Sugarloaf Moving Forward with West Mountain Expansion
A high speed quad chairlift is slated for installation next year.
Saturday, April 16, 2022, NewEnglandSkiIndustry.com
Sugarloaf has set a date for its major West Mountain expansion: 2023.
In a press release issued this week, Sugarloaf announced initial construction of the new West Mountain complex could start this year, pending permitting. Initial surveys and cutting have already taken place.
The complex will be served by a refurbished high speed detachable quad. Components of the former Swift Current lift from Big Sky, Montana were reportedly delivered to Sugarloaf late last year. The 1996 lift will be overhauled with a new drive, motor, electrical systems, and haul rope and will be about 6,000 feet long by 1,500 feet vertical when installed next year.
The existing West Mountain Double will be truncated as part of the West Mountain project, which is expected to feature mostly intermediate terrain and unlock new real estate opportunities.
Sugarloaf also confirmed the installation of a T-Bar this year between Competition Hill and Narrow Gauge. The Carrabassett Valley Academy lift will be 1,200 feet long by 380 feet vertical. It is not known if or when the lift will be available to the public. Competition Hill will be widened and augmented with new snow guns.
In addition to the lift projects, Sugarloaf also announced a new snowmaking pump, additional snow guns, and the purchase of the Herbert Grand Hotel in Kingfield for employee housing.
