The controversial ONE Wasatch plan that calls for linking seven of Utah’s ski resorts by a series of chairlifts got a boost last week when Ski Utah and seven resorts on the range officially backed the plan.



At a news conference at Ski Utah’s headquarters last week, representatives of Alta Ski Area, Brighton Resort, Canyons Resort, Deer Valley Resort, Park City Mountain Resort, Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort, and Solitude Mountain Resort announced their support for an over-the-snow connection between all seven resorts via chairlifts and ski run called ONE Wasatch. The ONE Wasatch trail would provide access to over 18,000 skiable acres, 100 lifts and more that 750 runs and all on one lift ticket. The resorts emphasized that ONE Wasatch remains a concept at this stage and the resort partners have no specific execution timelines or chairlift alignments. Resort representatives said their goal at this stage is to establish a vision for a one-of-a-kind mountain experience by providing information, outlining the process, encouraging dialog and listening to feedback.

 

Supporters believe connecting the resorts would provide a skiing and riding experience similar to what’s offered in Europe and unrivaled anywhere in North America.

 

“ONE Wasatch is a concept which has developed over many years and whose time has finally come,” said Brighton’s Randy Doyle. “It will provide the opportunity for an experience unmatched anywhere in the country if not the world. With careful planning and collaboration the positive impacts from ONE Wasatch can benefit everyone.”

 

 

Mike Goar, with Canyons, which is now managed by Vail Resorts Inc., said “proper planning and development will ensure the natural resources and beauty of the Wasatch remain while still establishing one of the greatest ski destinations in the world.”

 

“The ONE Wasatch concept would be great for tourism, outdoor recreation and skiers within the State of Utah,” said Snowbird’s Bob Bonar. “I’m hopeful and confident that with the appropriate studies, process and through careful consideration the dream of ONE Wasatch can become a reality, while at the same time preserving our wilderness areas, water quality and the significant backcountry areas we all highly value.”

 

ONE Wasatch backers argued connecting the ranges ski resorts would create a much more appealing experience for the backcountry skiers that are a core part of Black Diamond’s customer base.

 

“Imagine a European style ski experience with over 100 lifts to ride in a single day, combined with the majestic beauty of the Wasatch Mountains and ‘The Greatest Snow on Earth.’ Utah will become an unrivaled world class ski destination,” said Dave Deseelhorst at Solitude.