Explorer Gondola Construction Updates
Coming winter 2025-26, a new two-stage gondola will replace the existing Explorer chair, which has been in operation since the resort's opening in 1973. The new gondola will extend all the way to the Bowl, connecting to the lower terminal of the Lone Peak Tram. This replacement will transform access to the Explorer and northern Swift Current terrain, with the new gondola providing massive improvements to comfort and speed.
Explorer Gondola: A New Chapter in Big Sky's Legacy
On March 31, we begin our final phase of the multi-year installation of the Explorer Gondola, set to transform mountain access for skiers and riders of all abilities. This project represents a meaningful evolution in Big Sky's history, as we honor the legacy of the last original Big Sky lift from 1973 while creating new possibilities for future generations.
The Explorer Gondola will revolutionize mountain access, providing seamless connectivity from the base to beginner terrain via the mid-station and allowing guests to travel all the way to the summit of Lone Mountain through the new tram connection at the gondola upper station.
As construction progresses this spring, visitors should be aware of several impacts, including the Explorer 2 lift closure starting March 30th and parking limitations in the existing carpool and Lone Peak lots throughout April due to construction activities and helicopter staging. We appreciate your patience as we build the next chapter of Big Sky's story!
Explorer Gondola Construction Update: Transforming Mountain Access
Teams have made remarkable progress on the innovative Explorer Gondola project this year, a game-changing addition that will revolutionize guest access and the mountain experience at Big Sky Resort. Construction has been steadily advancing, marking significant milestones that bring us closer to an unprecedented way of exploring the mountain.
Project Highlights:
Summer 2023 began with earthwork and foundation construction at the mid-station. This summer, the mid-station saw the installation of lift components in partnership with Doppelmayr, bringing the structure near completion. All 83 gondola cabins will be stored each evening within the 21,000-square-foot mid-station below-grade parking structure.
The upper terminal foundational work was completed this summer—which involved challenging excavation, rock blasting, micropile installation, concrete, and steel erection—setting the stage for Doppelmayr to complete lift component installation next summer.
Looking ahead, the lower terminal will begin construction on March 30th, 2025. The entire structure and lift terminal will be completed in the 2025 off-season, promising an exciting unveiling for the Winter 25/26 season.
The Explorer Gondola represents more than just a new lift—it's set to redefine the mountain experience at Big Sky by connecting guests to the mountain’s impressive beginner and advanced terrain.
For the first time, guests will enjoy seamless connectivity from the base area to the summit via the gondola tram connectivity, opening unprecedented possibilities for exploration, accessibility, and mountain enjoyment.
Important Guest Access Information:
Starting March 30, the existing Explorer Lift will close to facilitate construction of the new gondola lower terminal. We are excited to bring you another lift that will dramatically improve your Big Sky experience.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to build the future of mountain experiences at Big Sky Resort.
Mid-station Foundations & Cabin Garage
In the summer of 2023, teams poured 2500 cubic yards of concrete to create the foundation of the gondola cabin garage and footers for the mid-station. The garage totals 21,000 square feet of cabin storage and maintenance space, and the terminal itself is an additional 7,000 square feet.
Work will begin on the top and lower gondola terminals once the lifts close for the winter 2023-24 season. Both locations require technical design and construction. The top terminal needs a unique foundation system due to seismic loading and lateral earth pressures, and the bottom terminal location is subject to seasonal groundwater flooding during snowmelt in the spring. While construction progresses at the bottom terminal during the summer of 2024, teams will also work to shore the existing Explorer tower footings to allow the lift to operate for the winter 2024-25 season. Solutions, including a temporary operator house and a temporary loading platform at the Explorer lift, are being explored to make the overlap in construction and operations possible.
