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The High Apline chairlift at Snowmass is closed for the rest of the season, due to a worn bull wheel bearing, the Aspen Skiing Co. announced on Monday.

But the terrain that the lift serves can still be accessed. Guests can access all runs by taking either the Sheer Bliss or Big Burn chairlifts to the Cirque lift. After riding the Cirque to the summit, the high traverse accesses all of the terrain in the Wall, Green Cabin, Reidars, Showcase and The Edge.

The replacement of the bearing requires removal of the haul rope. This is a complex operation requiring heavy equipment and cannot be completed while the mountain is open, according to a statement issued by SkiCo spokesman Jeff Hanle.

The bearing and gearbox passed inspection during annual maintenance, including a test to check for metal particles in the oil, which is often a leading indicator of metal failure. The bearing is located in the lower drive terminal on the lift. The worn bearing was discovered early and guest safety was never an issue, according to Hanle.

The lift will be repaired this summer and return to operation next season.