19 FALL 2020 ISSUE 01 / VOL . 02 SNOWGOER . COM 20
ANOTHER MUST SEE : PINE MOUNTAIN
The southern half of this section is mostly flat – with some very notable exceptions , like Pine Mountain just outside of Iron Mountain . The snowmobile trail goes right past the ski hill , and ski hills always make for interesting views . But Pine Mountain holds something far more spectacular in the form of a massive ski jump .
Towering 176 feet above the high ground where it ’ s placed , with a big landing funnel beneath , the Pine Mountain Ski Jump hosts a huge annual event that brings in competitive jumpers from across the globe . In fact , the longest World Cup jump ever recorded in the United States – measuring 459 feet – occurred at Pine Mountain .
The big jump event – which can attract 20,000 people – is held every February , and on February 12-14 , 2021 , it will be the highprofile FIS Continental Cup . But that actually might not be the best time to visit the jump structure . Instead , snowmobilers can avoid the crowds earlier or later in the winter , ride right up to the parking lot and then walk up the incredible structure for a breathtaking view of the valley below . The steep walk isn ’ t for the faint of heart , and the walk down feels even more spooky .
Even without the hike to the top , though , this is a cool destination . Near the jump ’ s base , but still atop the hill , is the U . P . Veterans Memorial Site , with dedicated stones honoring soldiers from the area who fought for our freedom in various wars and conflicts .
Photo : Susie Fox