Long awaited indoor ski slope debuts at NJ megamall

American Dream brings largest indoor theme park to the Meadowlands

FOX 29's Jenn Fred has the details.

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. - An indoor ski slope that has been the most visible feature of the long-delayed American Dream megamall in New Jersey for more than a decade has finally opened.

Big Snow at American Dream megamall in East Rutherford, NJ

(Photo by Seth Wenig/AP)

Olympic downhill champion Lindsey Vonn took the first official run down the 1,000-foot slope Thursday. Mall owner Triple Five says it's the only indoor slope in North America.

The ski slope was one of the first elements built more than a decade ago and could be seen from the adjacent New Jersey Turnpike.

(Photo by Seth Wenig/AP)

The retail and entertainment project began in 2003 next to the Meadowlands sports complex but stalled because of financing problems. Triple Five took over in 2010 and began a phased opening in October. All elements are expected to be open by spring.

The ski slope measures 180,000 square feet and includes a beginners' area. It is 16 stories high with a 160-foot vertical drop. It is equipped to make more than 4 tons of snow per hour.