Mt. Bachelor progresses on Northwest chairlift modernization before 2026/27 season

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Modernization work on the Northwest chairlift at Mt. Bachelor is progressing as the resort heads into fall. Upgrades are underway at both the top and bottom terminals as well as along the lift line ahead of the chairlift's scheduled opening for the 2026/27 season.

The project includes substantial upgrades to the lift's power and operational infrastructure. In previous years, conduits and fiber-optic cables were located above ground, leaving them exposed to weather and ice accumulation. Crews have now buried the conduits and fiber optics underground and backfilled the trenches, a change maintenance teams expect will reduce service interruptions caused by ice buildup.

At the top terminal, workers completed the first-floor foundation for a two-story operator and patrol dispatch shack. The top terminal structure and the three uppermost crown towers received a fresh coat of paint, with window replacements and exterior improvements planned.

Contractors have begun craning major components into place, including a new electric motor, drive, diesel backup motor and fuel tank. At the same time, crews are removing the old equipment from the terminal. The aerial portion on the lower half of the lift line has also been completed.

At the bottom terminal, upgraded power infrastructure is now in place. A new transformer is supplying power to the lower operating shack and the on-site maintenance garage. Framing for the maintenance garage is complete as construction continues on the lower building.

Crews have also finished the concrete foundation at the bottom terminal for a park rail, a semi-enclosed chair storage facility designed to protect equipment during winter weather. Dustin Smith, director of mountain operations at Mt. Bachelor, stated that the facility will improve morning operations after storms. “By providing a protected place to store chairs, the facility will help reduce the amount of storm recovery and snow removal required from lift operations and maintenance teams,” Smith said. “This will streamline the lift opening process, allowing skiers and riders to access that terrain sooner following major weather events.”

Crews are currently backfilling around the park rail to establish the final grade, with the structure expected to be erected over the next couple of weeks. Workers are also scheduled to pour the second-floor concrete for the maintenance garage.

Smith noted that work will continue as the mountain prepares for the upgraded lift's launch. “While there's still plenty of work ahead, the project is moving steadily toward its goal: a more reliable, efficient and storm-ready Northwest chairlift for the 2026/27 season,” Smith said.