3 Best Ski Hills Near Grand Forks, ND

Looking for an opportunity to get out of Grand Forks for the day and enjoy some hills for skiing, snowboarding, tubing, or even cross-country skiing? Check out these 3 options that are all less than 2.5 hours drive from Grand Forks!

1) Frostfire (Walhalla, ND)

Frostfire is located 2 hours northwest of Grand Forks near the beautiful Pembina Gorge State Park. They offer 10 runs based off their single-chair lift for snowboarders and skiers and the longest run has over a 350 foot vertical drop. Frostfire also offers a tube run for kids and many snowmobile paths nearby and in the Pembina Gorge State Park. 

The warming house offers a place to relax and order food at Howatt Hangar. If you're looking for something different, the nearby town of Walhalla offers a few other food options with Water's Family Restaurant & Bakery, Chizzy's, or Jackson's Bar. 

2) Bueno Vista (Bemidji, MN)

Bueno Vista Ski Park is a 2-hours drive from Grand Forks, located 20 minutes north of Bemidji. Bueno Vista offers 16 runs for skiers, snowboarders, and tubers based off 4 chairlifts and a beginners tow. Their longest run spans over 2,000 ft and over 230 veritcal drop (yes, Minnesota is pretty flat too, haha). They also offer over 15 miles of cross-country skiing trails with other snowmobile paths located nearby! The 3-story chalet offers a great warming house complete with fireplaces and a cafe.

If you are looking for other restaurants or hotels, a quick 20-minute drive into Bemidji give you countless options. You can also search on VRBO or AirBnB for some great cabins nearby!

3) Detroit Mountain Ski Resort (Detroit Lakes, MN)

2.5 hours to the southeast of Grand Forks is Detroit Mountain Recreation Area. Boasting almost 20 runs spanned over multiple lifts and speed tows, Detroit Mountain is the largest on this list. They offer skiing, snowboarding, tubing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even fat biking. 

After a long day on the hill, sit down at the Mountain Cafe for a bite to eat or Ace's Wild Saloon for a drink. If you are wanting something more, grab a meal on Detroit Lakes at Zorbaz Pizza, Lakeside Tavern & Brewery, or El Loro Mexican Restaurant. 

Make your plans to get out during our long winters and enjoy these wonderful winter wonderland options until spring hits!