Lift Blog

Arapahoe Basin today announced it submitted a new Master Development Plan (MDP) to the Forest Service for review. The plan includes several lift additions within the mountain’s existing 1,800 acre permit area with a focus on out-of-base capacity and improving the experience for beginner and intermediate skiers. Arapahoe Basin already operates one of the most modern lift fleets in the industry with six Leitner-Poma chairlifts, all built between 2007 and 2022. The MDP builds on that fleet with a new detachable gondola, pulse gondola and detachable quad all running in new alignments.

Alterra Mountain Company bought Arapahoe Basin last year and Alterra will offer unlimited access on the Ikon Pass next season. “Alterra intends to keep the legacy of “The Legend” alive and build upon its existing infrastructure and enrich the guest experience, while maintaining its reputation of challenging terrain with a laid-back essence,” the plan notes. “A-Basin will continue to limit ticket and pass sales to preserve the guest experience even with the construction of upgrade plan projects,” the mountain noted.

Two relatively short gondolas are planned. The first would provide access from near the Last Chance and Upper Chance parking lots to an existing pedestrian tunnel under U.S. Highway 6. This would replace bus service with an environmentally-friendly and comfortable alternative. The gondola would include pulses of three cabins, each seating six guests. This design would move 500 foot passengers per hour in each direction.

An eight passenger detachable gondola is planned to run from the main base area to Sawmill Flats. This 2,000 foot long lift would increase out-of-base capacity by 1,800 skiers per hour and service a new mid-mountain learning center. A-Basin’s base area is constrained and lacks sufficient beginner terrain. As part of this project, the Pika conveyor would be relocated to mid-mountain. The new learning center would sit 425 vertical feet above the lodge, out of the hussle and bustle with scenic views.

Finally, a high speed quad called Wrangler is envisioned from the new learning center to the bottom of Lenawee Express. Combined with the lower gondola, this 1,684 foot long lift would provide an alternate route to the upper mountain from the congested Black Mountain Express. The primary purpose of this lift, however, would be the next progression for beginners after learning to ski at mid mountain. Wrangler Express would rise 245 vertical feet with a capacity 1,800 skiers per hour. “The new gondola, conveyor and Wrangler lift would all enhance progression and utilization by servicing gentle terrain on the east side of the resort,” the plan notes.

The plan also includes expanded parking, new snowmaking and additional skier services. SE Group calculated A-Basin’s future design day at 4,840 guests, an increase of 18 percent from existing conditions. It’s important to note the Forest Service hasn’t yet accepted the plan and all projects identified would require site-specific environmental analysis and approval per the National Environmental Policy Act.

Arapahoe Basin and the Forest Service plan to hold an open house about the master plan on Saturday, May 31st from 4-6 pm on the 2nd Floor of the A-Frame.