Zugspitzbahn Bergbahn AG: New Kreuzwankl Ski Express Under Construction
With the end of the ski season, an era is coming to an end: One of the most important lifts in the ski area, the Kreuzwankl Ski Express, is closing for the last day. After more than 25 years of service, the lift has now reached the end of its service life and is due for a complete overhaul. The newly built Kreuzwankl Ski Express is scheduled to return to operation at the start of the 2025/2026 winter season.
The focal point of the Garmisch Classic since 1997
The detachable chairlift was built in 1997 and, with its 1,000-meter track length and a vertical gain of 178 meters, is the first 6-seater chairlift ever built in Germany. During current operation, the maximum passenger capacity is 14,000 to 15,000 guests per day and approximately 2,400 people per hour. The high frequency of novice skiers (given the proximity to the children's area) and the high circulation speed at the valley station led to numerous shutdowns during daily operations. Waiting times at the lift were 20 minutes or more on busy days. The new construction of the facility will improve guest comfort, facilitate boarding, and reduce waiting times.
New Kreuzwankl Ski Express brings more comfort
The new Doppelmayr lift system will be expanded to an 8-seater chairlift and will then transport significantly more guests, with a maximum capacity of 3,000 people per hour. The slower circulation speed at the valley station will make boarding more pleasant for guests. Furthermore, the boarding area is height-adjustable, making boarding more comfortable, especially for ski schools and ski courses, beginners, and children. The goal is to shorten waiting times, avoid shutdowns, and thus ensure smooth operation. The uphill ride on the new system will be shortened by 40 seconds to 3 minutes 10 seconds.
Dismantling and subsequent reconstruction after the end of the season
The complete dismantling of the old facility and the start of extensive civil engineering work will take place in spring 2025. Subsequently, the station buildings and support foundations will be constructed, allowing the new facility to be erected in autumn 2025. Completion of construction work and commissioning of the new facility are planned for the start of the 2025/2026 winter season.
