Sun Peaks in BC, Canada, which claims to operate the second largest ski area in Canada, is building a new quad chairlift, due to open the season after next.
The new Doppelymayr fixed grip quad will be an upgrade for the resort’s Crystal chairlift that will increase uphill capacity by 20%. A key feature of the project is a lift realignment that will see the top terminal relocated to the Top of the World on Mt. Tod, providing enhanced and more convenient access to a much larger pod of ski terrain at this slightly higher elevation, a resort statement claims.
This latest lift project is the first component of an upper mountain redesign for alpine terrain access at Sun Peaks. The Burfield chairlift will continue running to its current location, meaning guests will have the advantage of two lifts accessing the Top of the World area. Another important component of the project will involve ski run grading to improve skier access from Top of the World to signature Sun Peaks runs such as Spillway and Headwalls.
“A new Crystal Chair is very important as we look at the future of our upper mountain terrain at Sun Peaks. As more people continue to discover the Sun Peaks experience, we need to invest in moving additional guests around the mountain effectively and efficiently. This new lift and alignment will provide many options both now and in the future as we continue striving to deliver the finest mountain resort experience,” said Darcy Alexander, Vice President and General Manager.
Work to replace the existing 40-year-old Crystal chair will commence immediately. This summer will see engineering, electrical, lift line, and concrete work taking place, all in preparation for the summer of 2020 when the new lift itself will be installed. The project will cost an estimated $5 million dollars and will be complete in advance of the 2020/21 winter season.
In the last three years, the new Orient quad chairlift, multi-million-dollar food and beverage upgrades, winter and summer trail improvements, additional grooming equipment, hotel renovations, and new real estate projects have all been part of over $70 million in activity within the resort.
