Summer Hours of Operation

Summit express gondola
Spring dates May 4, 11 & 18-19, June 1-2
Sat - Mon (memorial wknd) May 25-27
Open Daily June 7-Oct 13
Thur - Sun (mea weekend) Oct 17-20
alpine slide
Spring weekends May 18 & 19, 25 & 26, June 1 & 2
June - Fri & Sat, Mon & Tues June 7 & 8, 10 & 11, 14 & 15, 17 & 18
Open Daily June 21-Sept 2
Fall weekends Sept 7 & 8, 14 & 15, 21 & 22, 28 & 29
Oct 5 & 6, 12 & 13
Thur - Sun (mea weekend) Oct 17-20

Our summer attractions are weather dependent, on days with heavy fog or rain we are unable to operate the Alpine Slide.
Please call our central reservation at 877-458-8736 on days with inclement weather prior to online purchase.

Hours of Operation

Summit Express 10:00am-5:00pm*
alpine slide 11:00am-5:00pm**

PLEASE NOTE: During the height of the peak foliage season, guests should be prepared to board the Gondola a couple areas prior to close to get back to the base area before dark due to anticipated visitation.

Schedule may vary due to weather. Please always check social media or our website prior to coming out to Lutsen Mountains if weather is at all questionable.  

*September 21 & 28, October 5: Summit Express OPEN 9:00am-6:00pm
**September 21 & 28, October 5: Alpine Slide OPEN 11:00am-6:00pm

RESERVE NOW   SIGN WAIVER

A release of liability is required for all guests riding the alpine slide, please complete this prior to arrival. 

Summer FAQs

Where can we purchase tickets?

Our ticket products are available for purchase at our ticket office which is located across from the base of the Summit Express Gondola. We do encourage guests to pre-purchase online at lutsen.com, you will then redeem your online order when onsite. Pre-purchasing helps us to capture the necessary guest information in advance which allows our lines to move faster. You will also need to fill out a summer release of liability online at lutsen.com/waiver if you are purchasing a ticket that provides access to the Alpine Slide, a waiver is not required if you are utilizing the Summit Express Gondola only.

All tickets are non-refundable. 

What is an Adventure Pass?

The Adventure Pass gives access to the Summit Express Gondola and Alpine Slide for the date of purchase. This is the best deal available when spending the day at Lutsen Mountains. 

What is a Combo Ticket?

The Combo Ticket gives each guest one ride on the Alpine Slide and one ride on the Summit Express Gondola. Upgrades are available to our Adventure Pass if after purchase you would like to extend your time with us.

RESERVE NOW   SIGN WAIVER

What is the Alpine Slide?

Our Alpine Slide is an adventure ride that is accessed via the Bridge Chairlift. Guests will ride to the top of Eagle Mountain and once there will grab a sled for ½ mile course down the mountain.

How long does the Alpine take to ride?

The chairlift ride is approximately 5 minutes. For the ride down, guests control their own speed and this can take anywhere from 2-10 minutes. Your speed is controlled by a hand brake located on the sled. A total round-trip can take 7 to 15 minutes, not including any wait time. Allow more time on peak days as there may be a line. All guests should control their sled at a speed they are comfortable with and should not exceed the speed with which they feel in control of their sled.

Does the slide close down for any reason?

Yes, we cannot operate the slide if there is any moisture on the track and it will be closed if there is rain, mist, or dense fog. The slide will also close in the event of lightning. 

Are there any age or weight restrictions?

Yes, there are: children 2-5 must ride in the lap of an adult. Children who are 6 or older and who are under 48” are welcome to ride with someone over the age of 16 but must purchase a ticket. In addition, children under 2 are not allowed on the Alpine Slide.

RESERVE NOW   SIGN WAIVER

What is the Summit Express Gondola?

The Summit Express Gondola is an enclosed gondola ride that takes you from the mountain base area to the top of Moose Mountain.

What is there to do once you are on Moose Mountain?

At the top of the mountain is the Summit Chalet eatery, overlook decks and hiking trails. 

Does the gondola close for any reason?

The gondola will close if there is lightning or very strong winds (over 50mph). Occasionally when the weather is very foggy and visibility is compromised, we may close operations as the Summit Express is a sightseeing ride and there would not be much to see. 

Can dogs ride the gondola?

Yes, dogs are welcome on the Summit Express. Please know however that there is metal grating at the base areas which some dogs find uncomfortable to walk on. Due to health laws, only service animals with clear identification are able to enter the Summit Chalet. Dogs must be on a leash at all times.

RESERVE NOW

Where is the nearest restroom?

At the base of the mountain, public restrooms are located in the Scandinavian Chalet next to the Summit Express Gondola. On Moose Mountain restroom facilities are located across the deck from the Summit Chalet.

Where are we able to get lunch or snacks?

Summit Chalet Eatery

The Summit Chalet offers a variety of menu options including wraps, burgers, salads, and appetizers; they also have a bar and offer a variety of drink options. Food service is available daily from 11a-4p, with bar service until 4:40p unless there is an event in which case food service ends at 3p. A menu is available online for viewing at lutsen.com. A Summit Express Gondola ticket is required to access the chalet, or guests are able to utilize the hiking route on Moose Mountain.

Need Assistance?

For questions about the resort or assistance booking your visit to Lutsen, please contact guest services by calling 218-406-1320 or by emailing ski@lutsen.com.