Minnesota Ski Areas Remain Open During COVID Shutdown

Governor Walz ordered a four-week shutdown this week in Minnesota, shuttering bars, restaurants and fitness clubs. Yet Minnesotans are still allowed outdoor exercise with their own households, and that includes outdoor spots like skiing at resorts across the state. The guest experience will be a little different this year to promote a safe experience for all.

“The health of our employees and our guests is our number one priority,” said Bo Bigelow, executive director of MSAA. “We know Minnesotans want to be outside and active, and our ski areas across the state offer a place for families to do that. We will need everyone’s help in following the rules so we can remain open for the season.”

MSAA is the association for ski and snowboard areas in the state of Minnesota. The industry members who support our efforts are: Afton Alps, Andes Tower Hills, Buck Hill, Buena Vista Ski Area, Chester Bowl, Coffee Mill Ski Area, Detroit Mountain Recreation Area, Elm Creek Winter Recreation Area, Giants Ridge, Hyland Hills Ski Area, Lutsen Mountains, Mount Itasca, Mount Kato, Mount Ski Gull, Powder Ridge, Spirit Mountain, Welch Village and Wild Mountain.

According to the executive order, group reservations and events have to be canceled until Dec. 18. And the most important guideline to remember: No activities can combine households, so guests need to stay with their families for lessons and on the lifts.

Here’s what visitors should know before visiting a Minnesota Ski Area:

• If you are feeling sick, please stay home.
• Know before you go. Check the ski area’s website a day or two in advance to familiarize yourself with the specific policies in place.
• Face Coverings will be required both indoors and outdoors, while in line and riding the lift. Consider bringing an extra face covering with you in case yours get wet.
• MN Ski Areas will be following all physical distancing guidelines.
• There will be no public seating in chalets – you will need to use your vehicle for your base camp. You will need to boot up, store your gear and eat in your vehicle.
• Chalets will be open for restrooms, retail, rental operations and ticketing.
• Food and beverage will be available for grab and go item but no on-site consumption. Guests can consume food and drinks in the parking lot in or near their cars.
• Areas will be offering lessons if the lesson is limited to a single instructor and household.
• Chairlifts are limited to one household only.
• If outdoor warming stations are available, they are limited to one household only.

“We know these are challenging times for Minnesotans,” said Bigelow. “With everyone’s cooperation, our ski areas will be able to provide winter joy and exercise in the great outdoors for all.”