Mont Ripley is a popular ski hill in located in
Michigan's
Upper Peninsula. It is owned by
Michigan Technological University. It was founded in the early 1900s (by Fred Lonsdorf) and has since grown to one of the premier ski hills in the American Midwest. With the addition of in 2000, the season has been extended from late November to late March or early April.
Mont Ripley is known for its challenging terrain and spectacular views of
Houghton,
Portage Lake and the
Huron Mountains. It is also particularly popular with racers.
In 2006, a new building was built to ease congestion in the main chalet. The new chalet has a gas fireplace and added seating, as well as more lockers. It is mainly used for special events such as races and parties.
Mont Ripley also purchased eight more snow making guns to add to their capability to get all the runs open earlier in the season.
Also in 2006, a second chair lift, dubbed the "Copper Hoist", was purchased and was built on the east side of the hill in 2007, making it easier for skiers and snowboarders to use those runs, raising the lift count to three (2 chair lifts and one t-bar).
Hill modifications through the years
Mont Ripley has been an important part of Michigan Tech since the early 1930s’. It has been an integral part of Houghton-Hancock life since then. It has gone through many changes throughout the years.
Mont Ripley has Been kept safe for over 70 years by Mont Ripley Ski Patrol. The Mont...
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