Colorado Resort Replacing 60 Year Old Chairlifts
Colorado’s Sunlight Mountain Resort, has announced the replacement of two of its three chairlifts. The new lifts will replace two double chairlifts that have been operating around six decades.
One of Colorado’s historic smaller ski areas, Sunlight Mountain Resort, has announced that work will start imminently on the replacement of two of its three chairlifts. The new lifts, replacing two double chairlifts that have been operating around six decades, include the centre’s second triple and first quad chairlifts.
Sunlight Mountain Resort says that it has received permission this month from the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) granting final approval for the replacement of the Primo chairlift. This approval, along with the previously granted USFS Decision Memo for the Segundo lift replacement, paves the way for construction to commence in mid-April. The ski area ended its 24-25 season last Sunday.
“The installation of the Segundo and Primo chairlifts represents a significant investment in Sunlight Mountain’s future, bringing enhanced technology and increased capacity to our guests and employees,” a resort spokesperson commented.
The original Segundo chair being removed has a history dating back more than six decades. It was originally installed in Aspen in 1964 but moved to Sunlight Mountain in 1973. The Primo chair is only slightly younger, dating to 1966.
The new Segundo lift will be a triple chair, while the Primo lift will be replaced with a quad chair. Both lifts will feature modern amenities, including restraint bars and footrests, enhancing safety and comfort for all riders.
The resort remains committed to preserving its authentic, family-friendly atmosphere, and as a nod to tradition, both new lifts will retain their legacy names.
“These new lifts will not only improve uphill capacity but will also create a smoother and more enjoyable experience for our guests and employees,” said CEO Cindy Dady.
Sunlight Mountain ran a special send-off event for the lifts last weekend on their final day of operation. Festivities included live music, mechanical bull riding, live screen printing of exclusive Segundo and Primo merchandise. Guests had the chance to enter a drawing for a coveted spot on one of the last 10 chairs to ride either Primo or Segundo.
“Due to overwhelming interest from the community, chairs from the existing Primo and Segundo lifts will be distributed through various avenues, including donations, a season pass holder drawing, an online silent auction, and a live auction event in June,” to Sunlight Mountain spokesperson said, adding,
“The Primo and Segundo chairlift replacement project will enhance the overall mountain experience by upgrading aging infrastructure, increasing reliability, and improving public safety. We look forward to welcoming our guests to ride these new lifts for the 2025/2026 season. Sunlight Mountain Resorts operates under a USFS permit providing recreational opportunities for all individuals to enjoy the beauty of our public lands.”
