The new aerial tramway for Big Sky Resort (Montana) replaces its predecessor, which was in operation for 27 years, and reaches the peak in under five minutes travel time.

As this cable car was approaching the end of its useful life, Big Sky wanted to create something that aligns with their vision to provide the most innovative and transformational infrastructure in the industry.

This aerial tramway is the first new one after fifteen years which DOPPELMAYR USA and GARAVENTA installed in North America. Its top station is located at an altitude of 3,400 metres above sea level.

It is the highest vantage point in Montana. Guests can soak in views of Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. The Lone Peak Tram is an all-season attraction that invites guests to enjoy a scenic ride or access unique skiing terrain.

All-season attraction

The Lone Peak Tram is an all-season attraction that invites guests to enjoy a scenic ride or access unique skiing terrain.

The bottom terminal features separate entrance gates for skiers or guests whitout equipment. The base now loads from “The Bowl“, a wide open, giant, lift-served slope, which is meant for those who want to make their own trail.

With the planned connection of the Explorer Gondola, the Lone Peak Tram will travel 600 plus feet more of vertical than the original tram. The new location of the bottom station also allows skiers to enter the system on green terrain.

“Base-to-summit“ lift network planned

The new Lone Peak Tram is part of a base-to-summit lift network that will be completed by the end of the decade, starting with the addition of the Explorer Gondola, scheduled to open for winter 25/26.

”The original aerial tram opened the high alpine terrain of Lone Mountain to skiers and riders, and the new tram is symbolic of the experiential transformation we are endeavoring to accomplish through our Big Sky 2025 vision. This world-class summit experience is now serviced by a modern tram in both winter and summer season“, says Taylor Middleton, President and COO of Big Sky Resort.

This new lift network will create an improved access to the resort’s premier learning terrain. Further pedestrians will be able to reach the mountain peak on foot for the first time ever.

Multiple summit experiences will be unveiled in future years, including a mountaintop food and beverage facility housed in the former top station of the original aerial tramway. On-mountain food and beverage experiences will span multiple locations throughout the base-to-summit lift network.

Special cabins and higher capacity

The cabins of the new Lone Peak Tram, manufactured by CWA Constructions SA, part of the DOPPELMAYR GROUP, completed a journey of over 8,000 kilometres in 37 days until they reached their destination in Big Sky.

Each of the two cabins offers room for 75 people. This is a mayor comfort and capacity upgrade and reduces wait times. In comparison, the old cabins offered room for only 15 people.

A special highlight of the new cabin design are two rectangular glass elements in the floor, which allow guests a spectacular view in summer, 300 metres above the ground. In winter, these glass elements are covered.

The cabins are equipped with an integrated loudspeaker system for announcements and music during the ride. They offer seating for up to 12 people, which can be flexibly moved or removed.