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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fresh snow, fewer crowds

Great Bear Ski Valley
Best Time
Fresh snow, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Year-round outdoor recreation hub offering skiing, tubing, hiking, and event hosting in Sioux Falls.
"A fantastic venue for weddings and a great spot for outdoor fun in every season!"

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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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

Event Venue Charm
The Lodge and Outdoor Areas
A popular spot for weddings and events, praised for its beautiful outdoor settings and helpful staff .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Snow Conditions
Summer Fun Beyond the Slopes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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:
Tubing Tuesdays Fun!
Join the fun with special lazer tubing nights. :tube:
Great Wedding Venue
Highly recommended for events, with beautiful scenery and great staff. :wedding:
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:
Summer Activities Abound
Don't forget Great Bear for hiking and events in warmer months! :hiking_boot:
Tubing Tuesdays Fun!
Join the fun with special lazer tubing nights. :tube:
Great Wedding Venue
Highly recommended for events, with beautiful scenery and great staff. :wedding:
Trail Race Scenery
Excellent trails for running and biking with great views. :runner:
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
Keep an eye out for special promotions like 'Tubing Tuesdays'
or seasonal passes. Following their social media can also alert you to any deals.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.
🎫 ⛷️ 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.
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.
For winter visits, dress in warm layers, waterproof outerwear, gloves, a hat, and goggles. Comfortable, waterproof boots are essential for walking in the snow.
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.
Great Bear Ski Valley hosts a variety of events, including music festivals,
trail building celebrations, and community gatherings like 'Ignite the Night'. They are also a popular wedding venue.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Great Bear Ski Valley has a lodge with dining facilities. Visitors have praised the food, especially for events like weddings.
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.
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.
Yes, the venue often includes bar facilities, particularly for events and weddings, providing a space for guests to relax and socialize.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
The ski slopes offer dramatic winter landscapes,
while summer brings lush greenery. The outdoor ceremony area with trees and the ski hill backdrop is particularly picturesque for events.Absolutely! Visitors are encouraged to capture their experiences. Some creators use action cameras like Insta360 for dynamic shots.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial or professional shoots, it's always best to inquire with the venue management beforehand.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💍 Couples & Event Planners
🏃♀️ Outdoor Enthusiasts & Athletes
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Winter Sports at Great Bear
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'. While some visitors might find lines during peak times, others have noted enjoying shorter waits, highlighting the variable nature of crowd sizes.
Year-Round Outdoor Adventures
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.
A Premier Event Venue
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. The combination of stunning natural scenery, excellent service, and well-equipped facilities makes Great Bear Ski Valley a top recommendation for memorable celebrations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit