Spirit Mountain (ski area)

Spirit Mountain

Aerial view of Spirit Mountain.
Location Duluth, Minnesota
Top elevation 1,320 ft (400 m)
Base elevation 620 ft (190 m)
Skiable area 175 acres (0.71 km2)
Runs 22
Longest run 5,400 feet (1,600 m)
Lift system 5 Chairlifts, 1 Ski Carpet, 1 Handle Tow, 1 Rope Tow
Terrain parks Large Big Air terrain park as well as Progression Park and a super pipe
Snowfall Yes
Snowmaking Yes
Night skiing Yes
Website http://www.spiritmt.com

Spirit Mountain is a ski area in Duluth, Minnesota. The ski area was founded by The City of Duluth and was built in 1974. Supporters of Spirit Mountain were Mayor Ben Boo, Former Olympian George Hovland and Manley Goldfine. The city was currently led by Mayor Ben Boo during its creation and brought increased winter revenues to the city which were relatively nonexistent previously. The construction of Interstate 35 stretching to Duluth was a major contributor of the initial success of the ski area. With a vertical elevation of approximately 700 feet (210 m), it is the second tallest ski hill in Minnesota.

A view from the top of Spirit Mountain, looking northward to the St. Louis Bay.

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". There was a halfpipe until 2010.

Spirit Mountain is undergoing substantial investments in its infrastructure and attractions. In July 2010 they opened up an alpine coaster. In April 2011 they announced plans to add a zip line, miniature golf, and snow tubing [1] This is looked at as being a means to expand operations without cutting into the base operations of the ski area. Additionally they have specified numerous improvements to be made over the next ten years including chalet renovations, chair lift replacement, and a Grand Avenue chalet. Work began on downhill mountain bike trails during the summer of 2012.[2]

References

  1. www.wdio.com/article/stories/s2056362.shtml?cat=10335 "Spirit Mountain plans to add three attractions"
  2. www.spiritmt.com/pdf/MasterPlanOutline.pdf "Spirit Mt. Master Plan"

External links

Coordinates: 46°43′10″N 92°13′05″W / 46.71944°N 92.21806°W