Ski lift ascending a grassy, tree-dotted hillside under a clear blue sky.

Summer Lift Safety

Not sure how to ride a chairlift?

Ask a Lift Operator, Patroller, or other employee for help
  • Be familiar with the type of lift you are riding and what type of terrain it will bring you to. Ask for help if you need it.
  • Avoid distractions around the lift: Do not use your smartphone or headphones.
  • Before loading, remove backpacks and secure loose items.
  • Before moving out to load the chair, make sure everyone in your group is ready.
  • Look over your shoulder to watch the chair approach.
  • Sit all the way in the chair, flush with the seat back.
  • Wait until everyone is seated and slowly reach up to lower the restraint bar. Small children should not attempt to lower the bar. Adults and older kids should always help little kids lower the restraint bar.
  • Be aware of your surroundings while riding the lift. If you drop something, let it fall. You can always ask Patrol or the Lift Operator at the top for help retrieving the lost item.
  • As you approach each terminal, prepare to raise the bar – but do not raise it too soon. Signs will help you know when to raise the bar.
  • Unload the lift and exit the area quickly. Follow the signs and markings.
Guide with steps to load a bike on a carrier, including illustrations.w to

Loading Your Mountain Bike

Get Ready to Load

  • Organize your group – 3 bikes maximum per carrier. You may need to divide your group until you reach the top.
  • Walk your bike through the maze area to the WAIT HERE line – no riding in the maze area.
  • Always stay alert for moving chairs.
  • If you are unfamiliar with the lift, watch other riders and ask the Lift Operator for help.

Load your bike

  • Lifts at GTR use a horizontal bike tray carrier that allows riders to load their own bike.
  • WAIT for a bike carrier to pass.
  • Follow the bike carrier and line your bike up with the tray – single bikes use middle tray.
  • Lift your front wheel into the tray, then roll your bike forward with one hand on the bars, one on the seat.
  • Roll forward until the bike is secured in the tray.

Load yourself on the lift

  • Once your bike is loaded, follow the bike carrier to the LOAD HERE line and load the next chair. Always ride in the next chair behind your bike – you may need to split up your group for the lift ride.
  • Lower the bar and enjoy the ride 

Unload

  • As you approach the top, prepare to unload. Check for loose clothing or gear that could get caught on the chair.
  • The Lift Operators will unload your bike for you.
  • Unload the lift at the UNLOAD HERE signs and follow markings to clear away from the chair.
  • Collect your bike and clear the lift area promptly. 
Safety