Afton Alps Ski Resort: In Focus

Imagine carving perfect turns under floodlights while the glittering skyline of Minneapolis–St. Paul twinkles just 30 minutes away. That’s the magic of Afton Alps ski resort – the closest full-service ski area to the Twin Cities and one of the Midwest’s most beloved winter playgrounds.

Since Vail Resorts purchased Afton Alps ski resort in 2012, it has blended small-hill charm with big-resort polish. With Epic Pass access, aggressive snowmaking, and 100 % night-skiing coverage, Afton Alps ski resort delivers legitimate skiing and riding shockingly close to a major metro area. Here’s absolutely everything you need to know before you go.

Quick Facts About Afton Alps

Location: Hastings, Minnesota (25 miles southeast of St. Paul)
Skiable acres: 300
Trails: 50
Lifts: 18 (including high-speed quads)
Vertical drop: 350 feet
Base elevation: 1,180 feet
Season: Mid-November to early April (weather permitting)
Snowmaking: 100 % of terrain – one of the strongest systems in the Midwest

The Terrain: Bigger Than the Numbers Suggest

Don’t let the 350-foot vertical fool you – Afton Alps ski resort punches way above its weight.
Beginners flock to the gentle Meadows area with its dedicated learning chair and magic carpet. First-timers can progress comfortably without ever feeling intimidated.

Intermediate skiers and riders live on the Highlands chair and Chair 7. Long, flowing blue cruisers like Rolling Hills and Julie’s Journey offer stunning views of the St. Croix River valley and the distant city lights at night.

Advanced and expert skiers chase the steeps on the Highlands face. Ruthie’s, Gunner’s Gulch, and the double-black Highland Face deliver legitimate Midwest pitch, especially under the lights when they groom them just right. Locals swear the night grooming here is some of the best corduroy you’ll ever ski.

Terrain parks? Afton Alps ski resort usually maintains three or four, ranging from the beginner-friendly Mini Park to the large-jump line in the main park that hosts regional competitions.

Snowmaking Superpower & Night Skiing Glory

Natural snowfall averages about 50–60 inches, but Afton Alps doesn’t rely on Mother Nature. Their snowmaking fleet is legendary – they can blanket the entire hill in fresh snow in under 72 hours when temperatures cooperate.

And then there’s night skiing. Every single run at Afton Alps ski resort is lit. On a clear January weeknight, you can ski until 10 p.m. with the Twin Cities glowing on the horizon. It’s an experience you won’t find at many destinations in the country.

Tickets, Passes & How to Save Money

Full-day adult window rates typically run $80–$95 on weekends, but almost nobody pays that.
The smartest way to ski Afton Alps ski resort:

Epic Pass or Epic Local Pass holders ski free (unlimited or restricted days depending on pass tier)
Epic Day Pass users get heavy discounts
Night skiing tickets (4 p.m.–10 p.m.) are usually half the day rate
Four-packs and advance online purchase save 20–30 %
Military, college students, and Minnesota Ski Areas Association “Buy One Get One” coupons are honored

Hours & Getting to Afton Alps

Typical winter schedule (always check the snow report):

Monday–Friday: 9:30 a.m.–10 p.m.
Saturday–Sunday: 9 a.m.–10 p.m.
Holidays: Often 9 a.m.–10 p.m.

From downtown Minneapolis or St. Paul, take I-94 east to Highway 95 south – you’ll be boots-on-snow in 30–45 minutes. From MSP airport, budget about 45 minutes. Parking is free but fills fast on weekends; arrive before 9 a.m. or after 2 p.m. for the easiest spots.

Ski School & Rentals

Afton Alps ski resort’s ski and snowboard school is one of the strongest in the Upper Midwest, especially for kids. The “First Timer” package (lift + rental + 2-hour group lesson) is one of the best deals in skiing.

High-performance demos and a huge rental fleet mean you don’t need to lug gear from the Cities. Adaptive programs are also available.

Food & Drink on the Hill

Alps Chalet (main base): Classic cafeteria with surprisingly good burgers and chili
Highlands Chalet: Grab-and-go plus a full bar with local beers
Los Alamos: Mexican fare with killer nachos
The Rathskeller: Cozy lower-level bar in the main lodge – perfect après spot

Pro Midwest tip: Outside food is allowed. Tailgating in the parking lot or picnicking in the base-area cooler zone is practically a tradition.

Perfect for Families

Afton Alps ski resort routinely ranks among the most family-friendly hills in the country. Licensed childcare for ages 2–6, a weekend tubing hill, and dedicated children’s learning zones keep everyone happy.

Events & Community

As the training ground for dozens of Twin Cities high school race teams and home to NASTAR every weekend, Afton Alps hums with local energy. Don’t miss the cardboard box derby, torchlight parades, or live music nights at the Rathskeller.

Local Pro Tips

Weekday nights (Monday–Thursday) are gloriously empty
Park in the lower lot and take the free shuttle if the main lot looks full
After fresh snow, hit the Highlands first – it gets tracked out fastest
Chair 10 and Chair 12 usually have the shortest lines
Bring cash for quick beer purchases at the outdoor bar

Final Takeaway

Afton Alps ski resort isn’t going to compete with Jackson Hole or Alta on vertical or snowfall. But for convenience, value, night skiing under city lights, and legitimate fun on surprisingly steep terrain, it’s hard to beat anywhere in America.

Whether you’re a Twin Cities parent introducing your kids to the sport, an Epic Pass holder sneaking in a quick session after work, or a night-skiing addict chasing corduroy under the lights, Afton Alps ski resort delivers Midwest winter magic like nowhere else.

Check the snow report, grab your pass, and come see why generations of Minnesotans have learned to love skiing right here at Afton Alps. See you on the hill!