A Rare Piece of Vail Ski History
Cabin #52 is an original Vail gondola cabin installed in December 1969 and in continuous service at Vail until the lift was decommissioned in 1995. This cabin is currently reserved — please inquire below to be notified of availability or to discuss acquisition.
More than half a century later, Cabin #52 survives in very good condition for its age and comes with a Certificate of Origin documenting its history and authenticity. It retains the character, wear, and small imperfections collected over decades of service — an authenticity that simply cannot be recreated.
Despite its age, the cabin is solid, all windows slide, it is watertight, and remarkably well preserved. This is a surviving piece of Vail's early ski history, with documented provenance dating back to 1969.
For a serious Vail collector, ski-history enthusiast, private residence, hotel, restaurant, or landmark commercial installation, Cabin #52 offers an exceptionally rare opportunity to own an authentic piece of one of America's most iconic ski resorts.
Specifications
Cabin #: 52
Installed: December 1969
Decommissioned: 1995
Manufacturer: Garaventa (Swiss-Austrian gondola manufacturer)
Exterior dimensions (approx.): 8 ft long × 4 ft wide × 6 ft tall (verify on-site prior to purchase)
Weight (approx.): 700–900 lbs (exact weight available upon request)
Guest capacity (original rated): 4–6 passengers
Condition: Very good vintage condition — solid structure, sliding windows functional, watertight
Provenance documentation: Certificate of Origin included
Current location: The Gondola Shop – Fruita, Colorado
Included with Purchase
- Gondola cabin shell (#52)
- Original interior seating (as-is)
- Certificate of Origin
- Gondola Shop authenticity documentation
Gondola axle, grip assembly, haul cable, and lift tower hardware are not included. Electrical, lighting, and interior restoration are not included unless negotiated separately.
Power, Safety & Weatherproofing Notes
- This cabin is designed for static display or conversion use only — it is not rated for active lift service.
- No internal electrical wiring is included. Any electrification (lighting, HVAC, etc.) must be performed by a licensed contractor.
- The cabin is watertight in its current condition; however, buyers installing outdoors should apply a weatherproof sealant to all seams and re-inspect windows seasonally.
- Structural modifications (cutting, mounting, anchoring) require professional assessment. Buyer assumes responsibility for all installation compliance with local codes.
Freight, Pickup & Installation
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Pickup: Available at our Fruita, Colorado location by appointment. Buyer is responsible for loading, securing, and transport.
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Freight shipping: Flatbed or enclosed freight required due to size and weight. We can coordinate quotes with regional carriers — estimated freight cost is $800–$2,500 depending on destination within the continental U.S. Exact quote provided at time of purchase.
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Installation: Not included. Buyer is responsible for all site preparation, anchoring, and final installation. We are happy to advise on common installation approaches.
Interested? Here's How to Move Forward
Cabin #52 is a one-of-a-kind piece — there is no other like it. Serious inquiries only.
📧 Email us: info@thegondolashop.com
Subject line: Cabin #52 Inquiry
In your message, please include your intended use and delivery location (city/state).We'll respond within 1–2 business days with availability status, a freight quote, and next steps.
