about us
Mt. Itasca Nordic Ski Association aims to provide a world class venue for Nordic Ski pursuits, especially cross country ski racing and biathlon. We support programs fostering athletic development and a passion for Nordic sports among youth and adults.
Trails and Venue
Trails and Courses
Mt. Itasca has a total of 17 km of cross-country ski trails. The biathlon trail system--the primary race course--includes 5 km of trails, 6 meters wide. Multiple length options are available via cutoffs ranging from a few hundred meters to 5 km; we have hosted races ranging from short sprints to 15 km in recent years.
While the trail system is notorious for elevation changes, there are several options that level out the elevation if a less rigorous sprint course is desired, or to make the course less challenging for younger skiers.
Venue and Stadium
The MINSA headquarters building, directly on your left as you drive into the venue, serves as the dressing room and waxing area for local athletes, and the main HQ for races held at the venue. The stadium area—approximately 4 acres—boasts a large staging area for race starts and finishes, a spectator area with multiple views of the action, as well as a top notch timing building with excellent views.
The hallmark of the stadium area is a full 30 point biathlon range which has hosted many national and international competitions in the past 20 years.
Training, Recreation, and Programs
Mt. Itasca Nordic Ski Association oversees programs for biathlon and cross country skiing at Mt. Itasca. Programs include the MINSA Junior Race team coached by Carl Nordgren for youth racers. The Grand Rapids High School team trains at our venue, along with MYXC program for young skiers.
The trails are open for public use for a nominal fee: $10 for daily use, $60 for an individual yearly pass, and $135 for a family pass. All proceeds support snowmaking and trail upkeep. Passes can be purchased at trailhead with cash, check or via Venmo.
Snowmaking and Grooming
At Mt. Itasca we have snowmaking capabilities on our cross country trails. Each year our goal is to make approximately 2 km of skiable cross country trails early in the season. Our snowmaking course is NOT a flat oval: it contains plenty of elevation gain, some exciting downhills, and a nice flat open area to work on technique or with groups. Many ski teams visit Mt. Itasca before they have snow available at their home course.
Our grooming is performed via Pisten Bully or Ginzu depending upon current conditions.
