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Sponsored by Giants Ridge
Minnesota is without question magical during the summer, and one of its best-kept secrets is the four-season resort destination, Giants Ridge, voted the state’s ‘Best Ski Resort’ and ‘Best Weekend Destination’ by Minnesotans. Tucked into the heart of the Superior National Forest, Giants Ridge is a premier year-round getaway for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Once the snow melts, it transforms into a summer playground, featuring world-class golf, lift-served mountain biking, and more. Let us show you how to make the best of 72 hours at Giants Ridge.
Play One Of The Top Public Golf Courses In The Nation
Most resorts are lucky to have one nationally recognized golf course. Giants Ridge has two, which aren’t just among the best in the nation, but the best in the world. The Quarry, built on a former sand, gravel, and iron ore site, is currently ranked the no. 1 public golf course in Minnesota and the 35th best course in America by Golfweek. The Legend has long been known for being one of the most upscale, breathtaking layouts since opening in 1997. For a one-of-a-kind day of golf at Giants Ridge, book the 36-hole special, in which you can golf both courses in one day, with lunch included.
Explore The Mountain
After you’ve gotten your fill of golf, hit the amazing trails that meander throughout Giants Ridge. Start at the Giants Ridge bike park, home to some of the best lift-served mountain biking in the Midwest. Experience a similar exhilaration that you would from skiing, as you speed down rugged, scenic terrain in the heart of Superior National Forest. All told the park features more than 10 miles of cross-country trails and 12 purpose-built gravity trails, from double black diamond steeps to fast and flowy jump lines to technical descents and more.
New to mountain biking? Then take a private or semi-private lesson with certified coaches. Lessons are designed for anyone ages 6+, with a focus on building skills and confidence on either cross-country or lift-accessed trails. Kids will love the fun bike camps and clinics that take place at Giants Ridge on select days and weekends during the summer.
For a little bit of a slower pace, take a hike on any number of trails at Giants Ridge. The resort’s hiking trails wind through rugged alpine landscapes and the stunning Superior National Forest. Highlights include the Summit Hiking Trail, which takes you to the top of the mountain. For a more unique hiking experience, take a scenic chairlift ride to the top of Giants Ridge, where you can access a couple different hiking trails and enjoy majestic views of Superior National Forest.
Add a little bit of challenge to a day of exploring the mountain by playing the resort’s 18-hole disc golf course. Covering more than 80 acres and 10,000 feet of fairway distance, the Giants Ridge disc golf course is Minnesota’s longest course. Over two miles you’ll traverse 500 feet of vertical hills on a course that’s altogether challenging, fun, and beautiful, with a mix of wide-open fields and wooded areas in the heart of the region’s Mesabi Iron Range.
Unwind At The Pool & Sauna Haus At Giants Ridge
Once you’re ready to unwind from a day of adventures, then head to the 9,700-square-foot Pool and Sauna Haus. Located across from the main entrance of the resort, the Pool and Sauna Haus at Giants Ridge features a heated indoor pool, expansive hot tub, and two dry saunas, all in one place, along with beautiful scenic views of the resort. Everyone will find something to love here, from those who like to lap swim first thing in the morning to families who want to have fun together in the pool to couples and solo travelers who are eager to decompress in the saunas or hot tub after a day of adventures.
Plan Your Trip To Giants Ridge
- Getting there and getting around. For travelers flying into Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), Giants Ridge is an easy drive, located just over three hours away. While many of the things to do are close to one another, we recommend renting a car to get around. It’s an even quicker drive for those who fly into Duluth International Airport (DLH), which is located about an hour south of Giants Ridge.
- Where to eat. Giants Ridge has two great restaurants, The Wacootah Grille, a lakeside restaurant overlooking the 18th green of The Quarry, and Burnt Onion Kitchen & Brews, located on the second floor of the Main Chalet. Wacootah Grille is known for its clubhouse fare and great views along Lake Mine, while Burnt Onion Kitchen & Brews is known for its modern American comfort food and chef-curated chophouse menu.
- Where to stay. Stay directly at Giants Ridge at The Lodge, home to 67 condos (ranging from one- to four-bedroom accommodations), Neighbor’s BBQ Co. restaurant & bar, an arcade, and indoor pool and hot tub. There are also the Villas at Giants Ridge, which give off more of a Minnesota cabin feel, perfect for couples, families, and large groups. Start planning your trip at giantsridge.com.
July 06, 2026
