“People who have historically been stuck in the base area, can now get on the mountain, and what we mean by that is beginners,” Duke said. “Normally if you’re going to learn how to ski or snowboard, you are stuck in the base area because you can’t get on a chairlift and the gondolas go too far up on the mountain. … The way to get people to fall in love with our sport is to fully immerse them in the mountains. Having a beginners area that’s on the mountain, in the mountains, then they’re not just learning a sport, they’re inspired.” Loryn Duke, director of communications at Steamboat Ski and Resort Corp as reported in “Steamboat Pilot & Today.

In order to make room for the Wild Blue gondola loading area, Christy Peak Express terminal was shifted, while Preview lift, the mountain coaster and mini golf course were removed.

Greenhorn Ranch, located at the area formerly known as Rough Rider Basin, will serve as the beginner’s learning area. Beginners will access the area via Wild Blue Gondola, but once there, will get around using four magic carpets. Some will be recycled from previous locations at Steamboat Resort, however, two will be new.

When completed, Wild Blue will be the longest, fastest 10-person gondola in North America, spanning 3.16 miles in 13 minutes.