Spirit Mountain Nordic Center
Project Status: Construction
Project Overview:
The proposed Grand Avenue Nordic Center will be a 3.3KM cross country ski trail with state-of-the-art snowmaking and lighting providing a dependable season-long venue for recreational skiing, youth activities and regional high school events. The location is adjacent to the Spirit Mountain alpine ski area, in West Duluth and next to their Grand Avenue Chalet. The project will become a regional center of activity for cross country skiing by extending the season early and late and provide skiing when there is inadequate natural snow. The lighting will provide the opportunity for early morning and night skiing. Phase II of the project will provide for a total of 5km of trail and connect the lower and upper portions of the Spirit Mountain Nordic Center by way of a two-way trail to the top of the mountain.
Project Update:
The Spirit Mountain Nordic Center opened on December 11, 2018 for season use. Phase I construction included 2.5km of new trail, of which 1.5km has snowmaking capability.
Phase II construction underway in 2024, and includes a connector ski trail, 800m of new trail, and snowmaking and lighting on portions of the Nordic Center system Athletic Venues Reinvestment Initiative.
Funding Source:
Phase I construction was funded in part by a $150,000 Federal Recreational Trail Program grant from the Minnesota DNR.
Phase II construction funding includes funding from the following sources:
A grant of $1,254,471 from the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission (GMRPTC) through the Parks and Trails Legacy Fund. In addition to Nordic Center improvements, the grant also includes improvements to downhill and cross country mountain bike trails, snowmobile trails, the skills park, and installation of a new water pump for snowmaking.
A $114,000 donation from the Duluth Cross Country Ski Club.
$86,000 contribution from Spirit Mountain Recreation Authority.
Duluth Athletic Venues Reinvestment Initiative (AVRI) funding in the amount of $1,200,000.
Project Partners:
Spirit Mountain Recreation Authority
Duluth Cross Country Ski Club
