Where to Ski And Snowboard - Big plans at the Canyons

Big plans at the Canyons

20th August 2010, by Chris Gill

The Canyons, Utah

The Canyons resort, near Park City in Utah, has announced plans to install the first orange-hooded chairlift in the US – and to expand the ski area. These form the first phase of redevelopment of the resort.

The resort has announced its news for the upcoming season and beyond, which includes major investment to expand the ski area and to improve guest facilities. First up is their covered chairlift; they also plan to open up Iron Horse Mountain, improve access out of the resort, enhance snowmaking and to create a ‘ski beach’ social area. All of this is expected to be ready in time for the new winter, with work already progressing well.

More lifts

So, the orange-bubbled chairlift? This will be a quad with heated seats that serves guests at the Grand Summit Hotel. The new lift will transfer them up the mountain from the hotel to mid-mountain on Lookout Peak continuing uphill to an ending point just south of the current Sun Peak lift. Its installation is said to be increasing the uphill capacity from base-mountain by 47%, and it will allow skiers to get to the very top of the mountain in just nine minutes. In town, the gondola system to Red Pine Lodge is being upgraded for better (and more direct) access.

More terrain

But the biggest news for the resort, and for eager skiers and boarders, will be the opening up of Iron Horse Mountain – 250-300 acres more of north-west facing terrain served by a new quad chair. Ten runs are expected to start with, ranging from intermediate to expert gladed tree skiing. The Timberline lift will allow guests to ride in either direction and provide easy access to the south side of Canyons.

Off to the Beach?

No, we’re not talking sand here. The Ski Beach at the Canyons is planned to improve the resort centre. It will be located between the new village lifts (improved gondola and new quad) and be an area for social gatherings – dining, events and après-ski drinks.