Council Approves Hogadon’s New “Magic Carpet” Lift

Casper City Council has signed off on plans for a new lift at Hogadon Ski Area.

City officials say they hope to persuade younger skiers and snowboarders to the city-owned facility with the new 310-foot conveyer belt-style lift.

Doug Follick directs the city's leisure services department. He says the covered “magic carpet” lift will provide an alternative for skiers not ready for the facility’s antiquated Poma lift.

“Basically, it’s the same concept as you see in airports – the walk-bys in airports,” Follick said. “It’s the easiest lift for beginners, novices and children.”

The lift was a priority recommendation in the new master plan for Hogadon Ski Area. The lift was also recommended by the Leisure Services Advisory Board.

City officials also say the lift will allow Hogadon to expand beginner skier and snowboarder education courses.

The lift carries a $191,150 price tag. Follick says the city will pay for the lift with money from the capital improvement fund set aside for the leisure services department.

Council approved the purchase unanimously on Tuesday.

The city aims to have the new lift installed by the end of the year.