Ski Jumpers and the Birth of Suicide Hill

A Leap Through History in Ishpeming

Few traditions in Michigan match the boldness and spectacle of ski jumpers launching themselves off the imposing Suicide Hill in Ishpeming. This iconic ski jump has been the heart of winter sports in the region since February 26, 1926, when brave souls first tested its daring heights. But the story of Suicide Hill goes back even further. It is rooted in the passion of early ski clubs and the adventurous spirit of a community united by winter.

Before Suicide Hill came into existence, the Ishpeming Ski Club (formerly the Norden Ski Club) was already hosting tournaments as early as 1888. Early jumps, like those on Jackson Hill and Rocky Walter Huns Anderson Hill, were fashioned with snow-packed scaffolds and sheer determination. These events drew crowds eager to witness “death-defying feats.” The rivalries between Norwegian and Finnish jumpers often added a fiery edge to the competitions.

Bigger and Better

In 1925, club officials sought a bigger, better hill for their tournaments. Thanks to Peter Handberg and Leonard Flaa’s efforts, a new site was discovered and developed. It was done with the help of volunteers and donated materials. The result? Suicide Hill, a formidable jump nestled among rocky bluffs and pine forests, supported by a towering scaffold engineered to perfection. Its first meet in 1926 marked the beginning of a legendary Michigan tradition.

Despite its ominous name, Suicide Hill became known as one of the finest and safest jumps in the country. The name came from a reporter’s dramatic flair following an accident during practice. The name stuck, but so did the hill’s reputation as a top-tier venue. Over the years, it has hosted countless competitions, including national and international events. It remains a symbol of Ishpeming’s rich skiing heritage.

Suicide Bowl

Today, Suicide Hill is part of Suicide Bowl. It is in a valley that includes jumps ranging from 13 to 90 meters, some of which are even fitted for summer use. The area also boasts cross-country ski trails, making it a hub for winter sports enthusiasts of all levels.

So, whether you’re an adrenaline-seeker, a history buff, or someone looking to experience a slice of Michigan’s unique culture, Suicide Hill continues to stand tall—literally and figuratively—as a testament to the courage, ingenuity, and community spirit that built it nearly a century ago.

Marisa Fancy along with her husband and four children dreamt of moving “Up North”. They had vacationed for years in northern Michigan and in 1995 they finally made the move.

The family was always out exploring, but with 4 kids there was some limitations on what they could do. Marisa discovered the amazing network of trails in Northern Michigan after Steve died and she would walk for miles. The trails provided her with peace, comfort and solitude at a difficult time in her life. Later, after meeting Guy who would become her second husband, she learned to golf and found another passion she could enjoy in beautiful Northern Michigan.

Marisa has been the family historian, writer, and poet for as long as she can remember. She has always loved to write and has now found a creative outlet for it other than family. You can read her articles in Adventures in Northern Michigan, Northern Michigan History and Golf Up North.