New 12-er NORD Gondola Transforms Saalbach-Hinterglemm For World Championships

Michael Fulton5 Jan 2025

TL;DR

The Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm unveils its revolutionary 12er NORD gondola, featuring comfortable 10-seater cabins and enhanced safety measures. This state-of-the-art lift system boosts capacity to 2,600 skiers per hour, marking a significant upgrade for the 2025 FIS Alpine Ski World Championships venue.

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Modern Gondola Upgrade Strengthens Saalbach-Hinterglemm's World-Class Status

Saalbach-Hinterglemm ski resort has replaced its 35-year-old Zwölfernordbahn with a cutting-edge 10-seater gondola. The new 12er NORD, constructed by Doppelmayr over summer 2024, introduces sophisticated cabins with built-in storage systems for effortless ski and snowboard transport. The lift officially opened on December 18, though it began operations December 6.

The new system dramatically improves the resort experience, accommodating 2,600 skiers and riders per hour. By switching from standing to seated cabins, the lift not only enhances comfort but significantly reduces wait times at the base station.

New 12er Nord Gondola at Saalbach Hinterglemm

Safety improvements include a new ski bridge spanning the state road, connecting the valley stations of both the Hochalmbahn and 12er NORD. This strategic design allows shared use of the Hochalm valley station infrastructure, streamlining operations.

Managing directors Peter Mitterer and Hans Georg Bachmann emphasised the gondola's crucial role in the upcoming World Championships:

"The 12er NORD is vital for transporting athletes, coaches, track marshals, and volunteers directly to the Zwölferkogel summit. This modern system will help manage peak times and ensure smooth operations throughout the event."

Governor Dr. Wilfried Haslauer praised the development at the opening ceremony:

"The 12er NORD enhances the 'World Cup mountain' Zwölferkogel beyond just the Ski World Championships. This project, supported by the state, creates lasting value for locals and visitors alike."

The Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn, featuring 270 kilometers of slopes, stands among the Alps' most diverse ski areas. This latest infrastructure upgrade reinforces its position as a premier ski resort and prepares it for hosting the 2025 FIS Alpine Ski World Championships.

Technical Specifications:

System: 10-person monocable gondola
Manufacturer: Doppelmayr Seilbahnen GmbH
Length: 1,936 m
Vertical Rise: 875 m
Base Station: 1,111 m
Summit Station: 1,986 m
Support Towers: 13
Total Cabins: 56
Hourly Capacity: 2,600 people
Ride Duration: 6.5 minutes

• • Construction Period: April-December 2024

About the author

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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