Bottineau Winter Park: A Guide to North Dakota’s “Jewel Above the Prairie”
Located in the Turtle Mountains, Bottineau Winter Park stands as a premier destination for winter recreation in North Dakota. Known as “The Jewel Above the Prairie,” the resort offers a family-friendly environment for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, situated just 10 minutes north of Bottineau.
Winter Activities and Slope Features
The park caters to all skill levels, from first-timers to expert riders. The resort features eight alpine trails and a variety of lift systems to ensure efficient access to the slopes:
- Lifts: The park utilizes one triple chairlift, one handle lift, one rope tow, and two conveyor lifts specifically for the beginner hills.
- Grooming: All trails are fully groomed, providing a consistent experience while offering scenic views of the Turtle Mountains.
- Tubing: In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the park offers tubing for all ages.
Military Benefits and Accessibility
Bottineau Winter Park is located approximately a 90-minute drive from Minot Air Force Base. To support service members, the park provides a 10% discount for active duty military patrons on lift tickets, tubing, and rentals.
For those stationed at Minot AFB, equipment options are flexible. While the park maintains its own full-service rental shop, gear is similarly available for rent through Minot AFB’s Outdoor Recreation (ODR) department. ODR occasionally organizes coordinated trips that include round-trip transportation, gear rentals, and lift tickets.
Amenities and Visitor Services
When taking a break from the mountain, visitors can head to Annie’s House Visitor Center. This facility serves as the hub for guests, featuring a warm fireplace and a full-service cafeteria.
Equipment Rentals
The park’s full-service rental shop provides essential gear, including:
- Skis and Snowboards
- Helmets
- Goggles
Pricing and Rates
Pricing varies based on the day of the week and the age of the visitor:
| Category | Weekend/Holiday | Weekday/Night |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (18+) | $45 | $30 |
| Teen (13-17) | $35 | $25 |
| Youth (6-12) | $25 | $20 |
| Child (5 & under) | Free | Free |
Tubing: $22 for all ages (children 5 and under are free with a ticketed guardian).
Key Takeaways for Visitors
- Location: Turtle Mountains, 10 minutes north of Bottineau, ND.
- Military Discount: 10% off rentals, tubing, and lift tickets with a military ID.
- Beginner Friendly: Two conveyor lifts are dedicated to beginner hills.
- Full Service: On-site rentals and dining are available at Annie’s House.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Bottineau Winter Park located?
It is located in the Turtle Mountains of North Dakota, approximately 10 minutes north of the town of Bottineau.
Does the park offer rentals?
Yes, the park has a full-service rental shop. Military members can rent equipment through Minot AFB’s Outdoor Recreation.
What is the best way for Minot AFB personnel to visit?
Personnel can drive the 90-minute route independently or check for organized trips through the ODR office, which may provide transportation and bundled gear/ticket packages.
Worth a look