Endless mountain? Giant snowy ‘hamster wheel’ for skiers unveiled

By Dean Murray

A giant snow-filled, hamster wheel-like tunnel has been unveiled for skiers.

Developers say the world's first Snowtunnel Park is designed to offer year-round winter sports.

Standing at 12.5 meters high, the rotating tunnel is lined with real powder snow made from water and air to offer an "endless mountain" of constantly rideable surface area.

Founded in Australia, the first Snowtunnel Park is set to open there in 2027, with further capital cities across the world and venues in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane planned.

Scott Kessler, CEO and co-founder of Snowtunnel Parks, said: "Our mission is to unlock the magic of snow and ignite a passion for alpine experiences for everyone, all year round."

Co-founders Chris Northwood, managing director, and Dan Portelli, chief operating officer, add: "We still get excited seeing the first snowflakes on the ground as you head up the mountains. However, growing up in Australia, we all know how inconsistent each snow season can be.

"We want everyone to experience that thrill of alpine adventure by bringing the snow to capital city-based adventure-seekers with the world’s first Snowtunnel Park."

The company says it has successfully completed earlier investment rounds that enabled the delivery of a full-scale, 10-meter-diameter, proof-of-concept Snowtunnel. It is now progressing an open capital round to realize its first foundation site.

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Scott Kessler said, "What wave parks did for surfing, Snowtunnel will do for snow sports. Rock climbing, skydiving, and even golf have all shown growing interest from new demographics keen to try new adventures and experiences enabled by the latest technology, in a convenient and consistently high-quality environment."

Snowtunnel says each venue is forecast to cost between £10.4 million and £13 million, including full venue construction.

They add: "This represents less than half the cost of most surf parks and only a fraction of the capital typically required for major, land- and construction-intensive indoor snow slope developments around the world."

Snowtunnel facts and figures:

The patented Snowtunnel stands at 12.5 meters (41ft) high, equivalent to a 4-storey building.

At 16 meters (52.5 ft) long, the Snowtunnel is as wide as your average ski run.

Each Snowtunnel delivers the "endless mountain" with over 600m2 (6,458ft2) of constantly rideable surface area.

Each venue will contain over 3000 m2 (32,292 ft2) of total snow play, learn and ride zones, covered with over 900 cubic meters (31,783 cubic feet) of snow.

Variable speed control provides both safety and acceleration to suit all abilities.