History
Lutsen Ski Area has been family owned and operated since it was founded in 1948 by George Nelson. The ski area was purchased by ski area pioneer Charlie Skinner in 1980s and in the 1990s, his son and son-in-law, Charles Skinner and Tom Rider, purchased the ski area. All told, that's 68 years of family ownership and operation: 32 years by the Nelson family and (as of 2016) 36 years by the Skinner/Rider family. Today, Lutsen Mountains is jointly owned and operated by Charles Skinner and Tom Rider. Charles and Tom share in the operation of the ski area and are both active in a wide range of community leadership roles.
Specialties
Just 90 miles from Duluth is Lutsen Mountains, the Midwest's largest and tallest ski and snowboard area. With four interconnected mountains and 95 runs all spread over 1000 acres, its mountain skiing without the airfare. Highlights include the new Summit Express Gondola and a new high speed six-place express lift on Moose Mountain, nightly entertainment during ski season featuring big-name headliners at Papa Charlie's, the region's finest collection of lodging (including ski-in/ski-out and Lake Superior shore), and much more. In the spring, summer and fall visitors enjoy the scenic Mountain Tram ride to Moose Mountain and the Summit Chalet, the Alpine Slide, deck dining at Papa Charlie's, and weekend entertainment.