At the beginning of March Big Sky Resort began a new pilot program for the Tram called Fast Pass. The Fast Pass is a complimentary pass for a reserved timeslot on the Lone Peak Tram available to season pass holders and one-day ticket holders at no extra charge. The Fast Pass reserves the skier a timeslot between 10:45am and 3pm Saturdays and Sundays, running in 15-minute increments and weather depending for a ride on the Tram. Fast Pass timeslots will take up 1/3 of the tram’s capacity/ 60 people per hour, ensuring that both Fast Pass holders and skiers without a reserved timeslot will be able to get on the Tram quickly and efficiently.

Fast Passes are distributed at a designated Fast Pass window on the south side of Snowcrest Lodge on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests are limited to one Fast Pass per day, and are given a 30-minute grace period from their assigned timeslot until their pass expires. Guests who are interested in taking a scenic Tram ride and do not wish to ski down may visit the Tram between 3:00pm and 3:30pm, after the Tram is closed to skiers, no Fast Pass is required for this time.

The initial reaction to this pilot program was very negative, stemming from a lack of understanding of how it was intended to work. Comparisons to Disneyland were made, many thought that the Fast Pass was something that needed to be purchased in addition to a lift ticket, and many regular Tram riders voiced concerns for increased wait time. Since the program has been explained more clearly much of the discomfort for locals has subsided, and as with many new programs the kinks will be worked out in time.

We have included some of the most Frequently asked questions about Fast Pass to help answer additional questions you may have. Please visit the Bozeman magazine facebook page to share your thoughts about the Big Sky Tram and the new Fast Pass program.

Lone Peak Tram Fast Pass FAQs

Why Fast Pass?
Riding the Lone Peak Tram is one of Big Sky’s iconic experiences, and Fast Pass will help ensure that even guests here for a short time have the chance to enjoy the Tram without spending their entire ski day in a line. With big season pass sales every spring, Big Sky has seen more skier visits than ever, and more people riding the Tram.   Fast Pass will help Big Sky uphold its reputation for short waits, regardless of how may skiers are on the mountain.

How many Fast Passes can I get in a day?
One Fast Pass per lift ticket or pass per day.

How do I get a Fast Pass?
After you have purchased your lift ticket or season pass, you may reserve a time slot by getting a Fast Pass in the morning from designated Fast Pass window on south side of Snowcrest Lodge. Fast Passes are not available at all ticket windows. They may only be reserved the day of   starting at 8:30 am and are first come, first served.

When can I get a Fast Pass?
Saturdays and Sundays in April. Designated window opens at 8:30 am. They go quickly, so line up early.

Is the Fast Pass all that I need?
First you need a lift ticket or pass for skiing that day in addition to your Fast Pass. Lift tickets are available at other standard guest service windows.

What if I miss my time slot?
Your pass expires precisely 30 minutes after its assigned time. If you miss it, you may still ride the tram by waiting in the regular line. Time slots will not be extended for any reason, even chair closures due to weather.

Angie Ripple is co-publisher and infrequent contributor to Bozeman magazine. She is passionate about skiing although this years season was thwarted by pregnancy and lack of precipitation, she hopes to use a Fast Pass next season to enjoy Liberty Bowl at its finest.