You don't have to leave the Twin Cities to find fabulous winter skiing - head to Hyland!

Heading to the Twin Cities in winter, and looking for family fun in the heart of town? Hyland Hills Ski Area is located in the heart of the Cities, in Bloomington, Minnesota. Just a few miles from the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, you'll find this bustling ski hill with runs for all abilities, even your littlest skiers! I've been taking the girls here since my youngest was just two years old! So, clearly I feel confident the bunny hill here is appropriate, even for toddlers.

Since this ski hill is the closest in proximity to Minneapolis and St. Paul, it can get quite busy, especially weekends or non-school days. So, I do recommend weekdays as the very best time to visit Hyland Hills. Even if you find yourself here on a rare snow-free week, this hill does make their own snow, so anytime during the winter ski season, you can be sure to find fresh powder here.

Hyland Hills offers very popular ski and snowboarding lessons through their SnowAcademy. Lessons here are quite popular, so plan in advence. You can bring your own ski/snowboard gear, or rent gear at the hill. We always bring our own, so we have not had to rent gear at this location. Daily passes start at $31 for youth and $35 for adults, though children ages 4 and under ski totally free!

The food in the chalet is quite good, and there's a great selection of hot and cold foods available. My kiddos always opt for mac 'n cheese (and, of course, hot cocoa) after a day of skiing, but there are plenty more options. There are over 13 runs here, and the difficulty levels range from Green Circles (the easiest) to Black Diamonds (the most difficult). I highly recommend strapping on your skis and heading to this great ski hill in the heart of the Twin Cities!