Powder Mountain, UT, Debuts Timberline Chairlift Replacement, Ushering in a New Era of Upgrades

Powder Mountain opened its much-anticipated Timberline chairlift on December 19, marking a significant step in a season of transformative upgrades for the Utah ski resort. The new Skytrac fixed-grip quad replaces one of the state’s oldest operational lifts, bringing modern reliability, increased uphill capacity, and improved skier access to the mountain’s diverse terrain.

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The Timberline lift is the first of four new chairlifts planned for Powder Mountain, part of a major investment in the resort’s infrastructure. By replacing an iconic but aging lift, the resort is honoring its heritage while embracing advancements to improve the skier experience. With the new quad, visitors can expect shorter lift lines and quicker access to key runs, enhancing Powder Mountain’s reputation as a destination for uncrowded, pristine skiing.

This is just the beginning of Powder Mountain’s vision for the season. The Paradise lift, set to debut later, will feature a state-of-the-art Doppelmayr detachable quad design, reducing ride times to high-elevation terrain from 16 minutes to just seven. For expert skiers and snowboarders, the Lightning Ridge lift will offer direct access to advanced chutes while connecting the Sundown base area to the resort’s main network. The Raintree lift will complete the expansion, delivering exclusive access to tree-lined glades and expert terrain on the eastern side of the mountain.

In addition to the new lifts, Powder Mountain is reviving terrain parks, a feature not seen at the resort since 2020. Sundown Park, designed for beginner and intermediate riders, will be located on Confidence Run, offering entry-level features to help new park users progress. Meanwhile, Hidden Lake Park is geared toward advanced park riders, with more challenging jumps, rails, and creative elements. The reintroduction of terrain parks reflects Powder Mountain’s historic role as the first Utah resort to welcome snowboarding in the 1984/85 season, blending tradition with innovation.

The Timberline chairlift is already making its mark, with early riders celebrating its smooth operation and efficient design. This upgrade, alongside the other planned improvements, underscores Powder Mountain’s commitment to maintaining its unique balance of expansive terrain and a low skier density. By prioritizing infrastructure that improves access while preserving its uncrowded slopes, the resort continues to distinguish itself in a competitive industry.

As the season progresses and additional lifts come online, Powder Mountain is poised to offer an unparalleled skiing and snowboarding experience. From the speed of the new Paradise lift to the advanced terrain unlocked by Lightning Ridge and Raintree, the mountain is evolving to meet the needs of modern visitors. With Timberline leading the charge, Powder Mountain is setting the stage for one of its most exciting seasons yet.