Lutsen Mountain Summit Express

Lutsen Mountain Summit Express

Lutsen Mountain Summit Express
4.5
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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About
You won't find a better vantage point from which to view the Sawtooth Mountains and Lake Superior's dramatic coastline. This aerial gondola is one of the North Shore's most popular attractions, taking you on a scenic ride to the top of Moose Mountain, rising 1,000 feet over Lake Superior. The gentle ride at treetop level is an experience not to be missed if you're visiting the North Shore! Stop at the Summit Chalet at Lutsen Mountains, a beautiful mountaintop chalet welcoming guests for gorgeous views, relaxation, or for lunch, snacks, and beverages. Inside and outside deck seating is available overlooking Lake Superior. The Summit Chalet at Lutsen Mountains also hosts our Summit Chalet weddings, our premier destination wedding facility. Enjoy the mountaintop hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and fresh air. The Mountain Tram makes Moose Mountain the most accessible year-round mountaintop destination in Mid-America.
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
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  • TriCityDude
    Saginaw, Michigan734 contributions
    Great ride and great views on winter day!
    Took my elderly mother too the ski hill and took the tram to the top over the rocky cliffs and had lunch at the top. Was a beautiful blue sky day, with winter still in full swing. The tram was exciting and fun for her, and there was a good platform, walkway and overlook at the restaurant at the top. We enjoyed the blue sky sunny view of the ski hill, the skiers, and Lake Superior shimmering, and had a nice cafeteria style lunch in the restaurant at the top. While the tram ride was a bit pricey (~$20 each), it was a great experience and memory. Recommend it on a beautiful winter day!
    Thank you for your review and recent visit, we are happy to see that you both enjoyed your time here with us!
    Written February 14, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited April 2019
    Traveled as a couple
    Written February 14, 2020
  • Jjord99
    Minneapolis, Minnesota20 contributions
    Dog-friendly with awesome views
    I am incredibly grateful the gondolas are dog-friendly! Our dog absolutely loved it and it meant that we could go together as a family vs. someone staying back. Just watch the grates on paws, especially the wider ones by the dining area at the top. It was nice that it was one family per car especially with our dog. We had a great experience and were happy the restaurant at the top was open to have a few drinks overlooking Lake Superior. It was fun to do a regular fun summer activity when so many other things are closed this right now. I greatly appreciate all their hard work to open. There was some confusion getting tickets. Everything I'd read on their website encouraged online ticketing to avoid lines, but when we got there we learned we had to walk back down the street to the pay booth to get a paper ticket. This might be helpful to add to the website (and maybe clarify on a physical sign there) since we had walked past the ticket booth on our way to the tram and had to go back. Apparently we needed a paper ticket at the top to prove we had paid for the return trip down, which is optional. This was confusing and seemed unnecessary, Fortunately it was not a big deal for us on a rainy Monday morning, and if you're reading this, now you know. Overall this was a great experience and fun to do, with gorgeous views, and is dog-friendly. We will be back!
    Thank you for your recent review and for sharing your experience, we are so happy to see you enjoyed your time here with us. You are correct in that we are asking people to purchase online in advance, this helps to reduce the touchpoints between staff and customers during the purchase process, however, we do still need to issue your tickets once you are onsite with us. We will share your feedback with our team for review on how we can continue to get our new processes out to our customers.
    Written July 11, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited June 2020
    Written July 7, 2020
  • JoeNathan9249
    Saint Paul, Minnesota6,037 contributions
    Stunning views in the fall. Save time by purchasing tickets on line.
    Stunning fall views. Incredible experience - liked the fact that there are senior rates. We were there mid week, first week of October. Walked right up to the ticket booth and there was only one person ahead of us. They have an on-line option to purchase tickets. You can save time by doing this. Also, ticket booth is across the street from the where you board the gondola. Tickets are NOT available for purchase in the gift shop immediately next to the gondola. We spent bout 30 minutes on top. purchased hot chocolate as it was a bit nippy. As others have noted, food at the restaurant is (not surprisingly) a bit expensive. Strongly recommended. it is stunning in the fall.
    Visited October 2022
    Written October 17, 2022
  • Ginger D
    11 contributions
    Nice view, bad service.
    On a recent Saturday morning the line simply was not moving. Found out that despite the signs encouraging people to buy their tickets online and avoid the line. However, people who did this were sent back to the ticket line to get physical tickets and sign liability waivers if needed (even if they had signed online). We waited in line for 30 minutes due to this ridiculousness. I told the ticket sales rep that Lutsen needed to get their act together and was glared at, despite spending more than $50 for two gondola tickets. This is not COVID related - this is poor management, pure and simple. Lutsen needs to get their act together - this was completely avoidable. Also, we're not skiing - why on Earth are tickets this expensive for a gondola ride and a short gondola ride at that? The view is lovely, but $52?
    Thank you for sharing your feedback, we understand your frustration. Even when purchased online we do need to print a physical ticket for our attractions, the online purchase helps speed up our lines since we then do not have to collect individual guest info at the windows. We do also require a release of liability for guests riding the slide and are continuing to get this information out to help again to make our lines faster, unfortunately not everyone has completed this prior which we understand causes frustration. We will continue to work on these areas and thank you for visiting.
    Written June 25, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited June 2020
    Written June 24, 2020
  • cenzt
    Iowa5,663 contributions
    Taking the Gondola up Lutsen Mountain Summit Express
    Average trip. We arrived at approximately 12 pm and made our ways towards the ticket counter to buy tickets to the gondola. The tickets were very pricey and cost 29 dollars for an adult round trip gondola ride. We headed to the boarding station, scanned our tickets and made our way inside the gondola. The gondola ride was relatively short and lasted roughly 5 minutes, each way. The views on the way up and down the mountain were average and nothing to brag about. At the top of the mountain were restrooms, a small overpriced restaurant, and a hiking trail. We bought lunch at the Summit Chalet, found ourselves a table outside, and enjoyed lunch with a view. I ordered a cup of their soup of the day, along with The Summit Chef which came with romaine lettuce, roast beef and turkey, swiss, smoked gouda, hard boiled egg, tomato, cucumber, red onion and ranch dressing. The cup of soup was very tiny and cost 10 dollars! I would not do this attraction again, as it was extremely overpriced and a waste of money. I wish there were more things to do at the top of the mountain. Tip: I recommend spending 1.5 hours here if you truly want to see everything.
    Thank you for sharing your experience, we are sorry to see that you did not fully enjoy your time with us.
    Written September 30, 2022
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited August 2022
    Written August 28, 2022
  • mike m
    Saint Louis Park, Minnesota67 contributions
    Way too much money
    This tram is 25.00 per person for an 8 minute ride to eat a 20.00 Cheeseburger and a 12.00 drink. Way too much. The ride should be 10 bucks if you’re going to eat the overpriced mediocre food.
    We are sorry to see you feel this way. The Summit Express is a scenic ride that takes you to the top of Moose Mountain where guests are able to enjoy hiking trails, overlook decks, and the Summit Chalet eatery if they so choose. We hope that you were able to enjoy the scenery during your ride even if you did not enjoy your entire visit.
    Written July 29, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited July 2020
    Written July 25, 2020
  • NORman0762
    Andover, Minnesota133 contributions
    Good views but a bit confusing at the top
    The ride to the top is about 10 minutes but worth the cost. We hiked down, but have a map available on your phone. We took the spur trail down which is about 5 miles back to town and that was great. The restaurant is a bit confusing and there is no signs..so 1. Get in line and order your food and pay for it. 2 they will assign you a table (make sure they know how many people are in the group) don't go to the table first. 3. You clean up after your self. I gave it 3 stars because I couldn't find anyone to answer questions but the food was good. Try to get there before noon or after 1 for lunch
    Thank you for your review and recent visit. We are sorry to see you felt things were confusing but thank you for taking the time to share that feedback, in this ever-changing environment we are continuously making changes and feedback helps us to make those changes.
    Written August 15, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited August 2020
    Traveled as a couple
    Written August 13, 2020
  • Laura K
    3 contributions
    Tips for the Hike Back
    The tram ride was fun but a little underwhelming. We chose to hike back to base camp rather than take the return tram ride. Lutsen Mountain will provide a map for the hike but it isn’t very clear and the tram operator we had was not very knowledgeable about the hike route. Here are my tips: after arriving to the top of the tram ride immediately turn right into the woods by Mystery Mountain Overlook. After entering the woods before getting to the Overlook, you’ll see a marker for the Spur Trail on your left. Follow the Spur Trail until it intersects with the Superior Hiking Trail. There is a sign that directs you right on the SHT. Follow the SHT trail markers until you arrive at gravel path, turn left and follow the path a short distance until you cross a bridge (can hear the water as you approach). Go right on the road towards basecamp. It was a great hike, just over 4 miles. Rough trail in some sections. We saw a black bear near the bridge.
    Thank you for your visit and for sharing these instructions with future guests. We work with our staff on providing direction, but if they haven't done the hike themselves it can be harder to explain and this is a great bit of insight that can be shared with future guests.
    Written July 12, 2021
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited July 2021
    Traveled as a couple
    Written July 11, 2021
  • Karen S
    Cheyenne, Wyoming112 contributions
    Beautiful views, well worth the trip.
    Easy and smooth ride to the top of the mountain and oh was the view of the North shore and all the surrounding mountains just stunning. Of course we were there during fall and all of the trees were changing colors. My only complaint was we took the 10 o'clock tram and the restaurant didn't open till 11, so there wasn't anywhere to get water, coffee, etc. To me if the tram is open then there should be something available or let people know to bring it with them
    Thank you for your visit and for your feedback, we are sorry to hear you were disappointed in the chalet hours and will take your suggestion under consideration.
    Written November 24, 2021
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited September 2021
    Traveled with friends
    Written October 19, 2021
  • NancyJamesM
    Saint Charles, Minnesota47 contributions
    Beautiful view but not Covid Safe!!
    We personally observed no one cleaning the gondolas between passengers as well as the operator was not wearing a mask - even though they are currently mandated in the state of Minnesota. I brought this all to the attention of a woman at the hotel front desk and she told me multiple times “I disagree.” Like I’m a liar? Ride at your own risk. If you do, don’t touch anything because it is NOT being cleaned between riders!
    Hi Nancy, we take COVID19 and the safety of our guests, employees, and community very seriously. Our gondola cabins are cleaned every Saturday evening with a 7- day cleaning agent that was recommended to us by the state. You can read more about this as well as all of our policies and precautions online at lutsen.com/covid19. In regards to the employee, masks are required by the state with the exception of outdoors where proper social distancing can be adhered to. Since we have a gate system that allows a guest to access the gondola are able to remove masks when distanced to allow better communication and put them back in place when assisting within six feet. We hope this helps to clear up any concerns you may have had and hope you enjoyed your time with us.
    Written August 21, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited July 2020
    Traveled as a couple
    Written August 20, 2020
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions

4.5
217 reviews
Excellent
128
Very good
56
Average
29
Poor
2
Terrible
3

Ginger D
11 contributions
Jun 2020
On a recent Saturday morning the line simply was not moving. Found out that despite the signs encouraging people to buy their tickets online and avoid the line. However, people who did this were sent back to the ticket line to get physical tickets and sign liability waivers if needed (even if they had signed online). We waited in line for 30 minutes due to this ridiculousness. I told the ticket sales rep that Lutsen needed to get their act together and was glared at, despite spending more than $50 for two gondola tickets. This is not COVID related - this is poor management, pure and simple. Lutsen needs to get their act together - this was completely avoidable. Also, we're not skiing - why on Earth are tickets this expensive for a gondola ride and a short gondola ride at that? The view is lovely, but $52?
Written June 24, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for sharing your feedback, we understand your frustration. Even when purchased online we do need to print a physical ticket for our attractions, the online purchase helps speed up our lines since we then do not have to collect individual guest info at the windows. We do also require a release of liability for guests riding the slide and are continuing to get this information out to help again to make our lines faster, unfortunately not everyone has completed this prior which we understand causes frustration. We will continue to work on these areas and thank you for visiting.
Written June 25, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

cenzt
Iowa5,663 contributions
Aug 2022
Average trip. We arrived at approximately 12 pm and made our ways towards the ticket counter to buy tickets to the gondola. The tickets were very pricey and cost 29 dollars for an adult round trip gondola ride. We headed to the boarding station, scanned our tickets and made our way inside the gondola. The gondola ride was relatively short and lasted roughly 5 minutes, each way. The views on the way up and down the mountain were average and nothing to brag about. At the top of the mountain were restrooms, a small overpriced restaurant, and a hiking trail. We bought lunch at the Summit Chalet, found ourselves a table outside, and enjoyed lunch with a view. I ordered a cup of their soup of the day, along with The Summit Chef which came with romaine lettuce, roast beef and turkey, swiss, smoked gouda, hard boiled egg, tomato, cucumber, red onion and ranch dressing. The cup of soup was very tiny and cost 10 dollars! I would not do this attraction again, as it was extremely overpriced and a waste of money. I wish there were more things to do at the top of the mountain.

Tip: I recommend spending 1.5 hours here if you truly want to see everything.
Written August 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for sharing your experience, we are sorry to see that you did not fully enjoy your time with us.
Written September 30, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

mike m
Saint Louis Park, MN67 contributions
Jul 2020
This tram is 25.00 per person for an 8 minute ride to eat a 20.00 Cheeseburger and a 12.00 drink. Way too much. The ride should be 10 bucks if you’re going to eat the overpriced mediocre food.
Written July 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are sorry to see you feel this way. The Summit Express is a scenic ride that takes you to the top of Moose Mountain where guests are able to enjoy hiking trails, overlook decks, and the Summit Chalet eatery if they so choose. We hope that you were able to enjoy the scenery during your ride even if you did not enjoy your entire visit.
Written July 29, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

NORman0762
Andover, MN133 contributions
Aug 2020 • Couples
The ride to the top is about 10 minutes but worth the cost. We hiked down, but have a map available on your phone. We took the spur trail down which is about 5 miles back to town and that was great. The restaurant is a bit confusing and there is no signs..so 1. Get in line and order your food and pay for it. 2 they will assign you a table (make sure they know how many people are in the group) don't go to the table first. 3. You clean up after your self. I gave it 3 stars because I couldn't find anyone to answer questions but the food was good. Try to get there before noon or after 1 for lunch
Written August 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review and recent visit. We are sorry to see you felt things were confusing but thank you for taking the time to share that feedback, in this ever-changing environment we are continuously making changes and feedback helps us to make those changes.
Written August 15, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Laura K
3 contributions
Jul 2021 • Couples
The tram ride was fun but a little underwhelming. We chose to hike back to base camp rather than take the return tram ride. Lutsen Mountain will provide a map for the hike but it isn’t very clear and the tram operator we had was not very knowledgeable about the hike route. Here are my tips: after arriving to the top of the tram ride immediately turn right into the woods by Mystery Mountain Overlook. After entering the woods before getting to the Overlook, you’ll see a marker for the Spur Trail on your left. Follow the Spur Trail until it intersects with the Superior Hiking Trail. There is a sign that directs you right on the SHT. Follow the SHT trail markers until you arrive at gravel path, turn left and follow the path a short distance until you cross a bridge (can hear the water as you approach). Go right on the road towards basecamp. It was a great hike, just over 4 miles. Rough trail in some sections. We saw a black bear near the bridge.
Written July 11, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your visit and for sharing these instructions with future guests. We work with our staff on providing direction, but if they haven't done the hike themselves it can be harder to explain and this is a great bit of insight that can be shared with future guests.
Written July 12, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Karen S
Cheyenne, WY112 contributions
Sep 2021 • Friends
Easy and smooth ride to the top of the mountain and oh was the view of the North shore and all the surrounding mountains just stunning. Of course we were there during fall and all of the trees were changing colors. My only complaint was we took the 10 o'clock tram and the restaurant didn't open till 11, so there wasn't anywhere to get water, coffee, etc. To me if the tram is open then there should be something available or let people know to bring it with them
Written October 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your visit and for your feedback, we are sorry to hear you were disappointed in the chalet hours and will take your suggestion under consideration.
Written November 24, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

NancyJamesM
Saint Charles, MN47 contributions
Jul 2020 • Couples
We personally observed no one cleaning the gondolas between passengers as well as the operator was not wearing a mask - even though they are currently mandated in the state of Minnesota. I brought this all to the attention of a woman at the hotel front desk and she told me multiple times “I disagree.” Like I’m a liar? Ride at your own risk. If you do, don’t touch anything because it is NOT being cleaned between riders!
Written August 20, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Nancy, we take COVID19 and the safety of our guests, employees, and community very seriously. Our gondola cabins are cleaned every Saturday evening with a 7- day cleaning agent that was recommended to us by the state. You can read more about this as well as all of our policies and precautions online at lutsen.com/covid19. In regards to the employee, masks are required by the state with the exception of outdoors where proper social distancing can be adhered to. Since we have a gate system that allows a guest to access the gondola are able to remove masks when distanced to allow better communication and put them back in place when assisting within six feet. We hope this helps to clear up any concerns you may have had and hope you enjoyed your time with us.
Written August 21, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Haley H
St Cloud Minn57 contributions
Aug 2020 • Family
My sister who is deaf wanted to ride the gondola. After your short tempered staff explained to my mother who is hard of hearing that he would ride up with my sister (thanks!) so she wouldn’t be alone. When she got to the top the guy just got off and said he had to go and she could hike back down, or ride back down. My sister so confused got off and had to find two random strangers to ask for help!! I cannot imagine what would have happened if she would have hiked down.

My mom waiting for my sister to come back down went to your gift shop, your staff there was rude, and short as well. Do you think your vail? Your not, if you don’t want customers to come due to COVID maybe you too should close up shop. If it’s personal and your not into tourists maybe it’s time to find a different job.

I’m from MN, so sick of the rudeness from these places. You (visitor) worked hard for your money to be able to shop where you please. This place needs a reality check; that it’s not the only place in existence. Spend your money where it’s wanted.
Written August 30, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We would like to sincerely apologize for your experience. The mountain shop is not owned by Lutsen Mountains, but we will be sharing your experience with them directly for review. We do hope that your family was still able to enjoy the North Shore area and again deeply apologize for the events of your visit.
Written August 31, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Mary V
Pelican Lake, WI113 contributions
Aug 2020
My husband and I are seniors and it cost us each $17.00 to ride. It was well worth the experience. I bet the Sawtooth Mts. would be beautiful in the fall. Mixed drinks and beer are $7.00 ea. which I thought was a little expensive. We did not eat at the restaurant. They social distance with the tram cars. Even numbered on the way up and odd numbered cars on the way down. The senior gentleman directing and giving advice, was not the most friendly. Actually he was confusing. Otherwise it was fun. Once down, stop at Papa Charlies for pizza. The best you will ever eat!
Written August 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for sharing your feedback and for your recent visit, we are happy to hear you enjoyed your time with us and look forward to seeing you again!
Written August 24, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Jeff G
Waterloo, IA661 contributions
Sep 2020 • Solo
Happened to be there at the perfect time for Fall colors. Wasn't expecting so as I thought it was too early. Very nice new automatic system, nothing to touch. Yes a little expensive, $25 adults. Many using it this Monday afternoon, even pet friendly.

Great views from a top.
Written September 27, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience, we are happy you enjoyed our amenities and look forward to seeing you again.
Written October 3, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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Lutsen Mountain Summit Express - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

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