29-04-2025
Approved: Forest Service OKs replacement of Loveland Ski Area's 42-year-old lift
DENVER (KDVR) — Loveland Ski Area is updating a beginner ski area with a brand new lift, replacing the current 42-year-old lift with one that's a little bit larger.
With the replacement comes a unique opportunity: If you've ever wanted to own a piece of Loveland Ski Area, now's your chance. The ski area is replacing its Lift 7 with a modern fixed-grip quad, and a select number of chairs will be available for purchase through a lottery if you're a season ticket holder or employee.
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The lift services Loveland Valley, where the trails Take Off and All Smiles are located. Because this section is beginner-friendly, the ski area said the lift represents a 'significant investment in the guest experience, especially for families and first-time skiers and riders.'
The 42-year-old fixed-grip double chair will be replaced with a modern fixed-grip quad that can carry up to four people. Loveland said it will intentionally load the lift with no more than three to begin with so as to provide additional space and comfort to guests, especially beginners, who are still getting accustomed to loading and riding chairlifts.
The U.S. Forest Service approved the project because Loveland Ski Area is located on the Arapaho National Forest and operates under a special use permit through the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Forest Service checks on environmental impacts before approving any potential projects in the forest.
For this project, all construction will take place within the lift alignment to minimize any impacts to the forest. There will also be grading and reshaping on the ZigZag trail to improve flow and snow retention, and there are plans next year to develop a new parking lot.
'This new lift is all about creating a better experience for our guests,' said Rob Goodell, COO and Senior Vice President of Clear Creek Skiing Corporation. 'By giving beginners more space to get comfortable loading, we're helping families and new skiers feel confident from their very first run. It's an investment in the future of skiing and riding at Loveland.'
To enter the lottery for a chance to purchase one of the replaced chairs, you'll need to be a Loveland Ski Area employee or 2025/26 season ticket holder. Because of high demand and limited quantity, Loveland Ski Area said the chairs will be distributed by random drawing, and details on how to enter the lottery will be announced this summer.
The lift is scheduled to be fully replaced before the next ski season.
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