Highest ski lift in U.S. officially opens

This is an article that appeared in The Denver Post, December 6, 2005.

Breckenridge - The highest ski lift in North America officially opened on Monday [Dec. 5], introducing newcomers to a longtim locals' secret of high-alpine bowl skiing at Breckenridge ski resort.

The Imperial Express, which tops out at 12,840 feet, had been open for short periods last week, but attracted a crowd for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and first tracks in fresh powder on Monday.

"It was soft, soft snow" said resort spokeswoman Nicky DeFord. "We've gotten 3 feet of snow in the past week."

Built with particularly rugged design to withstand avalanches and Breckenridge's notorious wind, the new lift is expected to operate at least 90 days this season, depending on snow conditions and visibility.