How to Use a Chairlift
1. Lining Up for the Lift
Stand in an orderly line and move steadily with the queue. Have your lift ticket ready well before reaching the gate. Read the posted lift instructions and note how many passengers each chair holds. Ask the lift attendants for help if needed – their job is to guide and ensure safety. Before the loading area, there is a waiting zone and/or automatic gate where you line up side by side and wait for your turn. Move quickly to the loading point and stand side by side, ready for the chair.
2. Getting Ready at the Loading Area
If you have poles, hold them in one hand well before the chair arrives. With your free hand, touch the front edge of the seat and sit down smoothly together with your group as the chair reaches you.
3. Starting the Ride
Once seated, stay calm and keep your skis parallel and steady as the chair moves off. Close the safety bar immediately after departure.
4. Safety on the Lift
Keep your skis still and avoid swinging them – contact between skis can release bindings. Keep the safety bar closed for the entire ride and never swing or rock the chair. Smoking is not allowed.
5. During the Ride
Do not play or fool around on the lift. Hold on to your poles and avoid handling gloves or other gear while riding. Equipment that falls from the lift may be lost for good, as the lift line often passes over deep snow areas.
6. Preparing to Exit
Before the exit station, you’ll see a sign indicating it’s time to prepare for unloading. Make sure your gear or clothing isn’t caught on the chair. Open the safety bar only when the sign indicates it’s safe to do so. Keep your ski or snowboard tips up.
7. Exiting the Lift
At the exit sign, stand up smoothly in front of the chair and let it gently push you forward down the unloading ramp. Stay relaxed and glide away from the chair’s path.
8. Don’t Stay in the Exit Area
Move immediately away from the unloading area to make room for those coming behind you. This prevents collisions and keeps unloading smooth and safe.
