Pipestem State Park’s new aerial tram takes off

PIPESTEM, W.Va. (WVVA) - A unique state-of-the-art aerial tram opened today at Pipestem Resort State Park, replacing the first tram, which opened 70 years ago.

The $15 million investment is providing the first gondolas in the world using Doppelmayr’s Next Generation control system, setting new standards in safety and accessibility.

The tram takes visitors on those gondolas down into the Bluestone Gorge to the Mountain Creek Lodge, which sits on the banks of the Bluestone River, providing a hotel, restaurant and recreational opportunities.

A dedicated freight car for bikes, kayaks and other gear is a feature of the new tram.

Chelsea Ruby, West Virginia Secretary of Tourism, said the new tram will not only attract new visitors but give those who grew up riding the old tram a brand new experience.

“Many have old memories associated with this as a kid and associating it now with the new … There’s all kinds of new features here, you can get your kayaks down, it’s accessible, a little nicer (gondolas) than the last one. I’m so excited to be here. It’s the perfect mix of the old and the new.”

Jamie Null, Executive Director of the Mercer County Visitors and Convention Bureau, said the tram is a major milestone for the region’s tourism.

“It is great to have this open and offer so many more amenities. Everybody has been waiting so patiently. Like Secretary Ruby said, this place has lot of memories for people, especially for me as a child. I remember riding when I was 5 or 6 … This is great opportunity for West Virginians to come here, rekindle those memories and make new ones,” Null said.

Null also said the experience appeals to everyone who visits, offering breathtaking landscapes, especially with fall colors on the horizon.

The original tram closed in 2023 and work on the new one began in early 2024.