Industry News
Less than three months ago, lift manufacturer Skytrac broke ground on the new Chickadee lift at Utah’s Snowbird. Just 76 days later, the lift is now complete, with construction concluding on June 30 — just in time for peak summer operations at Snowbird. The completion of Chickadee marks Skytrac’s first project at Snowbird, and its first ski lift commissioned in the 2026 construction season.
“Chickadee Lift is complete at Snowbird!” Skytrac celebrated in an Instagram post.
Skytrac was able to complete the project in just 76 days thanks to an accelerated timeline and short lift profile. Initially, the project required five towers. Later, that number was reduced to just four after Snowbird removed an alpine slide from a nearby slope.
For Skytrac, the quick construction of the Chickadee lift is another step forward for larger recognition in the lift manufacturing industry. The Salt Lake City-based company has been steadily growing in North America, constructing over 100 lifts since it began production in 2010. Its ability to quickly replace, rebuild, and commission new lifts helps build its reputation as a dependable manufacturer, especially at ski resorts that operate on tight schedules.
Snowbird’s new Chickadee lift is a fixed-grip, four-seat chairlift serving beginner skiers accessing Chickadee run and Chickadee Chutes — the primary learning zone at the resort. It is designed to move up to 1,600 passengers per hour, significantly more than the old Chickadee lift. It also brings some major upgrades, like a slow-loading conveyor and modern chair design for a more comfortable ride and reliable operations in windier conditions.
In addition to the new lift, Snowbird completed extensive grading work on the Chickadee learning area to improve accessibility and flow for beginner skiers and riders. The upgrades make the existing beginner terrain easier to access and navigate, creating a more welcoming learning environment for guests of all ages and abilities.
“This project reflects our commitment to creating an exceptional experience for every guest, regardless of ability level,” President and General Manager of Snowbird Dave Fields said in a press release. “Whether you’re learning to make your first turns or introducing your children to skiing, Chickadee provides a welcoming starting point for the Snowbird experience.”
The construction of the lift came not a moment too soon, with the old two-seat Chickadee lift having operated since 1972. It was significantly slower, carrying just 1,000 people per hour with a ride time of 2 minutes and 10 seconds. Its decades-old technology had been upgraded several times throughout its life, with the resort eventually deciding it was time for a full replacement. Many Snowbird skiers and snowboarders were sad to see the lift go, as generations of skiers learned their first turns lapping Chickadee. But with the new Chickadee lift, Snowbird will continue to serve beginner skiers with a technological boost.
“Chickadee holds a special place in Snowbird’s history,” Fields said. “For many years, it’s where generations of Snowbird skiers and riders took their first turns before progressing to the rest of the mountain. This project modernizes that experience while honoring the legacy of a place that has introduced so many people to the sport. The new lift and terrain improvements make learning easier, more comfortable and more enjoyable for beginners and families.”
With construction of the new Chickadee lift finishing on June 30, Snowbird is currently utilizing the lift to assist with its summer operations. And when winter finally arrives, Snowbird will open with a brand new lift for its beginner skiers and snowboarders.
This article was updated on August 20, 2026, with new information regarding the Chickadee lift.
