HESPERUS, Colo. — A small ski area in southwest Colorado will not be opening this season because its only chairlift is not working.
Hesperus Ski Area announced Wednesday that it would be closed for the entire 2023-2024 ski season due to a mechanical failure of the Bighorn Chairlift gearbox.
The ski area said in a release that it has been unable to find a compatible replacement for the gearbox, which serves as the lift's transmission and is crucial for its operation. The only viable option is to re-manufacture the original gearbox, according to the ski area, making it impossible to open this season.
The gearbox failure was discovered after Hesperus invested more than $100,000 in capital improvements for lift maintenance in preparation for the season.
"Hesperus Ski Area wishes to express its deepest gratitude to its loyal passholders, guests, and employees for their ongoing support," the ski area said in the release. "We understand the disappointment that this closure may bring, and we are determined to address the current challenges and welcome skiers and riders back to Hespie in the future."
Hesperus is now working with Purgatory Resort to provide alternative options for passholders to ski and ride this winter, as well as opportunities for ski patrollers and employees.
Opened in 1962, Hesperus Ski area is located 11 miles west of Durango on Highway 160. It has 13 trails and 60 skiable acres.
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