A massive marvel of engineering has recently been completed in the Treasure State. Big Sky Resort in Southwest Montana has officially opened its new Lone Peak tram. The resort was able to pull off this project in two years of construction, but the idea had been stewing for some time prior. The previous gondola was outdated, small and not very fast when compared to modern trams. Built in 1995, the “jig-back gondola,” as it was technically called, supplied countless adventurous skiers looking for some of North America’s best high alpine skiing. Now, visitors will ascend the 2,142 vertical feet up to Lone Peaks summit in five minutes.
The terrain serviced by the tram is no joke. Skiers have plenty of options; tackle Lone Peak’s eastern and southern exposures, the Upper A-Z chutes, dive into the legendary Big Couloir, or even Little Couloir. The latter two require special permission from Ski Patrol, so be sure to do your research and talk with the resort first and foremost.
This new tram will be open year-round for spectators who want to see the stunning views from the 11,166-foot summit of Lone Peak. Big Sky will be adding a new observation platform for year-round use. Surrounded by the Spanish Peaks, Yellowstone National Park and a horde of other worthy mountains, this is one of the most scenic spots in the world. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of the Tetons if you look hard enough (it’s true!). Plans for the tram also include an architecturally stunning lower terminal enclosure and a mountaintop food and beverage facility housed in the old top terminal of the original tram, according to Big Sky. The job ain’t done!
“The original tram opened the high alpine terrain of Lone Mountain to skiers and riders, and the new tram is symbolic of the experiential transformation we are endeavoring to accomplish through our Big Sky 2025 vision,” said Taylor Middleton, president and COO of Big Sky Resort. “This world-class summit experience is now serviced by a modern tram that will open up possibilities never contemplated until now, in both winter and summer.”
Photo Gallery
Images courtesy of Big Sky Resort
Photography – Jonathan Stone
