TL;DR
Big Sky Resort strengthens its position as North America's most advanced lift network with the opening of the Madison 8, the world's longest eight-pack bubble chairlift. This latest addition, replacing the Six Shooter lift, doubles uphill capacity while reducing ride times by 30%.
North America's Most Advanced Lift System Reaches New Heights
Big Sky Resort has smashed a global milestone in ski resort infrastructure with the opening of the Madison 8, the world's longest eight-pack bubble chairlift. The resort celebrated the launch with a traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony and Doppelmayr bell ringing on Friday.
The new Doppelmayr D-Line detachable high-speed lift replaces the former Six Shooter chairlift, bringing remarkable improvements to the mountain's accessibility. With double the uphill capacity and a 30% speed increase, the Madison 8 transforms the guest experience with an efficient eight-minute ride time.
Big Sky celebrates their new lift with a grand opening.
This installation reinforces Big Sky's commitment to cutting-edge technology, representing their fifth Doppelmayr D-Line chairlift and second eight-pack system.
Troy Nedved, Big Sky Resort's president and COO, emphasised this achievement:
"Since Big Sky 2025 was announced nine years ago, we've had an ambition to create North America's most technologically advanced lift network. Madison 8, our twelfth new lift installed since 2016, certainly makes this a reality."
The resort's lift expansion continues with the opening of the One & Only Gondola, connecting the One & Only Moonlight Basin hotel and residences to the Madison base area. Looking ahead, the 2025-26 season will see the debut of the Explorer Gondola, establishing a direct link between Mountain Village and the Lone Peak Tram.
About the author
Michael Fulton
Melbourne-based skier and snowboarder with 50+ resorts across 5 continents. Specialises in Australian resorts and international resort comparisons.
