Garmisch Classic's Kreuzwankl Ski Express Upgrade: Boosting Capacity and Comfort

Garmisch Classic Modernises Key Chairlift

The Kreuzwankl Ski Express, a cornerstone of the Garmisch Classic ski area since 1997, is set for a significant upgrade. After serving skiers and riders for over 25 years, the lift will be replaced with a new, more efficient model. The current 6-seater chairlift will close at the end of this ski season, making way for construction of an 8-seater chairlift scheduled to open for the 2025/2026 winter season. We got to ride the existing lift and see the seats for the new lift when we visited Garmisch Partenkirchen in January this season.

Riding under the lift line of the existing Kreuzwankl lift. Credit: SnowStash

The existing Kreuzwankl Ski Express, notable for being Germany's first 6-seater chairlift, has been a vital part of Garmisch Classic's infrastructure. With a track length of 1,000 metres and a vertical rise of 178 metres, it currently handles up to 15,000 guests daily, with a capacity of 2,400 people per hour. However, its location near the children's area and high traffic from novice skiers has led to frequent stoppages and wait times of up to 20 minutes on busy days.

The new Doppelmayr lift system will address these issues by increasing capacity to 3,000 people per hour. It will feature a slower circulation speed at the valley station and a height-adjustable boarding area, making it easier for beginners, children, and ski schools to board. These improvements aim to reduce wait times and minimise disruptions, ensuring a smoother operation overall. The uphill journey will also be quicker, decreasing from 3 minutes 50 seconds to 3 minutes 10 seconds.

Location of the new lift on the Garmisch Classic trail map.

The renovation project will begin in spring 2025 with the dismantling of the old lift and the start of civil engineering work. Construction of new station buildings and support foundations will follow, with the erection of the new lift planned for autumn 2025. The goal is to have the new Kreuzwankl Ski Express operational for the start of the 2025/2026 winter season.

Garmisch Classic, part of the Zugspitze ski area, is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders in Germany. The ski resort offers a variety of runs for different skill levels and is known for its stunning Alpine views. This significant investment in upgrading the Kreuzwankl Ski Express demonstrates the resort's commitment to enhancing the skiing experience and accommodating the high number of visitors it receives each season.