Giants Ridge Ski Resort - Ely, Minnesota

Address:Ely, Minnesota
Tel: (218) 865-3000

Ranked as the #1 ski resort in Minnesota by SKI Magazine, and training home to the USA national Cross-country and biathlon team, as well as playing host to the World Cup, Olympic, and Junior Olympic tryouts for cross-country, Giant's Ridge is no small player in the winter sports season.

From November to April this top flight resort is open daily from 9am to 430pm on weekdays, and from 9am to 9pm on weekends, Giant's Ridge has 35 alpine trails, and over 60km of cross-country tracks which are groomed nightly. The middle of the mountain is geared towards beginner and intermediate riders while the far left and right sides offer real steeps and faster intermediate runs. The slopes are spread out over 200 acres of prime snow terrain and served by 6 chairlifts.

There are two terrain parks at Giant's Ridge. The beginners' park has smaller jumps and rollers, while the larger park features 15 to 30 foot rails, tabletops, boxes, rollers, and jibs to keep snowboarders at the top of their game.

Advanced reservations are preferred and even encouraged for those wishing to attend Giant Ridge's ski school. Students must be aged 6 and up to participate in group lessons with other adults, while private lessons start at age 5. "Ridge Rascals/Kids/Riders" start at age 4 and cater to kids up through age 12. Kids are provided with a lift ticket, rentals, and lessons, with staff especially qualified to make learning to ski or snowboard the most fun it can be for children just learning. There are learn-to-ski, snowboard, or cross-country ski lessons available for adults as well, or you can always try snowshoeing!

Adults aged 13 and up have a different lift price from children. Children under the age of 6 ski or ride free when accompanied by a paying adult, while seniors over 60 and certified instructors or members of the National Ski Patrol are entitled to a discount off a full day lift ticket with proper identification. Standard, High Performance, cross-country, and snowshoe rentals are available onsite, however identification and a deposit are required for those renting the high performance sets.

Stop into the Pine Cone Bar and Grill or Timber's Restaurant and Lounge, both of which are located in the lodge, to grab a bite to eat or sip a cold brew or hot toddie. Offsite there are over 10 bars and dining establishments within a 30 minute drive, making it very accessible to Giant's Ridge ski area.

There are three major ways to ski and stay at Giant's Ridge. There's a dorm which houses up to 96 people and offers bunk beds and showers. The lodge has suites and hotel condos to rent, and features a restaurant/lounge, indoor pool, spa, fitness center, and game room to keep everyone happy and pampered. Finally, the villas offer full kitchens and fireplaces, as well as 1 or 2 bedrooms. Off the property, about 30 minutes away, are inns, motels, and resorts. Some offer ski and stay packages and must be requested when making reservations.

Cross-country paradise, downhill alpine pleasure, and great lodging all combine to make Giant's Ridge your logical destination this winter.

Rated as Minnesota's #1 Ski Resort (SKI magazine), Giants Ridge offers 34 downhill runs, more than 60 km of cross country ski trails and one of Minnesota's hottest terrain parks.