Stevens Pass ski season upgrading lift, launching app for winter

STEVENS PASS — Local skiers and riders can expect to hit the slopes at Stevens Pass as early as Dec. 1, weather permitting.

Stevens Pass Ski Resort has several projects in the works before ski season starts in almost four months, including a new four-seat lift to replace the old two-seater known as Kehr’s Chair, named for Bruce Kehr, who helped construct the ski area’s first rope tow in 1937.

Concrete for the new Kehr’s Chair was finished Wednesday. The resort’s next step is to fly in crossarms and towers in a couple weeks.

The Vail Resorts-owned ski area is also launching a new app this fall. Amanda Bird, a spokesperson, said the MyEpic app will allow people to store their passes or lift tickets on their phones.

“This reduces the need to carry a plastic card, visit the ticket window or wait to receive a pass or lift ticket in the mail,” Bird said in an email Wednesday.

Passes typically range from $379 to $929, depending on the resorts skiers want to access.

Last year, Stevens Pass had a smooth start and opened Dec. 3, despite a tumultuous season in 2021.

Weather delayed the 2021 season start date by two weeks. Staff shortages and long lines also plagued that season.

In response, the resort hired Ellen Galbraith last summer as general manager, who said she would prioritize staff hiring and retention in her new role.

Lift tickets will be limited each day throughout the season, so Bird encouraged people to purchase them in advance.

“We do not anticipate lift tickets will sell out every day at every resort,” Bird said, “however, this will help manage the experience during popular times.”

Skiers have until Sept. 4 to purchase discounted Epic Passes before prices increase.

Ta’Leah Van Sistine: 425-339-3460; taleah.vansistine@heraldnet.com; Twitter: @TaLeahRoseV.

Ta’Leah Van Sistine reports on the environment and climate change for The Daily Herald. Her journalism is supported by the Herald’s Environmental and Climate Reporting Fund. Learn more and donate: heraldnet.com/climate-fund.