Arizona Snowbowl announced that the resort will open for summer scenic chairlift rides starting on Friday, June 19th, with new health and safety procedures in place.
“As we look forward to the official start of summer, we’re excited to offer Arizonans a way to get out of the house, have fun and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors in a safe, open environment,“ said Rob Linde, General Manager of Arizona Snowbowl. “Our reopening plan was designed with COVID-19 in mind, and includes considerations for social distancing, capacity management, and reduced contact to provide a safe and fun experience for all guests.”
Due to the construction of the new high-speed Agassiz lift, Snowbowl’s premier summer attraction – the scenic chairlift – will operate on the high-speed Grand Canyon Express lift, taking riders to 10,800 feet above sea level in minutes. Riders will experience panoramic views from the slopes of the second highest peak in Arizona, with glimpses of the North Rim of the Grand Canyon as well as the red rocks of Sedona. The 34 year-old Agassiz lift which had previously shuttled riders during the summer months will be replaced by a new combination lift featuring chairs interspersed with gondola cabins. The new Agassiz lift is the largest lift installation project in North America by vertical in 2020, and is expected to be completed by November.
In addition to the scenic chairlift, the resort will also offer to-go dining options and a selection of outdoor apparel and gear at the on-site retail store. For overnight visitors wishing to stay closer to the resort, Snowbowl offers accommodations and a full-service restaurant at the base of the mountain at Ski Lift Lodge and Cabins.
“Though our summer operations this year may look different than in years prior, we’re excited about the future of Snowbowl. The new high-speed Agassiz lift is part of a long-term commitment from us to our guests to provide the best experience possible. We can’t wait to ride the new lift this winter,“ said Linde.
As a part of the resort’s new operating procedures, all tickets must be purchased online to reduce contact between guests and staff. In addition, capacity within the resort boundaries will be managed to ensure adequate space for guests to practice social distancing. To help guests plan their day, Snowbowl is offering new time-specific tickets that allow guests to choose a morning or afternoon session.
For more information on Snowbowl’s summer scenic chairlift, season passes and planned new improvements for the 2020/2021 season, please visit snowbowl.ski.
About Arizona Snowbowl:
Situated in the majestic San Francisco Peaks at 9,500 feet and just 14 miles north of Flagstaff, Snowbowl is Arizona’s ideal summertime destination to escape the heat with fresh mountain air and stunning views of Sedona’s red rocks, the cinder cone volcanic field and Grand Canyon’s rim on the scenic chairlift. In winter, Snowbowl is home to Arizona’s longest ski season, with state-of-the-art snowmaking and 260-inches of annual snowfall. Snowbowl offers the premier winter experience from November through April. In addition to the best beginner terrain in the Southwest, winter enthusiasts will enjoy Snowbowl’s naturally divided terrain, variety of trails, three terrain parks, premier tree skiing and expert hike-to terrain. Please visit snowbowl.ski to learn more.
Photo Credit: Arizona Snowbowl