With so many options for winter sports at Giants Ridge, and only three hours drive from the Twin Cities, Giants Ridge is the perfect local winter getaway for Minnesotans. There are miles upon miles of quiet unspoiled nordic trails, gravity-fed fat bike trials, downhill ski and snowboard runs. You’ll never be stuck for ways to get outside and get some fresh air.
Skiing & Snowboarding
Probably one of the best known winter sports at Giants Ridge is the downhill skiing and snowboarding mountain. With 35 runs, 5 lifts and 2 terrain parks, Giants Ridge Ski Resort is a great place to visit for downhill skiing and snowboarding.
Cross Country Skiing
Giants Ridge is home to more than 60km of world-class nordic ski trails. From beginner trails to more advanced, the expansive trail system has something to offer people of all skill levels.
You can even ski at night on a magical 3km lighted two-way loop designed for beginners. The perfect way to get away from it all and explore the natural surrounding of Northern Minnesota.
Snow Tubing
One of the lesser-known winter sports at Giants Ridge is snow tubing. There are three snow tubing lanes and a tow lift to operate them. Not just for kids, snow tubing can be fun for all the family!
Snowshoeing
There are approximately 4.8 km of snowshoe trails at Giants Ridge that meander through the beautiful Northwoods scenery and Wynne Lake.
This winter there is a Ladies Snowshoe Series that offers guided beginner and intermediate hikes on select days and evenings during the months of February and March. The tickets include a guide, equipment rental, headlamp and dinner voucher with glass of wine.
Fat Tire Biking
With so many winter sports at Giants Ridge to choose from, it can be hard to decide. One winter sport we recommend to try is fat tire biking. There’s everything you need at Giants Ridge for a great fat tire biking experience. With over 60 km of nordic trail system on the edge of the Superior National Forest, there’s plenty of room to explore.
For the adrenalin junkies, winter 2020 saw the opening of a brand new downhill fat biking experience. A high-speed chair lift serves gravity-fed trails from the top of the mountain.
Dog Sledding
You’ll have to go further afield for this winter sport, but it’s totally worth it. Dog sledding is a perfect way to create lasting memories on your trip to Giants Ridge. Traverse through the magical winter wonderland as your team of huskies pull you along.
Chilly Dogs in Ely (50 minutes from Giants Ridge) offers a half day excursion for $190 per adult. You get to meet the Alaskan huskies, learn about the breed, have a full orientation before heading out on an expedition. When you return, there’s hot chocolate, a brief educational program and a trip to the gift shop before heading home. Trips vary by length and are suitable for beginners.
Cozy Up in The Hygge Suite
After a long day on the slopes or trails, head back to the condo and cozy up under a blanket in front of the fire. There are games and books provided to allow for some quality hygge time with your loved one. Cook a homemade meal, shake up a cocktail and kick back.
There are tons of extra ideas in the activities bowl. Close your eyes, pick a coin, and see what fun activities you can explore!
The Hygge Suite 