Nestled in the heart of Jackson, Wyoming, Snow King Mountain has long been a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, especially those who love skiing. But beyond the slopes and snow, Snow King is known for its chairlifts, which over the years have carried skiers up the mountain. However, the early days of these chairlifts were far different than what we know today. In the 1950s through the 1970s, Snow King Chairlifts were known for being daringly unsafe. The absence of safety bars created a thrilling yet precarious ride for skiers, giving a whole new meaning to the term ‘adventure.’ Let’s take a journey back in time through the history of these iconic chairlifts and the evolution of ski resort transportation at Snow King.

The Beginning of Snow King Resort and Its First Chairlift

Snow King Mountain holds the distinction of being the first ski area in Wyoming, a title it earned in 1936. Originally, the ski hill was located on the southeast edge of Jackson, and it quickly became a hotspot for skiing and outdoor recreation. In 1946, Snow King saw a significant transformation when it installed its very first chairlift — a converted ore tram from Colorado.

This innovation marked a turning point for the resort, opening up the mountain to a wider range of skiers. The tram had four stations, each positioned to serve different skill levels — from beginners to more advanced skiers. The presence of this chairlift made Snow King one of the first ski areas in the region to offer modernized ski transportation.

Video

Watch the video “Chairlift- Funny Disasters by Warren Miller” for some hilarious chairlift moments and mishaps.

The Evolution of Snow King Chairlifts: 1950s-1970s

Throughout the 1950s to the 1970s, Snow King continued to evolve its chairlift system to accommodate the growing number of visitors. The resort’s chairlifts were updated several times during these decades, with the original single-person lift being replaced by two-person chairs in 1951. These upgrades allowed for smoother rides and an increase in capacity. However, despite the upgrades, the chairlifts still lacked safety bars, making them a nerve-wracking experience for riders.

One of the most notable improvements occurred in 1978 when the Rafferty Double chairlift was introduced. This lift was located near the Snow King Hotel and opened up new areas of the resort, including a mini-golf course and an alpine slide, adding to the resort’s appeal. Although this upgrade introduced more comfort and ease for skiers, it was still a far cry from the modern safety standards we see today.

In 1981, after decades of service, the old Snow King Chairlift was replaced by a Doppelmayr/Garaventa CTEC Double chairlift. This new lift line crossed over the old one, covering approximately 3/4 of the way up the mountain. The Doppelmayr lift marked the beginning of modern lifts at Snow King, with improved technology and safety measures in place.

The Rafferty Double Chairlift and Modernization in the 1970s

The introduction of the Rafferty Double chairlift in 1978 represented a significant leap forward for Snow King Mountain. It offered riders a faster, more efficient way to reach the mountain’s higher slopes. It was during this time that Snow King began to expand its attractions, offering visitors not only skiing but also activities like mini-golf and an alpine slide. These additions helped the resort cater to a broader audience, including families looking for a fun day out, not just serious skiers.

The Rafferty chairlift remained a key part of the resort until 2014 when it was replaced as part of a larger modernization effort. The replacement was necessary to keep up with the growing demands for better and safer ski lift systems, though the Rafferty chairlift left a lasting legacy in the history of Snow King.

Legacy of the Snow King Chairlifts: Shaping Ski Resort Culture

Snow King’s early chairlifts weren’t just vehicles for skiers; they represented a way of life. Skiing at Snow King during the 1950s through the 1970s was more than a sport — it was an experience. The risks of riding on chairlifts without safety bars made it a rite of passage for many skiers, adding an extra layer of excitement and danger to the adventure. The lack of safety measures may seem alarming by today’s standards, but it also contributed to the mountain’s unique, wild charm.

As Snow King’s chairlifts evolved over the years, they began to shape the ski resort culture of the area. The resort itself became synonymous with the spirit of adventure, and the once-unsafe lifts became a nostalgic part of the experience for those who had grown up with them. Even after the chairlifts were modernized in the 1980s and beyond, the legacy of the early lifts remained a key part of the mountain’s history.

The Evolution of Ski Lift Technology: Snow King and Sun Valley’s First Chairlifts

Snow King was not the only ski resort with a rich history of chairlifts. In fact, Sun Valley, Idaho, was home to the world’s first ski chairlifts, installed in 1936 and 1937. The design for these early lifts was created by James Curran of Union Pacific’s engineering department.

Curran’s innovation, which involved re-engineering banana hooks with chairs and creating a machine with greater capacity than previous ski transport methods, laid the groundwork for modern ski lifts. This early innovation set the stage for the widespread use of chairlifts in ski resorts across North America, including Snow King. Just like the lifts at Sun Valley, Snow King’s chairlifts represented a significant step forward in ski transportation, forever changing the skiing experience.

Gallery: A Visual Journey Through Snow King Chairlifts’ History

This gallery showcases a collection of vintage photos that highlight the evolution of Snow King Chairlifts, the riders, and the resort over the years. From the early days of the single-person lifts to the modern Doppelmayr chairlifts, these images offer a fascinating glimpse into the mountain’s past. Each photo tells a story of the daring spirit of Snow King’s early visitors and the iconic chairlifts that brought them to the slopes.

Photos could include shots of the first chairlift, the upgrades through the 1950s-1970s, and riders enjoying the lifts in the era of no safety bars.

Video

Watch the video “1950s Footage of Bradley Packer-Graders at Winter Park” for a look at vintage snow grooming equipment in action.

Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Snow King’s Chairlift Legacy

Snow King’s chairlifts may no longer be the rickety, barless rides they once were, but their legacy continues to shape the resort’s identity. Today, Snow King remains a beloved destination for skiers and non-skiers alike, offering breathtaking views of the Teton Range and thrilling outdoor activities. The history of the chairlifts, from their humble beginnings to their technological advancements, stands as a testament to the resort’s enduring appeal and adventurous spirit. The vintage photos of Snow King’s chairlifts, captured in a bygone era, serve as a reminder of the wildness and excitement that once defined the ski resort experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a first-time visitor, Snow King Mountain offers a glimpse into the past while embracing the future of outdoor adventure. The story of the chairlifts, once seen as dangerous but exciting, reflects the timeless allure of mountain adventure, where each ride is a step into history.