Bittersweet day for the folks at Loveland Ski Area in Colorado as their lift maintenance crew removed the bullwheel of their beloved Lift 7 chairlift after 42 years of loyal service.
Loveland Ski Area is located on the Arapaho National Forest and operates under a special use permit with the USDA Forest Service. The USDA Forest Service approved Loveland’s request to replace the existing fixed-grip double chair with a modern Leitner-Poma fixed-grip quad on April 25th after completing an environmental screening of the project plans and the Colorado resort didn’t waste much time starting the process after their May 11th closing day. The replacement project will happen this summer and the lift will debut for the 2025-26 winter season.
“This lift replacement represents a significant investment in the guest experience, especially for families and first-time skiers and riders.”
Interestingly although the new lift will have the capacity to carry up to four people, Loveland will intentionally load it with no more than three to provide additional space and comfort for guests especially beginners:
“This new lift is all about creating a better experience for our guests. By giving beginners more space to get comfortable loading, we’re helping families and new skiers feel confident from their very first run. It’s an investment in the future of skiing and riding at Loveland.” -Rob Goodell, COO and Senior VP of Clear Creek Skiing Corporation
A limited number of the original Lift 7 chairs will be available for purchase through a lottery exclusive to employees and 2025/26 season pass holders determined by random drawing. Lottery details will announced this summer and will be sure to update when more information becomes available.
