TL;DR
The Kreuzwankl Ski Express at Garmisch Classic is set for a major upgrade, transforming from a 6-seater to an 8-seater chairlift. This renovation aims to increase capacity, reduce wait times, and enhance the overall skiing experience.
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.
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.
