Bretton Woods announces new ski lift, black diamond glade

Travel

Construction will wrap up in October.

A new lift and black diamond glade will debut next season at the ski resort ranked the best in New Hampshire by Boston.com readers.

Bretton Woods is replacing its Bethlehem Express Quad (BEQ), a resort staple for more than 35 years, with the new BEQ II lift, a four-person Leitner-Poma detachable quad. Construction of the lift will be completed by October, according to the resort.

Boston.com readers named Bretton Woods the No. 1 ski resort in New Hampshire earlier this year.

The new lift will transport 1,800 people per hour, “helping to reduce wait times and improve slope access,” according to a statement.

Both the top and bottom terminals of the lift will be moved in an effort to improve the guest experience. The bottom terminal will move 75 feet uphill to alleviate guest congestion at the base (and provide a smoother transition into the Skyway Gondola and Zephyr Express). The top terminal will move downhill about 75 feet for an easier exit more suitable for beginners.

What’s more: A black diamond glade will debut between Upper Swoop and Upper Express, which “adds an exciting challenge for advanced skiers and snowboarders,” according to the statement.

“We are beyond excited to introduce the BEQ II as part of our ongoing commitment to providing consistent, reliable, and safe lift operations for our guests,” Alexa Bernotavicz, assistant director of ski operations at Bretton Woods, said in a statement. “This project marks a big step forward in our effort to elevate the skiing and snowboarding experience here at Bretton Woods.”

Bretton Woods, the largest ski area in New Hampshire, is located near the historic Omni Mt. Washington Hotel and offers 464 acres of skiing and riding, 10 lifts, 63 trails, and 35 glades. The 52-year-old ski area is well known for its famous view of Mount Washington and the Presidential Range. It was named among the top 30 ski resorts in the U.S. by Conde Nast Traveler.

Kristi Palma

Culture writer

 

Kristi Palma is a culture writer for Boston.com, focusing on New England travel. She covers airlines, hotels, and things to do across Boston and New England. She is the author of Scenic Six, a weekly travel newsletter.