Powderhorn Mountain Resort in Mesa, Colorado, is auctioning authentic chairs from its retired West End Chairlift to the public.
The sale allows enthusiasts and locals to own a physical piece of the mountain's history as the resort modernizes its infrastructure. Because the West End Chairlift is being replaced, the resort is offering this one-time opportunity to acquire the equipment.
The West End Chairlift has been in operation since 1972 [1]. For over five decades, the lift served as a primary artery for guests accessing the slopes in the Mesa region. The decision to retire the lift marks the end of an era for the facility, which has relied on the machinery for decades of winter seasons.
Resort officials said the chairs are being offered through an auction process. This move ensures that the historic components are distributed among the community and collectors rather than being scrapped. The resort has not specified the total number of chairs available for purchase, but the auction is presented as a unique chance to secure a legacy item from the Colorado slopes.
Powderhorn Mountain Resort continues to update its facilities to improve guest experience and safety. The replacement of the 1972 [1] lift is part of a broader effort to maintain the resort's competitiveness and operational efficiency in the U.S. ski industry.
“The West End Chairlift has been in operation since 1972.”
The auction of the West End Chairlift components reflects a common transition for aging ski resorts balancing heritage with the need for modern safety and capacity standards. By selling the equipment to the public, the resort converts obsolete assets into community memorabilia while clearing the way for updated infrastructure.
