We know many of you are eager for news on the Gelande lift. In past Purgspective posts, we’ve shared both the promise of the project and the regulatory requirements that have slowed it down. Over the summer, we’ve invested more than $1.25 million and thousands of hours into pre-construction. That work has included building tower forms, modifying chairs to handle the steep profile, assembling major lift components, and staging equipment. Much of that progress isn’t visible from the outside, but it represents real groundwork for the future of this lift.
Our team has pushed as far as we could within the approvals and requirements in place, but with the regulatory process still unfolding and the timeline required for tree removal, tower foundation excavation, flying forms and concrete, and removing forms and backfilling the tower foundations, we don’t believe it will be feasible at this date to ensure this work can be completed before winter conditions take hold. That doesn’t mean the project work stops. We’ll continue site prep, tree removal and trail glading to open the terrain for sampling this winter (conditions permitting). When the remaining regulatory steps are cleared, we’ll be ready to move quickly next spring. Many of the lift components are already staged in the Gelande lot, and we’ll be relocating them to a temperature-controlled space for the winter to protect the equipment and ensure parking is not affected. While it’s disappointing not to see the lift spinning this year, the investment of time, money, and effort we’ve put in gives us a strong foundation to finish the project the right way.
We recognize that the delay is frustrating, especially after mountain biking was taken offline this summer. Our team shares that frustration. At the same time, we’re determined to keep momentum by putting resources into projects that are permitted and underway, projects that will make a real difference for this season.
The biggest of these is snowmaking. This project is focused on expanding snow coverage on our Legends Express (Lift 8) terrain, which will give us more insurance to open trails earlier, maintain snow quality, and provide a more consistent experience throughout the season to the bottom of Lift 8.
Guests will also see upgrades at the Columbine beginner area, where a heated bathroom trailer with ten fixtures are being added. While not a permanent fix, this much-requested improvement will make a big difference for families and instructors this season. And in rentals, nearly half a million dollars has gone into new equipment and systems designed to make the experience smoother, faster, and more comfortable.
Behind the scenes, we’ve also been tackling less visible but equally important work to keep the mountain in great shape. From ongoing maintenance to trail improvements that support long-term sustainability, these efforts may not grab headlines, but they strengthen the overall guest experience.
Looking ahead, we know the big question is mountain biking. Our intention is to bring biking back next summer. Timelines for projects of this scale can shift, and we don’t want to overpromise, but what won’t change is our commitment. Mountain biking is an important part of Purgatory’s future, and we’re excited about being able to resume downhill biking next summer.
We’ll continue to share updates as progress unfolds. Thank you for your patience and your passion. It’s that shared love for this mountain that keeps us pushing forward.
Best regards,
Dave Rathbun
General Manager
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