Earlier this year, Alan Henceroth, who’s the Chief Operating Officer of Arapahoe Basin, asked the public for help in acquiring one of their old single chairs. A few weeks later, it was announced that someone stepped up to the plate, Yesterday, A-Basin announced that they now have one of their single chairs on public display.

This single chairlift, which serviced the upper mountain at Arapahoe Basin, was installed in 1946. The chairlift opened during the 1946-47 season, and it operated at Arapahoe Basin until around 1960. From there, it went to the now-defunct Fun Valley ski area in Lakewood, Colorado. One of the remaining chairs was passed around until it reached Rob Diehl’s house. This past fall, he sold it back to A-Basin, and it now hangs from the ceiling next to Marnie’s in the 6th Alley Bar & Grill.

Image Credits: Arapahoe Basin

“This world-class summit experience is now serviced by a modern tram that will open up possibilities never contemplated until now, in both winter and summer.” –Taylor Middleton, Big Sky Resort President & COO

The long awaited debut of Big Sky Ski Resort’s new Lone Peak Tram happened yesterday and its looks like there were a ton of happy campers on hand to christen it. Big Sky is celebrating their 50th year of operations and the new Tram is major feather in the cap of their improvement initiative dubbed “Big Sky 2025” which they are is a 10-year vision for “transforming the Big Sky experience from the moment you touch ground in Montana to the top of Lone Peak.”

The new tram is replacing a gondola built back in 1995 and now can shuttle more passengers up the 2,142 foot climb in just under 5 minutes.

BIG SKY, Mont. (December 19, 2023) – Exactly fifty years and four days from Big Sky Resort’s inaugural opening day in 1973, the new Lone Peak Tram began carrying guests to the resort’s 11,166-foot summit.  The Lone Peak Tram is an engineering marvel positioned to serve as a gateway to experience one of North America’s most spectacular summits on Lone Mountain. 

The new tram is a complete replacement of the original jig-back gondola built in 1995. This state-of-the-art aerial tram technology is newly routed to carry more passengers spaciously up 2,142 vertical feet in just under five minutes.  

“The original tram opened the high alpine terrain of Lone Mountain to skiers and riders, and the new tram is symbolic of the experiential transformation we are endeavoring to accomplish through our Big Sky 2025 vision. This world-class summit experience is now serviced by a modern tram that will open up possibilities never contemplated until now, in both winter and summer.” –Taylor Middleton, Big Sky Resort President & COO

After two years of construction and many more years of planning, the new Lone Peak Tram marks a significant milestone in the resort’s 50th year. It allows for completely new ways to enjoy skiing the mountain’s high alpine eastern and southern exposures, and will open up countless other experiences yet to be unveiled. 

The tram complex will evolve in the years ahead, with the addition of a breathtaking observation experience planned at the upper terminal in both the winter and summer season.  Plans for the tram also include an architecturally stunning lower terminal enclosure and a mountaintop food and beverage facility housed in the old top terminal of the original tram.  

The new Lone Peak Tram is part of a base-to-summit lift network that will more fully come to life by the end of the decade, starting with the addition of the Explorer Gondola, scheduled to open for winter 25/26.  This new lift network will create improved access to the resort’s premier learning terrain, accessible to pedestrians for the first time ever, and complemented with new food and beverage experiences. MORE INFO HERE.

RELATED: Big Sky Breaks Ground On Replacement Lone Peak Tram

images from Big Sky Facebook

This incident at Big Sky Resort, Montana, is both unusual and remarkable. On December 15, 2023, the ski patrol reported two separate avalanches in closed terrain. Intriguingly, one of these slides appears to have been inadvertently triggered by a goat. Amazingly, this goat was carried the full length of the avalanche, over a distance of 1,000 feet and through rocky terrain. Remarkably, it emerged from this perilous journey unscathed.

The evidence collected by the patrol paints a vivid picture of the event. Goat tracks were seen leading into the crown area of the avalanche and later exiting the debris pile at the bottom. Impressively, there were no signs of injury, such as blood or broken limbs, suggesting the goat was remarkably lucky to escape without harm.

The patrol’s detailed description of the goat’s journey through the avalanche is a testament to the resilience and hardiness of these animals. The fact that the goat managed to travel such a distance and through challenging conditions, only to walk away apparently unharmed, is nothing short of miraculous. This incident also underscores the unpredictable nature of avalanches and the importance of respecting closed areas in mountainous terrain for safety.

“Further investigation of the avalanche yesterday showed goat tracks leading into the crown area of the avalanche. At the debris pile, it was obvious that a goat had taken the full ride in the slide that it triggered. There was a depression in the debris pile where the critter had come to rest at the surface, and obvious hoof prints trailing away from the debris pile, and then upslope for the long walk back up to rejoin the herd. There was no blood, and the tracks looked usual, with no obvious sign of broken leg(s). It is unknown if the goat was wearing an airbag or if it was deployed in the avalanche. It was a significant ride, 1K’ vt., 1⁄4 mile linear, likely of high speed, through 2nd Dictator transition, which was taken down to mostly bare ground.”

– Big Sky Resort patrol

One of the most anticipated new chairlifts for the 2023-24 season has made its debut.

On Saturday, Mammoth Mountain opened the new Chair 16, also known as the Canyon Express. Chair 16, which opened back in 1994, was replaced this past offseason by a state-of-the-art chairlift.

The new Doppelmayr D-Line six-pack detachable high-speed chairlift is a game changer for the California ski resort. This capacity upgrade, which can fit 25% more guests compared to its predecessor, will help reduce lines at the Canyon Lodge base area. The enclosed top and bottom terminals will help it open quicker during deep storm cycles and windy days. In addition, the chairlift has been realigned slightly to the north to reduce the impact of snow slides from the nearby Avalanche Chutes.

There were some critics of the new chairlift though. Some noted that the off-ramp at the top terminal is pretty steep, leading to riders crashing into each other. While it does look steep, I imagine some more snow will help mellow it out.

Other improvements at Mammoth this season include the continued buildout of the Woolly’s Adventure Summit (which includes the opening of a new mountain coaster), a $5.5 million investment in snowmaking, and an expansion of the bathrooms at the Chair 14 Melt House.

Image Credits: Mammoth Mountain (Peter Morning, Helly Hansen, Smith Optics)

Vail Resorts appears to have its sights on further expansion in Europe.

In an interview with Squawk Box on CNBC, Vail Resorts CEO Kirsten Lynch discussed how the season is going so far, and their next planned geographical region for expansion.

While getting through a round of bizarre and meandering questions from Joe Kernen, she mentions that ski season is off to a solid start. Regarding where they want to grow next, Kirsten mentioned a desire to continue acquiring ski resorts in Europe. The reason why Vail Resorts wants to continue to expand in Europe is because the continent has three times the number of ski visits compared to North America. With Crans Montana and Andermatt-Sedrun-Disentis now part of Vail’s portfolio, Vail will likely continue to acquire mountains to make the Epic Pass a tempting purchase for European snowsports enthusiasts.

For more information, check out the interview below.

Image/Video Credits: CNBC

“For a mountain with such an enticing name, it sure lived up to it.”

Japan has long been a destination for folks looking for deep reliable snow but the powder pilgrims usually show up after the holidays.

Early season shredding in Japan just doesn’t get that much hype but this zone Tateyama in the Japanese Alps looks incredible for a November mission. Tag along with Mountain Hardwear athletes Daisuke Mizuma and Keisuke Yoshida as they hop a train to Mt. Dainichi (translates to ‘Big Day Mountain’ in English).

After November, the area gets so much snow that access is closed through the heart of winter and skiers and snowboarders are unable to ride it until April or later. Daisuke and Keisuke the weather window perfectly and got three days of incredible riding between two massive storms. This looks incredible.

About Mount Dainichi:

Mount Dainichi, situated in the breathtaking landscape of Japan, is a majestic peak with cultural and spiritual significance. Standing proudly in the Chugoku region, this dormant volcano is part of the Daisen-Oki National Park. Revered for its stunning natural beauty, Mount Dainichi offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Sea of Japan.

The mountain holds spiritual importance in Japanese Shugendo, a syncretic religion combining elements of Buddhism and Shinto. Pilgrims and hikers alike are drawn to its slopes, seeking tranquility and enlightenment amidst lush forests and serene trails. The pristine environment is home to diverse flora and fauna, creating a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Throughout the changing seasons, Mount Dainichi unveils a kaleidoscope of colors, from cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant foliage in autumn. Whether for religious pilgrimage, outdoor adventure, or simple appreciation of nature’s wonders, Mount Dainichi stands as a symbol of Japan’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

“soft is an audiovisual translation of the sense of feeling things”

The opening urban scene of this Japanese snowboard adventure is some of the best cinematography/audio design I’ve seen in a long time. Stick around for some highly satisfying Japow ripping and find yourself start pricing out flights to Tokyo by the end. Thanks for the art Christian Haller and Kris Lüdi:

soft from Christian Haller on Vimeo.

In 2025, Cardrona will become New Zealand’s largest ski resort.

This week, Cardrona Alpine Resort announced that the Soho expansion has been approved. This 150-hectare (around 371-acre) expansion will be serviced by a new Doppelmayr high-speed detachable six-pack chairlift.

This new terrain pod in Soho Basin will feature intermediate and advanced terrain, with a total vertical drop of 380 meters (around 1247 feet). The terrain pod will have a mix of groomed pistes, off-piste runs, and chutes. To get to this new terrain pod, you’ll either ride up the McDougall’s Chondola or the Captain’s Express chairlift.

Construction will commence soon, but will not open during the 2024 winter season. Another summer of construction will take place during the 2024-25 offseason, and the expansion will officially open during the 2025 ski season. After they complete the expansion, Cardona plans to upgrade their rental shop, food and beverage locations, and parking lots.

Image Credits: Cardrona Alpine Resort

Solitude’s newest chairlift is taking flight next week. Yesterday, the Utah ski resort announced that they’ll be opening the new Eagle Express chairlift on Wednesday, December 20th. The opening ceremony will begin at 8 a.m. with a DJ and complimentary cookies at the base of the Eagle Express chairlift. At 9 a.m., they’ll have the official ribbon-cutting

The new Doppelmayr chairlift is replacing the old Eagle Express, which was constructed back in 1989. The high-speed detachable six-pack chairlift will have a vertical rise of 1337 feet and a ride time of around six minutes.

For more information, check out Solitude’s official press release below.

SOLITUDE TO UNVEIL NEW CHAIRLIFT, EAGLE EXPRESS WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 20  

BIG COTTONWOOD CANYON, UTAH, Dec. 14, 2023 – Solitude Mountain Resort’s newly completed Eagle Express chairlift will open to the public this Wednesday, December 20 at 9:00 a.m. The new high-speed 6-pack chairlift has replaced the original Eagle Express that was built in 1989.  

With improved uphill capacity, the new Eagle Express will enhance access to signature runs such as Sunshine Bowl, Inspiration, and Challenger.

“Guests will love the convenient access that Eagle provides to some of our best intermediate and advanced groomed runs straight from the parking lot. We know that this lift is where so many of our locals will start and end their day, and it’s crucial that we’re able to get them up onto the hill efficiently,” says Amber L. Broadaway Solitude’s president & COO. “I’m tremendously proud of our team and their hard work and effort that has gone into this chair.” 

Festivities will begin at 8:00 a.m. Wednesday morning with a DJ and complimentary cookies at the base of the lift. A ribbon cutting and first-chair ceremony will be held at 9:00 a.m. to commemorate the new chairlift as it opens for the 23/24 season.  

This new chairlift is part of $16 million in capital improvements taking place at Solitude. Other projects included Solitude Bike Park (opened September 2023) and three new Wyssen remote avalanche control systems (completed October 2023).

Eagle Express stats and facts 

• Vertical rise: 1,337 feet 
• Rope speed: 1000 feet/minute 
• Ride time: 6 minutes 
• Manufacturer: Doppelmayr 

About Solitude Mountain Resort

Located in Big Cottonwood Canyon, just 30 miles from Salt Lake City International Airport, Solitude is a playground of discovery in the heart of Utah’s famed Wasatch Mountains. It offers eight chairlifts, 82 runs, and 500 annual inches of snow spread over 1,200 acres with 20 km of groomed Nordic track and 10 km of snowshoe trails. Home to the legendary Honeycomb Canyon and locals’ best-kept secrets, Solitude reveals more fun and challenging lines with every day you choose to explore. Eleven bars and restaurants offer unique chef-driven cuisine, and slopeside lodging options set the stage for mountain memories. In summer, Solitude beckons to locals and travelers alike with lift-served mountain biking, hiking, dining, and a renowned 18-hole mountainside disc golf course. Solitude is owned by Alterra Mountain Company and offers unlimited access to Ikon Pass holders.

Image/Video Credits: Solitude Mountain Resort

I know most of you don’t need told this, but entering closed terrain on the ski area is a bad idea. There are a whole load of reasons why terrain might be closed, including (but not limited to) lack of snow, avalanche danger, dangerous terrain, difficult access for ski patrol, or, simply the fact that it’s not a part of the resort’s terrain.

Also, importantly, closed terrain does not mean ski at your own risk. Gated backcountry access is one thing. You’re welcome to head into that kind of terrain, as long as you have the proper knowledge, experience, and an avalanche beacon/shovel/probe. Gated backcountry is ski at your own risk, and it will be marked as so. Closed terrain is closed terrain. Don’t go there.

In case you need a little reminder as to what closed terrain is and what it means, here’s the crew at Whistler Blackcomb to explain the different signs and closures.

It’s important to note that different resorts might have different signs and signals for different types of closures. Check and understand your resorts symbols and closure signs! If it says closed, I can guarantee you that means it’s closed.

Again, I hope most of you know this already. I hope most of you don’t need this reminder. Maybe just show this to your kids, maybe make yourself watch it in case you have a nasty habit of ducking ropes. Just keep in mind, entering closed terrain could endanger not just you, but the patrollers who may need to rescue you and the public below or around you.

Related: “Check Yourself, Check Your Friends” A Simple Message About Backcountry Ski Safety

Image Credit: Whistler Blackcomb via YouTube