Snowbasin Gears Up for 2034 Olympics with Numerous Resort Upgrades

Olympic Host Snowbasin Unveils Exciting Resort Enhancements Snowbasin Resort is stepping up its game in preparation for the 2034 Olympics and Paralympics. The renowned Utah ski destination recently announced a series of upgrades that promise to benefit both Olympic athletes and everyday skiers and riders, cementing its status as a world-class resort.At the forefront of these improvements is a brand-new high-speed chairlift, slated for installation in the 2025-26 winter season. This addition marks Snowbasin's fourth new lift in just six seasons, demonstrating the resort's unwavering commitment to continual enhancement and guest satisfaction.The new lift will replace the aging Becker Chair, a fixed-grip triple that has served skiers since its installation in 1986. Upgrading to a state-of-the-art detachable quad, the revamped Becker lift will slash ride times in half, whisking skiers to the top in a mere six minutes. It will also significantly boost uphill capacity to 1,800 riders per hour, greatly improving mountain access and reducing wait times.

The existing Becker Lift which will be upgraded in 2025. Credit: Snowbasin Resort Davy Ratchford, Snowbasin's General Manager, emphasized the resort's goal of becoming Utah's most accessible mountain. "Snowbasin is committed to being the most accessible mountain in Utah, and these improvements will make a significant impact on our accessibility and efficiency," Ratchford stated. "We look forward to welcoming guests to experience these new enhancements, which will further elevate the world-class amenities and top-notch service we strive to provide."Beyond the new chairlift, Snowbasin is investing in a variety of other enhancements designed to improve the overall guest experience. Skiers and riders can look forward to refurbished gondola cabins, providing a more comfortable ride up the mountain. The resort is also focusing on improving beginner terrain, making it more welcoming and accessible for those new to the sport.Recognising that a great day on the slopes starts with a smooth arrival, Snowbasin is also tackling parking and traffic flow issues. Working in partnership with the Utah Department of Transportation, the resort has implemented a new traffic pattern that allows for smoother access from Trapper's Loop to Snowbasin Road. This strategic change has increased car speeds by an impressive 25%, significantly reducing congestion during peak times.

The upgraded access road to the resort. Credit: Snowbasin Resort In an eco-friendly move that aligns with growing environmental concerns, the resort will prioritize carpooling by reserving Earl's parking lots A-E for vehicles with three or more occupants on weekends until 11 a.m. This initiative encourages skiers and riders to reduce their carbon footprint while enjoying the slopes. Rest assured, Snowbasin will continue to offer free parking without reservations and complimentary shuttle services from the lots to the mountain base.These comprehensive upgrades echo Snowbasin's preparations for the 2002 Olympics, which saw the addition of three lodges, significant terrain expansion, two new gondolas, a tram, and a high-speed quad. Those improvements not only served the Olympics but also dramatically boosted the resort's popularity and reputation in subsequent years.The legacy of the 2002 Games lives on at Snowbasin, with the Grizzly Downhill and Wildflower Downhill courses still accessible to guests today. These world-class runs offer skiers and riders the unique opportunity to challenge themselves on the same terrain as Olympic athletes.As Snowbasin gears up for its second Olympic hosting, the resort is drawing on its past experience to ensure an even more successful event in 2034. The team at Snowbasin has been working tirelessly, spending the summer clearing the path for the new lift line and laying the groundwork for other improvements.These enhancements are not just about preparing for a single event, however prestigious. They represent Snowbasin's ongoing commitment to providing an exceptional experience for all skiers and riders, whether they're Olympic athletes, weekend warriors, or families enjoying a day on the slopes.With its combination of world-class facilities, stunning terrain, and a forward-thinking approach to resort management, Snowbasin is poised to shine on the global stage once again in 2034. More importantly, these upgrades ensure that the resort will continue to be a beloved destination for skiers and riders for years to come, long after the Olympic torch has been extinguished.