It’s no secret that countless year-round outdoor recreational opportunities abound in the Pembina Gorge, but did you know that one of North Dakota’s three ski resorts is located right here as well? Hosting both skiers and snowboarders, the story of Frost Fire Park dates back to 1976 and began as a dream of founders Richard “Dick” and Judith Johnson and resulted in much more than just another ski resort.

The Johnsons had a love for skiing and outdoor recreation and a desire to attract people to the Pembina Gorge, an area they greatly loved. They were determined to see the Walhalla area improved and commercially developed in a way that enhanced the community and preserved the pristine wonder and beauty of the Gorge. This led them to build a ski area, which was opened for business on December 26, 1976. In their wildest dreams, they may not have realized what would become of Frost Fire Park in the decades that followed.

Besides outdoor recreation, the Johnsons also had a passion for the arts. In 1985, they opened the Frost Fire Summer Theatre, which has been nothing short of a success, entertaining roughly 5,000 guests from around the region during each theater season. The 1980s also saw the arrival of the barn addition onto the original lodge. It was moved into place during the winter of 1988, in what was most definitely a challenging job! Within the next five years three other structures were relocated to Frost Fire Park.

In order to provide accommodations for cast members of the summer theatre, Dick and Judith purchased the vacated Catholic convent from Walhalla and moved it onto the property. It became a perfect dormitory for the cast and was also utilized by the ski patrol and other employees during the winter months. The Appleton house, a Victorian-style farmhouse used today as unforgettable lodging, and a more modest farmhouse were relocated to Frost Fire, the latter becoming home to Hattie’s Closet, a long-time local gift shop offering regional artisan crafts.

One visit to Frost Fire Park and you can feel the love the Johnson’s had for the Pembina Gorge and nearby communities. After Richard passed away in 2016, Judith sold the property to The Pembina Gorge Foundation, who have continued to enhance the legacy left by the Johnson’s. Their tireless efforts have resulted in multiple improvements to Frost Fire Park, including the addition of a Skytrac Quad chairlift, known locally as “Lyle’s Lift” and upgrades to the on-site snow-making equipment, not to mention various small renovations and necessary maintenance to other equipment used by Frost Fire. In April of 2018, Howatt Hangar, a grill and lounge opened on site and is the perfect place to take a break and refuel during a day of skiing or mountain biking.

Perhaps one of the most recognizable changes to Frost Fire Park are the downhill mountain bike trails. With eight trails of varying difficulty, these high-quality bike trails appeal to all levels of riders and are the only downhill mountain bike trails with lift service in the state of North Dakota.

While Frost Fire Park started as a dream, it's a dream that has persevered through the dedication of both Dick and Judith Johnson and the Pembina Gorge Foundation. It is undeniable that Frost Fire Park is a beloved gem, and, regardless of the season, is worth a visit!