Little Switzerland Ski Area: Two New Independent Quad Chairlifts to Replace 1-2

Little Switzerland Announces $4 Million Capital Project: Two New Skytrac Quad Chairlifts to Double Uphill Capacity

SLINGER, WI — Little Switzerland Ski Area is thrilled to announce its largest single capital project to date with the installation of two brand new Skytrac quad chairlifts. This significant $4 million investment will replace the resort’s original Lifts 1 and 2 double chairs, marking a major milestone in the hill’s history and setting the stage for a dramatically improved guest experience.

The replacement of the historic 1964 “up-and-over” chairlift—believed to be the first of its kind—is designed to enhance efficiency by more than doubling the uphill capacity for guests.

“Lifts 1 and 2 are special lifts in the history of skiing in southeastern Wisconsin,” said Rick Schmitz, co-owner of Little Switzerland. “I learned to ski on them, and they have served generations of skiers and snowboarders well, but this upgrade is all about continuing to move forward—improving reliability, comfort, and the overall guest experience.”

The new Skytrac quads will offer smoother loading and unloading and provide a major boost to skier throughput. This investment underscores Little Switzerland’s ongoing commitment to reinvesting in its facilities and providing the best possible ski experience. Since re-opening the resort in 2012, the Schmitz Brothers have invested millions into snowmaking, terrain expansion, facilities, parking, guest amenities, and surface lift infrastructure.  

Skytrac has a rich history in aerial lift technology with roots going back nearly four decades as the only new North American aerial ropeway manufacturer to be founded in more than 30 years. Skytrac has lifts across the country and many here in the midwest in Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin.  

In the fall Little Switzerland owner Rick had the pleasure of touring the headquarters for Skytrac which is apart of a larger corporation that includes Leitner-Poma (lifts), Prinoth (grooming machines), & HKD (snowmaking) - all major players in the ski industry!