The Origins of Superior Highland Backcountry

Superior Highland Backcountry was founded in 2017 by Rory Scoles. An avid explorer by nature, Rory fell into the alpine ski industry in 2006, and acquired the pro shop in Lutsen, MN in 2011. Combining his knowledge of the ski industry with his passion for the backcountry, Rory founded SHB with his partner, Elli King, on the belief that there would be strong interest and support from the community of Midwestern skiers.

A Community Waiting to Happen

From the North Shore to the Twin Cities Metro, we have received full house attendance for our fundraisers, promotional events, and classes. From the diehard BC skier who heads west for their powder each year, to the winter camping enthusiast who is interested in a new adventure, Minnesotans have been sharing their stoke for our initiatives. 

With BC skiing so new to the state, we have found that it takes a little explaining. So, our glading applications are taking a little longer than expected, and we field more “What exactly is backcountry?” than the average Mountain West skier could comprehend. But as any BC skier will tell you, our community has endless dedication for the cause, which is that glorious feeling of floating through snow, year after year.

Stewardship

By its nature, quality backcountry skiing requires beautiful, aesthetic locations. Here at SHB we are skiers and environmental conservationists. We see the creation of backcountry ski areas in our region as an excellent way to weave stewardship, human health and enjoyment, and economic vitality together into a single effort. We are skiers, who will pursue the powder each year as long as our legs will carry us. And we are stewards of our land, for as long as our voices can speak for it.