Aspen SkiCo Advances Plans for New Chairlift
Aspen Skiing Company’s proposal to replace the Little Nell and Bell Mountain chairlifts with a new high-speed quad took a step forward this week. The Pitkin County Board of Commissioners voted 3-0 in favor of the project, paving the way for construction to begin in 2026 pending further approvals. The lift, planned to run parallel to the Silver Queen Gondola, is expected to dramatically reduce wait times and improve the skier experience.
The new high-speed quad would stretch 8,297 feet and carry up to 1,800 people per hour.
It would replace both the Bell Mountain chair, a 1986 installation, and the Little Nell chair, which runs only 25–30 days annually.
County officials expressed concern about impacts on popular community events, but SkiCo committed to continuing support.
Construction is expected to begin in 2026 following environmental and city approvals.
By modernizing its lift system, Aspen SkiCo aims to improve mountain access while preserving the traditions and events that make the resort unique.