Sunrise Park Opens New Lift Which Opens Cyclone Zone To All Riders
In 2017, Sunrise Park in Arizona had to shut down their Cyclone 6 triple chair due to its age and high maintenance costs. The Cyclone 6 was the longest triple chairlift in North America, carrying skiers and snowboarders from the Cyclone Day Lodge to the peak of Cyclone Peak, which stands at an impressive 10,700ft (3,261m). Cyclone Peak is home to the best terrain at the resort, including the only expert terrain and the longest trail in Arizona. Since 2017, this terrain has only been accessible through hiking or cat access, limiting the number of riders who can experience it.
In August 2022, Sunrise Park announced a $5.5m investment in the resort, including a new Swiss Cord-style lift that would service the entire Cyclone Circle zone, from the base of "Denny's Way" to the peak of Cyclone Circle. This lift would provide access to Cyclone Circle's coveted and unique terrain for over 5,000 people per day, greatly improving access to the mountain that has been limited since the removal of Cyclone Lift 6. The new lift was scheduled to be installed by the end of 2022.
Fast forward to March 31, 2023, the Cyclone Cord lift is now open, providing access to 16 additional trails, including the most extreme terrain in Arizona and the longest trail in Arizona. Cyclone Circle has been open for several weekends, but the new lift now allows even more guests of all ages to access the terrain. Despite delays from manufacturers, shipping, and rope splicing, Sunrise worked tirelessly to open the lift this season. As soon as the snow levels allow, the Cyclone Cord will be regularly providing access to Cyclone Circle. If you're looking for a new challenge on the slopes, Sunrise Park Resort's Cyclone Circle terrain is a must-visit. And with the new Cyclone Cord lift, getting there has never been easier.
The updated trail map that includes the new Cyclone Cord lift. Credit: Sunrise Park Resort.
Why did Cyclone Lift close in 2017?
As per the FAQs on Sunrise Park website: Lift VI on Cyclone has been deemed unrepairable and the lift cable has been removed. To provide lift access to Cyclone Circle this season, there is a new “Swiss Cord” style surface lift has been installed. While we don’t expect the lift to open by the end of this season, Cyclone Circle will be available for those who ride down Sunset Meadow from Apache Peak to hike up “Denny’s Way.” This access is available only on Saturday and Sunday, while Cyclone Base area is open.
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