The Denver Post reports federal approval for a 13,000 foot ski lift to Peak 8 at Breckenridge Ski Resort in Colorado — the highest in North America.White River National Forest Supervisor Maribeth Gustafson overruled an earlier decision against the lift. The press release states:
Although many believe that the skiing terrain available on Peak 8 and Peak 7 should be reserved for those hearty enough to ‘earn their turns,’ I believe that our public lands must be managed and made available for all members of the public to enjoy without a tone of exclusivity.
Various groups had opposed the lift noting that skiiers that high on the mountain should hike it or noting that the lift would encourage a war for lifts to go higher and higher in Colorado.
Colorado Wild page opposing the lift