Plans Call For Massive Michigan Ski Ramp To Reopen For Ski Flying Competitions

IRONWOOD, Mich. (AP) - Renovation plans call for a massive ski ramp in Michigan's Upper Peninsula to reopen to ski flying competitions that ceased there roughly 20 years ago.

The Copper Peak ski ramp north of Ironwood stands 26 stories above the hillside. The Federation of International Skiing has awarded competitions to Copper Peak, including a September 2017 event. The announcement was made last month.

The renovation plans call for resurfacing the ramp, installing an artificial-surface landing zone and other improvements that allow the site to host ski flying and training year-round, The Daily Globe reports.

The federation's awarding of the September 2017 event was made with the expectation renovations would be complete, The Grand Rapids Press reports.

State Sen. Tom Casperson, R-Escanaba, said attracting the events to Copper Peak "is a soaring win for the state of Michigan."

Copper Peak Organizing Committee Chair Bob Jacquart said at a public information session in late October that there's still work to be done, and fundraising needs to take place.

"I need you to know that we have a large task ahead of fundraising a lot of dollars," Jacquart said.

Copper Peak officials expect to later release a budget and fundraising details for the renovation.

The ramp was built in 1969 for just over $1 million. Administrators of Copper Peak had tried unsuccessfully in recent years to get Federation of International Skiing events.

Recently, the ramp and chair lift have been used as a sightseeing attraction, costing $20 for adults.

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