Location Duluth, Minnesota Base elevation 620 ft (190 m) Runs 22 | Top elevation 1,320 ft (400 m) Skiable area 175 acres (0.71 km) Longest run 5,400 feet (1,600 m) | |
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Spirit Mountain is a ski area in Duluth, Minnesota. It was founded by The City of Duluth and was built in 1974. With a vertical elevation of approximately 700 feet (210 m), it is the second tallest ski hill in Minnesota. Since 2014, the executive director is Brandy Ream.
The Spirit Mountain ski area held its grand opening on December 19–20, 1974. The idea was proposed by former Olympian George Hovland, who laid out the cross country trails, with support from then Mayor of Duluth Ben Boo. Local businessman Manley Goldfine served as Chairman of the Spirit Mountain Authority during its development. It greatly increased winter revenues in the city. The extension of Interstate 35 stretching to Duluth was a major contributor to its initial success.
Spirit Mountain is known for having a large terrain park. The park includes jumps ranging from 15 feet (4.6 m) to over 60 feet (18 m), and numerous rails, boxes, and other "jibs".
In the 21st century Spirit Mountain has been renovating and adding to its infrastructure and attractions. An alpine coaster opened in 2010. In April 2011 they announced plans to add a zip line, miniature golf, and snow tubing to expand operations and attract more visitors in summer. Work began on downhill mountain bike trails during the summer of 2012. Improvements planned over the next ten years include chalet renovations, chair lift replacement, and a chalet on Grand Avenue, where a Nordic Ski Center is to open in 2017.