Work on Whistler Blackcomb‘s new Showcase Chairlift is going strong, but one of the lift’s new towers looks to be a little wonky. Tower 5 features a distinctive cantilevered design that makes it quite unique among traditional chairlift infrastructure, and the ski resort recently explained why the structure looks so different.
According to Whistler Blackcomb, engineers discovered buried glacial ice beneath the planned foundation area during site investigation. Rather than disturb the ice, the project team developed an alternative solution that anchors the tower directly into the surrounding bedrock.
Engineering Around Buried Glacial Ice
The specialized design allows the tower to remain stable without impacting the glacial ice beneath the planned foundation. It also minimizes disturbance to the surrounding alpine environment.
They confirmed that the structure is safe, noting that extensive geotechnical investigations were conducted to evaluate the bedrock conditions. Specialized engineers designed the tower and the plans underwent independent review. The structure is also subject to rigorous inspection and testing.
The unusual design will remain partially visible during winter, with the section extending from the cliff face still being seen above the snow while the rest of the structure will be buried beneath the snowpack.
Although the tower looks different from typical lift infrastructure, cantilevered designs are not entirely new to Whistler Blackcomb. The old Big Red chairlift apparently featured a similar design on one of its towers.
Showcase Chairlift Project Advances Toward Opening
The Showcase Chairlift project continues to move forward ahead of its planned opening for the 2026-27 winter season. All towers and both lift terminals have been fully installed. The haul rope, which will carry the chairs up the mountain, has also been spliced and is ready for installation.
Once completed, the new lift is expected to provide faster and easier access to some of Blackcomb Mountain’s best alpine terrain. The project will improve access for skiers and snowboarders heading into the mountain’s high-alpine zones.
Additional construction updates will follow as the Showcase Chairlift moves closer to its anticipated debut.