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    UtahPowder Mountain

    Powder Mountain Utah Unveils Lightning Ridge Lift, Opening New Expert Terrain

    Michael FultonMichael Fulton·4 Jan 2025

    TL;DR

    Powder Mountain celebrates its biggest infrastructure upgrade in ten years with the Lightning Ridge lift opening, providing access to advanced terrain and deep powder. The new Skytrac fixed-grip quad marks a significant expansion for Utah's powder skiing haven.

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    New Lightning Ridge Lift Transforms Powder Mountain's Expert Terrain Access

    Powder Mountain reached a significant milestone on December 31, launching the Lightning Ridge lift - its first new lift installation in over a decade. The timing couldn't have been better, with 34 inches of fresh snow blanketing the slopes during the week leading up to the opening.

    The new Skytrac fixed-grip quad serves exclusively expert-level terrain, adding to Powder Mountain's reputation for challenging skiing and riding. This strategic addition creates a crucial link between the Sundown base area and the main resort, improving access across the mountain's vast terrain.

    The new Lightning Ridge quad lift connects Powder Mountain's Sundown base area with the main resort | Credit: Tristan Sadler/Powder Mountain
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    The Lightning Ridge project is part of a broader lift modernisation initiative at Powder Mountain. It joins two other new public lifts, Timberline and Paradise, which were upgraded over the summer. These improvements mark a new chapter for the resort, balancing the needs of advanced skiers seeking technical terrain with improved navigation for all guests.

    The December 31st opening drew crowds of skilled skiers and riders eager to explore the deep powder conditions on the new terrain. The combination of fresh snow and expanded expert access made the Lightning Ridge lift an immediate success for 'Pow Mow' as 2024 came to a close.

    Powder Mountain Opening Lightning Ridge

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    Resort improvements like the Lightning Ridge lift demonstrate Powder Mountain's commitment to enhancing the skiing experience while maintaining its authentic character. With three new lifts now operating, the resort continues to evolve while preserving the uncrowded, powder-rich environment that has made it a favourite among dedicated skiers and riders.

    Technical Details:

    • Lift Type: Skytrac fixed-grip quad
    • Terrain Level: Expert-only
    • Base Access: Connects Sundown area to main resort
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    • Opening Date: December 31, 2024
    • Snow Conditions at Opening: 34 inches of fresh powder

    About the author

    Michael Fulton

    Michael Fulton

    Melbourne-based skier and snowboarder with 50+ resorts across 5 continents. Specialises in Australian resorts and international resort comparisons.

    50+ resorts visited15 years skiing
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