Lutsen Mountains

The Midwest's biggest ski area on Lake Superior's North Shore, with four interconnected mountains and dramatic Sawtooth views.

Key Stats

Vertical Drop
251m (823ft)
The height difference between the top and bottom of the mountain
Summit Elevation
521m (1,709ft)
How high the highest lift or peak reaches
Base Elevation
270m (886ft)
Height of the main base village — higher means cooler, drier snow
Annual Snowfall
305cm (120in)
Average annual natural snowfall — higher is better for powder days
Trails
95
Total number of marked runs on the trail map
Lifts
9
Total number of lifts including chairlifts, gondolas, and t-bars
Resort Size
1,001 acres
Total groomed and patrolled terrain

Terrain Breakdown

The percentage of marked trails in each difficulty level. A higher beginner percentage means more terrain suitable for novices and families; a higher advanced percentage means more challenge for experts.

Beginner
30%
Intermediate
45%
Advanced
25%

Best For

Location

Lutsen sits in far northeastern Minnesota, on the wooded ridges rising from Lake Superior's North Shore. The setting is low and decidedly maritime for the Midwest, with hills cut by the Sawtooth Mountains and the cold expanse of the lake below.

Getting there

Moderate to reach

Fly into Duluth (DLH), about 2 hours from the resort by road.

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