SipaPu ski & Summer REsort MASTER DEVELOPMENT PLAN. Prepared by Sipapu

Transcription

1 SipaPu ski & Summer REsort MASTER DEVELOPMENT PLAN Prepared by Sipapu APRIL 2012 Ski and Summer Resort

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4 Sipapu Ski and Summer Resort Master Development Plan Submitted April 2012 Submitted by: Sipapu Ski and Summer Resort Highway 518, Route Box 29 Vaditio, NM Prepared by: John Paul Bradley Research and Narrative Joshua Sammons Maps i

5 Table of Contents Section Page 1. Introduction 1 Location and Regional Context 1 Resort Summary 1 Historical Perspective 2 Timeline of Sipapu s Past MDP and Roadless Rules 3 Summary of Proposed Master Development Plan 5 Goals and Objectives 8 Purpose and Need for Expansion 8 Forest Service-Issued Special Use Permit 10 Figure #1: Sipapu s Location Site Inventory 12 Soils and Topography 12 Vegetation 12 Wildlife 13 Climate/Solar Analysis 13 Slope Gradients 14 Map II-1: Slope Aspect 15 Map II-2: Slope Gradient Mountain Planning Parameters 17 Trail Parameters 17 Lift and Trail Parameters 18 Base Area and On-Mountain Skier Facilities 20 Terrain Parks 20 Capacity Measurement 21 Area Facilities Balance Existing Ski Area Facilities 22 Review of Current Skiers at One Time 22 Existing Lifts 22 Existing Ski Trails 25 Skiers at One Time 31 Base Area and On-Mountain Skier Facilities 32 Parking 36 Grooming Operations 37 Existing Snowmaking System 38 Summer Activities 40 Existing Utilities 41 Area Facilities Balance 42 Map IV-1: Existing SUP Area Conditions 43 ii

6 5. Proposed Development Plan 44 Proposed Special Use Permit Boundary 44 Map V-6: New Special Use Permit Boundary 45 Lift Infrastructure 46 Proposed Ski Trails 52 Map V-1: Proposed Changes to Existing SUP Area 60 Map V-2: Proposed Expansion Area Infrastructure 61 Skiers at One Time 62 Base Area and On-Mountain Skier Facilities 62 Parking 66 Grooming Operations 67 Snowmaking 68 Map V-3: Existing SUP Area Proposed Snowmaking Upgrade Plan 73 Map V-4: Proposed SUP Snowmaking & Utilities 74 Summer Activities 75 Utilities 78 Map V-5: Existing SUP Area Existing and Proposed Infrastructure & Utilities 79 Area Facilities Balance Statement 80 Appendix 81 Glossary 90 iii

7 SipaPu ski & Summer REsort MASTER DEVELOPMENT PLAN Introduction

8 1. Introduction The purpose of this Master Development Plan (MDP) is to provide future direction for the development of Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort (Sipapu). The MDP provides a thorough assessment of existing operations and facilities at Sipapu and identifies a comprehensive plan for future improvements to the resort. The MDP will provide the general location of proposed facilities, project anticipated capacity figures, environmental concerns, and longterm development plans. The detailed design or fine-tuning of existing services will be accomplished as a part of the detailed yearly operating plan. With the exception of private land at the base area, the entirety of Sipapu s existing lift, trail and infrastructural network is operated on public lands under a Special Use Permit (SUP) from the Carson National Forest. The MDP has been prepared in compliance with the terms and conditions of Sipapu s Forest Service-issued SUP. This document replaces Sipapu s MDP, which was submitted in May of It is important to note that the Forest Service s acceptance of this MDP does not convey approval of any projects contained herein. Implementation of any projects on National Forest System (NFS) lands within Sipapu s SUP Area is contingent upon site-specific environmental review and approval via the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). This MDP is a dynamic document, which may be amended periodically to accommodate technological innovations and evolved guest expectations over the ten- to fifteen-year planning scope. A. Location & Regional Context Sipapu is located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains on the Camino Real Ranger District of the Carson National Forest on National Forest System (NFS) lands under the jurisdiction of the Carson National Forest in Taos County, New Mexico. The resort is approximately 22 miles southeast of the town of Taos. Access to the resort is via New Mexico State Highway 518. Travel time from Taos is roughly 30 minutes. Figure #1 (page 11) illustrates the location of the ski area and regional context. B. Resort Summary Sipapu s Special Use Permit includes approximately 215 acres of NFS lands. The resort facilities include two triple chairs, one fix-grip surface lift and one high-speed detachable surface lift. Elevations range from 8,200 feet at the base area to 9,255 feet at the top of the highest chair lift (Lift #4), giving a lift-served vertical drop of 1,055 feet. Developed terrain includes 30 trails and 11 gladed tree runs, totaling roughly 76.7 acres. The terrain classification breakdown by percentage is roughly: 19% beginner/novice, 46% intermediate, and 35% advanced/expert. Summer activities include special events, conferences, weddings, family reunions, bike rallies, and a disc golf course. 1

9 Skier-supported facilities on private land located within the Sipapu lodge include an equipment rental shop, the Sipapu Riverside Café and Bar, a general store and service station. Additionally, on private land there are four parking lots and 44 lodging units that can house approximately 250 guests. Additional lodging is available in the towns of Taos, and Las Vegas. Ski areas in the regional vicinity of Sipapu include: Taos Ski Valley, Red River, Angel Fire, Santa Fe, and Pajarito. C. Historical Perspective The National Forest Land affected by this proposal was originally a part of the Santa Barbara Grant that dates from the late 1700 s. Most of the Santa Barbara Grant was purchased by the Santa Barbara Tie and Pole Company in 1906 and later became National Forest land through a land exchange in The exchange, subject to an easement given for all existing ditches, roads, highways or other right-of-ways, was made. The private land upon which Sipapu s lodge is located is a small holding claim, patented in The first cabins and lodge were built in Sipapu Ski and Summer Resort first operated as Sipapu Ski Area under a Special Use Permit granted by the US Forest Service (USFS) to Lloyd Bolander in June of That winter, a portable rope tow was installed on National Forest lands. Between 1957 and 1975, several rope tows and other surface lifts were installed, utilizing the slopes up to an elevation around 8,400 feet. Sipapu Recreation Development Incorporated (SRD), owned by Lloyd, Olive, and Bruce Bolander, was incorporated in 1960 to include members of the family as owners. In 1975, the area doubled in size with the installation of a Poma surface lift. The lift was 2,800 feet long and had a vertical rise of 800 feet. In March of 1980, the Forest Service issued the ski area a 30-year special use permit. In 1983, Sipapu s first chair lift was installed to increase skier capacity; this lift still is the primary lift used today. From , clearing took place, producing most of the trails that are accessible from Lift # 1 today. From , SRD owned and operated Sipapu. SRD II became the primary owner and operator of Sipapu in 2000, and with this transition, the legal name became Sipapu Recreation Development II LLC. In February of 2002, Lift #3 and Lift # 4 lift construction and trail development were largely completed. At that time, the permit boundary was adjusted. The Lift #3 area provides some much-needed beginner terrain, and the Lift #4 area primarily services advanced tree skiing. In the fall of 2010, a Magic Carpet conveyor lift was installed to assist ski school and beginner skiers in the lesson area. 2

10 D. Timeline of Sipapu s Past MDP and Roadless Rules This MDP is the second MDP that Sipapu has submitted to the Forest Service since the inception of the ski area. An MDP is required when an SUP is issued and any expansion must be included in an MDP. In May 1990, the Sipapu Recreation Development Corporation (SRD), according to regulations set forth by the Forest Service, submitted a Sipapu Master Development Plan Proposal (SMDP) to the USFS. The SMDP represented a conceptual guide intended to identify the needs and concerns that the permittee foresaw over the next 5-20 years, including expansion. Since the submittal of the 1990 SMDP, several important decisions and policies have changed. The following timeline provides an overview of the acceptance process to date: Sipapu Ski Area Timeline 1952 Sipapu Ski Area opens. March 1980 May 1990 The Forest Service issues the ski area a 30-year Special Use Permit. Sipapu submits a Master Development Plan (MDP) to the Forest Service. The proposal includes expanding the authorized area from 185 to 977 acres, two new parking areas, new lifts and ski trails, new restaurant, ski patrol building, well, and waste water system on NFS land The Forest Service prepares an Environmental Impact Statement on the projects submitted by Sipapu in February 1995 Later, 1995 July 2000 October 2000 January 2001 The Forest Supervisor signs a Record of Decision (ROD), approving the 977 acres of permit area, four lifts, 220 acres of skiing terrain, and 1.5 acres of parking on NFS lands. The ROD was appealed. The Forest Supervisor withdrew the decision pending the preparation of an ethnographic study on the Rio Pueblo Canyon. The Camino Real District approves the Summer Work Plan, which involves relocating an existing surface lift, installing one short chair lift, clearing or thinning trees for ski trails and lifts over 23 acres, and modifying the boundary for 30 acres on NFS land to encompass the new improvements. No NEPA was completed, as work was considered within the scope of the approved summer work plan. The New Mexico Winter Sports Alliance writes a letter to Chief Dombeck, urging removal of the Sipapu expansion area from consideration in the Roadless Area Conservation Rule. The Roadless Area Conservation Rule is published in the Federal Register. This rule directed the Forest Service to manage RARE II Inventoried Roadless Area s (IRA) for their roadless characteristics. In response to public comments about ski areas (including Sipapu specifically), the Rule allows for ski area development, including road construction, if the work occurs within a special use permit area which existed prior to the Rule s publication date, or in an area where the activities had been anticipated and described in an authorized ski area s master plan, even if a specific decision authorizing the activity has not been made by the publication date. 3

11 July 2001 August 2001 September 2001 The Forest Supervisor withdraws approval of the 2000 Summer Work Plan and informs the ski area that future actions are not approved because no NEPA was completed on the activities. Sipapu Lodge and Ski Area files suit in U.S. District Court seeking preliminary injunction of the Forest Service s suspension of approval. The Federal District Court grants preliminary injunction, allowing construction to be completed in time for the ski season. The Court also orders the Forest Service to complete an environmental analysis for the work in the 2000 Summer Work Plan. August 2003 The Forest Supervisor signs a Decision Notice for the already-completed 2000 summer work plan. This decision was appealed. November 2003 The Appeal Deciding Officer upholds the Forest Supervisor s decision on the 2000 summer work plan. Included among the appeals are allegations that the work and the approval were contrary to the Roadless Rule. The Deciding Officer determines that the EA had properly analyzed the impact of 30 acres of development in the Comales Inventoried Area, the work there did not constitute road construction, and that the tree clearing was incidental to an activity that was not prohibited by the Roadless Rule. September 2004 The 1986 Ski Area Act Permit is issued to Sipapu. Authorization is issued for a 40- year term. However, a permit clause provides the ski area six years to complete a MDP, noting that failure of the holder to comply with any or all provisions of this clause shall cause the authorization to terminate under its terms. The ski area boundary was also adjusted to include the work that was done in March 2009 May 2009 August 2009 January 2010 March 2010 The Camino Real District notifies Sipapu that, while it was accepted in 1990, the MDP and included projects and expansion were not approved, and that the MDP is no longer acceptable. In addition, Sipapu is informed that the Forest Service will not consider an MDP which includes designated roadless areas, given the ongoing legal controversy over this issue. The Secretary of Agriculture issues a memorandum, rendering himself as the final authority for all road construction and reconstruction, as well as timber cutting, sale, or removal in 2001 Inventoried Roadless Areas. Later clarification notes that tree cutting, sales, or removal in existing special use permit areas may be approved by the local line officer. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals overturns the 2005 Roadless regulations, effectively reinstating the 2001 Roadless Rule. Sipapu management meets with the Regional Forester, the Forest Supervisor, and other Carson personnel to discuss the resort operations and the future vision of the area. Carson National Forest Supervisor notifies the resort that its MDP could include proposed development within the Inventoried Roadless Area. Because of the conflicting Federal court decisions on the implementation of the 2001 Roadless Rule, the MDP will be reviewed by the Washington Office and Regional Office for consistency with the court decisions. 4

12 September 2010 Sipapu submits a Draft Master Development Plan to Carson National Forest to meet the requirements set forth by the 1986 Ski Area Act Permit issued to Sipapu in 2004, requiring the ski area to submit a new MDP within six years. E. Summary of Proposed Master Development Plan To comply with the terms of the National Forest Ski Area Permit Act (16 USC 497b) FSM e. this proposed plan updates the 1990 Master Development Plan. The following is a summary of the proposed MDP: Chapter 2 describes the site inventory of the resort. Chapter 3 describes the mountain planning parameters. Chapter 4 describes the existing conditions at Sipapu Ski Area and assesses the balance of resort operations, amenities, and infrastructure including apparatus such as lifts, guest services, snowmaking, and parking capacities. Chapter 4 also provides us with the information from which the planning strategies for future upgrades are based. Chapter 5 describes the proposed future development of Sipapu Ski Area. The proposed projects within this MDP include: 1. Permit Boundary Expanding the current ski area boundary from 215 acres to include approximately additional acres. Total acreage will be approximately 1,138.5 acres, most of which are within the Carson Forest Plan s Management Area 15 and designated for ski area expansion. 2. Lifts Constructing three new lifts on National Forest lands. One entirely within the existing permit boundary, one within the new and existing permit boundary and one entirely within the new SUP. Increasing Lift #1 s current capacity and seating of 81 chairs to its original design capacity and seating of 107 chairs, and eventually replace the lift with detachable technology. Upgrade or Replacing Lift # 2 with a small chair lift or conveyor lift to improve beginner experience. Replacing the existing Lift #3 with a chair lift. 5

13 3. Terrain Constructing new trail segments within the existing SUP Area to increase needed beginner terrain. New trails within the existing SUP Area will total approximately 6.88 acres. Converting portions of existing tree skiing trails within the existing SUP into ski trails that can be groomed and maintained with snow groomers. Modified tree skiing trails within the existing SUP Area will total approximately acres. Implementing trail-widening projects across the existing SUP Area to improve skier flow and snow management on existing trails. Trail widening will total approximately 3.67 acres. Performing grading projects on trails within the existing SUP to improve slider circulation. Grading projects within the existing SUP will total approximately 3.67 acres. Creating new gladed areas between existing trails throughout the existing SUP. The total acreage of gladed areas will equal approximately 17 acres. Constructing a new trail network within the new SUP Area. The total new trail acreage in the new SUP Area will be equivalent to approximately 199 acres. 4. Snowmaking Within the existing SUP, installing below-ground snowmaking pipelines on the following existing trails: Bambi Beep Beep Butterfly Candy Flower Gamble Trees Howdy Lift #3 Lift Line Loose Caboose Practice Slope Salt Lick Sassafras Smart Chicken Thumper 6

14 Constructing a one million-gallon storage tank for holding snowmaking water in the Lift # 3 area. Installing primary power on existing and proposed ski trails to improve snowmaking power supply as improvements become necessary. Installing below-ground snowmaking pipelines within the proposed SUP trail network. Installing infrastructure necessary for the proposed snowmaking system within the existing SUP and the proposed SUP. Items will include pumps, hydrants, electrical lines, electrical pedestals, pump houses, water tanks, below ground vaults, etc. 5. Infrastructure Constructing a building in the existing ski school area. This will be used for a much-needed children s ski school center. Constructing a new lift operator building at the bottom of Lift #1 that can house a lift operator locker room and Lift # 1 bottom operator station. Constructing a 2,700 square-foot skier service building/ski patrol building at the top of the new SUP Area. It will include self-composting toilets. Constructing a deck at the bottom of Lift # 3 to be used by guests with sack lunches. This deck will have a small grill for busy days of operation. Constructing a snow cat shop located between Lower Oops and Salt Lick. Sipapu will bury primary power at the same time. Developing three parking areas (4.12 acres total) on National Forest lands. 6. Summer Operations Installing a new 20-hole disc golf course located within the existing permit area. Constructing mountain bike trails on the new and existing SUP Area. Constructing a zip line course from the top of the Pedro Park Lift to the base area. Constructing a summer tubing hill operation on Lower Thumper, serviced by Lift # 2. 7

15 F. Goals and Objectives A ski area master development plan involves planning the removal or replacement of existing equipment, integrated with the addition of new facilities over time. Modern mountain resorts require the most efficient and user-friendly lifts and trail systems possible, with a balance of terrain type and variety, adequate parking and skier service facilities. The objectives of the Sipapu Ski and Summer Resort Master Development Plan are as follows: Optimize the utilization and operational efficiency of the existing ski area infrastructure. Balance lift and trail capacities wherever possible. Provide maximum capacity for minimum capital and operating costs. Provide base staging facilities in balance with mountain access and capacity requirements. Continue to increase the quality of the facilities to meet the ever-increasing expectations of the local and destination skier markets. Increase the quality of the beginner facilities and terrain. Provide other recreational activities for year-round utilization of the facilities. G. Purpose and Need for Expansion The National Forest Ski Area Permit Act, along with a variety of other laws and regulations, calls for the Forest Service to work with private industry to provide needed recreation facilities, including downhill ski areas, on suitable lands. The Forest Service s responsibility in considering Sipapu s application for a new Master Development Plan and SUP is to ensure that the proposal is consistent with the management objectives and directions in the Carson National Forest Land Management Plan (Carson Forest Plan) and that the proposed expansion is in the public s interest. The existing permit area for Sipapu Ski Area is located within Management Area 16 (Existing Recreation Sites) designated in the Carson Forest Plan. The proposed action would take place in the Comales Inventoried Roadless Area, the majority being in Management Area 15 (Potential Recreation Sites) and small areas within Management areas 7 (Unsuitable Timber), 14 (Riparian), 20 (Semi-Primative). The Carson Forest Plan identifies the general area as suitable for expansion. Sipapu Ski Area has identified the need for expansion for the following reasons: 8

16 To improve the skiing experience by adding more terrain. Currently, Sipapu Ski Area has roughly 76.7 acres of skiable terrain: 19% (14.57 acres) is classified as beginner/novice, 46% (35.28 acres) is intermediate, and 35% (28.84 acres) is advanced/expert. The proposed action would increase the amount of skiable terrain to acres. The intent of this proposal is to improve the skiing experience at Sipapu Ski Area by increasing more beginner and intermediate trails for novice and family skiers. To do so, Sipapu would increase the proportion of beginner /novice and intermediate terrain to 30.1 % (83.3 acres) and 57% percent (157.8 acres), respectively. Sipapu Ski Area expects new lifts, trails and a skier service building would improve the variety of terrain and better disperse skiers on the mountain. To accommodate the Skier At One Time (SAOT) growth rate. Over the last ten seasons, Sipapu has seen an increase in annual skier visits of 275%. The average mid-week skier count has gone from an average of 90 skiers per day during the season to an average of 190 skiers per day in the season. The most noticeable change in skier visits has been seen during peak weekends and holiday periods, where we saw an average of 264 skiers per day during the season, and last season we saw an average of 508 skiers per day. Sipapu s SAOT has been determined to be 754 skiers per day. Currently, it is just starting to exceed the current SAOT, and we anticipate Sipapu will continue to exceed it on a more regular basis as it grows. By being proactive, the quality experience that skiers enjoy at Sipapu will not be compromised or lost. Using the Proposed Development Plan figures, Sipapu s new proposed SAOT would be increased to approximately 4,262 skiers. To continue accommodating families and local skier demand. Sipapu has traditionally been a family ski area due to its emphasis on low cost (in comparison to the industry) and its reputation as an uncrowded day destination for local skiers. It presently offers the most inexpensive lift ticket price of any downhill ski area in New Mexico. These low rates attract local and family-oriented skiers, but its small size prevents Sipapu from retaining the same clientele over a period of time. To maintain economic viability. Sipapu Ski Area wants to ensure that a viable ski area is maintained to serve skiers and summer visitors. Over 100 small ski areas such as Sipapu have gone out of business in the United States over the last 20 years due to competition with larger ski areas, which offer more skiing terrain and amenities. The changing composition and expectations of ski area users indicate a demand for more varied and higher quality alpine skiing opportunities than are now available at Sipapu Ski Area. In order to continue operation and to maintain Sipapu as a viable economic enterprise, the ski area feels it must meet the current and future needs of skiers. 9

17 H. Forest Service-Issued Special Use Permit The Forest Supervisor is authorized to manage the Carson National Forest in accordance with applicable laws and regulations set forth by Congressional legislation and Executive policy. The authority to make a decision on this proposal is found in the National Forest Ski Area Act of 1986 (16 USC 497b), Multiple-Use Sustained-Yield Act of June 12, 1960 (16 USC ) and the National Forest Management Act of 1976 (16 USC ). The National Forest Ski Area Permit Act of 1986 authorizes the Forest Supervisor to issue long-term permits for the purposes of alpine skiing development. The Multiple-Use Sustained-Yield Act states in the policy that National Forests are established and shall be administered for recreation (and other) purposes. The National Forest Management Act provides for development of long range plans for forest management, and the Carson Forest Plan was completed and released in October Acceptance of this proposal will meet the objectives of the Carson Forest Plan Management Area 15 to approve and monitor the proposed expansion of Sipapu Ski Area. The Forest Service s responsibility in considering Sipapu s application for a new Master Development Plan is to ensure that the proposal is consistent with the management objectives and directions in the Carson Forest Plan and that the proposed expansion is in the public s interest. 10

18 Figure #1: Sipapu s Location 11

19 SipaPu ski & Summer REsort MASTER DEVELOPMENT PLAN Site Inventory

20 2. Site Inventory The inventory stage includes identifying, analyzing and mapping all on-site and off-site factors that may affect the development potential of Sipapu Ski and Summer Resort. The inventory data includes the land status, climate, solar analysis, slope gradients, as well as an analysis of the existing ski area. The area identified for mountain planning purposes encompasses approximately 1,138.5 acres, of which 215 acres are currently within the existing Sipapu Ski Area SUP. As an introduction to discussing the mountain s characteristics, it is appropriate to become familiar with the basic requirements of ski area development. Ski area development is generally considered to be a non-consumptive resource of the land. The development of ski lifts and ski trails requires the use of approximately 40 percent of the area in small, heavily developed zones. Ski lift right-of-ways are generally 40 to 50 feet in width, while ski trails vary between 100 and 200 feet wide. Subsequent to rough grading by practices selected for each site, the trails require fine grooming and, in some cases, seeding to establish a grass cover. This grass cover prevents erosion, helps minimize hazards, helps prevent damage to the skier s and snowboarder s equipment during low snowpack periods, and helps the resort to avoid possible damage to the area s snow grooming fleet. Ski lifts are generally aerial cable systems used to transport skiers/snowboarders up the mountain, with steel towers and concrete foundations every 150 to 250 feet. Ski area base area development generally includes parking lots, buildings for accommodations, a day lodge and a maintenance center. Additionally, appropriate power and water supply and sewage disposal facilities are required to support any base area improvements. The physical site characteristics discussed in this section all interact to aid the resort when assessing the capability of the natural systems to support resort development. A. Soils and Topography The Terrestrial Ecosystem Survey of the Carson National Forest describes the current ski area and proposed development area as being Eurtic Glossoboralfs. The soil structure consists of moderately deep and deep well-drained soils that formed in the residuum of sandstone and conglomerate deposits. In the existing development area, the slope ranges from 15% to 80% while the largest portion of the area falls into the 15% to 40% range. The soil is highly productive and responds well to most management activities. B. Vegetation Except for small openings, the area is a mixed conifer type. Douglas-fir and Aspen are the main species, with Ponderosa Pine, White fir, Spruce and Corkbark fir occurring in lesser degrees. The timber varies in age and stand composition. There are some stands of large aspen and white fir with a Douglas-fir understory. 12

21 C. Wildlife Before the development of Sipapu Ski Area, most of the slopes involved in the ski area were covered with dense stands of Douglas-fir, Spruce, scattered Ponderosa pine, and Aspen stands. Wildlife inhibiting this area include elk, mule deer, black bear, bobcat, coyote, fox, turkeys, various hawks, grouse, squirrel, and several species of small rodents. Less common predators include mountain lion and golden eagles. Small mammals include snowshoe hares, cottontail rabbits, chipmunks, ground squirrels, and ermine. Threatened or endangered wildlife species are not known to reside at this time within the proposed expansion area, based on the habitat type, threatened or endangered species possibly could reside in the area. Big game primarily use the dense timber stands as refuge and the large stands of aspen are used for feeding areas. The construction of new ski trails and lift lines in the dense timber creates openings in the forest canopy. After construction, the vegetation measures and the increased density of grasses, forbs, and shrubs along the openings improve habitat diversity for big game. D. Climate/Solar Analysis A solid understanding of our local microclimate provides an essential part in the planning process. Essentially, microclimate is the climate near the ground where surface influences, such as rivers, vegetation, mountain slopes and valley, have a dramatic influence on the local climate as experienced by individuals on the earth s surface. Slope aspects play a vital role in snow quality and retention. An assortment of exposures provides opportunity to supply a range of slope aspects that can respond to the changes in sun angle, temperature, wind direction, and shadows. As a general rule, south slopes are the warmest, eastern and western slopes the next warmest and northern slopes the coolest. Snowpack retention is a critical concern for Sipapu Ski Area s operation and for this reason, slopes and trails should primarily be located where the snowpack remains for the longest period. Characteristics of the various angles of exposure located within the existing and proposed SUP area are listed below and illustrated in Map II-1. North-facing: ideal for snow retention, minimal wind scour, minimal sun exposure Northeast-facing: ideal for snow retention, minimal wind scour, minimal sun exposure Northwest-facing: good for snow retention, moderate wind scour, some afternoon sun East-facing: good for snow retention, some wind scour, morning sun exposure 13

22 E. Slope Gradients South-facing: at lower elevations, poor for snow retention, moderate wind scour, full sun exposure Southeast-facing: fair for snow retention, moderate wind scour, morning and early afternoon sun exposure Southwest-facing: poor for snow retention, high wind scour, late morning and afternoon sun exposure West-facing: fair for snow retention, high wind scour, late morning and afternoon sun exposure During the planning phase we utilized topographic maps with 20-foot contour intervals. The slope map encompasses approximately 1,138.5 acres; this is illustrated on Map II-2. Utilizing the provided topographic mapping, we prepared the most critical analysis map for the ski area design and evaluation process. The Slope Gradient Map delineates the areas that can be negotiated by the various skier/snowboarder ability levels, as well as areas that are considered too flat or too steep for skiing and snowboarding. The natural slope gradients were carefully measured and color-coded into the following five classifications: Yellow: Slope gradients between 0-8% (0 to 5 degrees) consist of flat areas and are very marginal for skiing. Ideal for base area facilities, parking lots, and maintenance centers. Green: Slope gradients between 8 25% (5 to 14 degrees) and are ideal for beginner and novice skiing. These slopes are acceptable for some types of facilities. Blue: Slope gradients between 25 45% (14 to 24 degrees) and are ideal for intermediate skiing. These slopes are too steep for facilities. Gray: Slope gradient between 45 70% (24 to 35 degrees) and are ideal for advanced skiing. Red: Slope gradients greater than 70% (35 degrees +) are ideal for expert skiing. 14

23 Treatment Plant Lodge Westside Express 8 10 Pedro's Park Lift 8400 Lift #2 / FP MC Maintenance Shop Lift #1 / 3C SUP Boundary New SUP Boundary Lift Ski Patrol Shack «518 Trails Slope Aspect (Degrees) Flat (-1) North (0-22.5) Northeast ( ) East ( ) Sipapu Express Lift #4 / 3C 83 Lift #3 / HSP Southeast ( ) South ( ) Southwest ( ) 9300 West ( ) Northwest ( ) 56 North ( ) 9600 Slope Aspect Date: 4/25/2012 Master Development Plan Feet ,000 2, Map II

24 Treatment Plant Lodge Westside Express 8 10 Pedro's Park Lift 8400 Lift #2 / FP MC Maintenance Shop Lift #1 / 3C Ski Patrol Shack « SUP Boundary New SUP Boundary Lift Sipapu Express Lift #4 / 3C 83 Lift #3 / HSP Trails Slope Percent Slope Gradient Date: 4/24/2012 Master Development Plan Feet ,000 2, Map II

25 SipaPu ski & Summer REsort MASTER DEVELOPMENT PLAN Mountain Planning Parameters

26 3. Mountain Planning Parameters The purpose of the Mountain Planning Parameters chapter is to combine the information from the Site Inventory chapter with standard ski industry planning and design parameters. A. Trail Parameters Slope Gradients and Terrain Breakdown Trail ability level classifications are based on the slope gradients and terrain features. Sipapu Ski Area s trail designations as based on skier ability level are shown in Table III-1: Sipapu Ski Area Trail Ratings: Table III-1: Sipapu Ski Area Trail Ratings Trail Designations Easier More Difficult Most Difficult Expert Only Skier Ability Level Beginner and Novice Skiers Intermediate Skiers Advanced Skiers Expert Skiers The trails are classified using an evaluation of the following parameters: slope width, average gradient and the steepest pitch of 250 linear feet. Since the average slope gradient of a trail is generally much lower than the steepest pitch of 250 linear feet, the trails are usually classified to ensure that the steepest pitch of 250 feet falls within five percent of the acceptable gradients listed in Table III-2: Skier Skill Classifications. Any pitch of 250 linear feet or more that exceeds the maximum grade will place the entire run in the next higher class. Furthermore, a gentle novice trail cannot suddenly turn into an advanced trail for obvious reasons. Skill Classification Table III-2: Skier Skill Classifications Acceptable Terrain Gradients Maximum Gradient Beginner 8-15% 20% Novice 15-25% 30% Low Intermediate 25-35% 40% Intermediate 30-40% 45% High Intermediate 35-45% 50% Advanced 45-70% 75% Expert 70%+ 17

27 Slope Density The parameters for figuring capacity at a ski area are based in part on the target number of skiers that can be accommodated on average, on a typical acre of terrain at any one given time. Slope densities tend to decrease as the ability of the skier increases. The lower density for better skiers occurs due to their increased speed and, therefore, longer stopping distances and the general increase in space needed to avoid obstacles and other skiers. As shown below, the exception to this rule is that slope densities increase slightly on expert terrain since these steep, ungroomed slopes dictate controlled, short radius turns. Under these conditions, expert skiers have slower speeds and require less space for skiing safely. The regional destination ski area slope densities are listed in Table III-3: Regional Destination Ski Area Slope Densities. This table also lists Skiers at One Time (SAOT) densities and the on-slope densities. The SAOT is based on the total number of skiers at the ski area, including skiers in lift lines, riding lifts, in the lodge and on the trails. The on-slope densities figures come from calculations that indicate, on an average day, approximately 40 percent of the total number of skiers at a ski area are on the slopes at any given time. Table III-3: Rocky Mountain Regional Destination Ski Area Slope Densities Skill Classification Skiers on Slope Skiers/Acre Skiers at One Time (SAOT) Beginner Novice Low Intermediate Intermediate High Intermediate B. Lift and Trail Parameters Ski Lift and Ski Trail Design Advanced 4 10 Expert Each skier s ability level places different demands upon an area s lifts and trail systems. Based on his or her ability level, each skier will ski a relatively consistent number of vertical feet per day. As the proficiency of the skier increases, the demand for vertical feet also increases. Ideally, the available ski terrain should be capable of handling a wide spectrum of skill levels reasonably consistent with industry parameters. Industry parameters are shown in Table III-4: Skier Ability Breakdown and Skier Demand Vertical Feet (VTF) per Day for Regional Destination Ski Areas: 18

28 Table III-4: Skier Ability Breakdown and Skier Demand Vertical Feet (VTF) per Day for Regional Destination Ski Areas Skill Classification Skill Mix Skier Demand VTF/Day Beginner 5% 3,090 Novice 10% 6,950 Low Intermediate 20% 9,270 Intermediate 30% 12,360 High Intermediate 20% 16,680 Advanced 10% 19,460 Expert 5% 27,800 When designing a system of lifts and ski trails, the future development should be planned in order that future lifts and additional ski trails will not create conflicts, congestion, crowding or worn-out snow conditions. Utilization of various lift loading and unloading configurations, as well as ski trail grading, can direct skiers onto preferred ski trail systems to improve trail utilization or avoid major congestion areas. Ski trails and slopes should be designed to provide the best skiing opportunities, provide a wide variety of terrain to match the diversity of skill levels, and be interesting and challenging for each skill level. Subsequently, lifts should be located to best serve ski trails, since they are merely a means of access. The type of lift may vary depending on the natural terrain it must cross and serve, as well as the required hourly capacity and type of skier being served. Lifts should not be located simply because good upper and lower terminal locations have been selected. There are many lift design alternatives available to accommodate a wide variety of sites. Ski lift loading and unloading terminals are preferably located in protected areas on slopes less than 20 percent. Adequate space must be allotted for lift lines, safe skier stopping, unloading areas and general congregation areas at both the top and bottom lift terminals. Sipapu Ski Area uses a number and letter code to specify the type of lift installation that exists as well as the lift installation being proposed. The coding is shown in Table III-5: Sipapu Ski Area Lift Specification Chart: 19

29 Table III-5: Sipapu Ski Area Lift Specification Chart Lift Type Fixed Grip 3 - Passenger Chair Lift High Speed Detachable Platter Lift Fixed Grip Platter Surface Lift Conveyor Lift Lift Code 3C HSP FP MC C. Base Area and On-Mountain Skier Facilities Base area skier facilities are generally used to provide food services, restrooms, retail, ski school services, parking lots, as well as ski patrol and first aid facilities. On-mountain skier facilities are necessary to provide adequate ski patrol and first aid facilities, and they are used to offer food services, restrooms, some degree of retail and ski school services all within a closer proximity to upper-mountain terrain. This reduces emergency response times and the need for skiers to descend to the base area for the above services. D. Terrain Parks Terrain parks are an essential part of a winter resort area and are enjoyed by both snowboarders and skiers utilizing the twin-tipped skis. Terrain park facilities are generally made up of the following features: Rails: The top sliding surface of rails are constructed of metal Hits: Jumps built out of snow Pipes: Halfpipes or quarterpipes Beginner features are located on gentle terrain with an average slope gradient between 15 and 30 percent. The lead-in approach ramp onto the feature, or the uphill side, should be smooth, allowing the park user to easily slide up onto the feature. Low intermediate features allow users to graduate to more difficult activities with the introduction of a small jumping sensation. To ensure that park users of this ability level obtain a maximum speed that is within their skill level, low intermediate features should be located on percent slope gradients, with a short in-run with a maximum slope gradient of 30 percent. Intermediate features are located on percent slopes and should also be placed at slope transitions to allow for a shallow in-run and a short outrun of percent slope. Limiting the length of the in-run will ensure that park users do not approach the feature with excessive speed, resulting in the user overshooting the feature completely. Hits and 20

30 rails should introduce a horizontal gap between the entry ramp and the feature. The top surface of intermediate features are typically between 6 and 7 inches wide and may be constructed of flat, steel bar. Advanced and expert features require the user to approach at maximum speed, with inruns up to 45 percent. Average slope gradients for these features should fall between percent. Rails typically contain a horizontal and vertical gap between the entry ramp and the feature; the park user is required to step-up onto the feature. Rails are constructed of a single steel tube, or tubes welded together with a surface width between 1 and 3 inches. Often, the rail surface will contain multiple slopes within the sliding surface. In order to allow movement of features, all rail and box features should be placed either directly on or into the snow. Artificial snow is the ideal construction material, as it is more consistent than natural snow. However, in order to reduce the amount of water used for snowmaking, earth fill may be strategically placed to form the feature. E. Capacity Measurement In the ski industry, capacity is frequently measured in terms of the number of skiers that can be comfortably accommodated on a daily basis without overloading the ski area infrastructure. This is referred to as Comfortable Carrying Capacity (CCC) or Skiers At One Time (SAOT). This measure is primarily used for lift capacities but is also used in factoring the ski run capacities, building capacities, and parking lot capacities. SAOT is derived from the ski area s supply of vertical transport (the vertical feet serviced combined with the uphill hourly capacities of the lifts, VTF) and demand for vertical transport (the combined number of runs demanded multiplied by the vertical rise associated with those runs). SAOT is calculated by dividing vertical supply VTF/Day by vertical demand, and factors in the total time spent in the lift line waiting, on the lift, and on the trail skiing. It is important to remember that the calculated value of SAOT is a relative measurement used to evaluate a ski area s current infrastructure and project the effects of proposed changes. Although there may be peak days where the SAOT is exceeded, this shouldn t occur more than a few days a season. F. Area Facilities Balance Throughout the MDP process, data are gathered and reviewed. During the culmination of this process, data are looked at from a planning standpoint to ensure that a good balance between the Skiers At One Time and the daily capacities of the following operational elements: lifts, trails, grooming, skier service floor space, food service seating and parking capacity. Note that the assorted operational elements should be designed to match the mountain s SAOT capacity. 21

31 SipaPu ski & Summer REsort MASTER DEVELOPMENT PLAN Existing Ski Area Facilities

32 4. Existing Ski Area Facilities This chapter describes the existing conditions at Sipapu Ski Area and then assesses the balance of resort operations, amenities, and infrastructure including apparatus such as lifts, guest services, snowmaking, and parking capacities. By applying standard ski industry planning parameters, we establish the balance analysis of the existing conditions. This procedure allows us to compare Sipapu s existing facilities to those facilities regularly found at comparable ski areas. Chapter 4 also provides detailed information about Sipapu s strengths and limitations. These data are the foundation for creating planning strategies for future upgrades. A. Review of Current Skiers At One Time Establishing the Skiers At One Time (SAOT) is a key part in evaluating the guests experience because it allows us to understand the overall stability of the ski area s facilities. SAOT is derived from the ski area s supply and demand of vertical transport. Sipapu s SAOT has been established to be around 754 visitors. B. Existing Lifts Sipapu s present lift infrastructure consists of five lifts: one fixed grip platter lift, one highspeed detachable platter lift, two fixed grip triple chairs, and one conveyor lift. Lifts at Sipapu are numbered for identification. The total hourly capacity of these four lifts is 3,970 people per hour and, as established above, Sipapu s SAOT is 754 skiers. Table IV-1: Existing Lift Specifications shows Sipapu s existing lifts and their individual specifications. 22

33 Table IV-1: Existing Lift Specifications Lift # Magic Carpet TOTAL Lift Name Lift #1 Lift #2 Lift #3 Blue Freeze Magic Carpet Year Constructed Manufacturer Poma Poma Poma Riblet Magic Carpet Lift Type 3C FP HSP 3C MC Top Elevation (ft) 9,064 8,300 8,888 9,255 8,184 Bottom Elevation (ft) 8,200 8,200 8,665 8,999 8,174 Total Vertical (ft) ,453 Slope Distance (ft) 2, , ,514 Rated Capacity (pph) 1, ,000 1,270 1,000 4,970 Rope Speed (fpm) N/A Design VTF/hr (000) 1, ,646 Trip Time (min) 6 3 3:14 2:50 1:25 Hours of Operation Up-Mtn Access Role (%) 20% 0% 0% 0% 0% Misloads/Stops (%) 2% 20% 10% 0% 0% Adjusted Hourly Capacity ,270 1,000 4,506 Adj VTF/hr (000) , Vertical Demand 14,023 7,790 7,863 20,263 3,090 Daily Lift Capacity Lift #1 Lift #1 is the resort s primary lift out of the base area and has the ski area s second-highest hourly capacity of people per hour (PPH). Lift #1 is a fixed grip triple chair and was installed in It has a vertical rise of 864 feet and a designed capacity of 1,600 (PPH) using 107 chairs; currently Lift #1 has a capacity of 1,200 (PPH) and 81 chairs. Because Lift # 1 is our primary lift out of the base area, it sees the heaviest use out of all of our lifts. This lift services the largest terrain pod within the existing permit area while serving as the only access lift to Lifts #3 and #4. Lift #1 currently has a SAOT of 404 skiers, while the terrain it services has a SAOT of 960 skiers. This imbalance between the lift and its terrain has the potential of causing long lift lines and poor guest experiences, but once skiers are on the trails, they will have a good experience due to the abundance of trail SAOT. On peak weekends and holiday periods, lift lines can be as long as 3 to 5 minutes. As our peak weekends continue to grow, we anticipate increasing this lift s capacity to its original design of 1,600 (PPH). By doing this, the ski area will be able to continue to maintain short lift lines, even on the busiest days, while providing a positive lift experience. 23

34 Lift #2 Lift #2 is currently the resort s beginner lift out of the base area and services two beginner trails and one lower intermediate trail. Lift #2 is a fixed grip surface lift and was installed in It has a vertical rise of 100 feet and a design capacity of 500 (PPH). Lift #2 is used primarily by the ski area s ski and snowboard instructors when they are teaching lessons, and by beginner/novice skiers learning how to ski on their own. Lift #2 also has the longest season of operation because it has traditionally been the resort s first lift to open and last to close. On opening weekends and holiday periods when there have been upwards of 500 skiers and only this lift is open guests can have up to a 20-minute wait due to this lift s low daily capacity of only 36 SAOT. This lift type is slowly being phased out by the industry; this fact is apparent as we see guests unable to ride Lift #2. When guests are unable to ride the lift, we experience a reduction of uphill capacity and increasingly long lift lines during peak periods. Because skiers are unable to ride this lift, or when they experience the long lift lines, skiers can get frustrated and give up, or choose to ride Lift #1 before they have the skill set for the terrain serviced by Lift #1. Although Lift #2 has served Sipapu well, it no longer provides adequate uphill capacity or a positive lift experience and is due for upgrade or replacement. Lift #3 Lift #3 is a high-speed, detachable surface lift that was originally installed in In 2001, it was relocated and now services two beginner trails and two terrain parks. Lift #3 has a vertical rise of 223 feet and a design capacity of 1,000 (PPH). A fairly good skill level is needed to ride this lift due to the fact that it is a platter surface lift (like Lift #2) and because it operates at a fairly quick speed (400fpm). When Lift #3 is in operation, the skier load is noticeably reduced from Lift # 1 and its network of trails. Lift #3 has a SAOT of 179 skiers while its trail network has a SAOT of 234 skiers. Lift #3 is one of only nine high-speed surface lifts in operation in the United States. Skiers who are unable to ride this lift are faced with a five-minute hike uphill to return to the trail systems serviced by Lift #1. For the time being, Lift #3 will continue to service its trail network and skier type sufficiently while still providing a positive skiing experience. As skier expectations change and their familiarity of how to ride this type of lift diminishes (especially as skiers who are familiar quit skiing and younger generations start) this lift will need to be replaced to continue to provide a good lift expectation and increase its uphill capacity to match its trail network capacity. Lift #4 Lift #4 is a fixed grip triple chair that was also installed in It has a vertical rise of 256 feet and has the ski area s highest design capacity at 1,270 (PPH). Lift #4 services one intermediate trail and the majority of the advanced and expert tree skiing terrain within the permit boundary. The addition of Lift #4 and the terrain it services has been a great 24

35 addition to Sipapu. When Lift #4 is in operation, the skier load is noticeably reduced from Lift # 1 and its network of trails. Despite the fact that this lift has a daily SAOT of 112 skiers and a trail SAOT of 296 skiers, the lift has sufficient capacity and provides a positive lift experience. If these conditions change, the lift can be modified to its original capacity of 1,600(PPH) and a design daily SAOT of 142 skiers. Magic Carpet The Magic Carpet is a moving conveyor lift that was installed in The Magic Carpet has been an invaluable addition to our beginner/ski school learning experience. The conveyor has a belt length of 110 feet and a belt width of 24 inches, along with two 18-inch wide, full-length side walkways. It has a design capacity of 1,000 (PPH) and a design daily SAOT of 23 skiers. Approximately one-third of the lift is on Forest Service lands and the remaining portion is on private land owned by the ski area. C. Existing Ski Trails Existing ski trails at Sipapu include 30 trails and 11 gladed tree runs, totaling roughly 76.7 acres. The terrain classification breakdown by acreage is roughly: 1% beginner, 18% novice, 13% low intermediate, 17% intermediate, 16% high intermediate, 24% advanced, and 11% expert. The existing trails at Sipapu are lift-served with names that are well defined and maintained. The majority of the runs are groomed with snowcats on a regular basis. Some trails are deliberately not groomed or, due to their slope angles or design, are unable to be groomed. These trails typically are high skill level runs and are only used by advanced and expert skiers. Most of these trails are serviced by Lift #4 and are designed tree runs/gladed areas. Because these runs have been well developed and are skied in all types of snow conditions, their acreages are included when figuring trail capacities. There are areas on the mountain that are only used by advanced and expert skiers when powder or other ideal conditions exist. These areas are not included in the figuring of trail capacities for the reason that they do not represent a true reflection of acreage used by the average skier on a consistent basis. In spite of this, these areas are very important in providing a variety of terrain and the overall skier experience. Chart IV-1: Existing Trail Mix vs. Ideal Trail Mix All Terrain Pods, and Table IV-2: Existing Trail Mix and Ideal Trail Mix show Sipapu s existing overall trail conditions in comparison to the ideal industry standard trail mix. As this chart illustrates, Sipapu is significantly lacking in beginner terrain and all levels of intermediate terrain while having an excess of advanced and expert terrain. What the chart does not illustrate is the fact that the current novice terrain within Terrain Pod #1 is used as an access trail to the majority of the other terrain within Pod #1, thus restricting it from truly being novice terrain. This being realized, the total real novice terrain available in Pod #1 is actually only 4% and the resort total is only 9%. Total beginner/novice terrain is significantly below the ideal trail mix at Sipapu. This deficiency is even more pronounced than what it might be expected at other resorts because Sipapu has a long-established reputation of catering to beginner and novice skiers. These figures will be looked at in more detail within each terrain pod in an effort to find ways to improve the overall balance of Sipapu s trail mix. 25

36 Terrain Pods Table IV-2: Existing Trail Mix and Ideal Trail Mix Skill Classification Existing Trail Mix Ideal Trail Mix Beginner 1% 5% Novice 18% 10% Low Intermediate 13% 20% Intermediate 17% 30% High Intermediate 16% 20% Advanced 24% 10% Expert 11% 5% From a planning standpoint, Sipapu s lifts and trails have been broken into four pods. By dividing the trail network into different pods, we are then able to compare the lift skier capacity to the trail skier capacity in order to see how they balance and where there might be deficiencies. Within each pod, specific terrain features such as teaching terrain, terrain parks, developed tree skiing, and undeveloped tree skiing can be discussed. A key part to the MDP is to identify deficiencies within the existing infrastructure and to propose solutions to fix these deficiencies. Each of these topics will be reviewed in each pod. Charts IV-2 IV-5 (located in the Appendix) illustrate each terrain pod s terrain mix in comparison to the ideal mix. 26

37 Teaching Terrain The majority of Sipapu s teaching terrain is located across the south side of the river from the lodge and east of Lift #1 s bottom terminal. The area s acreage is adequate during the majority of the season, but is undersized for the level of use it sees during peak holidays and weekends. The area s SAOT is much higher than desirable for its acreage. Fortunately, the majority of the skiers in the area are in lessons or standing in place. When guests are actually sliding, they are not traveling at a very high rate of speed. The guest s experience while using this area has been greatly increased by reducing the amount of time and energy that they must use to side step up the slope during their lessons with the installation of a conveyor lift. The conveyor lift has a slope length of 90 feet and a vertical rise of 10 feet along with a SOAT of 23 skiers. Identification of additional beginner terrain to get the resort s trail mix closer to the ideal 5% skill mix is needed as the resort continues to grow and will be a key component of the proposed development plan. Because of the similarity in guest skill level and proximity to terrain pod # 2 this area is combined with pod # 2 s data when evaluating slope density in table IV-4. Terrain Pod #1 As mentioned earlier, Sipapu s primary lift (Lift #1) and terrain are in Pod #1. Terrain Pod #1 services everything from novice to expert trails. From the top of Lift #1, skiers can do one of the following three options: Skiers can ski down to the bottom of Lift #3 and access its beginner and intermediate terrain; Skiers can ski down to the bottom of Lift #4 and access its advanced and expert terrain; or Skiers can return to the bottom of Lift #1 by using its novice to expert terrain. When compared to the desirable terrain, Pod #1 s terrain mix is deficient in novice, intermediate, and high intermediate terrain, while it has just about the ideal amount of lowintermediate and expert terrain. The only true beginner terrain consists of the area s narrow catwalk. Although the skill mix for novice terrain appears to be adequate, it is Sipapu s belief that this skill mix is actually severely deficient. This deficiency is due to the fact that the current novice terrain is used by all skill levels to access their appropriate skill level trail of choice. Instead of only being used by novice skiers, it is heavily used by all skill levels and acts more like an access trail than a specific novice trail, causing the trail to be heavily used and very intimidating to novice skiers. Sipapu has identified several areas within Terrain Pod #1 where tree removal along the sides of trails and minor slope grading projects could be done to improve the novice terrain and increase the intermediate terrain as well. Additional snowmaking infrastructure within this pod will greatly improve the skiing experience and mountain operation s staff efficiency. 27

38 Terrain Pod #2 Terrain Pod #2 is located on the lower part of the mountain and consists of two novice trails and one lower intermediate trail with a SAOT of 84 skiers. This pod is serviced by Lift #2 with a SAOT of only 36 skiers. Pod #2 is the first terrain that is opened for the operating season in mid-november, and it is the last to close in early April. Skiers that start out in the teaching terrain area by and large move to Pod #2 as their skill level increases. Terrain in this area leans more toward the maximum allowable gradient for its classification, yet is the only option for beginners not ready to venture up Lift #1. Even though this terrain is classified as novice and lower intermediate, all ability levels of skiers ski this terrain either intentionally or as a result of their Pod #1 terrain choice that leads them into Pod #2 on their descent back to the base of Lift #1. This process causes this terrain pod to feel very congested at times. Additional lower mountain novice and low-intermediate terrain has been identified to help with this congestion. Terrain Pod #3 Terrain Pod #3 is accessed by riding Lift #1 and then skiing down a novice access trail (Sassafras) to what is known as the entrance to Lift #3. Pod #3 is a very popular area and has a slight imbalance between the lift and its trails. Lift #3 s SAOT is 179 skiers while the trail SAOT is 234 skiers. Pod #3 terrain consists of two beginner trails and two intermediate trails. The purpose of this terrain area is to provide upper mountain terrain for beginner and intermediate skiers and terrain park enthusiasts, therefore the deficiency of advanced and expert terrain is considered to be acceptable as this terrain was designed with this in mind. The beginner trails are considered to be the best novice terrain within the entire SUP Area. The trails have a nice, consistent gradient and are the widest novice trails offered. The two intermediate trails are used as the area s terrain parks. The terrain parks work well in this area for the reason that there is a short ride time on the lift, the trails have a consistent fall line and are wider than the majority of the other intermediate trails located within the SUP Area, and there is moderately-good snow retention in this area. The most noticeable deficiency to this area is that there is no snowmaking infrastructure. Due to low snowpack at different times of the season and high traffic areas within this zone, the snow can become worn out and scraped down to the earth, making the need for snowmaking apparent. Snowmaking would also greatly improve the skiing experience to skiers using the terrain parks by guaranteeing consistent snow conditions on the features and landings within the parks. This area sees a lot of repeat traffic guests often leave this area only to find skier service facilities at the base area. The addition of a skier deck for sack lunches, an on-mountain grill used during peak holiday and weekend periods, and bathroom facilities would allow repeat traffic to stay in this pod. As discussed earlier, the upgrade to the lift will also be needed in the future to maintain a positive skiing experience along with balancing the lift and trail SAOT. 28

39 Terrain Pod # 4 Terrain Pod #4 is accessed by riding Lift #4 and skiing a small distance down a short intermediate access trail to the base of Lift #4. Pod #4 s trails consist of one intermediate trail that can be groomed by snowcats; the remaining trails are advanced and expert tree runs. Out of the eleven runs serviced by the lift, only four trails return back to the bottom of Lift # 4: the other seven runs descend into Pod #1, which requires skiers to ride Lift #1 to return to Pod #4. This area has a sub-par amount of intermediate terrain and no beginner terrain. The terrain is enjoyed primarily by advanced and expert skiers. Intermediate skill level skiers are also heavy users of this lift causing an inordinate amount of pressure to be put on the only intermediate trail. Because of this event, the sole intermediate trail receives an abnormal amount of use, causing the snow to become worn out. Sipapu has identified additional intermediate terrain within this zone to help address the deficiency of this type of terrain. The addition of snowmaking on the existing intermediate trail and additional identified intermediate terrain will also improve the skiing experience in this pod. Terrain Parks Terrain parks have become an essential part of a ski area and are enjoyed by both snowboarders and skiers utilizing twin tipped skis. Sipapu s terrain parks Flight School and The Play Ground are considered to be beginner/ intermediate parks and consist of features such as: Rails: The top sliding surface of rails are constructed of metal Hits: Jumps built out of snow Developed and Undeveloped Tree Skiing/Alternative Terrain Having a variety of terrain is a key part of having long-term skier retention. Sipapu has worked very hard over the last 10 years to develop alternative terrain options within the existing SUP to help in skier retention. Some examples of this are: upgrading grooming equipment to increase the variety of groomed slopes, the addition of two terrain parks and novice terrain in terrain pod #3, and the extensive creation of gladed tree skiing terrain in the terrain of Pods #1 and #4. There are also a few opportunities for an undeveloped backcountry experience on slopes like Gamble Chutes and Jip/Josh chutes when conditions warrant. Sipapu has seen an increase in skier visits as a direct result of increasing the variety of alternative terrain. Skier Ability Breakdown Each skier s ability level places a different demand upon an area s lift and trail system. Ideally, the resort s available ski terrain is capable of handling a wide spectrum of skill levels reasonably consistent with industry parameters. In Table IV-3: Skier Ability Breakdown Existing Conditions, and Chart IV-1: Existing Trail Mix vs. Ideal Trail Mix All Terrain Pods, Sipapu s distribution is compared to industry parameters. 29

40 Table IV-3: Skier Ability Breakdown - Existing Conditions Skill Classification Trail Area Acreage Skier Capacity Sipapu Distribution Industry Parameters Beginner % 5% Novice % 10% Low Intermediate % 20% Intermediate % 30% High Intermediate % 20% Advanced % 10% Expert % 5% TOTAL , % 100% Chart IV-1: Existing Trail Mix vs. Ideal Trail Mix All Terrain Pods (shown below) illustrates the distribution of terrain by skier ability level for the developed trails. The graph shows that the trail system at Sipapu accommodates a range of skier ability levels, from beginner to expert. The terrain distribution figures also indicate a shortage of novice, and all intermediate skill levels. It shows an excess of advanced trails and almost the ideal amount of expert terrain. Please note that although it is not apparent in this graph, Sipapu believes that it is also deficient in novice terrain as discussed earlier in this chapter. This chart confirms that there is a deficiency of beginner and intermediate terrain. It also shows there is an excess of advanced and expert terrain. 30

41 Slope Density Study It is important to look at the relationship between the lift uphill capacity and the trail capacity when designing a ski area. Ideally, you try to balance these two factors so you don t end up having long lift lines or over-crowded trails. Table IV-4: Existing Slope Density Study shows the existing slope densities of the four terrain pods discussed earlier in this chapter. Table IV-4: Existing Slope Density Study allows us to compare the existing lift capacity (SAOT) with the existing slope capacities (SAOT) of each pod. It is assumed that at any one time, 25% of each lift capacity is actually not skiing but rather using other skier facilities or resting while the remaining 75% are either in lift lines, on lifts, or descending the slopes; this is reflected in our calculations of each pod. Pod # Daily Lift Capacity Table IV-4: Existing Slope Density Study Guest Distribution Using Skier Facilities Lift Lines On Lifts On Slopes Terrain Acreage Density Study Skiers per Acre Ideal Skier per Acre Difference TOTAL The slope density study indicates that there is a deficiency of lift capacity in relation to the amount of slope capacity. The overall lift capacity is 754 people, while the slope capacity is 1,574 people. This is not ideal from a skier experience standpoint as skiers will experience long lift lines as early as next year if lift capacity is not increased. We expect guests will experience crowded slopes as early as D. Skiers At One Time Establishing the Skiers At One Time (SAOT) is a key part in evaluating our guests experience because it allows us to understand the overall stability of the ski area s facilities. Once the SAOT is established for the existing lifts, that sum can be used to assess and develop all the additional ski area s skier service facilities. After extensive review, Sipapu s SAOT has been determined to be 754 skiers per day. Over the last 10 seasons, Sipapu has seen an increase in annual skier visits of 275%. The average midweek skier count has gone from an average of 90 skiers per day during the season to an average of 190 skiers per day in the season. The most noticeable change in skier visits has been seen during peak weekends and holiday periods, where we saw an average of 264 skiers per day during the season, and last season we saw an average of 508 skiers per day. The peak weekends and holiday periods are close to the maximum ideal SAOT. It is not uncommon to see SAOT exceed the design SAOT by as much as 25% during peak weekends and holiday periods. It is not 31

42 recommended to regularly exceed your SAOT; otherwise, the skier experience will be compromised. It is important to keep in mind the current growth rate that Sipapu is experiencing when evaluating current facility capacities and planning future development. Sipapu has increased both non-peak weekdays and weekends along with peak weekends and holidays. Currently, it is just starting to exceed the current SAOT, and we anticipate Sipapu will continue to exceed it on a more regular basis as it grows. This would indicate that, from a planning standpoint, it is time to start increasing lift, slope, and skier facilities to meet the SAOT demand that will be seen. By being proactive, the quality experience that skiers enjoy at Sipapu will not be compromised or lost. This is one of the biggest driving forces behind the growth at Sipapu. Reviewing each skier facility in detail will help demonstrate what facilities will continue to maintain the current skier s experience as the resort grows, which facilities are currently deficient in maintaining this experience, and at what point other facilities will become deficient in maintaining this experience. E. Base Area and On-Mountain Skier Facilities As discussed above, it is very important to identify any deficiencies that may exist within the existing skier facilities. These facilities can be broken into three categories. Staging Facilities services required as guests arrive at the area. Commercial Services services required throughout the day as guests are on the mountain and during après-ski hours. Operational Facilities services not directly required by guests, but which are critical for the day-to-day operation of the mountain. Staging facilities include ticket sales, public lockers, equipment rental and repair, ski and snowboard school, and retail sales. These facilities are all located in the base area. Commercial facilities include food and beverage seating, kitchen and serving areas, restrooms and accessory retail space. Restaurant seats should be designed relative to the number of skiers circulating in the area of the restaurant. Kitchens and restrooms must be sized in proportion to the amount of seating. Operational facilities include administration, employee lockers, mountain ski patrol facilities, and maintenance facilities. 32

43 Base Area Facilities Currently, most base area skier staging facilities, commercial services, and operational facilities are located on private land that is owned by Sipapu. Listed below is a short description of each facility located in the base area. Sipapu Lodge Sipapu Lodge is located on the north side of the Rio Pueblo; it is the main portal for skier facilities at the base area. The lodge was built in three phases: Phase I: Phase I was originally built in 1957 and housed the rental shop, ticket window, ski school, ski patrol, and restaurant and is 1,815 sq. ft. Today, this space is referred to as the day room; it is an open space with a large, wood-burning fireplace, and it is used primarily as a centralized place for meeting friends and family, storing equipment and eating sack lunches. The main ticket office and ski school registration area are also located within the original building s footprint. In the summer, it is used as a conference space and wedding hall. Phase II: Phase II of the lodge was built over a period of two years beginning in 1966; it consists of three levels. Skier facilities located on level one include the general store/ticket office and lodging check-in desk, administrative offices, skier restrooms, and breeze way used for the ticket line in Lodge Phase I s ticket office. Just outside the first level is an outdoor grill that is used on peak weekends and holidays, along with a large patio with seating. On the second level, there is the Sipapu Riverside Café, Mid-way Bar, skier restrooms, child play space, and balcony seating. Lodging units for overnight guest at the lodge are located on the third level of the lodge. There are no skier services located on the third floor at this time. Phase III: Phase III was built in 1982, and it is 1,474 sq. ft. This section of the lodge is attached and accessed from the north side of the day room. The ski shop makes up the entire Phase III location. Ski Patrol Base Station The ski patrol base station was built in 1988 and is 240 sq. ft.; it is located to the west of Sipapu Lodge. The ski patrol station is used as employee locker space and houses the area s medical services. Injured skiers are transported to the ski patrol station to receive basic medical services. If a higher level of medical service is needed, EMS from Taos is dispatched. 33

44 Ski School Locker Room The ski school locker room was built in 1989 and is 240 sq. ft.; it is located to the west of Sipapu Lodge. This facility is used only as a locker room for ski school instructors. In the summer it is used for storing mountain signage and padding. Maintenance Buildings Sipapu has two maintenance buildings. The primary building for maintenance is located on the south side of the Rio Pueblo and north of the bottom of Lift #1. It was built in 1987 and is 864 sq. ft. All snowcat and other vehicle maintenance are performed out of this location. Additionally, it is the pump house for snowmaking and the snowmaking staff s locker room. This building used to house the lift maintenance and spare parts, but the growth of this department has required it to be moved to a new location. The second maintenance building is located on the north side of Highway 518. It was built in 1959 and is 1,378 sq. ft. This building now houses a lift maintenance and spare parts bay and is also used as storage of spare parts for base area facilities. Mountain Facilities Ski Patrol Summit Station The ski patrol summit station was completed in 2010 and is 320 sq. ft. It is used as a top station for ski patrol to access the entire mountain when responding to reports of accidents. The top station houses all patrol-related items needed for lift evacuations, a trauma pack, and other patrol-related items. Lift Operator Locker Room The bottom lift station at Lift #1 serves as the bottom operator station for Lift #1 and is also used as the lift operator locker room. The building was built in 1982 and is 36 sq. ft. This building is not big enough to work as a locker room, but the location is ideal. An addition to the existing building to accommodate a locker room is recommended. Breakdown of Existing Guest Services The Model Day is the business level that the guest service buildings are designed for, rather than a peak day or the area s SAOT. Normally, the Model Day is set lower than the peak day to avoid building guest services for unrealistic business levels. The industry standard in determining the Model Day is by either calculating the average number of guests on the ten busiest days of the winter season, or to set the business levels at 80 percent of the winter season s peak day. The required floor space is calculated based upon the Model Day levels. During the winter season, a combined total of 6,972 guests visited the resort during the ten busiest days of the season; this averages out to 697 guests per day. 34

45 Table IV-5: Space Use Analysis Existing Facilities points out the deficiencies and surpluses in the floor area of guest service space. Table IV-5: Space Use Analysis - Existing Facilities Existing Floor Space Sq. Ft. Recommended Floor Space per Skier Recommended Floor Space Sq. Ft. Existing Sq. Skiers Service Function Ft. per Skier Serviced Staging Facilities Ticket Sales ,600 Public Lockers Restrooms Equipment Rental and Repair 1, , Guest Services/Ski School Children's Programs Subtotal Staging Facilities 2, , Commercial Facilities Food Service Seating 2, , Kitchen and Scramble 1, ,616 Bar/Lounge Accessory Retail 1, ,907 Subtotal Commercial Facilities 5, , Operational Facilities Administration Employee Facilities First Aid and Patrol ,018 Subtotal Facilities 1, , Additional Required Square Footage Storage Mechanical Circulation/Walls/Waste 1, ,116 Subtotal Additional Footage 2, , Property Grand Total 11, , * 2010 Season Ten Busiest Days Combined Total: 6,972 visitors (for an average of 697 guests per day) Restaurant Seating Inventory There are approximately 116 indoor seats and 36 bar seats in the Riverside Café and Bar. Skiers routinely use the bar/lounge seats as food service seats during lunchtime; therefore, bar seats have been counted as food service seats. Sipapu makes the assumption that on busy days during the lunch period between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., each seat can comfortably accommodate three and one half skiers, with a turnover time of approximately 34 minutes each. These 152 indoor seats can, therefore, accommodate approximately 532 skiers during the lunchtime rush. Within the day room there are roughly 32 seats. The day room is used as a locker space and skiers use the tables all day long; therefore, we will assume that the turnover will be reduced to only 2 times for the lunch hour rush, allowing the day room to accommodate 35

46 approximately 64 skiers during the lunchtime rush. There are approximately 19 picnic tables located outside on the patio of the first level of the lodge. Assuming 4 seats per picnic table and a turnover of three times during the lunch period, we estimate that these tables can accommodate approximately another 228 skiers. Table IV-6: Existing and Recommended Restaurant Seating shows the seating in the café and patio. Table IV-6: Existing and Recommended Seating* Day Room Balcony Patio Ski Area Total Café Bar Average Indoor Seating Turnover Existing Indoor Seats Required Seats (15 sq. ft. per chair) Difference Existing Seating Capacity Capacity 912 * Lunch Time Capacity (SAOT) is 697 F. Parking Existing Staging Capacity The base area staging capacity of a ski area is the total number of guests who can be supplied to the ski area from the base. Sipapu has three main parking lots and one overflow lot. The main lots are identified as Front of Lodge, North Side of Hwy. 518, and West Side of Lodge. The overflow lot located below the waste treatment plant is identified as Treatment Plant Lot. Very few guests arrive at the resort by bus. An inventory and capacity analysis of the parking areas is listed in Table IV-7: Existing Parking. It is assumed that the number of people arriving by car will average 2.5 guests per car. Sipapu doesn t have a designated staff parking lot; therefore, staff parking spaces need to be included in the parking figures, as they will actually reduce the amount of guests that will be able to park. It is assumed that there is an average of 1.5 staff per staff vehicle. The number of cars that can be parked in a paved, well-organized parking lot is approximately 140 cars per acre. Sipapu s lots are not paved and to account for snow removal/storage and parking inefficiencies, 120 vehicles per acre will be used. Sipapu also has overnight guest staying in lodging. For this analysis, it will be assumed that there are 120 guests staying in overnight lodging, averaging 3 guests per car. 36

47 Table IV-7: Existing Parking Parking Location Area (acres) Cars per Acre Guests per Car # of Cars Guests per Lot Front of Lodge North Side of Highway West Side of Lodge Treatment Plant Subtotal Staff per Car # of Cars for Staff # of Staff on Model Day Subtract the Number of Staff on Model Day Subtotal Add the Number of Guests in Lodging Parking GRAND TOTAL Total Parking Lot Acres Guests per Car Total Guest Parking Spots Total Parking SAOT G. Grooming Operations Machine grooming (snowfarming) of ski trails is an essential component of mountain operations, with new grooming techniques revolutionizing many aspects of today s ski business. Present industry guidelines recommend the regular grooming of all trails with beginner to high-intermediate skill classifications, with the grooming of steeper trails on a less frequent basis using winch-equipped snowcats. Swing or night shift grooming has become the rule in the industry, as it allows a longer period for groomed trails to cure (set up), while eliminating hazardous conflicts between skiers and machines. An effective summer grooming program (seeding and mulching) can save appreciable wear and tear on expensive snow grooming equipment, as well as produce earlier opening dates and lower snowmaking costs. Modern snow grooming machines come with many features and a selection of implements are available for optimizing the quality of grooming and the time required to groom the slopes. Grooming requirements change over time due to climate conditions and the extent of skier traffic on the trail; therefore, a good selection of grooming implements such as all-way blades, power tillers and compactor bars are necessary to increase the efficiency of the grooming fleet and to provide guests with an ideal sliding surface everyday. On a nightly basis, Sipapu grooms roughly 20 acres of slopes for the upcoming day. Currently, Sipapu runs two snow groomers per night to groom the required terrain, maintain two terrain parks, assist with moving of snowmaking equipment and perform snow pushing projects as needed. 37

48 It is recommended that one fully operable grooming machine be available each nightly shift for every 40 acres of groomable terrain in classes 1-5. Based upon these criteria, grooming trails in skill classes 1 to 5 and one shift per night, the current grooming requirements can be calculated as follows: Table IV-8: Groom Machine Requirements Calculation Groomable Terrain (acres) Acreage per Machine Availability = Number of Machines Required % = 1.18 Based upon this analysis, it appears that the existing two front line grooming machines are adequate to groom all of the terrain in skill class 1-5 every night (based on one shift per night). As mentioned earlier, Sipapu has a maintenance shop located at the base of the mountain. This building does not have adequate room to bring the grooming machines inside for service and repair. H. Existing Snowmaking System Snowmaking has had a very positive effect on the success of Sipapu, especially in early season when snowpack is thin; it has also helped improve the quality of conditions during the spring ski season. Sipapu can credit its snowmaking system in allowing it to hold the title of having the longest ski season in New Mexico. For the last seven years, Sipapu has been the first resort to open, and for five of the last seven years, Sipapu has been the last to close. Sipapu s snowmaking season is relatively short, most years lasting only from early November through early to mid-january. Sipapu currently has afy diversion and 5.17 afy consumptive of water, which has been permitted by the State of New Mexico Engineers Office (OSE File No. 1992) to make snow on 977 acres of land owned by the Carson National Forest in the S1/2 and S1/2 N1/2, Section 9, Township 22 North, Range 13 East; SW1/4 and S1/2 NW1/4, Section 10 Township 22 North, Range 13 East; N1/2 Section 15, Township 22 North, Range 13 East; and E1/2 and E1/2 W1/2, Section 16, Township 22 North, Range 13 East, NMPM. The source of its water supply is the Rio Pueblo, a tributary of the Rio Grande. This water source has proven to be a very reliable and adequate source. The point of Diversion is near the center of Section 10, Township 22 North, Range 12 East, NMPM. Although Sipapu has been permitted by the state to make snow on 977 acres it currently only makes snow on approximately 26 acres, or 34% of the total skiable terrain, due to the lack of snowmaking infrastructure within the existing SUP Area. Sipapu s snowmaking system is by far the smallest system in the region. Over the past few years, significant expense has been dedicated to improving the existing infrastructure and equipment associated with making snow. Currently, Sipapu s snowmaking system has the capacity of 500 gallons-per-minute. Sipapu s snowmaking fleet consists of ten fan 38

49 guns with on-board compressors, two lance-style tower guns with onboard compressors and six water sticks. The two largest limiting factors to Sipapu s system is on-mountain snowmaking pipe line and electrical supply lines. Currently there is only one six-inch pipeline and one 3-phase/480volt/400amp snowmaking power supply line on the mountain. These two factors greatly restrict the snowmaking capacity of the system. A current breakdown of the existing trails where we routinely make snow is listed below in Table IV-9: Existing Snowmaking Coverage. Pod Name Table IV-9: Existing Snowmaking Coverage Trail Number Skill Class Total Vertical (ft.) Slope Distance (ft.) Avg. Slope Width (ft.) Acres Skiers per Trail 1 Sassafras 0 Novice 407 3, Low 1 Butterfly 6 Intermediate Thumper 11 Intermediate Paul's Folly 15 Advanced Don Diego 33 Intermediate 431 1, Rufous High Intermediate 434 1, Lower Gamble 37 High Intermediate 460 1, Loose Caboose 38 Intermediate 391 1, Bambi 43 Novice 350 2, Staging Area 49 Beginner Upper Gamble 50 Advanced 349 1, Entrance to Lift #4 53 Low Intermediate Subtotal Practice Slope 13 Novice Lesson Area 31 Beginner Lower Bambi 48 Novice Lower Thumper 55 Low Intermediate Subtotal Existing Snowmaking Coverage

50 I. Summer Activities Summertime at Sipapu is a busy time of year. Ever since Sipapu began in 1952, people have been enjoying the cool mountain experience available during the summer months. Located only five hours from the panhandle of Texas and a little over two hours from Albuquerque, it s recognized as a place to get away from the summer heat. Over the years, many great events have become a tradition at Sipapu. Disc Golf Sipapu has a 20-basket disc golf course that has been ranked as one of the top five most scenic courses in the United States. Sipapu s trail network allows the course to be one of the most diverse and memorable ski area courses in the nation. Sipapu is the home of the New Mexico State Singles and Doubles Championships, and players from all over the country travel to these events to test their skill amongst some of the best players in the country. Sipapu s disc golf course has also been the venue for the 2008 National Deaf Disc Golf Championships. Sipapu understands that it has the premier disc golf course in the state of New Mexico and one of the best courses in the country. With this in mind, the highest level of course maintenance and care is taken to ensure this distinction is maintained. Sipapu recognizes the need for an additional course on the mountain to continue to maintain its elite status. Scenic Chair Lift Rides Sipapu has an extensive summer lift maintenance program and a limited summer work force. Most seasons, Sipapu does not provide scenic chairlift rides due to these factors. During those summers when Sipapu has provided this service to its guests, it has been very successful. As Sipapu continues to become more of a year-round destination, the resort recognizes the need to provide this service as a staple part of its summer operations. Mountain Biking Currently, Sipapu does not provide lift-served mountain biking within its current SUP area. Sipapu does rent mountain bikes and guests routinely ride up and down the existing trails. Summertime guests often ask if and when Sipapu might start providing lift service for this great summer activity. Sipapu recognizes the need for a network of lift served mountain bike trails to offer its guests. Special Events Sipapu hosts a large spectrum of events each year during the warmer months, including disc golf tournaments, family reunions, music festivals, motorcycle rallies, corporate 40

51 meetings, craft fairs, painting workshops, and trials motorcycle competitions. The majority of these events are on private land. Events that happen on National Forest Service lands are subject to approval. The diversity of events that go on at Sipapu reveals just how many people are able to enjoy this special place year after year. J. Existing Utilities Reference Map V-5: Existing SUP Area Existing and Proposed Infrastructure & Utilities located on page 79. Power Sipapu receives all of its electricity from Kit Carson Electrical Co-op. All power is primary metered including snowmaking, lifts, the lodge, waste-treatment plant, and all lodging units on private land. As the resort continues to grow, the need for additional power on private and Forest Service land will become necessary. The snowmaking system s electrical supply currently is in the greatest need of additional power. Waste Treatment Sipapu s Discharge Permit Number is DP-833. The resort operates a Sequencing Batch Reactor, Wastewater Treatment System. The permitted discharge volume for the system is 40,000 gallons per day. Currently, the system only discharges between 15% - 20% of its designed discharge volume and will continue to be very adequate for future growth of the resort. Drinking Water Drinking water is supplied at Sipapu from a spring located on private property. Sipapu s drinking water systems Public Water System (PWS) number is and the system is classified with the state of New Mexico as a Ground Water System Under the Direct Influence of Surface Water (GUDI). The entire system is located on private property, with the exception of a 10,000-gallon storage tank located on Forest Service Lands. Fuel Storage Fuel Storage at Sipapu is located at two locations on private property and one location on Forest Service lands. In front of the lodge, the resort runs a small public fueling station with highway diesel, regular and super unleaded fuels. The other location on private land is on the south side of the maintenance shop, located at the base of the ski area. At this location, off highway diesel is located for snow cats and other heavy machinery. On Forest Service lands, one 500-gallon tank stores off-highway diesel fuel for Lift #3 and is located next to the motor room of Lift #3. Currently, there is not an additional need for fuel storage. 41

52 K. Area Facilities Balance Throughout this chapter, we have prepared an inventory of all existing facilities for the winter operation. We have subsequently analyzed the Skier At One Time (SAOT) and daily capacity of the following operational elements: lifts, trails, grooming, skier service floor space, food service seating and parking capacity. We have prepared a graphic representation of the overall balance of these facilities for the winter season in Graph IV-6. To easily compare these diverse facilities, all capacities have been calculated in terms of the number of skiers that can be accommodated in one day. Sipapu currently has peak day visitation between 600 and 900 skiers. There is a current deficiency of lifts, parking, and guest services falling just short of handling peak days and a significant deficiency when it comes to trails covered with snowmaking, and there will soon be a deficiency in all other areas. These shortages significantly limit the future growth of the resort and the overall guest experience. 42

53 SUP Boundary 8600 Private Property Existing Lift Existing Trail Easiest More Difficult Most Difficult Treatment Plant Treatment Plant Lot «518 Terrain Park 8300 Expert Only Chutes Lodge Maintenance Shop West of Lodge Lot Front of Lodge North Lot Jimbo Gully 41 9 Rolling Rock 12 Thunder Bunny Bambi 48 Lower Bambi Practice Slope Lift #2 / FP Lesson Area 31 MC Thumper 11 5 Beep Beep Rolling Rock Bambi 1 Wormwood 2 Howdy 40 Wormwood 8800 Jip & Josh Chutes Butterfly 6 52 Chopo's Trees 0 Sassafras Chicken 7 Loose Caboose Rufous Pinball Lift #1 / 3C Paul's Folly 23 Lower Gamble Uno Don Diego Downfall Salt Lick 32 Lower Oops Chopo's Trees 42 Jip & Josh Chutes Worm No Caboose 4 51 Upper Chopo's Trees Gamble Chutes Gamble Trees Loose Caboose Upper Gamble 50 Rufous 36 Upper Gamble No Whiners 24 Flower Aisle A 29 Reasonable Anxiety Oops 30 Aisle B Face of Oops 27 Indecision Smart Chicken Ski Patrol Shack TS Entrance to Lift 4 Candy 35 Indecision Trail Lift #4 / 3C Flight School Jimmy Pop The Playground Lift #3 / HSP 44 Razzmataz 17 Brandy Date: 4/25/ P1-J Existing SUP Area Conditions 9300 Master Development Plan Feet P1-L Map IV

54 SipaPu ski & Summer REsort MASTER DEVELOPMENT PLAN Proposed Development Plan

55 5. Proposed Development Plan This chapter provides a plan for the physical development of Sipapu Ski Area within the current area and two proposed sites: the Upper Mountain and West Side. The proposed development plan functions as a road map for the future development of the ski resort. This road map will help us plan ways to ensure the balance of facilities and skier services, which will improve the guest experience and resort operational efficiencies. The plan will also allow Sipapu Ski Area to become more competitive in the regional destination skier market, help retain existing guests, attract new skiers, and continue to be a viable employer to residents in southern Taos, Mora, and Rio Arriba Counties. To provide a clear understanding of the proposed upgrades and changes, two maps are provided: Map V-1 contains changes to the existing SUP Area, and Map V-2 contains the new infrastructure associated with the Proposed Expansion Area within the new proposed development plan. A. Proposed Special Use Permit Boundary This proposed development plan is based on the review of Sipapu Ski Area s current operations, and the challenges and opportunities identified by Sipapu management over the past several years. The Carson Forest Plan recommends 1,500 acres in Management Area 15 to be set aside for Sipapu Ski Area expansion; therefore, the proposal is to incorporate a portion of the current Forest Service Management Area 15 that surrounds the current existing ski area into the ski area boundary. The increased area extends from the existing permit area south to an elevation of 9,856 feet and west along the rim of the Comales Canyon. The permit boundary would be extended and the Special Use Permit increased to include approximately additional acres. Total acreage will be approximately 1,138.5 acres, most of which are within the Carson Forest Plan s Management Area 15 and designated for ski area expansion. 44

56 Treatment Plant Lodge Westside Express ft Li # ft Li 2 /F P Maintenance Shop Lif t #1 / 3C s o' dr Pe rk Pa MC Ex pr es s ap u Lift # 4 SP 3/H New SUP Boundary Private Property / 3C # Lift SUP Boundary 518 «Ski Patrol Shack Si p Lift New Special Use Permit Boundary 0 Date: 4/25/ Map V Master Development Plan9600 Feet 2,000 1, Trails

57 B. Lift Infrastructure Sipapu s present lift infrastructure consists of five lifts: one fixed grip platter lift (FP), one high-speed detachable platter lift (HSP), two fixed-grip triple chairs (3C), and one conveyor lift (MC). The proposed development plan will address the deficiencies with the current lift/trail balance in a way that is most cost effective for the ski area and logical in terms of improving the skier s lift experience and traffic flow. This plan will also evaluate the new proposed Terrain Pods #7 and #8, and appropriately match lift services with slope demands. When the Proposed Development Plan is completed, Sipapu will have a total of eight lifts: two high-speed detachable quads (D4C), one combined high-speed gondola/chair lift (CHS), two fixed-grip triple chairs (3C), one fixed-grip double chair (2C), one moving conveyor lift (MC), and one additional lift or conveyor to replace Lift # 2. The total hourly capacity of these eight lifts will equal 12,306 people per hour, and the Skiers At One Time (SAOT) will be 4,262 skiers. Table V-1: Proposed Expansion Area Infrastructure shows Sipapu s proposed lifts and their individual specifications. Summary of Proposed Development Plan Lift Installations and Upgrades Constructing three new chair lifts on National Forest System lands. Pedro s Park Lift will be located entirely within the existing permit boundary. The Sipapu Express Lift will be within the new and existing permit boundary, and the West Side Express Lift will be positioned entirely within the new SUP Area. Increasing Lift #1 s current capacity and seating of 81 chairs to its original design capacity and seating of 107 chairs, and eventually replace Lift # 1 with a lift that offers a design capacity of 2,400 people per hour. Replacing Lift #2 with a small chair lift or conveyor lift to improve the beginner s experience. Upgrading the existing Lift #3 with a chair lift. Increasing Lift # 4 s current capacity of 1,270 (PPH) to its original design capacity of 1,660 (PPH) when needed. Lift Modifications within Existing SUP Area Lift #1: As discussed in Chapter 4, Lift #1 is currently the resort s primary lift out of the base area and has the ski area s second-highest hourly capacity of people per hour (PPH). Because Lift #1 is the primary lift out of the base area, it sees the heaviest use out of all of the lifts. This lift services the largest terrain pod within the existing permit area, and it is the only lift 46

58 to access Lifts #3 and #4. Lift #1 currently has a design capacity of 1,200 (PPH) and a SAOT of 404 skiers, while the terrain it serves has a SAOT of 960 skiers. By adding an additional 26 chairs to Lift #1, we will increase the lift s capacity to its original design capacity of 1,600 (PPH). Lift #1 s new SAOT will also increase to 465 skiers. This modification will be the least expensive way to immediately reduce the identified deficiency. Lift #4: Lift #4 currently has a daily SAOT of 112 skiers and a trail SAOT of 296 skiers; the lift has sufficient capacity and provides a positive lift experience. With the new trails proposed in this area and the terrain pod reallocation due to the addition of the Sipapu Express Lift, the new SAOT will be decreased to 126 skiers and the need to increase Lift #4 s SAOT would not be needed. Until the addition of the Sipapu Express Lift and the Pod # 7 trail network, we recommend modifying Lift # 4 to its original design capacity of 1600 (PPH). In doing so, this lift will have a new daily SAOT of 164 skiers. Lift Replacement within the Existing SUP Area Lift #1: It has been identified that there is a deficiency between the Lift and Trail SAOT within Terrain Pod #1. When the Proposed Development Plan is completed, Terrain Pod #1 will have a trail SAOT of 1,020 skiers and a lift SAOT of 465 skiers. Due to this large deficiency of lift SAOT, we recommend that Lift #1 eventually be replaced with a new lift with a design capacity of 2,400 (PPH). With this new lift, the new lift SAOT will become 822 skiers. This new ratio of lift to trails will decrease lift lines while continuing to provide trails that are not overcrowded. Lift #2: As discussed in Chapter 4, Lift #2 is currently the resort s beginner lift out of the base area and services two beginner trails and one lower intermediate trail. Lift #2 has a very low daily lift capacity of only 36 skiers a day (SAOT), while the trail system it services has a capacity of 84 skiers a day (SAOT), and this lift is no longer is capable of adequately supplying an acceptable skier/ lift experience. To correct this experience and to align the lift to ski trail balance, Lift #2 needs to be upgraded or replaced. The current lift line will still be utilized with the new lift, and no additional terrain will be serviced. The most ideal and cost-effective solution to the current deficiency would be modifying the existing lift. Other options include the installation of a lift or conveyor with a design capacity of 1,000 (PPH), which will allow the lift to have a daily lift SAOT of 89 skiers, just slightly above the ski trail daily capacity. 47

59 Lift #3: As discussed in Chapter 4, Lift #3 is one of only nine high-speed surface lifts in operation in the United States. For skiers that are unable to ride this lift, they are faced with a fiveminute hike uphill to return to the trail systems serviced by Lift #1. As skier expectations change and their familiarity of how to ride this type of lift diminishes (as skiers who are familiar quit skiing and younger generations start), this lift will need to be replaced to continue to provide a positive lift experience and increase its uphill capacity to match its trail network capacity. Currently, this lift has a design capacity of 1,000 (PPH) and a daily skier capacity of 179. Using the same lift line, a chair lift with a design capacity of 1,600 (PPH) and a daily skier capacity of 292 should be installed. This will eliminate the trouble skiers have riding the current surface lift while virtually matching the new trail network s daily capacity of 321 SAOT. New Lifts Within the Existing SUP Area Pedro s Park Lift As discussed in Chapter 4, Sipapu believes that its current novice terrain within Terrain Pod #1 is used more as an access trail to other trails within the terrain pod than it is its own isolated trail. This causes the trail to not only be used by novice skiers but the majority of all skier skill mixes within the pod, causing it to be very congested and intimidating to novice skiers. Once beginners are below mid-mountain, the congestion and intimidation level is greatly reduced because other skiers have left the beginner trail for other runs. Sipapu believes that if the beginners were able to start skiing below the congested area, their overall experience would be greatly improved. To access this terrain, the installation of a new chair lift with a design capacity of 1,200 (PPH) and a daily skier capacity of 346 will be needed. The addition of this lift will also help to balance the existing deficiency between Terrain Pod #1 s lift and trail daily skier capacities. To address the deficiency of novice terrain within Terrain Pod #1, additional novice terrain has been identified that could eventually be constructed and accessed by this lift as well. It should be noted that the entire lift would be located on Forest Service lands with the exception of the bottom-loading terminal, which will be located on private land owned by the ski area. Proposed Development Plan New Lifts - Upper Mountain & West Side Areas/Inventoried Roadless Area For Sipapu to continue to be competitive within the regional skier market and maintain an enjoyable skier experience as the ski area continues to experience its remarkable growth rate, additional ski trails will be needed. As discussed in Chapter 4, ski trails and slopes should be designed to provide the best skiing opportunities, provide a wide variety of terrain to match the diversity of skill levels, and be interesting and challenging for each skill level. Subsequently, lifts are located to best serve these ski trails, since lifts are merely a means of access. To adequately support the network of trails within the new proposed SUP Area, two new chair lifts will need to be installed. As additional terrain is added to the 48

60 new SUP Area, additional lifts may be needed to keep an acceptable lift/trail daily skier balance. Construction, Operation, and Maintenance within the Comales Inventoried Roadless Area The following will be observed for all operation, maintenance and construction within the Upper Mountain & West Side areas, which are completely within the Comales Inventoried Roadless Area. Lift Construction: Tree removal Trees will be cut to establish the lift line corridor. Stumps will be removed using wheeled or tracked equipment, holes will be filled, and trees will be salvaged and removed from the area using wheeled or tracked equipment, ATV s, helicopters, or horses. Trees may also be removed during snow cover conditions using snowcats. Tower construction Holes will be dug using a tracked excavator or a spider hoe. Finish work of the foundation will be completed by hand (e.g., earthwork, define hole dimensions, setting rebar). Concrete and towers will be flown in by helicopter when needed. Terminal construction Foundations will be dug using a tracked excavator or a spider hoe. Finish work of the foundation will be completed by hand (e.g., earthwork, setting rebar). Concrete will be flown in by helicopter when needed. If conditions require it, the top terminal could be delivered during snow cover conditions using a snow cat and stored until construction. The top terminal could be set in place using a tracked crane. Power supply Up to a four-foot deep and four-foot wide trench will be dug using a tracked excavator. Cable will be delivered using either snowcats during snow cover conditions or wheeled/tracked equipment during non-snow conditions. The cable will be placed in the trench using wheeled/tracked equipment and/or ATV s. Haul rope installation Cable will be attached to a messenger line from the bottom terminal. No vehicles will be required within the IRA. General Construction equipment will have access to construction zones through overland vehicular travel. No road construction will be required. Lift Maintenance: Lifts will be operated and maintained without the use of roads and will normally not require the use of any equipment other than ATV s and snowcats. Non-routine maintenance such as major equipment repair/replacement may require the use of helicopters, wheeled or tracked equipment and trailers. Motor vehicle access to construction zones will be permitted through overland travel only. All lift maintenance will be analyzed through the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process and any access will be approved through the NEPA analysis. 49

61 New SUP Area Lifts Sipapu Express Combined Lift The upper mountain will be serviced by a new high-speed detachable gondola/chair lift. The new lift will provide skiers access to the top of the new SUP Area. The lift will have a slope length of 5,950 feet. Its design capacity, intended to meet the demands of the new ski trails, will be 2,400 (PPH), and it will have a daily skier capacity of 850 skiers. As additional uphill capacity is needed, carriers can be added to the ropeway to meet the new slope capacities. This lift will be located within both the existing and new proposed SUP Areas. The bottom-loading terminal of this lift will be located on private property on the north side of the river, and the lift line will be positioned between the top terminal of Lift #2 and the bottom terminal of the Pedro s Park Lift. The top terminal will be located at the top of the new proposed SUP Area and will provide access to all trails within the existing and new SUP Area. This innovative ropeway system combines the advantages of a detachable gondola lift and the detachable chairlift. Cabins and chairs are used on the same ropeway at the same time, with separate boarding and disembarking areas for chairs and cabins to meet the requirements set by the individual carrier types. Depending on the season, weather conditions or the customer requirements, the mixing ratio of the carriers can be flexibly modified. In the summer, cabins can be used to transport foot traffic, hikers, kids, handicapped passengers, families with push carries and/or pets. In the winter, ski school, less experienced skiers, and families will appreciate the comfort of the cabins, while swift winter sports enthusiasts will prefer to use the chairs since they will not have to take off their skis and snowboards. Carriers can also be used to transport injured patients. Freight can be transported using a special carrier. West Side Express This lift will provide access to the abundant intermediate fall line skiing terrain that has been identified to address the deficiency of intermediate terrain within the existing SUP Area. This lift will be located in what is being called the West Side Expansion Area. Access to this lift will be achieved by riding the existing Lift #1 in the existing SUP Area, the Sipapu Express Lift or the terrain accessed by the lift itself. The West Side Express lift will most likely be a high-speed detachable chair lift with a slope length of 4,436 feet a design capacity of 2,400 (PPH) and a daily capacity of 850 SAOT. 50

62 Table V-1: Proposed Development Plan - Lift Specifications Existing Lift Proposed Upgrade Specifications Lift Specifications TOTAL Lift # Pedro Park Lift West Side Express - Lift Name Lift #1 Lift #2 Lift #3 Blue Freeze Magic Carpet Sipapu Express Year Constructed Magic Manufacturer Riblet Carpet - Lift Type D4C - 3C 3C MC 2C D4C D4C - Top Elevation (ft) 9,064 8,304 8,888 9,255 8,184 8,497 9,696 9,458 - Bottom Elevation (ft) 8,200 8,200 8,665 8,999 8,174 8,167 8,833 8,316 - Total Vertical (ft) ,142 3,792 Slope Distance (ft) 2, ,234 3,305 4,436 14,031 Rated Capacity (pph) 2,400 1,000 1,600 1,600 1,000 1,200 2,400 2,400 13,600 Design VTF/Hr (000) 2, ,071 2,741 8,163 Trip Time (min) 5:10 3:00 3:14 2:50 1:25 4:30 5:18 7:00 - Hours of Operation Up Mtn Access Role (%) 20% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 20% 0% - Misloads/ Stops (%) 2% 5% 5% 0% 0% 5% 2% 2% - Adjusted Hourly Capacity 1, ,520 1,600 1,000 1,140 1,872 2,352 12,306 Adj VTF/Hr (000) 1, ,616 2,686 7,153 Vertical Demand 13,773 7,790 8,119 17,438 3,090 7,613 13,299 10,420 - Daily Lift Capacity ,676 4,262 SAOT ,262 51

63 C. Proposed Ski Trails Existing ski trails at Sipapu include 30 trails and 11 gladed tree runs, totaling roughly 76.7 acres. The terrain classification breakdown by acreage is roughly: 1% beginner, 18% novice, 13% low intermediate, 17% intermediate, 16% high intermediate, 24% advanced, and 11% expert. The Proposed Development Plan will address the deficiencies with the existing ski trail balance in a way that is the most cost effective for the ski area and logical for improving the skiers trail experience and traffic flow. It will also evaluate the new proposed Upper Mountain and West Side development areas. When the Proposed Development Plan is completed, Sipapu will have 52 trails and 11 gladed tree runs, totaling roughly acres. The terrain classification breakdown by acreage will roughly be: 0.4% beginner, 30.2% novice, 15.7% low intermediate, 21.9% intermediate, 19.7% high intermediate, 10.6% advanced, and 1.6% expert. Summary of New Ski Trails, Trail Widening and Trail Grading Construct new trail segments within the existing SUP Area to increase needed beginner and intermediate terrain. New trails within the existing SUP Area will total approximately 6.89 acres. Implement trail widening and grading projects across the existing SUP Area to improve skier flow and snow management on existing trails. Trail widening will total approximately 2.36 acres. Create new gladed tree skiing areas between existing trails where appropriate conditions occur throughout the existing SUP. When Terrain Pod #7 s trail network is developed and trails from Pod #4 are reclassified as trails in Terrain Pod #7, parts of these existing tree skiing trails within the existing SUP will be modified into ski trails that can be groomed and maintained with snow groomers. Modified tree skiing trails within the existing SUP Area will total approximately acres. Construct a new trail network within the new SUP Area. Total new trail acreage in the new SUP Area will be approximately 199 acres. Proposed Development Plan Ski Trails Existing SUP Area New Ski Trails As identified in Chapter 4, there is a deficiency of novice and intermediate level trail acreages within the existing SUP Area. With the construction of new ski trails within the existing SUP Area, there will be an additional 6.34 acres of novice terrain and an additional 0.55 acres of intermediate terrain. Over time, this list may change and trails may 52

64 be added or dropped. New trails within the existing SUP Area are listed below and are identified on Map V-1: Proposed Changes to Existing SUP Area. New ski terrain within the existing SUP Area includes the following: Constructing a new intermediate ski trail #10 totaling 0.55 acres Constructing a new novice ski trail #34 totaling 0.59 acres Constructing a new novice ski trail #74 totaling 0.84 acres Constructing a new novice ski trail #83 totaling 0.34 acres Constructing a new novice ski trail #8 totaling 4.57 acres Trails #74 and #83 will be constructed in conjunction with the Upper Mountain and West Side trails. As a result, the new trail classifications and acreages will not be included within the existing SUP Area proposed trail acreages, but rather the Upper Mountain and West Side trail acreages. Tree Runs Modified to Ski Trails Within the Existing SUP Area The need to modify the existing tree skiing runs serviced by Lift #4 will become necessary to smoothly join the existing trails within the existing SUP Area to the new trails located within the Upper Mountain Area. The modification will involve changing parts of some existing tree runs into ski trails that can be maintained with snowcats as mentioned above. These tree run modifications will happen in conjunction with the construction of the Upper Mountain Area trails and, as a result, the new trail classifications and acreages will not be included within the existing SUP Area proposed trail acreages, but rather the Upper Mountain Area trail acreages. The only exception to this is trail #79, which will be included in the existing SUP Area new trail acreages. Over time, this list may be changed and trails may be added or dropped. Tree skiing trails that will be modified to groomed ski trails are listed below and identified on Map V-1: Proposed Changes to Existing SUP Area. Tree runs modified to ski trails within the existing SUP are as follows: Modifying 2.44 acres of tree run #1 into the ski trail #75 Modifying 2.66 acres of tree run #42 into the ski trail #76 Modifying 2.96 acres of tree run #3 into the ski trail #77 Modifying 2.56 acres of tree run #4 into the new lift line for the new proposed Sipapu Express Lift and the new ski trail #78 53

65 Modifying 1.40 acres of tree run #16 into the new ski trail #79. This trail will be a new intermediate trail within terrain Pod #4. In Chapter 4, it was identified that there is an insufficient amount of intermediate terrain within Terrain Pod #4. This trail has been identified and should be constructed to help with the identified imbalance. Trail Widening and Grading Projects on Existing SUP trails Sipapu management has identified the need for trail widening and grading projects to occur on several locations of existing ski trails. The purpose is to address tree outcroppings along the sides of trails. The tree outcroppings that have been identified are areas that are reducing the efficiency of the trail where they are located by causing pinch points on the trail and, as a result, the snow quality and longevity is reduced due to the increased traffic in that location. Other locations have been identified as additional terrain options and have been brought to management s attention from guests. As identified in Chapter 4, Sipapu Ski Area has a need for additional novice terrain, and several trail widening projects have been identified to help improve the novice skier experience. They also are areas that have been difficult to groom with snowcats because the trees do not follow the same line as the rest of the trail s edge. As a result, the time required to groom some trails, the nightly grooming efficiency and the overall cost of our grooming operations are affected. Trail grading will be performed in the same locations as tree removal. Over time, this list may be changed and trail widening and grading projects may be added or dropped. Projected trail widening and grading projects within the existing SUP Area have been identified on the following ski trails: Bambi Beep Beep Candy Don Diego Down Fall Face of Gamble Howdy Loose Caboose Lower Bambi Lower Oops Paul s Folly Rolling Rock Rufous Sassafrass Smart Chicken Thumper Upper Entrance of Salt Lick 54

66 Construction of New Ski Trails within the New Proposed SUP Area New trails within the New Proposed SUP Area will address the imbalance of beginner, novice and all intermediate levels that have been identified in Chapter 4. Additionally, the new ski trails will provide additional acreage to disperse Sipapu s rapidly growing clientele, help maintain the current un-crowded trail experience, and provide new skiing opportunities for returning local and regional guests. The network of ski trails is shown in Map V-2. Construction, Operation, and Maintenance within the Comales Inventoried Roadless Area The following will be observed for all operation, maintenance and construction within the Upper Mountain & West Side areas, which are completely within the Comales Inventoried Roadless Area. Ski Trail Construction: Tree removal Trees will be cut to establish the trail corridor. Stumps will be removed using wheeled or tracked equipment, holes will be filled, and trees will be salvaged and removed from the area using wheeled or tracked equipment, ATV s, helicopters, or horses. Trees may also be removed during snow cover conditions using snowcats. General - Construction equipment will have access to construction zones through overland travel. No road construction will be required. Ski Trail Maintenance: Ski trails will be operated and maintained without the use of roads and will normally not require the use of any equipment other than ATV s and snowcats. Terrain Pod #7 Terrain Pod #7 will be located above (to the south) of the existing ski trails serviced by Lifts #3 and #4. When completed, there will be 9 new ski trails within Pod #7. The terrain mix within this pod will be 0% beginner, 22% novice, 17% lower intermediate, 11% intermediate, 37% high intermediate, 12% advanced, and 1% expert terrain. This new terrain mix will help maintain the outstanding skiing experience at Sipapu and will bring much-needed novice and beginner terrain to the area. Once skiers are in this terrain pod, they will be able to access all of the existing ski area trail network or enjoy the West Side Terrain Pod ski trails. Approximately acres of new ski trails will be created when this terrain pod is completed. The new acreage within the terrain pod will have a SAOT of 2,264. At this time, each trail within this terrain pod has an identification number. Once these ski trails are created, they will be given a name and will be properly marked with signage. Over time, this list may be changed and ski trails may be added or dropped. New 55

67 trail specifications for Terrain Pod #7 are identified in Chart V-1: New Ski Trails Existing and Proposed SUP Areas. Terrain Pod #8 Terrain Pod #8 will be located to the west of the existing ski area and, when completed, there will be 10 new ski trails. The terrain mix within this pod will be 0% beginner, 38% novice, 13% lower intermediate, 36% intermediate, 13% high intermediate, 0% advanced, and 0% expert terrain. As mentioned before, the new ski trails created in this terrain pod will bring much-needed intermediate skill level terrain to help balance Sipapu s terrain mix. Skiers within this terrain pod will also have access to the western side of the existing ski trails. A total of 96.2 acres of new ski trails will be created when the terrain pod is completed, and the new ski trails within the terrain pod will have a SAOT of 2,460. At this time, each trail within this terrain pod has an identification number. Once these ski trails are created, they will be given a name and will be properly marked with signage. Over time, this list may be changed and ski trails may be added or dropped. New trail specifications for Terrain Pod #8 are identified in Chart V-1: New Ski Trails Existing and Proposed SUP Areas. Terrain Parks As mentioned earlier, terrain parks have become an essential part of a ski area and are enjoyed by both snowboarders and skiers. Currently, Sipapu has two terrain parks, Flight School and The Play Ground. Both of these parks are considered to be beginner/intermediate parks and consist of small features such as rails and hits. If additional terrain within the proposed SUP Area ski trail network is identified as being ideal for terrain parks, Sipapu s management will determine if there is a need for additional terrain parks and, if so, at what skill level. Sipapu s management would then recommend the construction of new terrain parks to match the identified need. At this time, no additional terrain parks are needed (just the addition of snowmaking to the existing terrain parks) but, over time, this may change and terrain parks may be added or dropped. Developed and Undeveloped Tree Skiing/ Alternative Terrain Having a variety of terrain is a key part of long-term skier retention. Sipapu s staff has worked very hard over the last 10 years to develop alternative terrain options within the existing SUP to help support this skier retention. As the SUP Area is expanded, the need for areas of this type of terrain will become necessary. It has been Sipapu s experience that the most ideal way of identifying these areas is getting out on the mountain and skiing them. Once identified, these areas can be cleaned up and receive proper trail identification. Once the trails within Terrain Pods #7 and #8 are developed, gladed areas between developed trails may be proposed. 56

68 Skier Ability Breakdown Once the Proposed Development Plan ski trail network is completed, the demand for terrain throughout the skill levels will become more in line with the ideal breakdown for the regional destination skier market. The following Table V-2 and Chart V-1 show the skill classification breakdown for the Proposed Development Plan. Table V-2: Skier Ability Breakdown Combined Existing and Proposed Conditions Skill Classification Trail Area Acreage Skier Capacity Sipapu Distribution Industry Parameters Beginner % 5% Novice , % 10% Low Intermediate , % 20% Intermediate , % 30% High Intermediate % 20% Advanced % 10% Expert % 5% TOTAL , % The chart on the following page illustrates the distribution of terrain by skier ability level for the combined existing and proposed trails and the industry parameters for each skill classification. The graph shows that the there is a shortage of novice and expert skill levels within the new proposed trail network. This deficiency is due to the fact that the current novice terrain is used by all skill levels to access their appropriate skill level trail of choice. 57

69 Slope Density Study As mentioned earlier, it is important to look at the relationship between the lift uphill capacity and the trail capacity when designing a ski area. Ideally, you try to balance these two factors so you don t end up having long lift lines or overcrowded trails. Table V-3 shows the slope densities for the existing and new terrain pods discussed earlier in this chapter. This table allows us to compare the proposed lift capacity (SAOT) with the proposed slope capacities (SAOT) within each pod. It is assumed that at any one time 25% of each lift capacity is actually not skiing but, rather, using other skier facilities or resting while the remaining 75% are either in lift lines, on lifts, or descending the slopes; this is reflected in our calculations of each pod. 58

70 Pod # Daily Lift Capacity Table V-3: Proposed Slope Density Study Guest Distribution Using In Lift Skier Lines Facilities On Lift On Slopes Terrain Acreage Density Study Skiers per Acre Ideal Skier per Acre Difference , TOTAL 4,262 1, , , The proposed slope density study indicates that there is a slight surplus of slope capacity in relation to the amount of lift capacity. The overall proposed slope capacity is 6,761 skiers, while the proposed lift capacity is 4,262 skiers. This situation is ideal for providing skiers short lift lines and uncrowded slopes. 59

71 SUP Boundary 8600 Private Property Lift Existing Lift Lift Replacement Proposed Lift Treatment Plant Treatment Plant Lot Trail Projects Modified Tree Trail «518 Proposed Ski Trail 8300 Trail Widening and Grading Existing Trail Lodge Maintenance Shop West of Lodge Lot Front of Lodge North Lot 8 8 MC Pedro's Park Lift Lift #2 / FP Lift #1 / 3C Ski Patrol Shack 70 Lift #4 / 3C Lift #3 / HSP Date: 4/24/2012 Proposed Changes to Existing SUP Area 9300 Master Development Plan Feet Map V

72 Treatment Plant Proposed Skier Service Lodge $1 Lodge Westside Express 8 10 Pedro's Park Lift 8400 Lift #2 / FP MC Maintenance Shop Lift #1 / 3C SUP Boundary New SUP Boundary Proposed Structures $1 $1 Lift Skier Service Building Skier Service Lodge Existing Sipapu Express Lift #4 / 3C 83 Ski Patrol Shack Lift #3 / HSP « Trails Replacement Proposed Existing 9300 Modified Tree Trail Proposed w/in Existing SUP 9100 Skier Service Building Proposed w/in New SUP $1 Proposed Expansion Area Infrastructure Date: 4/24/2012 Master Development Plan Feet ,000 2, Map V

73 D. Skiers At One Time As mentioned in Chapter 4, establishing the Skiers At One Time (SAOT) is a key part in evaluating our guest experience because it allows us to understand the overall stability of the ski area s facilities. Once the SAOT is established for the proposed lifts, that sum can be used to assess and develop additional ski area skier service facilities. Sipapu s existing SAOT has been established to be around 731 visitors. Using the Proposed Development Plan figures as shown in Table V-1: Proposed Development Plan Lift Specifications, Sipapu s new proposed SAOT would be increased to approximately 4,262 skiers. E. Base Area and On-Mountain Skier Facilities To accommodate increased skier use and needs, Sipapu plans to continue to use the existing lodge at the base area with a modified floor plan to improve use of space and improve the overall skier flow. In addition to the existing lodge modification, we propose building five new skier service facilities as the demand for additional skier services increases. The new buildings will have a combined floor space totaling approximately 48,000 square feet. Two buildings will be constructed within the existing SUP Area at the following locations: one will be constructed near the top of the current ski school learning area in the base area; another will be constructed near the bottom of Lift #3. One building will be constructed at the top of the new SUP Area near the top terminal of the Sipapu Express Lift. There will be two buildings constructed on private property in the base area. The current skier services facilities have a capacity of approximately 780 SOAT. With the construction of the proposed chair lifts, the lift capacity would be 4,262 SAOT. To provide adequate services for the increase, these three new buildings located on the mountain and the two buildings in the base area would need to be constructed. All five buildings can be designed so they are easily expanded as the resort experiences growth in skier demand. Base Area Facilities Sipapu Lodge/Ski School Facilities The current lodge modifications will include a new ticket area on the north side of the lodge, the general store and ski shop will trade places, a new ski school check-in building will be built at the base of the teaching area conveyor lift on private property, a children s center will be built on Forest Service lands adjacent to the conveyor lift to address this identified deficiency and additional restroom facilities would be added on to the west side of the lodge. New Skier Service Lodge The Lodge on private property in the base area would be built a few years after the Sipapu Express Lift is built, and when the West Side Express chairlift is installed and there is a need for more skier service capacity. The services available at this location would include 62

74 ticket sales, rental and retail space, food service and seating, administrative space, public lockers, restrooms, and additional employee locker space. Mountain Facilities Lift #3 Skier Services The building that would be constructed at the bottom of Lift #3 would address the identified need for skier services within this pod. The structure will initially be a skier deck designed for on-mountain sack lunches. When completed, it may include a small food service building capable of providing food during holidays and peak weekends along with additional skier services, such as restrooms. Mountain Top Skier Service Building The new skier service building at the top of the new SUP Area may initially be partially finished and possibly equipped to service this new expansion with features such as a ski patrol station, warming area for skiers, limited food service, and restrooms. All restrooms would include compost toilets or other EPA-approved systems. Later, this building could be completed with the addition of a water cistern/tank system, expanded food services, and other skier services, including ski school. Construction, Operation, and Maintenance within the Comales Inventoried Roadless Area The following will be observed for all operation, maintenance and construction within the Upper Mountain Area, which is completely within the Comales Inventoried Roadless Area. Skier Service Building Construction: Site Preparation Trees will be cut to establish the building site. Stumps will be removed using wheeled or tracked equipment, holes will be filled, and trees will be salvaged and removed from the area using wheeled or tracked equipment, ATV s, helicopters, or horses. Trees may also be removed during snow cover conditions using snowcats. Foundation Construction The foundation will be dug using a tracked excavator or a spider hoe. Finish work of the foundation will be completed by hand (e.g., earthwork, setting rebar). Concrete will be flown in by helicopter when needed. Utilities Up to a four-foot deep and four-foot wide trench will be dug using a tracked excavator. Cable will be delivered using either snowcats during snow cover conditions or using wheeled or tracked equipment during non-snow conditions. The cable will be placed in the trench using wheeled/tracked equipment and/or ATV s. Building Materials Most materials will be delivered during snow cover conditions using a snowcat and stored until construction. Any materials transported during non-snow cover conditions will be transported using wheeled or tracked equipment. Some construction tasks will be completed with a tracked crane. 63

75 General Construction equipment will have access to construction zones through overland vehicular travel. No road construction will be required. Skier Service Building Operation and Maintenance: A Skier Service Building will be operated and maintained without the use of roads and will normally not require the use of any equipment other than ATV s and snowcats. Special lift carriages will be installed on the Sipapu Express Lift. These new carriages will be capable of transporting food and beverage items, general building maintenance supplies, sanitary supplies, garbage, and small to medium sized appliances (e.g., stove, refrigerator, hot water heater, etc.). During snow conditions, these items may also be transported using snowcats and snowmobiles. Water will be supplied using the on-site cistern system and may also be transported by snowcats and trailers during snow conditions. During non-snow cover conditions, water will be transported using water transport carriages on the Sipapu Express Lift. Additional potable water supply and water for fire suppression may be made available through snow making lines. Non-routine maintenance such as major equipment repair or replacement may require the use of wheeled or tracked equipment and trailers, and access to construction zones will be permitted through overland vehicular travel only. All nonroutine maintenance will be analyzed through the NEPA process and any access will be approved through the NEPA analysis. Increased skier visits will allow Sipapu to invest more resources into improving skier services and other intangible aspects of a customer s experience at Sipapu. With more skiers, there will be more resources to meet an increased demand for enhanced skier services such as mountain hosts, information services and other skier services to provide a more quality experience for our guests. Mountain Operation Buildings Maintenance Buildings In addition to skier service facilities, Sipapu proposes the construction of the following operational facilities to address deficiency within the existing operation that were identified in Chapter 4. Currently, the resort has very limited indoor space for snowcat repair, maintenance or storage. New maintenance facilities will be constructed to facilitate the storage of grooming machines and rubber tired vehicles, expand the lift maintenance shop, create maintenance offices, etc. The building will be located between the existing ski runs Lower Oops and Salt Lick. Ideally, these facilities should be hidden from the public view, using existing trees as a buffer. 64

76 As a rule of thumb, the maintenance shop should have one bay that is approximately 800 square feet in size (25 feet by 33 feet) for each grooming machine. The proposed maintenance facility will contain four bays. Two bays would likely be allocated to grooming machine maintenance with the additional bays dedicated to snowmobile, rubber tire vehicle, lift maintenance, electrical maintenance, building maintenance and sign shop, etc. This maintenance facility should provide a washroom and employee area, as well as parts storage, which are often located in a second floor mezzanine. A fuel depot may be located adjacent to the shop for refueling rubber tire and on-snow vehicles. Lift Operator Locker Room The need for a lift operator locker room was identified in Chapter 4. Sipapu proposes building a new lift operator locker room located at the bottom of the existing Lift #1. Breakdown of Proposed Guest Services The total proposed space and its distribution by location and function are summarized in Table V-4: Space Use Analysis Proposed Facilities. The proposed locations of the proposed facilities are identified within Map V-1 and Map V-2. Table V-4: Space Use Analysis Proposed Facilities* Service Function Proposed Sq Ft per Skier Proposed Floorspace (Sq Ft) Skiers Serviced Staging Facilities Ticket Sales ,092 Public Lockers ,092 Restrooms ,092 Equipment Rental and Repair ,092 Guest Services/Ski School ,092 Children s Programs ,092 Subtotal Staging Facilities ,191 - Commercial Facilities Food Service Seating ,092 Kitchen & Scramble ,092 Bar / Lounge ,092 Accessory Retail ,092 Subtotal Commercial Facilities ,606 - Operational Facilities Administration ,092 Employee Facilities ,092 First Aid & Patrol ,092 Subtotal Operational Facilities ,366 Additional Required Square Footage Storage ,092 Mechanical ,092 Circulation/Walls/Waste ,092 Subtotal Additional Footage ,089 - Property Grand Total ,252 - * Proposed SAOT = 4,262; Model Day SAOT = 4,092 65

77 Proposed Restaurant Seating Inventory Currently, there is sufficient seating to handle a daily SAOT of 912. As the Proposed Development Plan is constructed, the current seating capacity will no longer suffice and there will be a need for additional seating. Table V-5: Proposed and Recommended Seating, provides a comprehensive overview of what the additional seating requirements will be when the Proposed Development Plan is completed: Table V-5: Proposed and Recommended Seating* Existing Seating Café Bar Dayroom Balcony Patio Ski Area Total Average Indoor Seating Turnover Existing Indoor Seats Total Existing Seating New Skier Services Building Lift #3 Skier Services Mountain Top Lodge New Base Area Patio New Facilities Total Proposed Seating New Bar Average Indoor Seating Turnover Facility Square Footage 6,000 1,000 1,250 1, Recommended Seating (12 sq. ft./chair) Total Proposed Seating 1, ,979 Total Proposed and Existing Seating ,891 * Proposed SAOT = 4,262; Model Day SAOT = 4,092 F. Parking Proposed Staging Capacity As identified in Chapter 4, the current SAOT capacity for the existing three main parking lots and one overflow lot is 754 skiers. Using the current resort peak SAOT of 861 skiers, it is apparent that there is an immediate need for an additional 0.36 acres of parking to address this deficiency. With the construction of the Proposed Development Plan, Sipapu will have a proposed SAOT of approximately 4,262 skiers and will need an additional acres of parking. To accommodate the current parking deficiency and a portion of the anticipated additional SAOT with the Proposed Development Plan, Sipapu proposes adding three new parking lots on National Forest lands and expanding the existing parking lot located on the north side of New Mexico State Highway 518. This will produce an additional 4.12 acres of parking with a new parking lot SAOT of 1,645 skiers. Sipapu will work with the Forest Service to identify areas for additional parking to achieve the remaining 7.57 acres needed to accommodate the proposed SAOT of the Proposed Development Plan. An inventory and capacity analysis of the Proposed Development Plan parking areas are listed in Table V-6: Proposed Parking. 66

78 Table V-6: Proposed Parking Parking Location Area Cars per Guests Guests Per # of Cars (acres) Acre Per Car Lot Front of Lodge North Side of Hwy West Side of Lodge Treatment Plant Proposed North Lot Expansion Proposed Northeast Lot Proposed Lot # Proposed Northwest Lot Subtotal 730 1,824 Area (acres) Cars per Acre Staff Per Car # of Cars for Staff # of Staff on Model Day Subtract # of Staff on Model Day Add # Guests In Lodging Parking Total Parking Lot Acres Cars per Acre Guests Per Car Total Guest Parking Spots Total Parking SAOT TOTAL ,644 G. Grooming Operations Currently, Sipapu operates two snowcats per night to cover the current demand for groomed terrain. It is recommended that one fully operable grooming machine be available each nightly shift for every 40 acres of groomable terrain in classes 1-5. Based upon these criteria, grooming trails in skill classes 1 to 5 and one shift per night, the current grooming requirements can be calculated as follows: Table V-7: Groom Machine Requirements Calculation Groomable Terrain (acres) Acreage per Machine Availability = Number of Machines Required % = 7.57 Based upon this analysis, eight front line grooming machines are needed to groom all of the terrain in skill class 1-5 every night (based on one shift per night) within the new proposed development plan. 67

79 H. Snowmaking Sipapu currently has afy diversion and 5.17 afy consumptive of water, which has been permitted by the State of New Mexico Engineers Office (Permit No ) to make snow on 977 acres of National Forest Service land. The source of its water supply is the Rio Pueblo, a tributary of the Rio Grande. This water source has proven to be a very reliable and adequate source. Currently, Sipapu makes snow on approximately 26 acres, but the need to make snow on an additional 29.2 acres within the existing SUP Area has been identified and will improve the guest skiing experience throughout the season. The snowmaking system currently provides machine-made snow coverage to approximately 26 acres, or 34 percent of the total terrain, as listed in Table IV-9 Existing Snowmaking Coverage (page 39). Sipapu s snowmaking system has a capacity of 500- gallons per minute. Sipapu s snowmaking fleet consists of ten fan guns with on-board compressors, two lance-style tower guns with on-board compressors and six water sticks. As identified in Chapter 4, the two largest limiting factors to Sipapu s system are onmountain snowmaking pipelines and electrical supply lines. Currently, there is only one six-inch pipeline and one 3-phase/480volt/400amp snowmaking power supply line on the mountain. These two factors greatly restrict the snowmaking capacity of the system. To correct these deficiencies, Sipapu proposes the below changes to the current and future snowmaking system. Over time, these upgrades to the snowmaking system may change or be modified as new technology in snowmaking becomes available and skier traffic changes across the mountain. Changes to the snowmaking coverage are shown in Table V-8: Proposed Snowmaking Coverage Plan. Existing SUP Area Proposed Snowmaking Upgrade Plan Within the existing SUP, install below-ground snowmaking pipelines on the following existing trails: o Bambi o Beep Beep o Butterfly o Candy o Flower o Gamble Trees o Howdy o Howdy Extension (Proposed Trail) o Lift #3 Lift Line o Loose Caboose o Practice Slope o Salt Lick o Sassafrass o Smart Chicken o Thumper 68

80 Construct a one million-gallon storage tank for holding snowmaking water in the Lift #3 area. Acquire approximately an additional 5.6 afy of water for consumptive use. Install primary power on existing and proposed ski trails to improve snowmaking power supply as improvements become necessary. Install below-ground snowmaking pipelines within the proposed SUP trail network. Install infrastructure necessary for the proposed snowmaking system within the existing SUP Area. Items will include pumps, hydrants, electrical lines, electrical pedestals, pump houses, water tanks, below ground vaults, etc. Proposed SUP Area Snowmaking Plan Ski trails within the new SUP Area have an overall north to northwest aspect, with some trails having northeast to due east aspect. The ski trails having north aspect will hold snow really well, but other trails will have increased snow loss in the later season (after early March). They have similar aspect to existing trails like Upper Rufous and Thumper. Sipapu has been very successful in keeping Upper Rufous and Thumper open until the end of the ski season with the use of snowmaking. Snowmaking should be even more successful within the new proposed development plan area as these trails are somewhat higher in elevation, have less pitch and will be wider. All of these factors will contribute to the ability to hold snow and to move snow with snowcats. The total new snowmaking coverage within the proposed development plan would be approximately 199 acres, and it is estimated an additional afy of water for consumptive use might be needed. Additional water rights and storage will be proposed and acquired as needed. The precise locations that will need snowmaking and infrastructure to support snowmaking in the new SUP Area will depend on how the trails come out on the ground. The snowmaking system would be connected to the existing system and an estimated 44,902 feet of snowmaking pipeline and electrical line could be installed to accommodate the additional system. At this time, the plan is to continue to obtain water from the current source. The entire snowmaking system would be an asset for fire protection and fire fighting. Maps V-3 and V-4 and Table V-8: Proposed Snowmaking Coverage outline the new snowmaking coverage. Construction, Operation, and Maintenance within the Comales Inventoried Roadless Area The following will be observed for all operation, maintenance and construction within the Upper Mountain & West Side areas, which is completely within the Comales Inventoried Roadless Area. Snowmaking infrastructure is another component of trail construction. Whenever possible, snowmaking lines and hydrants will be constructed concurrently with new ski trails. 69

81 Therefore, the same IRA stipulations discussed on page 55 will apply for all snowmaking infrastructure. In order to prolong the life of snowmaking lines and hydrants, and reduce the need for entering the IRA with maintenance equipment, only the most durable and long-lasting materials will be used. Snow Making Maintenance: Snow making infrastructure will be operated and maintained without the use of roads and will normally not require the use of any equipment other than ATV s and snowcats. Additional potable water supply and water for fire suppression may be made available through snow making lines. Non-routine maintenance such as major equipment repair or replacement may require the use of wheeled or tracked equipment and trailers. All snow making maintenance will be analyzed through the NEPA process and any access will be approved through the NEPA analysis. Table V-8: Proposed Snowmaking Coverage Pod Trail Number Skill Class Total Vertical (ft.) Slope Distance (ft.) Avg. Slope Width Acres Skiers per Trail 1 0 Novice Intermediate Intermediate Low Intermediate Beginner Intermediate Intermediate Advanced Advanced Low Intermediate Intermediate Novice High Intermediate High Intermediate Intermediate Low Intermediate Beginner Advanced Low Intermediate Intermediate Novice Novice Subtotal Novice Novice Low Intermediate

82 Subtotal Low Intermediate Low Intermediate Novice Novice Low Intermediate Subtotal Intermediate Intermediate Subtotal Novice Intermediate Novice Subtotal Beginner Subtotal Novice Low Intermediate High Intermediate Advanced Advanced Low Intermediate Intermediate Advanced High Intermediate Intermediate High Intermediate High Intermediate Intermediate Novice Subtotal , Novice Intermediate Intermediate Intermediate Low Intermediate Intermediate Novice High Intermediate Novice

83 8 87 Novice Subtotal ,640 TOTAL ,493 72

84 SUP Boundary Power Line 8600 Existing Power Proposed Power Primary Power Snowmaking Pipe Treatment Plant Treatment Plant Lot Existing Proposed «518 Snowmaking Coverage 8300 Routine Enhanced Snowmaking Proposed Trail Lodge Maintenance Shop Pump House West of Lodge Lot Front of Lodge North Lot Wormwood Howdy Sassafras Extension 8800 Beep Beep Butterfly Howdy Extension Sassafras Rolling Rock Extension Loose Caboose Bambi Rufous Rolling Rock "/ Bambi Thumper Pedros Park Liftline Trees Paul's Folly Lift #1 / 3C Lower Gamble Uno Booster Pump Lower Bambi Practice Slope Lift #2 / FP Don Diego Salt Lick Downfall Lower Oops MC Salt Lick Extension Lesson Area Worm 8500 Sassafras 8700 Flower Worm No Caboose Gamble Trees Extension Upper Gamble Smart Chicken Lift #4 / 3C Entrance to Lift 4 Candy Flight School "/ Water Storage Tank Lift #3 / HSP The Playground Brandy Date: 4/25/2012 Existing SUP Area Proposed Snowmaking Upgrade Plan P1-J 9300 Master Development Plan Feet P1-L Map V

85 Treatment Plant Proposed Skier Service Lodge $1 Lodge Westside Express 8 10 Pedro's Park Lift 8400 Lift #2 / FP MC Maintenance Shop Lift #1 / 3C Ski Patrol Shack « SUP Boundary New SUP Boundary Proposed Structures $1 $1 Lift Skier Service Building Skier Service Lodge Existing 9300 Snowmaking Coverage 9100 Routine Enhanced Snowmaking Proposed Trail Snowmaking Pipe Power Line Primary Power Sipapu Express 71 Lift #4 / 3C Lift #3 / HSP Replacement Proposed Snowmaking Power Skier Service Building 56 $1 Proposed SUP Snowmaking & Utilities Date: 4/25/2012 Master Development Plan Feet ,000 2, Map V

86 I. Summer Activities Summer activities are extremely important to the success of Sipapu s year-round recreation potential. These activities can make use of the infrastructure and facilities already in place for winter recreation, as well as other improvements that add diversity to the overall recreation potential. Sipapu s base is located at 8,200 feet in elevation and, as such, is much cooler than the desert valleys below. These cooler temperatures provide a comfortable environment for activities that normally would be unbearable at lower elevations. The following list describes current and anticipated on-mountain summer activities at Sipapu. Current Summer Activities Disc golf events, clinics and tournaments Lift-accessed sightseeing and hiking Mountain music concerts and festivals Conference retreats and seminars, weddings, family reunions Art festivals Horseshoe pits Trials motorcycle events Potential Summer Activities Additional disc golf course Mountain biking Climbing wall Bungee trampoline Summer tubing operation Beach/Grass volleyball Zip line Special evening star gazing Disc Golf Sipapu has a 20-basket disc golf course that has been ranked as one of the top five most scenic courses in the United States. Sipapu s trail network allows the course to be one of the most diverse and memorable ski area courses in the nation. Sipapu recognizes the need for an additional course on the mountain to continue to maintain its elite status. 75

87 Scenic Chairlift Rides Sipapu has an extensive summer lift maintenance program and a limited summer work force. Most seasons, Sipapu does not provide scenic chairlift rides due to these factors. During those summers when Sipapu has provided this service to its guests, it has been very successful. As Sipapu continues to become more of a year-round destination, the resort recognizes the need to provide this service as a staple part of its summer operations. Mountain Biking The proposed mountain biking and summer hiking will utilize the existing and proposed trails and mountain roads. These mountain bike trails will include the use of the existing summer road system, as well as more advanced single-track trails. Bike trails will be built in an environmentally-sensitive manner. Areas with sensitive plant species, riparian, or wetland will be avoided. The mountain bike trail system will be maintained and signed so that offshoot trails will not be established. All biking will be confined to designated trails only. Additionally, the maintenance will include measures to make sure that any run-off is diverted back into the natural vegetation so that erosion does not take place on the trail surface. Signage will also be installed to identify both natural and sensitive species as part of a proactive interpretive measure to educate the trail user on why it s important they stay on the trail, as well as the overall unique nature of the recreation area. Climbing Wall Climbing walls are a very popular at ski resorts. These are usually freestanding structures that are modular and set up for the summer in the base area of resorts. This structure would be set up for summer and located in the base area, across the river from the current lodge, most likely on private land. Bungee Trampoline The Slingshot Trampoline Bungee Jump provides a safe and fun way for the entire family to experience big air in the mountains. Jumpers are able to reach heights that would be impossible using a trampoline alone. Secured and safe in their adjustable purpose built harness, guests are free to experiment with acrobatic movements or to simply jump as high as they can. This exciting activity combines the adrenaline rush of a trampoline and bungee jumping in a safe and controlled environment. The bungee trampoline has become very popular at ski resorts around the world and can be used both during the summer and winter. Since this equipment is portable, it could be set up in the base area across the river from the current lodge and removed if the resort decides not to operate it in the winter. The trampoline will most likely be set up on private land. 76

88 Summer Tubing Operation A summer tubing operation located on Lower Thumper and serviced by the proposed Lift #2 replacement should be considered to provide an additional family activity for guests coming to the resort during the summer months. Guests would be able to slide down the ski run while sitting on a tube that would be placed in a tubing lane made of a nylon/plastic surface. This activity would be non-earth disturbing, removed seasonally, and there would be no need for additional infrastructure. Beach Volleyball The addition of the activity would address the need to provide group activities when the resort hosts wedding, corporate retreats, family reunions, etc. Volleyball can take place on the grassed area in the base area across the river from the lodge, and will most likely take place on private land. Zip Trek/Sky Line Resorts all around the world are now installing Zip Riders/Zip Trek or Sky Line tours for both summer and winter use. Zip Trekking involves moving from treetop to treetop while attached to the cable via a full-body harness. The harness attached to a zip pulley via two tethers (one main and one backup). The cable trail is connected to both a launch and landing platform. The series of cable zip lines move riders over gaping gorges and ice framed rivers. The Zip Trek has also evolved into a nature interpretive activity with zip line staff acting as guides who answer questions and provide relevant information about the area s ecology. A second type of zip line consists of four parallel cables that run through the forest in one long span. This system is currently installed at Park City Resort in Utah. Zip Riders have been installed at the Wildcat Mountain Ski Resort in New Hampshire and Heavenly Ski Resort in California; both Zip Riders are on USFS lands. Skier Service Building The use of the proposed mountain top skier service building would be ideal for hosting conferences, seminars, retreats, family reunions, weddings and other group dinners associated with these gatherings. For example, the opportunity to meet and have a meal in a unique setting for one day of a multi-day conference will provide a unique attraction for groups coming to Sipapu. Special Evening Star Gazing Stargazing events could be available several evenings per season, with telescopes for optimal viewing, located far away from the bright lights of local cities. Special events could also be planned to observe astronomical displays such as the Perseid meteor showers, 77

89 etc. The use of the proposed mountain top skier service building would make for an ideal location to host this type of event. J. Utilities Power As mentioned in Chapter 4, the current snowmaking system will need additional primary and secondary power to meet power demands required to run all the equipment associated with the snowmaking system. Primary and secondary power will also be required for proposed snowmaking, new lifts, on-mountain guest service facilities, and the new snowcat shop. Waste Treatment The existing treatment plant in the base area on private land will continue to accommodate the needs of the future base area facilities for the foreseeable future. On-mountain facilities with food service will require some form of waste treatment system from food preparation. On-mountain facilities with guest service restrooms can have composting facilities or other EPA-approved system installed, thus eliminating the need for waste treatment systems to deal with human waste. Drinking Water The existing drinking water system in the base area is showing its age and is in need of replacement. Sipapu has identified this as a top priority and will be working on key parts of the system over the next few years. On-mountain guest service facilities will need a water source. Sipapu proposes that each facility has its own water source, either by installing a well or installing underground water storage tanks for each facility. Fuel Storage Currently, Sipapu s fuel storage is adequate and meets the ski area s current needs. A new fuel storage area will be needed with the construction of the new snowcat shop. It may be necessary to install fuel storage tanks near on-mountain guest facilities to supply auxiliary power units when the power goes out. Additional fuel storage may also be necessary for future lifts to address power failures and their remote locations from the base area. On-mountain fuel storage would not be in a floodplain. 78

90 SUP Boundary Parking Lot Private Property XW Fuel Storage Proposed Structures #0 Skier Services "/ Maintenance Shop %2 Ski School $1 Skier Service Lodge Proposed Parking Existing Parking Power Line Existing Proposed Primary Power Snowmaking Pipe Existing Proposed 8300 Treatment Plant « North Lot Addition Proposed Skier Service Lodge $1 Lodge Maintenance Shop Pump House MC %2 Lift #2 / FP %2 Ski School Children's Ski School "/ Lift #1 / 3C Maintenance Shop Ski Patrol Shack Lift #3 Skier Service Facility Lift #4 / 3C #0 XW Fuel Storage Lift #3 / HSP Date: 4/25/2012 P1-J Existing SUP Area Existing and Proposed Infrastructure & Utilities 9300 Master Development Plan Feet P1-L Map V

91 K. Area Facilities Balance Statement Throughout this chapter, we have prepared an inventory of all proposed facilities for the winter and summer operation. We have subsequently analyzed the Skier At One Time (SAOT) and daily capacity of the following operational elements: lifts, trails, grooming, skier service floor space, food service seating, and parking capacity to demonstrate the benefits of changes to the existing SUP Area and what the new figures will look like in the new SUP Area. We have prepared a graphic representation of the overall balance of these facilities for the winter season in Chart V-2: Area Facilities Balance. To easily compare these diverse facilities, all capacities have been calculated in terms of the number of skiers that can be accommodated in one day. Sipapu currently has peak day visitation between 600 and 900 skiers. At this time, all of the operational components, except for food service and trails, fall below the capacity required to service this level of visitation and food service and trails will also fall below in the near future. These shortages significantly limit the future growth of the resort and reduce the overall quality of the guest experience. Although the proposed changes within the existing SUP Area do not correct these deficiencies entirely, they temporally bring the operational components closer to the ideal target. With the addition of the proposed development plan in the new SUP Area and its components, most of these deficiencies are almost completely eliminated. 80

92 SipaPu ski & Summer REsort MASTER DEVELOPMENT PLAN Appendix

93 Appendix 81

94 82

95 Table III: Terrain Specifications/Existing Conditions Top Bottom Slope Average Max Pod Trail Number Trail Name Elevation (ft) Elevation (ft) Vertical Rise (ft) Plane Length (ft) Average Width (ft) Area (acres) Grade (%) Grade (%) Ability Level 1 0 Sassafras % 26% Easiest 1 2 Howdy % 43% More Difficult 1 5 Beep Beep % 45% More Difficult 1 6 Butterfly % 34% More Difficult 1 7 Chicken % 8% More Difficult 1 9 Rolling Rock % 36% More Difficult 1 11 Thumper % 44% More Difficult 1 12 Thunder Bunny % 28% More Difficult 1 14 Pinball % 15% Easiest 1 15 Paul's Folly % 65% Most Difficult 1 23 Uno % 45% More Difficult 1 24 No Whiners % 53% Most Difficult 1 25 Flower % 55% Most Difficult 1 26 Aisle A % 9% Most Difficult 1 27 Indecision % 62% Expert Only 1 28 Oops % 60% Most Difficult 1 29 Reasonable Anxiety % 64% Expert Only 1 30 Aisle B % 12% Most Difficult 1 32 Salt Lick % 30% More Difficult 1 33 Don Diego % 37% More Difficult 1 36 Rufous % 46% More Difficult 1 37 Lower Gamble % 44% More Difficult 1 38 Loose Caboose % 48% More Difficult 1 40 Wormwood % 45% Most Difficult 1 41 Jimbo Gully % 29% More Difficult 1 43 Bambi % 26% Easiest 1 46 Lower Oops % 40% More Difficult 1 47 Face of Oops % 65% Expert Only 1 49 Staging Area % 8% N/A 83

96 1 50 Upper Gamble % 52% Most Difficult 1 52 Chopo's Trees % 40% Most Difficult 1 53 Entrance to Lift % 35% More Difficult 1 54 Downfall % 42% More Difficult 2 13 Practice Slope % 30% Easiest 2 31 Lesson Area % 10% Easiest 2 48 Lower Bambi % 26% Easiest 2 55 Lower Thumper % 30% More Difficult 3 20 The Playground % 32% Terrain Park 3 21 Flight School % 33% Terrain Park 3 22 Indecision Trail % 13% Most Difficult 3 35 Candy % 30% Easiest 3 44 Brandy % 30% Easiest 4 1 Wormwood % 62% Expert Only 4 3 Worm % 49% Most Difficult 4 4 No Caboose % 49% Most Difficult 4 16 Gamble Trees % 35% Most Difficult 4 17 Razzmataz % 41% Most Difficult 4 18 Jimmy Pop % 39% Most Difficult 4 19 TS % 52% Most Difficult 4 39 Smart Chicken % 47% More Difficult 4 42 Jip & Josh Chutes % 65% Expert Only 4 45 Gamble Chutes % 52% Expert Only 4 51 Upper Chopo's Trees % 40% Most Difficult TOTAL

97 Table III: Terrain Specifications/Existing and Proposed Pod Trail Number Top Elevation (ft) Bottom Elevation (ft) Vertical Rise (ft) Plane Length (ft) Average Width (ft) Slope Area (acres) Average Grade (%) Max Grade (%) Ability Level % 65% Expert Only % 52% Expert Only % 30% Easiest % 26% Easiest % 43% More Difficult % 45% More Difficult % 34% More Difficult % 8% More Difficult % 44% More Difficult % 15% Easiest % 65% Most Difficult % 45% More Difficult % 53% Most Difficult % 55% Most Difficult % 9% Most Difficult 85

98 % 62% Expert Only % 60% Most Difficult % 64% Expert Only % 12% Most Difficult % 30% More Difficult % 37% More Difficult % 46% More Difficult % 44% More Difficult % 48% More Difficult % 45% Most Difficult % 40% More Difficult % 65% Expert Only % 8% N/A % 52% Most Difficult % 40% Most Difficult % 35% More Difficult % 42% More Difficult % 34% More Difficult % 22% More Difficult 86

99 % 21% Easiest % 30% Easiest % 26% Easiest % 30% More Difficult % 36% More Difficult % 32% Terrain Park % 33% Terrain Park % 13% Most Difficult % 30% Easiest % 30% Easiest % 12% Easiest % 35% Most Difficult % 41% Most Difficult % 39% Most Difficult % 52% Most Difficult % 47% More Difficult % 42% More Difficult % 36% More Difficult % 28% More Difficult 87

100 % 29% More Difficult % 26% Easiest % 29% More Difficult % 10% Easiest % 25% Easiest % 36% More Difficult % 50% More Difficult % 53% Most Difficult % 60% Most Difficult % 35% More Difficult % 49% More Difficult % 60% Most Difficult % 50% More Difficult % 26% Easiest % 62% Expert Only % 49% Most Difficult % 49% Most Difficult % 40% Most Difficult % 40% More Difficult 88

101 % 49% More Difficult % 50% More Difficult % 45% More Difficult % 18% Easiest % 40% More Difficult % 45% More Difficult % 37% More Difficult % 33% More Difficult % 43% More Difficult % 30% Easiest % 45% More Difficult % 26% Easiest % 25% Easiest 89

102 SipaPu ski & Summer REsort MASTER DEVELOPMENT PLAN Glossary