Workers install crossbars and sheaves on Crystal Mountain's new Buck Quad chairlift earlier this month. (photo: Crystal Mountain)

$4 Million Summer Project at Crystal Mountain Includes New Ski Lift and Trails

Thompsonville, MI – Michigan’s Crystal Mountain is spending $4 million this summer to build a new Skytrac lift and three new runs to challenge skiers and riders for the 2013-14 ski season.

Workers install crossbars and sheaves on Crystal Mountain's new Buck Quad chairlift earlier this month. (photo: Crystal Mountain)
Workers install crossbars and sheaves on Crystal Mountain’s new Buck Quad chairlift earlier this month. (photo: Crystal Mountain)

Not long after the last skiers made their last turns this past spring, construction began on the resort’s new Buck Quad Chairlift and slope expansion. The new ski-under lift, which follows the same liftline as the old Buck Chairlift installed in 1978, will move more skiers per hour to the top of the hill and add skiable terrain including the new Buckaroo slope and Buck Glades to skier’s right of the new lift. A new Gorge Glades area will also be part of the improved and expanded terrain.

Improvements related to this project include re-contouring the resort’s Buck ski run, expanding the arrival zone at the top of the hill and adding a fleet of new snow guns with automation capability. Crystal has also invested in a new PistenBully 400 winch cat groomer that can push large amounts of snow uphill, permitting some grooming in steep areas such as the Gorge.

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When skiers need a break to refuel, they’ll be treated to more improvements inside Crystal Mountain’s main lodge. The Wild Tomato has undergone a complete remodel including a brand new kitchen and a new menu with a more locally sourced, seasonal, comfort-food vibe. The recently remodeled Clipper Café has again been improved with more seating near the fireplace.

“We are constantly investing to improve the Crystal experience,” said Chris MacInnes, COO of Crystal Mountain. “With this new lift, more skiable terrain, and enhanced dining at the Wild Tomato and Clipper Café, we continue to make Crystal Mountain the perfect place for families and friends to gather and create moments that matter.”

Crystal is also continuing to invest in its lodging options with more than $1 million dollars in improvements that include completely remodeled Wintergreen units, new public spaces in the Hamlet, and upgrades at the Inn at the Mountain. Other investments include development of Trailside, a residential community located along the Mountain Ridge Golf Course.

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