TL;DR
In December 2023, Big Sky Resort in Montana launched the new Lone Peak Tram, marking its 50th anniversary. This engineering marvel replaces the original 1995 gondola and can transport guests to the 11,166-foot summit of Lone Mountain in under five minutes. The tram is part of an expanding lift network, including the upcoming Explorer Gondola, enhancing access to the resort's terrain and introducing new dining experiences. Future plans include an observation deck and a mountaintop food and beverage facility, signalling a new era of growth and innovation at the resort.
Big Sky Resort in Montana celebrated a remarkable milestone 50 years and four days after its initial opening in 1973 with the launch of the new Lone Peak Tram. This engineering wonder now transports visitors to the 11,166-foot summit of Lone Mountain, offering a gateway to one of North America's most stunning peaks.Replacing the original jig-back gondola from 1995, the new tram showcases cutting-edge aerial technology. It boasts a newly designed route, comfortably carrying more passengers over a 2,142-foot vertical distance in just under five minutes. “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 endeavouring to accomplish through our Big Sky 2025 vision. 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.” — Taylor Middleton, President and COO of Big Sky Resort View this post on Instagram A post shared by Big Sky Resort (@bigskyresort) The unveiling of the Lone Peak Tram is a highlight in the resort's 50th anniversary, following two years of construction and extensive planning. It revolutionises the skiing experience on the mountain's high alpine eastern and southern slopes and paves the way for numerous other yet-to-be-revealed activities.Future developments for the tram complex include an awe-inspiring observation feature at the upper terminal for both winter and summer, a stylish lower terminal structure, and a food and beverage outlet located in the former top terminal of the original tram.As a key element of a comprehensive lift network from base to summit, the Lone Peak Tram signals the beginning of an exciting era for Big Sky Resort. This network will be further enhanced by the addition of the Explorer Gondola, set to open in winter 25/26. It will improve access to the resort's top learning terrain, offering pedestrian accessibility for the first time, along with new dining options.
About the author
Michael Fulton
Melbourne-based skier and snowboarder with 50+ resorts across 5 continents. Specialises in Australian resorts and international resort comparisons.
