Ride Center Highlight: Ski Hut – Duluth, Minnesota
Welcome to our Ride Center series, where we shine a spotlight on the heart of local cycling culture—bike shops that do more than just sell gear. In this edition, we’re taking you to Duluth, Minnesota, to explore Ski Hut, a legendary shop with deep roots in the community.
A DULUTH LEGACY
Ski Hut's story begins in 1955 when a group of seasoned skiers, including Wes Neustel, opened the shop to bring their love for skiing to the Northland. By the 1960s, Wes had become the sole owner, and the shop was well on its way to becoming a cornerstone of Duluth’s outdoor scene. Under the leadership of his son, Scott Neustel (aka Potter) in the 1980s, Ski Hut expanded from a winter-only store to a year-round destination, growing with the local mountain bike scene. One of the first shops in the area to carry the now classic, Specialized Stumpjumper, Ski Hut quickly became “the” spot for cyclists. Today, Ski Hut continues to thrive under the same principles of exceptional customer service and deep community involvement, recently expanding with the opening of their new Adventure Center in West Duluth—a “one-stop-rental-shop” that caters to the needs of all outdoor enthusiasts.
ROOTED IN COMMUNITY
Ski Hut is more than just a retail space; it’s a cornerstone of Duluth's cycling culture. The shop’s staff were instrumental in founding COGGS (Cyclists of Gitchee Gumee Shores), the local trail organization, and they continue to support Duluth DEVO, the area’s youth mountain biking group. The team at Ski Hut also organizes group rides, including the popular Wednesday Night Gravel Ride hosted by long-time employee Chris White ("Whitey"), who often invites riders to his home for post-ride gatherings. Their commitment to the community and passion for biking is evident in everything they do, from hosting events to nurturing the next generation of cyclists.
SKI HUT TEAM’S LOCAL RECOMMENDATIONS
To help you experience Duluth in a real way, we asked the Ski Hut team where to go:
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Favorite Trail from Town / Lunch Ride:
Amity East in Lester is a favorite, offering a quick escape into the woods with a mix of rooty, chunky terrain and a fun, mellow jump line. Another top pick is the Knowlton trail at Spirit Mountain, which has become a go-to lunch ride with the opening of the new Adventure Center. -
Favorite Trails:
The trails around Spirit Mountain stand out as some of the best in the region. With new trails continually being built, including exciting options for E-MTB riders, it’s a playground for mountain bikers of all levels. -
Favorite Watering Hole:
The Reef is a classic dive bar that’s beloved by locals for its quirky charm. It’s a spot where memories are made, even if the decor and cleanliness might not be the main attractions. -
Recommended Restaurants:
For post-ride eats, the Burnett Dairy Coop next to the new store is a must, known for its incredible ice cream, pizza, and classic midwestern cheese curds. For a more casual lunch, Phoholic serves up delicious Banh Mi sandwiches, Pho, and spring rolls. -
Other Local Beta:
The annual Bike Duluth Festival in July is a highlight, featuring races, music, and family-friendly events. And for a quintessential Duluth experience, take a dip in Lake Superior post-ride—it’s the perfect way to cool off and soak in the natural beauty of the area.
A Legacy of Service and Passion
Ski Hut stands out not just for its top-tier service but for its deep commitment to the cycling community in Duluth. The team at Ski Hut is more than just staff—they're avid cyclists who live and breathe the sport. Whether you're in search of the ideal bike, need expert-level repairs, or want to join a group ride, Ski Hut offers a welcoming environment where everyone is treated like part of the family. Their dedication to ensuring every customer leaves satisfied, coupled with their active role in community events and organizations, has solidified their place as a cornerstone of Duluth's biking scene.
