Help Return Copper Peak to the World Stage
The Copper Peak Adventure Ride returns Memorial Day weekend through peak fall color. Experience the soaring views — and learn about the comeback taking shape.
Ride to the Top of the Midwest’s Most Spectacular View
Step by step, ascend eight more stories to a platform soaring 26 stories high. On a clear day, your reward is sweeping views of parts of Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Canada and Lake Superior.
This is the same view fearless ski jumpers from around the world once took in before launching wingless into the crisp, cold air — and the one they’ll return to as Copper Peak rises again for flights, not only in winter, but summer, too. Here’s how that future is taking shape, and how you can help make it happen.
Why the Ski World is Talking About Copper Peak Again
More than 30 years after closing, Copper Peak is preparing to reclaim its place on the ski-jumping world stage.
The $40 million-plus renovation will transform the hill into the world’s largest human-made FIS-certified ski jump. Plans include year-round competition and training, allowing athletes to compete in both winter and summer.
The International Ski Federation (FIS) has committed to hosting six World Cup competitions at Copper Peak — three winter and three summer events — plus summer training sessions. The renovated hill is expected to attract elite athletes, international fans and future world-record performances.
What it Takes to Return to International Competition
Built in 1969, Copper Peak requires major upgrades to meet modern construction and safety standards. The restoration includes a newly approved FIS jump profile, a plastic-matted landing surface for year-round use, a warming room for athletes, relocation of the judges’ tower and replacement of the original elevator.
Why Copper Peak’s Return Matters to Ironwood, the U.P. and the U.S.
Ironwood’s economy depends heavily on winter recreation, but tourism slows significantly outside ski season.
Local leaders began envisioning Copper Peak’s revival less than a decade after the last ski flight. Momentum accelerated in 2013 when FIS officials endorsed plans for a world-class, year-round competition and training venue.
In 2022, Copper Peak, Inc., received a $20 million American Rescue Plan Act grant from the State of Michigan to help restore the hill.
Copper Peak, Inc. President Bob Jacquart estimates the project could generate a $190 million economic impact within five years of reopening. The project is also expected to create construction jobs, support local businesses and give Team USA a premier domestic training facility.
Upper Peninsula Travel and Recreation Executive Director Tom Nemacheck noted that international visitors typically stay an average of 18 days, benefiting airlines, hotels, restaurants, outfitters and retailers across the Upper Peninsula and neighboring states.
How You Can Be Part of the Next Chapter
Jacquart said fundraising has reached $22 million toward the $40 million-plus goal.
“We believe there is an 80% chance jumping will occur in the fall of 2028,” Jacquart said. “We must keep the fundraising momentum going because construction can only happen in the summer months.”
The immediate goal is to raise at least $10 million by October 2026 to keep construction on schedule. Every contribution helps bring Copper Peak back to the global stage.
Donate today.
The best way to support the renovation is to visit www.jumpinforcopperpeak.com. Donations from $25 to $5,000 can be made online. Larger pledges and corporate sponsorships for other renovations can be sent to Copper Peak, Inc., P.O. Box 159, Ironwood, MI 49938, or discussed with Jacquart. Contact him at bobjacq@jacquarts.com. Each contribution will help fund athletes' dreams, create opportunities for future skiers and strengthen the U.P. for generations to come.
Plan Your Trip to Copper Peak
This summer through fall, come see the incredible view from the top of the Copper Peak Adventure Ride–and become part of the boldest chapter in this area’s resilient history. Watch the progress of renovating the world’s tallest artificial ski jump tower and bringing it back to the global stage. Start by choosing nearby lodgings, then plan each day’s adventures from all the things to do that the Upper Peninsula offers. What you can’t fit in this time, will lure you back. It happens naturally here.
