What is SkiLink?

SkiLink is an 8 passenger gondola connecting Canyons Resort and Solitude Mountain Resort. It creates the most unique interconnected ski network in the United States by providing skiing and snowboarding access to diverse and previously geographically disparate resorts by connecting more than 6,000 combined acres of existing, skiable terrain with a gondola.

“SkiLink creates a game-changing advantage for Utah and for the U.S. snowsport industry,” said Mike Goar, managing director, Canyons, a Talisker Mountain Inc. resort. “It would establish Utah as the most interesting and convenient mountain destination in the U.S. and will positively benefit our local economies. Utah features ‘The Greatest Snow on Earth’ and with SkiLink now delivers an unrivaled skiing experience of the largest expanse of ski terrain in the country.”

By connecting the Canyons Resort in Summit County to Solitude Resort in Big Cottonwood Canyon, they will create a simple, innovative and low-impact solution that will serve the dual purpose of improving recreation access while simultaneously easing traffic conditions. SkiLink is an all-new, exciting transportation initiative designed to ease access and decrease traffic in both Big Cottonwood and Parley’s Canyons, while significantly reducing overall miles driven in the area.

The beauty of the SkiLink solution is that it’s simply an 8 passenger gondola. Yet this gondola is projected to reduce ski season traffic through Big Cottonwood Canyon by as much as 18,000 cars per year, and as much as 10% on peak days. That’s huge for skiers and snowboarders!

To support the connection between Canyons and Solitude resorts, Congressman Rob Bishop who serves as Chairman of the Subcommittee on National Parks and Public Lands, along with House colleague, Representative Jason Chaffetz and Senators Orrin Hatch and Mike Lee jointly introduced House and Senate companion legislation today providing for the sale of 30.3 acres of land at fair market value on which the project will be constructed.

Affect on the Environment

Initially, an estimated 1 million fewer miles will be driven per year by eliminating the need for those in the Summit County area to drive to and through Parley’s Canyon, down to Salt Lake, along the Wasatch Front and finally 15 miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon. This should reduce the emission of greenhouse gasses by around 1 million pounds per year! SkiLink would use only 30.3 acres of land to connect the Canyons to Solitude Mountain Resort and is positioned outside proposed wilderness boundaries.

“The SkiLink vision has been in the works for many years and we are glad to be at a point where we can share the details of the proposed project and express our excitement and enthusiasm for the tremendous experience and benefits it offers for Utah and snowsport enthusiasts from around the globe,” said Goar. “We appreciate the efforts, support and assistance of Rep. Bishop, Sen. Hatch, Sen. Lee and Rep. Chaffetz for introducing this legislation that enables the public process to continue. We look forward to the next phases of the process as we work to further support and add to the amazing recreation opportunities our state can offer.”

About Talisker

Talisker is a lifestyle development company, and owner of Canyons Resort. Talisker has invested substantially in Utah over the last 10 years, and currently employs approximately 2,000 people in Utah. The Robb Report has touted Talisker as the Number 1 mountain community destination experience in the U.S.

About Canyons

Canyons Resort, a Talisker mountain destination, offers 4,000 acres of exceptional skiing and snowboarding terrain, 182 trails, 5 world class lodging properties including 35,000 square feet of flexible meeting space and a variety of dining options. Salt Lake City International Airport is just 35 minutes away and provides unparalleled access from anywhere in the world.

About Solitude Mountain Resort

Solitude Mountain Resort, a year-round, family-friendly destination, receives more than 500 inches of the Greatest Snow on Earth(TM) every year and is located just 40 minutes from the Salt Lake City International Airport.