The new Polar Peak lift is on track to be ready to whisk skiers and snowboarders to the top of the resort in the new year.
Fernie Alpine Resort say construction is going well, but need a couple of clear days to fly the towers.
“We are close to finishing off installing all of the head-frames on the lift towers,” said Matt Mosteller from Fernie Alpine Resort.
“This will allow us to fly towers this week. The only delay would be getting the flying weather. We are glad lots of snow has fallen and want the snow to continue but need a two day window of clear skies to fly all of the towers and install each in its place.
“The lift operator buildings have been installed and the drive station and unload station towers are up.”
The new fixed grip triple chair will help Fernie Alpine Resort guests access 20 new runs, including an intermediate run called Polar Circus.
Matt Mosteller from Fernie Alpine Resort said guests will also be able to experience incredible views.
“We cant wait to share the amazing views - from Montana to further up the Canadian Rockies into Kananaskis,” he said.
The resort will boast the biggest vertical in the Canadian Rockies when the new lift opens.
“The lift adds an above tree-line bowl skiing experience with over 22 new runs and the incredible experience of skiing off the summit of one of the highest peaks in the Lizard Range, Polar Peak,” said Mosteller.
“Fernie is regularly laden with the deepest snow in the Canadian Rockies and this past winter was no exception with a near record snowfall of over 37 feet!”
The ride time for the lift will be about five minutes.
In addition to the increased terrain, increased vertical and summit experience is the significant enhancement to the resort’s snow control efforts. The Polar Peak lift provides quick access to the various ridgelines above the major alpine bowls. This is good news for resort guests – the quicker access for ski patrol will speed up efforts to open up terrain following big dumps.
Construction of the new Polar Peak lift began as soon as the snow was cleared in the summer, and is on track to open before opening day at the resort, December 2.
It is the only major new lift installation in the B.C. Rockies for this winter and one of a few new lift installations in North America. It is believed that it is the only new lift installation going to the mountain top for this upcoming winter.
Polar Peak lift will offer skiers spectacular views.