You Can Now Ski Indoors Year-Round in Grand Rapids

Though it's hard for me to fathom, not everyone gets as excited as I do about summer taking over in West Michigan. Some folks are just more into winter. Well, if you're already missing the cold, the snow, and the feeling of carving down a ski hill, there is now a new way to get back on the slopes year-round without even leaving the Grand Rapids area.

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A new indoor ski and snowboard center has officially opened at 3125 Lake Eastbrook Blvd SE, Suite 200 in Kentwood, bringing a different kind of training and recreation space to West Michigan.

City Slopes Indoor Ski & Ride has something I honestly did not know existed, and apparently it's the only one in Michigan.

How The Indoor Ski Slope Works

Instead of a traditional ski hill, the facility uses a revolving fabric slope that continuously moves beneath riders, kind of like a giant treadmill built for skiing and snowboarding. It creates an endless indoor slope that lets people practice and train year-round without needing actual snow outside.

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Because the surface is different from real snow, riders use the facility's skis and snowboards instead of their own equipment. Guests can still bring their own helmets and boots if they want, but equipment is also available onsite.

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Lessons, Camps, And Open Ride Sessions

The facility is designed for everyone from total beginners to experienced skiers and snowboarders looking to sharpen their skills during the off-season. Along with private and semi-private lessons, City Slopes also offers training sessions, youth camps, and open ride times.

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Private lessons start at $79, and for a limited time, first-timers can try the revolving slope for $20 through the facility's "Intro to the Slope" session.

For updates and specials, follow City Slopes Indoor Ski & Ride on Facebook.