Utah Resort Unveils Upgrades Ahead of Winter Olympics Return in 2034

Snowbasin Resort, one of the United States’ longest-operating ski destinations, has announced a sweeping series of infrastructure upgrades set to roll out over the next two winter seasons. The developments come as the Utah resort prepares to host Alpine Skiing events for the 2034 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, following Salt Lake City’s successful bid to stage the Games for a second time.

Key enhancements include the replacement of the Becker Chairlift Upgrade, a 1986-installed fixed-grip triple chair which will be upgraded to a high-speed detachable quad. This will double uphill capacity to 1,800 skiers per hour and cut ride time to just six minutes. The Becker upgrade marks Snowbasin’s fourth lift addition in six years, following the Wildcat Handle Tow (2020), Middle Bowl Express (2021), and DeMoisy Express (2023).

There’ll also be beginner terrain improvements with adjacent trails such as Bear Hollow and Snowshoe will be widened to improve flow and safety, with the Becker lift’s bottom terminal repositioned for easier access.

The Needles Gondola will also see a multi-year refurbishment of gondola cabins begins ahead of the 2024–25 season and RFID Ticketing will be introduced across Snowbasin’s lifts in 2025–26, streamlining access and reducing wait times by up to 25%.

Snowbasin previously hosted downhill and Super-G events during the 2002 Winter Olympics. Since then, the resort has steadily invested in lift expansions, terrain enhancements, and guest amenities. With the upcoming Games in sight, General Manager Davy Ratchford emphasized the resort’s commitment to accessibility:

“Snowbasin is committed to being the most accessible mountain in Utah and these improvements will make a significant impact to our accessibility and efficiency.”

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