Skiing enthusiasts are always on the lookout for the longest and most thrilling ski lifts to enhance their mountain experience. In the United States, home to some of the world’s most renowned ski resorts, there are several impressive lifts that offer breathtaking views and access to vast terrain. Let’s explore the top seven longest ski lifts in the country, each offering its own unique blend of scenery and skiing opportunities.
1. Mount Snow’s Bluebird Express – Vermont
Mount Snow, nestled in the picturesque Green Mountains of Vermont, boasts the Bluebird Express, one of the longest ski lifts in the United States. Stretching over 6,000 feet in length, this high-speed detachable quad lift offers skiers and snowboarders swift access to Mount Snow’s diverse terrain.
Riders on the Bluebird Express are treated to stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks as they ascend to the summit. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, this lift provides access to a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels. With its efficient operation and scenic journey, the Bluebird Express is a must-ride for any visitor to Mount Snow.
2. Sun Valley’s Roundhouse Gondola – Idaho
Sun Valley, Idaho, is renowned for its pristine slopes and world-class amenities, including the Roundhouse Gondola, one of the longest ski lifts in the United States. Spanning approximately 8,800 feet in length, this iconic gondola whisks passengers from the base of the resort to the summit of Bald Mountain in mere minutes.
As riders ascend to higher elevations, they’re treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding Sawtooth National Forest and the rugged beauty of central Idaho. The Roundhouse Gondola provides access to a wide range of terrain, from gentle groomers to challenging expert runs, making it an essential part of the Sun Valley skiing experience.
3. Steamboat’s Christie Peak Express – Colorado
Colorado’s Steamboat Ski Resort is famous for its legendary Champagne Powder® snow and extensive lift system, including the Christie Peak Express, one of the longest ski lifts in the United States. Stretching over 7,000 feet in length, this high-speed quad lift transports skiers and riders from the base area to the summit of Christie Peak.
As passengers ascend to higher elevations, they’re treated to stunning views of the Yampa Valley and the surrounding Rocky Mountains. The Christie Peak Express provides access to a variety of terrain, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging mogul fields, making it a popular choice for skiers of all abilities.
4. Heavenly’s Tamarack Express – California/Nevada
Heavenly Mountain Resort, straddling the California-Nevada border near Lake Tahoe, is home to the Tamarack Express, one of the longest ski lifts in the United States. Stretching over 8,000 feet in length, this high-speed quad lift offers skiers and snowboarders swift access to Heavenly’s vast and varied terrain.
Riders on the Tamarack Express are treated to breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra Nevada Mountains as they ascend to higher elevations. Whether you’re carving turns on perfectly groomed runs or exploring the resort’s legendary tree skiing, the Tamarack Express provides an unforgettable mountain experience.
5. Big Sky’s Lone Peak Tram – Montana
Montana’s Big Sky Resort is renowned for its vast skiable terrain and challenging expert runs, including the Lone Peak Tram, one of the longest ski lifts in the United States. Spanning over 15,000 feet in length, this iconic tramway transports passengers from the base area to the summit of Lone Peak, the resort’s highest peak.
As riders ascend to dizzying heights, they’re treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding Gallatin Range and the rugged beauty of southwest Montana. The Lone Peak Tram provides access to some of Big Sky’s most exhilarating terrain, including steep chutes, powder-filled bowls, and epic backcountry descents.
6. Breckenridge’s Imperial Express SuperChair – Colorado
Colorado’s Breckenridge Ski Resort is renowned for its expansive terrain and world-class amenities, including the Imperial Express SuperChair, one of the longest ski lifts in the United States. Stretching over 15,000 feet in length, this high-speed quad lift transports skiers and riders to the summit of Peak 8, where they can access some of the resort’s most challenging terrain.
Riders on the Imperial Express SuperChair are treated to breathtaking views of the Tenmile Range and the surrounding White River National Forest as they ascend to higher elevations. Whether you’re seeking steep chutes, moguls, or perfectly groomed runs, this lift provides access to some of Breckenridge’s most thrilling skiing and snowboarding experiences.
7. Telluride’s Revelation Bowl – Colorado
Colorado’s Telluride Ski Resort is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and world-class terrain, including the Revelation Bowl, one of the longest ski lifts in the United States. Spanning over 16,000 feet in length, this high-speed quad lift transports skiers and riders to the summit of Gold Hill, where they can access some of the resort’s most challenging terrain.
Riders on the Revelation Bowl lift are treated to stunning views of the San Juan Mountains and the rugged beauty of southwest Colorado as they ascend to higher elevations. Whether you’re seeking steep chutes, powder-filled bowls, or scenic groomers, this lift provides access to some of Telluride’s most unforgettable skiing and snowboarding experiences.
Conclusion
The United States is home to some of the longest and most exhilarating ski lifts in the world, each offering its own unique blend of scenery and skiing opportunities. From the rugged peaks of Montana to the snow-capped mountains of Colorado and the pristine slopes of Vermont, these lifts provide access to some of the country’s most legendary ski resorts and terrain. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, exploring these top seven longest ski lifts is sure to provide an unforgettable mountain experience.