As the North American ski industry continues to modernize, fixed-grip chairlifts are starting to feel like relics of the past. Guests discuss the ones that remain frequently, but not usually in an endearing way. Guests typically want the fixed-grip chairlifts to be replaced with more modern ones. Perhaps it’s time to appreciate these relics of the past.
In Cam McLeod’s new film Apollo, Marcus Caston shreds one of the oldest chairlifts in Utah. For years, the Apollo chairlift served as the main chairlift at Nordic Valley. Then the Nordic Express and its terrain expansion came along, and the chairlift became even more important, as it was the only way to access the new terrain pod.
The short film shows Marcus lapping the Apollo chairlift for a round of night skiing. The night skiing visuals, along with the powder turns, are a sight for sore eyes.
Since that video was made, shit hit the fan at Nordic Valley. The Apollo chairlift has been closed indefinitely until they can repair it. Nearly two weeks ago, a fire burned down their base lodge.
The Apollo film is a fascinating look back at a fantastic 2022-23 season for Nordic Valley. Who knows what the future holds for the Utah ski resort, but the video below will make you appreciate fixed-grip chairlifts and hometown hills.
Film Description: “Apollo” is an homage to an aging fixed-grip chairlift in Utah, that since 1970, has carried skiers up the sleepy hometown hill of Nordic Valley. For the lucky, Apollo has been the conduit for powder runs under a patchwork of dreamlike lighting and a transportation to an ethereal state of weightless turns. An experience that can often feel like skiing on the moon.
Director/Cinematographer: Cam McLeod
Producer: Kelly McLeod
Additional Footage/Editor: Dylan Totaro
Skier: Marcus Caston
Music: The Proper Way
Image/Video Credits: Cam McLeod, Nordic Valley Ski Resort
