Giants Ridge is making a big push to attract families this winter, announcing a new Kids 12 & Under Ski Free initiative alongside free weekly skiing, expanded lesson programs, new terrain, and several mountain improvements for the 2026-27 season.
The northern Minnesota ski area is targeting November 27 for opening day, with a lineup of events and promotions designed to make skiing and snowboarding more accessible for visitors of all ages.
Kids Ski Free and Thursday Night Lights
One of the biggest changes is the new Kids 12 & Under Ski Free program, which aims to make family ski trips more affordable while introducing younger generations to winter sports.
Giants Ridge is also launching Thursday Night Lights, a weekly event offering free skiing and snowboarding every Thursday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. The program will provide families, students, and local residents with another opportunity to get on the mountain without paying for lift tickets.
The inaugural Thursday Night Lights event will take place on New Year’s Eve, featuring live music, family-friendly activities, and what the resort describes as the largest winter fireworks show on Minnesota’s Iron Range.
New Ikon Pass Benefits and Opening Weekend Events
The 2026-27 season also marks Giants Ridge’s debut as an Ikon Pass Bonus Mountain. Ikon Passholders will receive two complimentary days at the resort.
Giants Ridge season passholders can also purchase an Ikon Session Pass 3-Day Pass at 50% off through December 10. Additionally, holders of season passes from ski areas worldwide can take advantage of 2-for-1 lift tickets at Giants Ridge on 25 select days throughout the season.
Opening day festivities are scheduled to begin November 27 at 9 a.m., with complimentary winter beanies going to the first 100 guests in line at the Sarajevo Express lift. On November 28, the resort will host a free screening of Warren Miller Entertainment’s latest film, Days Off, along with giveaways that include a 2026-27 Ikon Pass.
New Terrain, Lessons, and Mountain Improvements
Giants Ridge is also investing in the on-mountain experience. This winter will bring a new glade run for advanced skiers and snowboarders, an improved unload ramp at the top of the Calgary lift, and upgraded snowmaking infrastructure intended to improve early-season conditions.
The resort’s Mountain Sports School is expanding its lesson offerings, including a new Slope & Soak Package. The experience combines a 2.5-hour private lesson with admission to the Giants Ridge Pool & Sauna Haus.
Another addition is Terrain Based Learning, a teaching approach that uses specially sculpted snow features to help beginners develop balance, control, and turning skills more naturally.
With 35 downhill runs, more than 60 kilometers of Nordic trails, and a growing list of family-focused programs, Giants Ridge is positioning itself for an especially busy winter. The resort is located on Minnesota’s Iron Range, approximately one hour from Duluth and three hours from the Twin Cities.