Golden Eagle Express Gondola Returns: Kicking Horse Resort's Crown Jewel Soars Anew!

Exciting news for winter sports enthusiasts! The iconic Golden Eagle Express Gondola at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is poised for a grand return, welcoming eager skiers and snowboarders back to its carriages this Sunday, January 7th, starting at 10:00 AM. After a temporary hiatus, the resort's vital artery to its vast, breathtaking terrain is ready to soar once more, promising uninterrupted access to some of British Columbia's most exhilarating slopes.

The gondola, a centerpiece of the Kicking Horse experience, had been out of operation since December 31st, 2023, following a mechanical issue that prompted its immediate closure.

Resort management acted swiftly, prioritizing guest safety and engaging expert teams to diagnose and rectify the problem. The incident was specifically attributed to a "sheave assembly" malfunction, a critical component in the lift's operation.

In a testament to rigorous safety protocols and a commitment to operational excellence, the Transportation Safety Board (TSB) and Technical Safety BC were immediately involved, conducting thorough investigations into the mechanical fault.

The extensive repair process necessitated the procurement of a replacement sheave assembly, which was expedited from Europe. Upon its arrival, skilled technicians worked diligently to install the new component, followed by comprehensive inspections and exhaustive testing to ensure the gondola met and exceeded all safety standards before reopening.

The Golden Eagle Express Gondola is more than just a lift; it's the gateway to Kicking Horse's legendary high-alpine environment, renowned for its steep chutes, expansive bowls, and stunning panoramic views.

Its return signifies the full restoration of access to the resort's diverse offerings, allowing guests to fully explore the challenging and rewarding terrain that has made Kicking Horse a world-class destination.

During the gondola's closure, Kicking Horse Resort worked hard to maintain a positive guest experience, keeping other lifts such as the Catamount Chair, Pioneer Chair, and Stairway to Heaven, along with specific access lifts (2B, 3A, 4A, 5A), operational.

The resort acknowledged the inconvenience to its guests, demonstrating its dedication by offering refunds and credits to those affected by the reduced access. This unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction has been a hallmark of their efforts throughout this period.

As the Golden Eagle Express Gondola prepares to whisk eager adventurers up the mountain once again, a palpable sense of excitement fills the air at Kicking Horse.

The reopening marks not just the return of a critical piece of infrastructure, but a triumphant reaffirmation of the resort's promise to deliver unparalleled skiing and snowboarding experiences, safely and reliably, for the remainder of a spectacular winter season.