Last April, skiers at Mont Tremblant rode the infamous Lowell Thomas chair for the last time. Few will miss the rush of having the spring-loaded boomerang hit them smack in the back or knees.
The North Side lift was named after Lowell Thomas, a well-loved American radio broadcaster and avid skier who often hosted his shows from the Laurentian mountain in its early days, helping to promote the destination. But like those early radio broadcasts, the time had come to modernize the technology. By opening day in November 2018, the old Lowell Thomas triple chair was replaced by a brand-new Doppelmayr detachable quad.
Also this season, Tremblant’s new owner, the Denver-based Alterra Mountain Co., is investing $17 million to improve the resort’s overall operations, including making Tremblant an integral part of the Ikon Pass family.
Tremblant’s natural charms and bon vivant flair are what have always made it unique, and its new owner promises to keep it running smoothly but with strategic upgrades: the mountaintop cafeteria, Le Grand Manitou, for instance, welcomes a big expansion with 400 extra seats. Those who prefer the more rustic North Side base, La Fourchette du Diable will also appreciate renovations. The long list includes a little something for everyone, with expanded natural glade terrain, updated grooming equipment and increased snowmaking coverage.
Patrice Malo, Tremblant’s longtime CEO, seems happy with the new parent company’s short-term action plan. “Alterra Mountain Group agreed to invest here immediately to improve our guests’ experience,” he said, “which speaks volumes on their vision for our community.”
