Req 7a4 — Riding a Lift

Lifts are how you get to the top of the mountain. The most common types are chairlifts, gondolas, and surface lifts. You need to demonstrate one type and explain two others — your counselor will confirm which you demonstrate based on what is available at your ski area.

Chairlift

Chairlifts carry skiers suspended on a moving cable, with open seats swinging on the line. They are the most common lift type at North American ski resorts.

Loading:

1. Wait in the designated loading area and watch the chair ahead of you.
2. When the attendant signals, shuffle into position and look over your shoulder for the approaching chair.
3. Sit down smoothly as the chair reaches you; do not jump onto it.
4. Lower the safety bar after all riders are seated.
5. Keep ski tips up and pointing forward so they do not catch on any obstacle.

Riding: Stay seated with skis dangling or resting on the footrest (if present). Keep the safety bar lowered. Hold on but do not lean forward or rock.

Unloading:

1. Raise the safety bar when you near the top.
2. Slide forward to the edge of the seat as you approach the unloading ramp.
3. Place your ski tips on the ramp as the chair arrives and stand up smoothly.
4. Ski forward and to the side quickly to clear the unloading area for the next riders.

Gondola

Gondolas are enclosed cabins on a cable — think of a glass box that rides the same type of line as a chairlift but is weather-protected.

Loading: Remove skis and carry them to the designated rack inside or outside the cabin. Step in, sit down, and allow the doors to close.

Riding: Sit inside the enclosed cabin. Enjoy the view — gondolas often cover long distances and significant vertical elevation.

Unloading: Retrieve your skis when the cabin reaches the top, step out, and move clear of the exit.

Surface Lifts (T-Bar and Rope Tow)

Surface lifts pull skiers up the mountain while they remain on the snow surface.

T-Bar: A horizontal bar attached to a cable pulls two skiers at once. Let the bar press against the back of your thighs — do not sit on it. Keep your skis in the tracks and lean back slightly. At the top, let the bar go and ski off to the side.

Rope Tow: Grab the rope with both gloved hands and grip firmly. Keep your weight centered and let the rope do the work. Release smoothly at the top.

Official Resources