facilities:
-The resort has a chalet with a fireplace, bar, and restaurant.
– There is also an outdoor patio with a fire pit and seating for up to 200 people.
– The resort has a ski and snowboard school, as well as a rental shop.
– There is a daycare facility for children ages 6 weeks to 6 years old.
Exact Location: 6325 Giants Ridge Rd, Biwabik, MN 55708
6. Mount Frontenac
Source: mountfrontenac.com
Located just south of Duluth, Mount Frontenac is a popular ski and snowboard destination for locals and visitors alike. With 24 trails and a variety of terrain, Mount Frontenac has something to offer everyone.
Other facilities:
-Rental equipment is available at all of the resorts
-There are also a number of cross-country ski trails located throughout Minnesota
Exact Location:
-Afton Alps is located in the St. Croix River Valley, just southeast of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota
7. Mount Kato
Source: mountkato.com
This resort boasts 21 trails and three terrain parks, as well as night skiing on Friday and Saturday nights. Mount Kato is also a great place for beginners, with a beginner area that has its own chairlift. The views from the summit are stunning, and there are plenty of options for après-ski activities, including tubing, ice skating, and snowshoeing.
Other facilities:
-Eaglecrest Ski Area
-Hyland Hills Ski Area
-Andover Community Center
-Bemidji Community Arena
-Brainerd Lakes Area
Exact Location:
-Afton Alps: 6415 Old Carriage Ct, Afton, MN 55001
-Buck Hill: 15400
8. Wild Mountain
Source: wildmountain.com
Wild Mountain is a great place to enjoy the winter weather, with 22 trails, three terrain parks, and night skiing on Fridays and Saturdays. The resort also offers lessons for all levels, so you can improve your skills while you enjoy the slopes. After a day of skiing or riding, relax in the lodge or go snow tubing.
Other facilities:
– The resort has an on-site ski school and rental shop
– Afton Alps is also home to the Midwest Mountaineering Outdoor Expo, the largest outdoor expo in the Midwest
Exact Location: 6600 Peller Ave S Hastings, MN 55033
9. Welch Village
Source: welchvillage.com
Welch Village is a beautiful resort with 48 trails and four terrain parks. The resort also offers night skiing on Fridays and Saturdays until 9 pm. The village offers a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as lodging options, so you can make a weekend of it.
Other facilities:
-Eagle Point Resort
-Hyland Ski and Snowboard Area
-Bemidjitown Ski Club
-Buena Vista Ski Area
-Camelback Mountain Resort
-Elk River Winter Sports Club
Exact Location: 26685 County 7 Blvd, Welch, MN 55089
Conclusion
There are a variety of ski resorts in Minnesota that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll find a resort that’s perfect for you. And with so many resorts to choose from, you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for your vacation. So get out there and enjoy the snow!