Deer Valley announces early opening of first 6-Pack chairlift and 20 new runs

Deer Valley President and COO, Todd Bennett pointing out the new East Village terrain, part of the Deer Valley expansion. Photo: TownLift

PARK CITY, Utah — Deer Valley Resort announced Thursday it will open new terrain and lifts for the 2024-25 ski season as part of its “Expanded Excellence” initiative. Originally expected to debut in the 2025-26 season, Deer Valley now plans to open three new chairlifts, 20 runs, 300 acres of terrain, and 500 parking spaces a year ahead of schedule.

The 24/25 expansion includes:

– Three new chairlifts
– Over 300 additional ski-able acres
– 20 new ski runs
– 500 more skier parking spots

The new East Village area will provide an alternative access point via U.S. Route 40, aimed at reducing traffic in Park City.

“In just a couple of months, we are looking forward to welcoming our guests to experience the beginning of Deer Valley’s Expanded Excellence vision,” said Todd Bennett, President & COO of Deer Valley Resort.

Keetley Express, the resort’s first 6-person bubble chairlift, is expected to open in December 2024, weather permitting. It will connect the new East Village to existing terrain near the Sultan Express chairlift.

Two other new lifts, Hoodoo Express and Aurora, will serve beginner-level trails and provide return access to East Village.

For the upcoming season, East Village will offer limited amenities including rentals, ski storage, and ticketing. A shuttle will transport guests from new parking areas to lifts and services.

Future Plans:

– 2025-26 season: Six more lifts planned, including a 10-passenger gondola, nearly 100 new runs, and 700 additional parking spaces.
– Upon completion, the expansion will add 3,700 skiable acres, more than doubling the resort’s size.
– This marks Deer Valley’s first terrain expansion since 2008.

The resort will also introduce a new ski in/ski out après-ski experience for 2024-25 and continue upgrading snowmaking, grooming equipment, and employee housing.

Deer Valley will host a community open house on September 12, 2024, from 4 to 6 p.m. MT at Snow Park Lodge to discuss expansion plans.