Cataloochee Ski Area Installs New Quad Lift

Haywood County --  Forget spring cleaning, Cataloochee Ski Area is doing some major spring building! As the wildflowers begin to bloom across the mountains and the temperatures rise, crews in Haywood County are already getting underway with an exciting construction project.

Cataloochee is installing a brand new quad chairlift to replace the familiar Omigosh double, a significant upgrade that promises to transform your ride to the top and enhance your winter lifestyle starting next season.

For years, the Omigosh double served as the primary artery to the summit, a familiar, albeit sometimes slow, journey for countless skiers and snowboarders. While it held a certain place in many memories, its age and capacity limitations often led to longer wait times, cutting into valuable time on the slopes.

The incoming fixed-grip quad lift, manufactured by industry leader Doppelmayr USA, directly addresses these challenges. By doubling the seating capacity per chair, the new lift will significantly boost uphill transportation capacity. This means less time spent queuing at the base and more time carving down Cataloochee's diverse terrain.

Serving the same vital route as its predecessor, the new quad will transport guests from the base area all the way to the mountain's summit. Crucially, it will retain the convenient mid-station, providing easy access for intermediate skiers and snowboarders looking to enjoy runs like Lower Omigosh. For those heading to the top, the lift will continue on to unload riders at the peak, opening up access to advanced trails such as Upper Omigosh, Upper Snowbird, and The Meadows.

The physical installation process is scheduled to commence in May 2025, with crews working through the warmer months to dismantle the old double and erect the new quad. Cataloochee aims to have the new lift ready for operation by the anticipated opening of the 2025-2026 ski season, typically in November.

This investment reflects Cataloochee's commitment to improving the guest experience and staying competitive within the evolving Southeast ski scene. The faster, smoother ride itself is a comfort upgrade, reducing the total time spent on the lift during a ski day. Combined with the reduced wait times, skiers and riders will find it easier to get more runs in, maximize their time on the snow, and simply enjoy the mountain lifestyle more fully.

The replacement of the Omigosh double with a modern quad lift marks a significant step forward for Cataloochee Ski Area, promising to make those crisp winter days on the slopes even more enjoyable for everyone who calls the mountain their winter playground. Get ready for a new era of efficient uphill travel and more time experiencing the joy of skiing and snowboarding next season.

Image: Cataloochee Ski Area

WNCTimes

Cover Image: WNCTimes