Washington — Last winter was a very underwhelming one for the Pacific Northwest. The ski season for Washington started late and concluded earlier than usual. Regardless, the state’s ski industry is preparing for next winter with various upgrades. Two of these improvements are new chairlifts. One we know for sure is debuting next winter, while the other is a bit more uncertain.
49 Degrees North
49 Degrees North has been modernizing its infrastructure in recent years, which included their first high-speed quad in 2021. This offseason sees the replacement of the Payday fixed-grip double chairlift. It will be replaced by a new fixed-grip quad chairlift via Doppelmayr. It will have a slightly longer length (1,956 feet) compared to its predecessor. Another pro is that, unlike its predecessor, there will be restraint bars. 49 Degrees North sold the old chairs for $550 (not including taxes).
The ski resort also noted that it plans to add a rope tow to its terrain park in the near future.
Ski Bluewood
Originally planned to open during the 2025-26 season, Ski Bluewood’s first high-speed chairlift was delayed due to a dispute with the lift broker.
The process has picked up some steam this offseason. Last week, Ski Bluewood announced that some of the parts to their new chairlift had arrived. It’s one of four crates needed to complete work on the project.
Its opening date remains a big question mark. In a message to guests this past spring, they said it would be installed either this or next offseason. They have yet to update guests on a revised timeline following this potential breakthrough.
Image/Video Credits: 49 Degrees North, Ski Bluewood
