Inside Steamboat’s Full Steam Ahead Project

Steamboat Resort, known for its welcoming atmosphere and powder-packed trails, is taking things to a whole new level with its ambitious Full Steam Ahead project. This $220 million, multi-year development promises to elevate Steamboat’s status among North America’s top ski destinations, and it’s slated to transform the guest experience with groundbreaking upgrades, increased terrain, and new amenities. Curious about what’s in store? Here, we dive into the details of the Full Steam Ahead project, answering your top questions and outlining what these changes mean for your next Steamboat adventure.

Full Steam Ahead Project Overview

Steamboat Resort’s Full Steam Ahead project is more than just an upgrade – it’s a strategic expansion focused on enhanced guest experiences, greater accessibility, and improved mountain infrastructure. This extensive development is set to reshape the resort, adding terrain, upgrading lifts, and enhancing dining options to cater to skiers of all levels.

In particular, this project features the Wild Blue Gondola, soon to be the longest and fastest gondola in North America, and significant expansions of skiable terrain on Sunshine Peak. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your Steamboat trip like a pro.

Wild Blue Gondola: North America’s Longest Gondola

One of the highlights of the Full Steam Ahead project is the installation of the Wild Blue Gondola, which will connect the base area with the top of Sunshine Peak. When completed, this gondola will hold the title of the longest and fastest ten-passenger gondola in North America, covering 3.16 miles in just over 13 minutes.

This gondola is designed to significantly reduce wait times and elevate the overall guest experience. With a capacity to transport up to 10,000 guests per hour, the Wild Blue Gondola is a game-changer, especially for those peak season days when Steamboat sees thousands of eager skiers and snowboarders. Visitors can look forward to a smooth, scenic ride to some of the resort’s best terrain, all while enjoying spectacular mountain views.

Expanded Terrain on Sunshine Peak

Steamboat’s Full Steam Ahead project includes a major expansion of terrain on Sunshine Peak, adding over 655 acres for advanced and expert skiers. This addition not only increases the resort’s total skiable area but also makes Steamboat the second-largest resort in Colorado. New expert runs will be available in Fish Creek Canyon and Pioneer Ridge, giving seasoned skiers and snowboarders access to challenging, exhilarating terrain.

With these expansions, Steamboat continues to prioritize variety, offering everything from intermediate-friendly runs to steep, adrenaline-pumping trails. Sunshine Peak’s new terrain also includes glades and open bowls, giving skiers a mix of landscapes and a chance to test their skills on some of the most thrilling terrain in Colorado.

Dining and On-Mountain Amenities

In addition to its ski-focused upgrades, Steamboat’s Full Steam Ahead project also includes expanded dining options to enhance the overall guest experience. The Wild Blue Gondola’s summit station will feature several new dining choices, including pop-up spots offering local favorites like grilled cheese, quesadillas, and Philly cheesesteaks. These dining additions create a more inclusive and accessible environment for visitors who want to refuel without missing a minute on the mountain.

Adding these dining options is a strategic move to cater to diverse tastes and preferences, making Steamboat not only a top choice for skiers but also a culinary destination for food-loving adventurers. It’s clear that the Full Steam Ahead project is about creating a holistic experience that goes beyond just the slopes.

Improved Accessibility and Sustainability Initiatives

Steamboat’s Full Steam Ahead project isn’t just about expansion—it’s also focused on accessibility and sustainability. As part of this commitment, the resort has revamped its transportation infrastructure, incorporating eco-friendly measures to reduce environmental impact. The new gondola and lift systems are more energy-efficient, aligning with Steamboat’s sustainability goals.

Additionally, Steamboat has made efforts to make its slopes and amenities more accessible to visitors of all abilities, enhancing lift accessibility and expanding beginner-friendly areas. These improvements underline Steamboat’s dedication to an inclusive, eco-conscious approach to growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When will Steamboat’s Full Steam Ahead project be fully completed?
The Full Steam Ahead project is being rolled out in phases, with major components, like the Wild Blue Gondola and Sunshine Peak terrain expansions, expected to be completed by the 2024 ski season.

2. Will the new terrain on Sunshine Peak be suitable for beginners?
Most of the new terrain is designed for advanced and expert skiers, including areas like Fish Creek Canyon and Pioneer Ridge. However, Steamboat has also introduced several beginner-friendly improvements to ensure that skiers of all levels can enjoy the resort.

3. What are the main dining options included in the project?
The Full Steam Ahead project has introduced multiple new dining options at the summit of Sunshine Peak and near the gondola base. Look forward to a variety of local foods, such as grilled cheese and quesadillas, perfect for a quick refuel.

4. How does the Wild Blue Gondola improve the guest experience?
The Wild Blue Gondola drastically reduces lift wait times and enhances access to Sunshine Peak, making it easier for visitors to explore more of Steamboat’s terrain. The gondola’s efficiency also helps manage traffic flow during peak hours, creating a smoother and more enjoyable experience for everyone.

5. What sustainability measures are part of the Full Steam Ahead project?
Steamboat has integrated energy-efficient technology in its gondola and lift systems and implemented eco-friendly operations to minimize environmental impact. These efforts reflect the resort’s dedication to sustainable growth.

Conclusion

Steamboat’s Full Steam Ahead project is an ambitious undertaking that redefines what visitors can expect from a premier ski resort. From the Wild Blue Gondola’s impressive speed and capacity to the new terrain on Sunshine Peak, this project offers guests an enhanced experience on all fronts. Whether you’re an expert skier looking for challenging terrain, a family enjoying the expanded dining options, or an eco-conscious traveler, Steamboat’s upgrades have something for everyone. With all these changes in place, Steamboat Resort is set to remain a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

Plan your trip to Steamboat and experience the transformative changes firsthand. With Full Steam Ahead, Steamboat is truly setting a new standard in mountain adventure.