Detroit Mountain in Detroit Lakes is embracing the arrival of winter with enthusiasm as a forecast of blizzard-like conditions promises significant snowfall. Following a few seasons marked by scarce natural snow, the management is eager to welcome skiers and snowboarders back to the slopes.
Mandy Sharp, guest services manager at Detroit Mountain, expressed the excitement surrounding the anticipated snowfall. “We get excited if there’s a blizzard coming that’s going to dump a lot of snow on us,” she stated. Having worked at Detroit Mountain since 2017, Sharp has come to understand the challenges of relying solely on natural snow for optimal skiing conditions.
Natural Snow Enhances Skiing Experience
While the mountain can produce artificial snow with snow guns, Sharp noted that it does not replicate the experience of natural snowfall. The presence of natural snow not only boosts attendance but also enhances the terrain for skiers. “I think people see snow, and then they think snow, and then they’re coming out to play with us. So it’s great. The snow, the snow everywhere, helps us a lot,” she explained.
The combination of natural snow and favorable snow-making conditions this season is generating heightened expectations for the 2025-26 skiing season. “I feel like we’ve already seen busier crowds on weekends and weeknights. And it seems like the community is ready to ski and snowboard again,” Sharp noted.
New Attractions and Community Engagement
In addition to the anticipated snowfall, Detroit Mountain is introducing a new attraction for this winter: a lit-up cross-country Nordic ski trail. Jenny Sheets, interim executive director, announced that thanks to a grant and the expected snowfall, they plan to hold a grand opening by the end of December 2023.
Sharp is optimistic about the mountain’s operations, hoping that, weather permitting, Detroit Mountain can remain open for 16 of the next 18 days. This commitment to providing quality experiences for visitors reflects the dedication of the team at Detroit Mountain.
For those interested in skiing or snowboarding at Detroit Mountain, further information regarding hours, pricing, and upcoming events can be found on their official website: detroitmountain.com.