Bogus Basin To Replace Coach And Bitterroot Chairlifts

Bogus Basin has announced  its plans to replace two of its three oldest chairlifts, Coach and Bitterroot, in the summer of 2024.  Construction will begin immediately following the conclusion of the 2023/24 winter season and is projected to be completed in time for the start of the 2024/25 winter season.

ift from the winter of 1981/82 until the winter of 1995/96. It was relocated in the summer of 1996 when the Deer Point lift was upgraded to the current high-speed detachable lift. The chair has been operational for a total of 43 years, with 28 years at its current location. Both Coach and Bitterroot lifts will be replaced with four-person Skytrac fixed-grip lifts, effectively doubling the uphill capacity, reducing lift lines, and on-trail density. The extended vertical rise of Coach will triple the length of the current Coach’s Corner Run, providing an ideal novice trail for instruction and progression from the learn-to-ride conveyor lifts.

“Delivering an exceptional learn-to-ski experience is incredibly important for our guests, the future of Bogus Basin, and the ski and snowboard industry as a whole. The new Coach chairlift and expanded run will play a pivotal role in helping us achieve that goal.” said Jamie Zolber, Director, Skier Services

The current Bitterroot chairlift, also a YAN double chair installed in the 1970s, will be replaced with a four-person Skytrac fixed-grip lift, allowing for a refreshed experience. The new lift will be realigned with the top terminal and unload area closer to Pioneer Lodge, facilitating easier access to amenities and improving guest flow to the terrain off the Morning Star Express and Superior Express chairlifts. The area plans to make some terrain improvements to Snoozer, an underutilized trail, creating another top-to-bottom beginner option in the Bitterroot Basin.

“With the exciting replacement of the Bitterroot chairlift, we will introduce our guests to underutilized beginner and intermediate terrain that is conveniently accessible via two ski-in/ski-out parking lots.” Nate Shake, Director, Mountain Operations

Located in Bitterroot Basin, known for its enjoyable and inviting intermediate terrain, the area hosts Bogus Basin’s School Race Program on Saturdays, where thousands of middle and high school-aged kids gather to hone their skiing and snowboarding skills and engage in friendly competition. The new chairlift will alleviate wait times during these events and introduce other guests to the served runs.

The loading areas at the new Coach and Bitterroot lifts will feature RFID gates, providing hands-free, direct-to-lift access to the slopes.

These improvements are part of a series of ongoing guest-centric investments that have transformed the non-profit into a year-round local destination hosting over 500,000 guests annually. Totaling over $60 million, these investments include snowmaking, daily summer operations, new chairlift installations, and a variety of other capital enhancements.