Featured Image Credit: Hyland Hills
Well, it’s winter. An exciting time for skiers to spend all their time out in the mountains, waiting for powder and taking days off work. And, if you’re from the Midwest, you wake up every morning wondering if you’re going to fall down the driveway and adding up your vacation days to take a trip out west.
Add on to this the lack of jagged peaks, and eventual (if not forceful) devotion to Nordic skiing, and you’ll get a jittery (and strong) Midwestern skier. If you love skiing out west, the resorts ‘back home’ begin to seem slightly lackluster.
They don’t boast extreme terrain, substantial vertical drop, or the deep powder of the mountains. Acknowledge this, and turn your perspective elsewhere.
Small crowds, cheap tickets, and a heart-felt community that will welcome you no matter where you’re from is what awaits you at these Minnesota resorts.
Lutsen Mountains
Lutsen is located on the North Shore of Lake Superior. It’s the Midwest’s largest ski resort and has the state’s only gondola.
Distance from Twin Cities: 240 miles
Giants Ridge
This smaller, family mountain boasts 35 runs and has less crowds.
Distance from Twin Cities: 200 miles
Spirit Mountain
This resort has an upside-down structure with the chalet at the top, and beautiful views of the lake.
Distance from Twin Cities: 150 miles
Hyland Hills
This small ski area is in the city, and has an incredible terrain park. Lots of famous skiers and riders have come out of here!
Distance from Twin Cities: 0 miles.
Blog photos: polinapekurovsky
