A woman was rescued after becoming trapped in a gondola at Park City Mountain, dangling upside down by her ski boot on New Year’s Eve.
SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah — A distressing incident unfolded at Park City Mountain’s Canyons Village on New Year’s Eve when a woman became trapped in a gondola cabin, dangling upside down by her ski boot. The event occurred shortly after 1 p.m. as families gathered to enjoy the holiday festivities on the slopes. Eyewitness accounts detail that the woman was boarding the Red Pine Gondola with her party, which included children, when she attempted to enter the cabin as the doors were closing. In a moment of miscalculation, she placed her foot in the doorway, resulting in her ski boot being caught as the doors sealed shut.
According to witnesses, the gondola continued its ascent, dragging the woman approximately 50 feet beyond the loading terminal before the lift was halted. The scene was alarming, with the woman left hanging upside down in the air, supported only by her trapped boot. Eyewitness Mike Novik, who captured the incident on video and later shared it on social media, described the horror of the moment. "It was terrifying to see someone in that position, and you could feel the panic in the air as people rushed to help," he recalled.
As the gondola came to a stop, Park City Mountain employees sprang into action. Several staff members rushed to the scene to support the woman’s body while emergency protocols were initiated. A ladder was quickly brought in, allowing workers to reach her safely. They managed to unbuckle the ski boot from the gondola doors before carefully lowering her to the ground. The entire rescue operation took about 10 minutes, during which onlookers watched in concern.
Despite the quick response from the Park City Mountain staff, details regarding the woman’s condition remain unclear. Park City Mountain representatives have not yet issued a statement or responded to inquiries regarding any injuries sustained during the incident. Eyewitnesses expressed their hope that she was unharmed, given the precarious nature of the situation.
This incident raises questions about safety protocols at ski resorts, particularly concerning the loading and unloading procedures for gondolas. Ski resorts across the nation have implemented various safety measures to prevent similar occurrences, including enhanced training for staff and clear signage for guests. The gondola malfunction serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with skiing and snowboarding, especially during busy holiday times when slopes are crowded with families and visitors.
The Red Pine Gondola is a popular feature at Park City Mountain, known for its scenic views and access to multiple trails. In light of the recent mishap, the resort may need to evaluate its safety measures and emergency response protocols to ensure the well-being of its guests. Ski enthusiasts flock to Park City for its world-class ski terrain, making safety a paramount concern for both the resort and its visitors.
As winter sports continue to attract large crowds, the need for vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines cannot be overstated. This incident serves as a cautionary tale for skiers and snowboarders everywhere, emphasizing the importance of following instructions when using gondolas and lifts. With the winter season still in full swing, ski resorts are likely to review their safety practices in an effort to prevent future accidents.
As the New Year dawns, the incident at Park City Mountain serves not only as a reminder of the inherent risks involved in winter sports but also of the quick thinking and bravery of those who came to the aid of the woman in distress. Guests at the resort expressed their gratitude toward the staff for their rapid response, highlighting the importance of preparedness in emergency situations. As details emerge about the woman’s recovery and any implications for the resort’s safety measures, the community remains hopeful for a safe and enjoyable ski season ahead.