Rocket & River Chairs Update

In early November, during our annual pre-season prep after all summer maintenance was complete, we discovered potential issues with the bearings on the drive bullwheel (the top terminal) of the Rocket Chair.

While replacing those bearings is a massive undertaking—especially in early winter with limited equipment access—we successfully completed the install to ensure we were ready for the season. Unfortunately, the new bearings revealed a deeper issue within the gear box.

After consulting with several industry experts and gearbox specialists from across the Midwest and the U.P., we have all reached the same conclusion: The Rocket Chair gear box is at the end of its current life and requires a rebuild. Because the timeline for a rebuild is 12–16 weeks once it reaches the factory, Rocket Chair will be out of commission for the duration of this season. And that is some very disappointing news.

I know this is disappointing news for all of us, so I want to share our plan for moving forward and how we are actively working to provide a great experience on the mountain this winter.

River Chair & Night Skiing

The power issues that affected River Chair last season have been fully addressed and resolved. The lift has passed state inspection and maintenance is complete.

Our team is currently focused on moving snow and linking the top of River Chair to Cliffs Ridge and Rocket to get the lift open as soon as possible. Additionally, we are adding lights to the load and unload areas of River Chair so we can operate it for night skiing, a first for River Chair, and helps ensure you have the full Marquette Mountain Night Skiing experience and maximum time on the snow and access to night terrain.

Terrain Access

With River and Snowfield Chairs operating, almost all of our terrain remains accessible. Only three upper runs are affected: Freefall, Upper Rocket, and Upper Snowfield.

Because Upper Rocket and Upper Snowfield are primarily rock faces that require significant man-made snow to become skiable, we are evaluating opening these areas for uphill access this season, including periodic grooming and snowmaking.

A Note of Gratitude

I want to personally thank our staff. They have been working excessive hours in the cold, wind, and rain to groom, make snow, and troubleshoot these mechanical challenges. Seeing employees from every department step up to help has been phenomenal. We also owe a sincere thank you to the industry experts and local contractors who have provided their support and guidance over the last few weeks.

Finally, thank you to our guests. We appreciate your support and patience as we work through these challenges with our aging equipment. Our commitment to you remains: we are working toward a future with three fully operational aerial lifts.

Thank you for being here with us.

Kaet Johnson
General Manager