Great Bear Ski Valley
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Great Bear Ski Valley

4.6
·756 reviews·Sioux Falls, United States

Year-round outdoor recreation hub offering skiing, tubing, hiking, and event hosting in Sioux Falls.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter Mornings

Fresh snow, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Great Bear Ski Valley

Great Bear Ski Valley

Best Time

Winter Mornings

Fresh snow, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Year-round outdoor recreation hub offering skiing, tubing, hiking, and event hosting in Sioux Falls.

4.6
(756 reviews)

"A fantastic venue for weddings and a great spot for outdoor fun in every season!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Snow Conditions First

Icy slopes can be a concern with warmer temps. Always check reports before you go! :snowflake:

Summer Activities Abound

Don't forget Great Bear for hiking and events in warmer months! :hiking_boot:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Winter Wonderland Slopes

Winter Wonderland Slopes

Main Ski Area

Hit the slopes for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing with dedicated lifts for all levels of winter fun.

Summer Hiking Trails

Summer Hiking Trails

Valley Trail

Explore scenic nature trails offering a peaceful escape and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Lazer Tubing Thrills

Lazer Tubing Thrills

Tubing Park

Experience the excitement of tubing, especially during special 'Tubing Tuesdays' events .

Instagram
Event Venue Charm

Event Venue Charm

The Lodge and Outdoor Areas

A popular spot for weddings and events, praised for its beautiful outdoor settings and helpful staff .

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Snow Conditions

While Great Bear Ski Valley offers year-round activities, winter visitors should monitor snow reports closely. Warmer temperatures can lead to icy conditions, as noted by concerned skiers.Reddit Check forecasts and recent conditions before heading out for the best experience on the slopes.

Summer Fun Beyond the Slopes

Don't let the 'Ski Valley' name fool you! Great Bear transforms in summer with hiking trails and events like festivals Instagram and trail builds.Instagram It's a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.

Best Times

When
Winter Mornings
Why
Fresh snow, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer Weekdays
Why
Pleasant weather, quiet trails
Crowd
Low
When
Event Weekends
Why
Festivals & community vibes
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Snow up to the lift lines @bearvalleyskiresort But the BEFORE pic makes it even more incredible! #california #snow #ski #snowboard #weather #atmosphericriver #viral #weathertok #sierra #sierraskiexperience
@chasing_stories
503.5K likes • 7.3M views

Check Snow Conditions First

Icy slopes can be a concern with warmer temps. Always check reports before you go! :snowflake: Reddit

Summer Activities Abound

Don't forget Great Bear for hiking and events in warmer months! :hiking_boot: Instagram

Riding with an INTJ be like... Female Sioux Falls Rider? DM me for a ride! #thehandontheleg #vlogsnippet #isthishowtomakefriends 📸 @insta360 X3 - Discount & Free Accessories in linktree 😻 @helmetflair - Discount in linktree
@sushii.rides
93.4K likes • 1.5M views
sights & sounds from a sunny afternoon Great Bear Ski Valley
greatbearterrainpark
132 likes • 2.8K views

Tubing Tuesdays Fun!

Join the fun with special lazer tubing nights. :tube: Instagram

Great Wedding Venue

Highly recommended for events, with beautiful scenery and great staff. :wedding: Reddit

Great Bear Ski Valley is the place for outdoor fun in Sioux Falls🤩 Winter or summer, you’ll find things to do: ❄️Skiing + snow boarding ☀️Nature trails ❄️Tubing ☀️The lodge ❄️Cross country skiing Don’t forget to check out their lazer tubing coming up👀Slopes open after Christmas! Comment below and I’ll send you my guide to all things Sioux Falls👇🏼 #skiing #snowboarding #siouxfalls #movetosi...
movetosiouxfalls
11 likes • 501 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Snow Conditions First

Icy slopes can be a concern with warmer temps. Always check reports before you go! :snowflake: Reddit

Summer Activities Abound

Don't forget Great Bear for hiking and events in warmer months! :hiking_boot: Instagram

Tubing Tuesdays Fun!

Join the fun with special lazer tubing nights. :tube: Instagram

Great Wedding Venue

Highly recommended for events, with beautiful scenery and great staff. :wedding: Reddit

Trail Race Scenery

Excellent trails for running and biking with great views. :runner: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(756 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Great Bear Ski Valley for its beautiful natural setting and versatile offerings, especially as a wedding venue with exceptional staff. While winter sports are a draw, its appeal extends to summer hiking and community events, making it a year-round destination. Some minor concerns about icy conditions in warmer winter weather have been noted.

"My husband and I just had our wedding at Great Bear a few weeks ago. It was perfect. Exactly the vision I had in mind. Jayne and Jill and the whole team were great to work with. They pulled my brunch charcuterie vision to life and all our guests talked about how great the food was. When the weather was questionable they assured me we could make it work inside if needed. Thankfully we still got to have our wedding outside under the trees. It was a beautiful day."

Laura Caudill

"My husband and I got married at great bear 9/21 and I have to say it was the best day ever. Staff was all amazing and kind and follow instructions and requests to a T. My MoH requested no one come to me or my husband for any problems or questions and they did just that! Any minor flukes I had on my wedding day I was not aware of until the day after. They felt so personal with us even though I’m sure they host many weddings. Even though I didn’t eat much (my own fault 😅) the food was amazing and all my guest thought so as well and many were able to back for seconds.
It was truly a wonderful experience and I recommend them for any upcoming event in your life. (Sorry for the lack of photos I’m still waiting on my photographer)"

Jade Weaver

"Took a nice walk through the Valley Trail. Very few others around this time of year. I wish it connected into a larger trail system, but it was nice to get out and explore a new place for a while. Will definitely make plans to return when the snow is on the ground."

Quackers Ko

What People Like

Beautiful venue for events
Attentive and friendly staff
Scenic outdoor spaces

What People Dislike

Potential for icy slopes

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Great Bear Ski Valley is located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. For specific directions, it's best to use a GPS or mapping app. Instagram

Information on public transportation options to Great Bear Ski Valley is limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car or rideshare service for convenient access. Instagram

During winter, ensure your vehicle is equipped for snowy conditions. While the main roads are usually clear, it's always wise to be prepared for potential winter weather. TikTok

The closest major airport is Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD), which is a short drive from Great Bear Ski Valley, making it convenient for visitors flying in. Instagram

Yes, Great Bear Ski Valley offers parking facilities for visitors. During peak times, especially on weekends and holidays, parking can fill up, so arriving early is advised. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing vary by season and day. It's recommended to check the official Great Bear Ski Valley website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date pricing information. Instagram

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for peak season or special events, is highly recommended to secure your spot and potentially avoid long lines. Instagram

Operating hours vary depending on the season and day of the week. Winter hours typically include daytime and evening sessions. Summer activities may have different schedules. Always check their official website for current hours. Instagram

Keep an eye out for special promotions like 'Tubing Tuesdays' Instagram or seasonal passes. Following their social media can also alert you to any deals. Instagram

Yes, tickets are generally available for purchase at the venue. However, to guarantee entry and potentially get better rates, purchasing online in advance is often suggested. Instagram

🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience

Great Bear Ski Valley offers a range of activities including skiing, snowboarding, tubing, cross-country skiing, and summer hiking. They also host various events and festivals. Instagram+1

Yes, Great Bear Ski Valley is suitable for beginners with various trails catering to different skill levels. They also offer tubing for a more relaxed snow experience. Instagram

For winter visits, dress in warm layers, waterproof outerwear, gloves, a hat, and goggles. Comfortable, waterproof boots are essential for walking in the snow. TikTok

Rental services for skis, snowboards, and tubing equipment are typically available at Great Bear Ski Valley. It's advisable to check their website for details on availability and pricing. Instagram

Great Bear Ski Valley hosts a variety of events, including music festivals,Instagram trail building celebrations,Instagram and community gatherings like 'Ignite the Night'.Instagram They are also a popular wedding venue.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Great Bear Ski Valley has a lodge with dining facilities. Visitors have praised the food, especially for events like weddings. Reddit

The dining options typically include casual fare suitable for skiers and visitors. For events, they offer catering services, with guests highlighting the quality of brunch charcuterie and food. Reddit

Policies on outside food and beverages can vary. It's best to check with Great Bear Ski Valley directly or look for posted signs regarding their policy on outside food. Reddit

Yes, the venue often includes bar facilities, particularly for events and weddings, providing a space for guests to relax and socialize. Reddit

Specific dietary options like vegetarian or vegan choices may be available, especially for catered events. Inquiring with the venue when booking an event or checking the lodge menu is recommended. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The ski slopes offer dramatic winter landscapes,TikTok while summer brings lush greenery. The outdoor ceremony area with trees and the ski hill backdrop is particularly picturesque for events.Reddit

Absolutely! Visitors are encouraged to capture their experiences. Some creators use action cameras like Insta360 for dynamic shots.TikTok

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial or professional shoots, it's always best to inquire with the venue management beforehand. Instagram

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for both winter and summer landscapes. Sunny afternoons can also provide great visibility for capturing activities. Instagram

Events often provide unique photo opportunities, from festive decorations to candid moments. The venue's natural beauty serves as a stunning backdrop for any occasion. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Great Bear Ski Valley is a fantastic family destination. The tubing park is a major hit with kids, offering easy-to-access fun without the need for advanced skiing skills.Instagram During winter, the gentle slopes are suitable for young skiers and snowboarders learning the ropes. In the summer, the hiking trails provide a safe and engaging way for children to explore nature. The venue's welcoming atmosphere and variety of activities ensure there's something to entertain every member of the family.

💍 Couples & Event Planners

For couples planning a wedding or special event, Great Bear Ski Valley offers a picturesque and highly functional venue. The outdoor ceremony sites are particularly stunning, providing a romantic setting.Reddit The dedicated event staff are known for their exceptional service, making the planning process smooth and stress-free.Reddit With beautiful scenery and top-notch catering, it's an ideal choice for creating unforgettable moments.

🏃‍♀️ Outdoor Enthusiasts & Athletes

Great Bear Ski Valley is a haven for those who love the outdoors. In winter, it's a go-to for skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing.Instagram Come summer, the hiking and mountain biking trails offer challenging and scenic routes for runners and cyclists.Reddit The venue also hosts events like trail builds,Instagram fostering a strong community for outdoor athletes.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Winter Sports at Great Bear

Great Bear Ski Valley is a prime destination for winter enthusiasts. It offers a variety of slopes for skiing and snowboarding, catering to all skill levels from beginners to more experienced riders.Instagram The dedicated tubing park, complete with its own lift, provides a fun and accessible snow activity for families and groups.Instagram Visitors should be mindful of weather conditions, as warmer spells can lead to icy slopes, a concern shared by some skiers.Reddit Checking snow reports and forecasts is crucial for the best experience.

Beyond the main slopes, the valley also supports cross-country skiing, offering a more serene way to enjoy the winter landscape. The atmosphere during ski season is often vibrant, with a focus on 'good times and great vibes'.Instagram While some visitors might find lines during peak times, others have noted enjoying shorter waits,TikTok highlighting the variable nature of crowd sizes.

Year-Round Outdoor Adventures

Great Bear Ski Valley isn't just a winter destination; it transforms into an outdoor playground during the warmer months. The hiking trails, such as the Valley Trail, offer a peaceful escape and a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area.Reddit These trails are also popular for mountain biking and trail running, with events like trail races taking place here.Reddit The venue is also a hub for community events, including festivals and trail-building celebrations,Instagram showcasing its role as a versatile recreational space.

The lodge serves as a central point for visitors, offering amenities and a place to relax after outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike, a leisurely bike ride, or simply a scenic spot to enjoy nature, Great Bear Ski Valley provides a refreshing outdoor experience throughout the year. Its accessibility and diverse offerings make it a valuable asset for the Sioux Falls community and visitors alike.Instagram

A Premier Event Venue

Great Bear Ski Valley has established itself as a highly sought-after venue for special events, particularly weddings. Reviewers consistently praise the beautiful outdoor ceremony locations, often set against a backdrop of trees and the ski hill, as well as the well-designed indoor spaces like the lofted upstairs dining area.Reddit The staff, including Jayne and Jill, are frequently commended for their professionalism, kindness, and attentiveness, ensuring events run smoothly and personal requests are met.Reddit+1

Couples have highlighted the venue's ability to bring their visions to life, from specific catering requests like brunch charcuterie to ensuring a seamless experience even if minor issues arise, which guests often remain unaware of. The food itself receives high marks, with guests frequently requesting seconds.Reddit The combination of stunning natural scenery, excellent service, and well-equipped facilities makes Great Bear Ski Valley a top recommendation for memorable celebrations.Reddit

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