Minnesota is home to many ski and snowboard resorts, which are the perfect place to visit during winter break.
With the snow season right around the corner, there are many hills to choose from, but this article will break down each location for you. Whether you are new to skiing or have been practicing the sport for a while, these places provide a variety of options for everyone.
5. Welch Village (Vasa Township)
Welch Village, located 53 minutes southeast of the Twin Cities, provides a picturesque getaway with a quaint small-town feel. This ski resort is situated in the Cannon River Valley and has three hills and 60 trails. Welch Village is a great place for families and people seeking a laid-back skiing experience because of its well-maintained slopes. All-day passes are $70 Monday through Thursday and $80 on the weekend.
4. Afton Alps (Hastings)
Afton Alps is a 37-minute drive east of the Twin Cities and provides a full range of snow experiences. Beginners and expert skiers will find a place in the Alps, which has 48 trails spread across four connected peaks. The resort also offers terrain parks and tubing, along with multiple chalets throughout the park to relax in after a day on the slopes. Day passes go for $70, although Afton Alps is connected to the Epic Pass system, so investing in a season pass at Afton Alps can give you access to large Colorado resorts, such as Vail Ski Resort and Beaver Creek Resort, along with more resorts around the world.
3. Wild Mountain (Taylors Falls)
Wild Mountain is a year-round ski resort one hour northeast of the Twin Cities. For skiers and snowboarders, Wild Mountain offers a variety of alternatives with 26 slopes and a terrain park. It also includes a tubing area and, during the summer, offers a waterpark and go-karting. The park is enhanced by its views of the St. Croix River. All-day passes go for $60 and are $40 at night.
2. Hyland Hills (Bloomington)
At only a 23-minute drive away, Hyland Hills offers a place to ski that is close to the Twin Cities. With 14 slopes, it is a bit smaller than the other options but offers a terrain park for the more advanced skiers and snowboarders and a bunny hill for the less experienced. All-day passes are $42 and after 3 p.m., they are only $36.
1. Buck Hill (Burnsville)
Buck Hill is a well-known destination just a half-hour drive south of Minneapolis. This ski area has developed into a premier location for both skiers and snowboarders and is where Olympic skier Lindsey Vonn got her start. Its 45 trails are designed to accommodate all types of snow sports for all skill levels. All-day tickets go for $49 and half-day passes are only $30.
For those who enjoy skiing and snowboarding, the Twin Cities area offers a wide range of possibilities, from the family-friendly vibe of Wild Mountain to the urban convenience of Hyland Hills. Nevertheless, Buck Hill is the top spot due to its proximity to campus, affordable prices and variety of slopes.