23 November 2024
Skiing is exhilarating. You’ve got the crisp mountain air, the sound of your skis carving through fresh powder, and the thrill of the descent. But there’s one not-so-glamorous part of skiing we all have to deal with: the lift line. You know what I’m talking about! That sometimes-chaotic queue where patience meets skill.
Whether you're a seasoned shredder or a newbie still getting the hang of your pizza and french fries, navigating the lift line can feel like an Olympic sport in itself. But no worries, I've got you covered. This guide will walk you through how to handle the lift line like a seasoned pro so you can spend less time waiting and more time shredding.
Why Does the Lift Line Matter?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of lift line etiquette, let’s talk about why it even matters. Here’s the deal: the lift line is where your ski day can either gain momentum or grind to a halt. Get stuck behind a group of people who don't know what they're doing, and you could end up waiting a lot longer than necessary.On the flip side, when everyone knows how to move efficiently through the line, it’s like a well-oiled machine. You get to the top of the mountain faster, and everyone’s in a better mood. Plus, nobody likes being "that guy" who’s holding up the line, right?
The Art of Queueing Up
First things first: the lift line is all about flow. It’s a bit like a dance—there’s a rhythm to it. But instead of busting out moves on the dance floor, you’re navigating between skiers and snowboarders, shuffling forward as the line progresses.Here’s a quick breakdown of how to queue up like a pro:
1. Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Keep your head on a swivel. Pay attention to the line ahead and behind you. You don’t want to be the person zoning out while everyone else is moving. It’s like driving—if you’re not paying attention, you’re going to cause a traffic jam.
2. Don’t Crowd: Maintain a reasonable distance from the people in front of you. Nobody wants a ski pole in their back, or worse, to trip over your skis. Give everyone their space—just like you wouldn’t want someone tailgating you on the highway.
3. Keep Moving: The line will inch forward, and it’s your job to keep up. Don’t stop to adjust your goggles, fix your jacket, or text your buddies. Once the line’s moving, you should be too. Think of it as a conveyor belt at the grocery store—once your groceries are on the belt, they keep moving, and so should you.
Etiquette in the Lift Line
Etiquette is a big deal in the lift line. Think of it like the unwritten rules of the road but for skiing. Following these guidelines isn’t just about being polite; it’s about keeping things running smoothly for everyone.Don’t Skip the Line
This should go without saying, but unless you have some sort of VIP pass (and even then, there’s usually a separate lane), don’t cut the line. It’s a surefire way to get on everyone’s bad side. Skiers are generally a chill bunch, but nothing riles them up faster than someone thinking they’re more important than the rest of the crowd.Merge Like a Zipper
When multiple lines merge into one, think of it like a zipper—each side takes turns. It’s simple. You go, they go. No need to rush ahead of the person next to you. A smooth, alternating flow keeps things moving efficiently. If you’ve ever driven through a construction zone, you know how this works. The same concept applies here.Fill Up the Chairs
When you reach the front of the line, it’s your job to make sure every chair is full. If you’re in a group of two, and it’s a four-person chairlift, be ready to team up with another pair. Don’t let empty chairs go up the mountain! It slows everything down and makes the wait longer for everyone behind you.Pro Tip: If you're skiing solo, join the singles line. It's usually faster, and you’ll help fill up chairs more efficiently. Plus, you might meet some cool people along the way!
Keep Your Gear in Check
One of the most frustrating things in a lift line is when someone’s gear gets tangled up. Whether it’s your poles, your skis, or your board, make sure you have control over your stuff. Keep your poles close to your body, and avoid stepping on anyone else’s skis or board. No one wants a scratched-up top sheet because someone wasn’t paying attention.
Handling Different Types of Lifts
There are all kinds of lifts out there, from high-speed quads to old-school T-bars. Each type of lift comes with its own set of challenges when it comes to the line. Here’s a quick guide to navigating the most common lifts:Chairlifts (Quads, Doubles, Six-Packs)
Chairlifts are the bread and butter of most ski resorts. They’re also the most straightforward when it comes to lift lines, but there are still a few things to keep in mind:- Be Ready: As you approach the front, make sure your gear is in position. Skis or snowboard facing forward, poles in hand, and be ready to move quickly.
- Group Up Early: Don’t wait until the last second to figure out who you’re riding with. If you’re a group of three, find a single rider to fill the last spot before you reach the loading zone.
- Sit Down Smoothly: When it’s your turn to load, sit down gently and slide back into the chair. Don’t flop down like you’re landing on a couch after a long day. You don’t want to make the chair bounce!
Gondolas
Gondolas are a whole different ballgame. The line can move slower since each car holds more people, but the same principles apply:- Stay Tight: Gondola lines can get long, especially on powder days. Stay close to the group in front of you to keep things moving.
- Be Efficient: If you’re with a small group, don’t hog an entire gondola car. Be willing to share with others. You’ll get to the top faster, and so will everyone else.
T-Bars and Pomas
T-bars and Pomas are old-school, but they still have a place on the mountain, especially in areas with steep terrain or where chairlifts aren’t practical. They can be a bit tricky to navigate, especially if you’re not used to them.- Line Up Properly: These lifts usually only take two people at a time, so make sure you're lined up with a partner before you get to the front.
- Stay Balanced: Once you’re on the lift, keep your weight centered. These lifts can be a bit jerky, so hold on tight and stay balanced. If you fall, don’t worry—just move out of the way quickly so the next person can keep going.
Pro Tips for Lift Line Efficiency
If you want to take your lift line skills to the next level, here are some insider tips that’ll help you move through the line faster and more efficiently:Pick the Right Time
If you’re hitting the slopes on a busy day, timing is everything. Try to avoid the lift line rush by skiing early in the morning or during lunchtime when everyone else is taking a break. You’ll breeze through the line and get more runs in.Use Singles Lines
As I mentioned earlier, the singles line is your best friend. Even if you’re skiing with a group, splitting up for a few runs can save you a ton of time. You’ll be back together at the top in no time.Be Friendly
A little kindness goes a long way in the lift line. Smile, say hello to the people around you, and be polite. You’re all in this together, and a positive attitude can make the wait more enjoyable for everyone.Stay Warm
Standing in line can get chilly, especially on windy days. Keep your jacket zipped up, your gloves on, and maybe even throw on an extra layer if it's particularly cold. You’ll be more comfortable and less likely to get cranky while waiting.Common Lift Line Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best of us can make mistakes in the lift line. Here are some common blunders to steer clear of:1. Holding Up the Line: Don’t be the person who takes forever to get ready when it’s time to load. Be prepared and efficient.
2. Not Filling Chairs: Empty chairs mean longer lines. Always fill up every chair, even if it means riding with strangers.
3. Zoning Out: It’s easy to get lost in thought while standing in line, but stay alert. You don’t want to miss your turn or hold up the people behind you.
4. Ignoring the Flow: The lift line has a rhythm. Don’t disrupt it by standing still when the line is moving or cutting in front of others.
Conclusion
Navigating the lift line like a pro isn’t just about getting to the top faster—it’s about being respectful, efficient, and keeping the flow going for everyone. With a little awareness, some basic etiquette, and a few pro tips, you’ll be breezing through the line and maximizing your time on the mountain.So, next time you find yourself waiting for a lift, remember these tips. You’ll not only improve your own experience but also help keep the day smooth and enjoyable for everyone else on the slopes.
Lindsey Benson
Great article! Navigating lift lines can be quite the challenge, but your tips make it feel manageable and even enjoyable. It’s all about patience and strategy, and I appreciate the practical advice. Here’s to smoother skiing days ahead and enjoying the slopes to the fullest!
February 14, 2025 at 1:12 PM