Lutsen Mountains

For over 50 years, Lutsen has had the topography to lay claim to the largest ski area in the Midwest. And being the premier destination ski area in the Midwest means constant improvements and continual transformation. That's what you expect from a leader, and that's what we deliver.

Lutsen was founded in the 1880s when C.A.A. Nelson arrived from Sweden, built a home, and rented rooms to other pioneers. A family innkeeping tradition was born.

Decades later, C.A.A.'s grandson, George, a member of the famed 10th Mountain Division, returned from World War II with a new vision: a year-round resort that capitalized on our abundant natural resources, and the midwest's tallest mountains, plentiful snow, and a gorgeous Lake Superior backdrop.

In 1948 skiing came to Lutsen with one lift and two runs. During the '60s, chairlifts and snowmaking hit the scene. And in the '70s, National and Olympic ski champion Cindy Nelson trained here and put us on the ski map.

Then, in 1980, Charlie Skinner and his family bought the resort. Under Charlie's watchful eye and expanded vision, Lutsen has redefined the destination ski resort in Mid-America, while retaining its family character.

We get better every year. Today, you can ski 87 runs on four sprawling mountains, enjoy endless activities, and choose from an exceptional collection of lodging. Yet the spectacularly beautiful setting has hardly changed since C.A.A. Nelson landed here over a century ago.

What has changed is that Lutsen stands alone as the best, the biggest, and by far the most exciting skiing anywhere in Mid-America, giving you the experience of a Western ski resort for a mere fraction of the price.