The first phase of what will become the longest and fastest ten-person gondola in North America is inching towards completion. In a video update from Tuesday, Dave Hunter, who is the Vice President of Mountain Operations at Steamboat Resort in Colorado, described what makes the new lift so unique. The ten-person gondola will be the longest and fastest in North America, even eclipsing the one that’s about to open at Palisades Tahoe. The new gondola will increase its base capacity by 50% to 10,000 guests per hour, making for shorter lines during peak periods.
The first phase of the gondola, which will end at the brand-new Greenhorn Ranch beginner area, will open during the 2022-23 season. In terms of construction work done so far, the lower terminal canopy has been completed, tower installation on the lower portion has been completed, and the haul rope installation will begin around the end of September.
The second phase of the project, which will end at the top of Sunshine Peak, and have the mid-station at Greenhorn Ranch, will open during the 2023-24 season. When it’s completed, the gondola will have a total length of 3.16 miles, and get skiers and riders to the top in thirteen minutes.
Image/Video Credits: Steamboat Resort
