Year-Round Fun // Great Bear Ski Valley

Whether it’s taking advantage of the “pow” during winter months, or going on a hike during warmer seasons, Great Bear Ski Valley has been there for the adventurous in Sioux Falls for decades.

Assistant general manager Alexa Jerstad says the attraction came to be in the mid 1960s when a group of winter enthusiasts got together to create the experience.

“Over the years it has grown from a shack with a rope tow to the gem of a park we are lucky to have today,” she said. “This would not have been possible without a strong partnership with the City of Sioux Falls and continuous community investment.”

Great Bear is the only spot for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing within 150 miles of the city, and has become the place for winter activities for both locals and tourists alike.

But don’t think you need to be experienced to hit the hill. One thing Great Bear has become known for is being a place for ski and snowboarding beginners.

“It’s a great place to take a lesson on our beginner hill and practice your skills before venturing to larger resorts,” said Jerstad.

“The park is also good for experienced skiers and snowboarders because there is more challenging terrain. Plus, due to the park’s location inside city limits, it’s easy to get a few laps in after work or school.”

Tubing is a great way to get out with family or friends, and one of the most popular evenings at the park is Lazer Tubing. On select Saturdays, the tubing hill stays open late for a special session featuring music and a light show.

“It’s a blast, and tickets sell out online in advance every year,” said Jerstad.

Learn Your Lesson

Want to learn how to “shred the gnar” or sharpen your skills? Sign up for 90-minute Single Lessons or a Lesson Pack (starting at age 6) at Great Bear with teaching methods following the American Teaching System from PSIA-AASI focusing on a positive environment and fostering progress at the student’s pace. Tot Ski Lessons are 45 minutes and are available for ages 4-5.

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The wintertime is its busiest season and is filled with events, from late night skiing and tubing for New Year’s Eve with fireworks at midnight to their Sunday races. Jerstad says even if people don’t want to partake in the physical activities, they encourage them to come along to experience the festivities.

“The Lodge is a great place to warm up with a hot chocolate or enjoy a snack while watching your family hit the slopes,” she said. “The vibe is laid back, friendly, and really reminds you of the classic ski chalet.”

The Bear’s Den serves beer and wine to aprПs-ski, and lunch and dinner menus are available at concessions with grab-and-go items like burgers and wraps.

“Homemade breakfast on the weekend is also a local favorite,” said Jerstad.

“Our goal at Great Bear is to inspire great memories by providing fun and meaningful experiences for both our guests and team members.”

ALEXA JERSTAD

As opening day is anticipated to be on December 20, the staff says it all depends on weather. Great Bear is prepared for lack of snow, though, with its expert snowmaking. As long as it’s cold enough, says Jerstad, the snow can be created in house.

“Often when people look at their backyards and see brown, they think we aren’t open,” she said. “That’s usually not true! When Mother Nature doesn’t deliver and you can’t go sledding at your neighborhood park, come to The Bear!”

New this year is time-based pricing, with guests saving up to 25% on lift and tubing tickets by booking online in advance. They also are offering weekday season passes, where tickets are cheaper Monday through Thursday and Sunday nights.

“Also new are the mountain bike trails,” said Jerstad. “They are available year-round, weather permitting. It’s just another great way for locals and visitors to get outside and make memories.”

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Pass it On

A season pass is a great value for individuals or families. Great Bear is open for 70-plus days, and Jerstad says it only takes about seven visits or less to get value.

“It allows guests to come out for a few quick laps and not feel like they must stay all day to get their money’s worth,” she said. “Plus, there are tons of great perks including three free lift tickets to bring your friends or family out each season and discounts on tickets at other ski areas in the Midwest.”

Previous season pass holders get an extra 10% off when they renew. For season passes, gift cards, lesson packs, lazer tubing, or more, visit shop.greatbearpark.com.

Great Bear is also busy during other seasons and is a year-round destination. The city park is open to the public every day from dawn to dusk. Patrons come out to hike, run, or bike, or simply to have a picnic on the grass or deck area.

The inside of The Lodge isn’t open to the public during those times, but it’s available to rent for private events like weddings or other celebrations.

“Our rates are accommodating, and our scenic setting is unbeatable,” said Jerstad. “Couples host beautiful ceremonies outside on the lawn, and the inside of the Lodge can be transformed with flowers, lights, and a dance floor to make a fun reception space.”

Great Bear does its catering in house, so guests don’t have to worry about hiring a third party.

“The main themes for us are continuing to celebrate winter, growing and improving the park and its services, and being a destination for year-round fun.”

ALEXA JERSTAD

Other events happen throughout the year, including the Earth Day Festival in partnership with Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation, Chill at the Hill, Welcome Winter Fest, and Lallycooler.

The inaugural Lallycooler brought over 10,000 people to enjoy live music in the park by acts like Pitbull, Sam Hunt, and TLC. Great Bear was honored to host the two-day festival, Jerstad says, and looks forward to hosting more music in the park during the summer season.

Looking to the future, Great Bear plans to always expand and improve its operations.

“We have dreams to add more skiable terrain in the near future and expand our summer offerings,” said Jerstad. “The Sioux Falls community continues to grow, and we are growing with it.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT GREATBEARPARK.COM+