Nearly 70 Skiers Rescued After Gondola Malfunction Strands Them Midair at Gore Mountain
NORTH CREEK, N.Y. — Nearly 70 skiers found themselves suspended in midair for five hours on Wednesday morning after a mechanical malfunction halted a gondola at Gore Mountain, one of New York’s premier ski destinations. The incident began shortly after 9 a.m. when a mechanical alignment problem triggered a safety sensor, causing the gondola to stop automatically, according to a statement from the Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA), which manages the resort.
The gondola was carrying approximately 67 guests across roughly 20 cabins when it abruptly ceased operation. Resort officials immediately initiated a standard evacuation protocol, deploying trained mountain operations and ski patrol teams to assist the stranded passengers. The evacuation effort was conducted carefully and methodically to ensure the safety of all riders.
All skiers were successfully brought back to the ground without injury, the ORDA confirmed. The swift response and coordination among rescue teams were crucial in preventing panic and ensuring a safe resolution to the incident. Gore Mountain is well-known for its extensive ski terrain and modern lift infrastructure, but this event highlighted the challenges of operating complex mechanical systems in mountainous environments.
Mechanical failures in ski lift systems, while rare, are taken seriously by operators and regulatory agencies. The National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) provides guidelines and safety standards to minimize risks associated with ski lifts and gondolas. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration also oversees workplace safety regulations that apply to ski resorts and their equipment maintenance.
Gondola evacuations require specialized training and equipment, often involving rope rescue techniques and coordination with local emergency services. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation supports mountain rescue efforts in the Adirondack region, where Gore Mountain is located. This incident underscores the importance of rigorous safety protocols and emergency preparedness in outdoor recreational settings.
While this event disrupted the day for many winter sports enthusiasts, the absence of injuries was a testament to the professionalism of the ski patrol and resort staff. Visitors to Gore Mountain can find updates and safety information through the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, which oversees the management of the state-operated resort.
As winter sports continue to draw large crowds to mountainous regions, incidents like the one at Gore Mountain serve as reminders of the critical role that safety systems and emergency response teams play in protecting visitors. For more information on ski lift safety and rescue operations, the Federal Aviation Administration provides resources related to aerial lift inspections and standards that apply to gondola systems.
Authorities are investigating the mechanical alignment issue that caused the malfunction to prevent future occurrences. Meanwhile, Gore Mountain remains a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders seeking the thrill of the Adirondacks’ slopes and scenic vistas.
Leave a Reply