Using a chair lift is a common way to ascend a slope at a ski resort or mountain area, offering scenic views and efficient transport. The process involves getting onto a moving chair, riding it uphill, and safely exiting at the top.
Here’s a breakdown of how to use a chair lift, focusing on the typical process for skiing or snowboarding:
Getting On the Chair Lift
The first step is preparing to board the chair at the loading area.
- Approach the Line: Queue up in the designated line for the chair lift. Have your ski poles in one hand (or put snowboard bindings on if instructed).
- Prepare Your Gear:
- Skiers: Keep skis parallel and facing forward. Remove wrist straps from poles.
- Snowboarders: Usually, you unstrap your back foot and keep the board facing downhill, ready to glide forward.
- Move to the Loading Spot: When it's your turn, glide forward to the marked loading line or gate as directed by the lift operator.
- Look Back: Turn your head slightly to look back over your shoulder to see the approaching chair.
- Sit Down: As the chair approaches from behind, let it scoop you up. Simply sit down onto the seat as it moves under you.
Riding the Chair Lift
Once you are safely seated, the ride uphill begins.
- Lower the Safety Bar: As soon as you are stable in the seat, lower the safety bar (if one is present). This prevents accidental falls.
- Rest Your Gear: Place your skis or snowboard on the footrest or hang them below you. Keep your skis/board parallel if possible.
- Enjoy the View: Relax and enjoy the ride up the mountain! Keep hands and items inside the chair.
- Raise the Safety Bar: As you approach the top station, be prepared to raise the safety bar at the marked point or when instructed by signage.
Getting Off the Chair Lift
Exiting the chair lift at the top requires a smooth transition back onto the snow.
- Prepare for Disembarking: As the chair enters the top station, position your skis or snowboard straight ahead, parallel to the direction of travel.
- Glide Down the Ramp: As the chair reaches the end of the platform, your skis or snowboard will make contact with the snow on the disembarking ramp.
- Stand Up and Push Off: As mentioned in the reference video, "keeping your skis parallel once your skis are on the snow just just stand up leaning forward and push off the chair. With one hand. That's all." Stand up smoothly, leaning slightly forward, and give a gentle push off the seat to glide down the ramp and away from the chair.
- Move Out of the Way: Immediately glide or ski/snowboard down the exit ramp and move away from the disembarking area to clear space for others coming off the lift.
Using a chair lift effectively ensures a safe and pleasant experience on the slopes, getting you to the top efficiently so you can enjoy the downhill run.
