67 Rescued from Trapped Gondolas at New York Ski Resort
On a blustery Wednesday at Gore Mountain ski resort in New York’s Adirondacks, a mechanical failure trapped 67 skiers in gondolas for hours. The incident, which occurred around 9 a.m., sparked a complex rescue operation that ultimately concluded without injuries.
Details of the Incident
The gondola system, located approximately 90 miles north of Albany, encountered a mechanical issue when the tower wheel assembly became misaligned, triggering safety protocols. As a result, 20 gondolas came to a halt, leaving many skiers stranded.
Rescue Operation
Rescue teams—comprising the resort’s mountain operations personnel and rangers from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation—worked diligently to evacuate the trapped skiers. The operation began with a call for assistance that came in at 9:06 a.m. and was completed before 2 p.m.
- 67 skiers were trapped for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
- Evacuations involved climbers scaling lift towers and rappelling into gondolas.
- Passengers were secured in harnesses and lowered to the ground.
Experiences of the Stranded Skiers
Among those trapped was Dave Higgins, a 73-year-old season ticket holder. He described the incident as an unexpected adventure, noting that he was among the first to board the gondola that morning. Despite the ordeal, he and his fellow passengers managed to remain calm and share light-hearted moments.
Doug Zacker, another skier, shared his experience, stating he was stuck for just under three hours. He appreciated the company of his gondola mate, who offered tips on outdoor activities for future outings.
Resort’s Response and Recovery
Following the rescue, the Olympic Regional Development Authority issued a statement expressing regret for the inconvenience and highlighting their commitment to safety. They assured patrons that their staff is well-trained for emergency situations.
On the day following the incident, the gondola resumed operations under clearer skies and improved weather conditions, with temperatures reaching 23 degrees.
Conclusion
The successful evacuation at Gore Mountain ski resort showcases the resilience and professionalism of both the rescuers and those who were trapped. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported, and skiers were soon back on their way to enjoying the slopes.
