Things to do / Travel Guide
Address:Twin Cities, Minnesota
Tel:
(651) 465-6365
The Twin Cities area is home to many ski areas within an hour's drive, but Wild Mountain in the St. Croix River Valley stands out for the motley mix of terrain on its 100 acres which gives strong meaning to the name "Wild" Mountain. From early November to March, guests can ski from 10am to 10pm, and on Saturdays until 1am! How is that for getting your money's worth?
With names like the "You Asked For It" expert trail and the sweet "Daisy" and "Dandy" beginner trails, the fun side of Wild Mountain is immediately evident. But the seriousness with which the resort regards its slopes is no laughing matter. 25 trails wind their way down from the 1,113 foot summit, where guests are serviced by 4 quad chairlifts and 3 rope tows to take them right back up to the top. There are eight beginners', five intermediate, eight advanced, and one expert trail with wide open runs to the "Challenger;" a nice mogul run to burn the thighs with. However, because of the small 300 foot vertical drop, runs on Wild Mountain tend to be on the short side.
"The Park", "Quarter Rabbit" mini-park and the "Soaring Eagle" halfpipe are only a sampling of what is to be found in the terrain parks at Wild Mountain. Jumps, jibs, rollers, boxes, and tabletops are all shaped and groomed weekly to keep them in top shape all season long.
Because Wild Mountain can sometimes get crowded, especially on the weekends, it is strongly recommended to call ahead and reserve in advance any lessons you may want to take. There is the Junior Snowsports Academy for kids between the ages of 4 to 12 years old with group, private, and ski or snowboard camps. Women also have their own academy. There are race clinics for all ages and genders, as well as Tuesday Snowboarding nights. The instructors are highly visible on the mountain as they come down wearing grass skirts, and have a line of students trailing behind!
Rates here are for adults 12 and older, and children from 6 to 12. Lift passes are sold in day, night, and Saturday late night time brackets. There is a full rental shop onsite, however no repairs or tune-ups are handled at Wild Mountain and are only offered at off-site ski and rental shops. Try the snowtubing at "Wild Chutes" as another alternative activity at Wild Mountain – a separate fee is required to participate, which can be purchased along with the chairlift passes.
When you're ready for some rest, slip into the "Eagle's Nest Bar and Grill" for a drink and relaxing times, but be aware that patrons must be at least 18 years of age, or with a guardian if younger, at all times. There is a cafeteria at the bottom of the lodge which operates daily, and on weekends or holidays an additional snack bar will open up to handle the influx of guests.
Taylor's Falls, where Wild Mountain is located, is a historic river town. Amble down Main Street and eat at one of the several restaurants and bistros with its smells wafting throughout the air. Wildwood RV Park and Campground is just 8 miles away from the slopes, and is pet-friendly. Alternatively, head into one of the 9 communities surrounding Wild Mountain for a mixture of hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts.
So pack up the gear, wax those skis or snowboards, and head to Wild Mountain today. Their name says it all, and gives a sneak preview of what is awaiting riders this season.