TL;DR
Mammoth Mountain has recently introduced its new Chair 16, the Canyon Express, replacing the 1994 original with a state-of-the-art Doppelmayr D-Line six-pack detachable high-speed chairlift. This upgrade significantly increases capacity by 25%, aims to reduce lines at Canyon Lodge, and features weather-resistant terminals for more consistent operation. Despite its advances, the chairlift faces criticism due to the steepness of its off-ramp, causing safety concerns. Alongside this, the resort continues to enhance its facilities with investments in snowmaking, the expansion of Woolly’s Adventure Summit, and improved amenities at the Chair 14 Melt House, demonstrating a commitment to overall guest experience.
Mammoth Mountain, a renowned ski resort, recently unveiled its newest attraction in the 2023-24 season: the revamped Chair 16, now known as the Canyon Express. This marks a significant milestone, replacing the original Chair 16 that has served since 1994. The transformation brings a state-of-the-art Doppelmayr D-Line six-pack detachable high-speed chairlift, setting a new standard in ski resort technology.A Capacity Upgrade for Enhanced Skiing ExperienceThe most striking feature of this new lift is its increased capacity. Capable of accommodating 25% more guests than its predecessor, this upgrade is a strategic move to alleviate the crowding at Canyon Lodge's base area. Skiers and snowboarders can now look forward to shorter lines and more time on the slopes, a critical improvement during peak season.Weather-Resistant Design for Consistent OperationAnother noteworthy aspect is the chairlift's weather resilience. Enclosed top and bottom terminals are designed to ensure quicker operational readiness during harsh weather conditions, particularly deep storm cycles and windy days. This feature is crucial for maintaining a consistent and enjoyable skiing experience, regardless of Mother Nature's plans. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mammoth Mountain (@mammothmountain) A Slight Realignment with a PurposeIn an effort to harmonise with the environment, the chairlift has undergone a minor realignment to the north. This adjustment is aimed at reducing the impact of snow slides from the nearby Avalanche Chutes, thereby enhancing safety and ensuring smoother operations.The Controversy: A Steep Off-RampDespite the innovations, the new Chair 16 has not been without its critics. A point of contention has been the steepness of the off-ramp at the top terminal. This design element has led to concerns about riders colliding with each other. Optimistically, it's hoped that additional snow accumulation will help mitigate this issue, making the exit smoother and safer.More Than Just a Chairlift: Holistic Resort EnhancementsBeyond the chairlift, Mammoth Mountain is not resting on its laurels. The resort continues to evolve with other significant investments. The Woolly’s Adventure Summit is expanding, featuring the exciting addition of a new mountain coaster. A substantial $5.5 million has been poured into snowmaking, enhancing the quality and reliability of ski conditions. Additionally, the Chair 14 Melt House has seen an expansion in its bathroom facilities, reflecting the resort's commitment to overall guest comfort and convenience.
About the author
Michael Fulton
Melbourne-based skier and snowboarder with 50+ resorts across 5 continents. Specialises in Australian resorts and international resort comparisons.
