Giants Ridge Shines with Statewide Wins and Team Member Recognitions
August 19, 2025 | News & Updates, People Spotlights, Property Spotlights
Giants Ridge has once again proven itself a premier destination in Minnesota, taking home multiple accolades in the Minnesota’s Best reader-choice awards presented by the Star Tribune. This year, Giants Ridge earned:
- Gold – Best Golf Course
- Gold – Best Ski Hill
- Gold – Best Ski Resort
- Gold – Best Weekend Getaway
- Silver – Best Fall Fun/Events
- Silver – Best Day Trip
- Silver – Best Fall Destination
- Silver – Best Winter Destination
General Manager Fred Seymour explained that these recognitions are more than just titles, saying they reflect “the hard work, dedication, and hospitality that our team brings to every guest experience.” He emphasized that every role, whether it’s grooming trails, mowing greens, or serving guests in the restaurants, contributed to the wins. Fred noted that with more than 250 employees across golf, ski, Nordic, and food & beverage operations, the property is “a unique operation that takes a dedicated team to keep running smoothly.”
Having led Giants Ridge for eight years, Fred added that its variety of offerings makes it unique, pointing out that “championship golf courses, a ski area, Nordic trails, three restaurants, and year-round operations all come together here.” He also emphasized the property’s importance to the community, noting that it is one of the region’s largest employers.
Spotlight on Rising Talent
Alongside these statewide honors, Giants Ridge is celebrating lift mechanic Neale Leete, who has been nominated for the 2025 SAM Rise Up Challenge, a contest spotlighting lift maintenance professionals.
In less than two years, Neale advanced from lift operator to mechanic while pursuing technical training to deepen his expertise. Marketing Director Josh Woolery shared that “Neale’s journey and passion make him a standout not just at Giants Ridge, but across the ski industry,” encouraging the community to watch his video submission and vote daily to help him secure an education grant.
Fred added that Neale’s story reflects a broader philosophy at Giants Ridge: “It’s important to believe in your team, give them the tools to succeed, and trust them to make decisions. That’s what allows us to create a culture of excellence in everything we do.”
Continuing the Tradition of Excellence
From wide recognition in Minnesota’s Best to attention for rising talent, Giants Ridge continues to demonstrate the passion, teamwork, and dedication that define the Guest Services experience. Building on these accomplishments, the team looks forward to welcoming even more guests and strengthening its reputation as one of Minnesota’s premier four-season destinations.