Lift Safety

Prior to loading the chairlift, make sure that you have all the necessary equipment--poles, gloves, goggles, and helmet, etc. Also, make sure you lift ticket is visible to the ticket checker or lift operator.

Wait in the loading area, until it's your turn to board the chairlift. If you're a skier, hold both poles in one hand. Watch over your shoulder for the next chairlift to come, and sit on the chairlift just like you were sitting in a chair.

Use your free hand, if necessary, for balance and to hold on. Keep your ski tips pointed up as the chairlift moves outward and upward.

After leaving the loading terminal, lower the bar, and keep it down for the duration of the lift ride. Read, and pay attention to signs as you near the top that prompt you to raise the bar and prepare to unload. 

Should the lift stop for an extended period of time, or become disabled while you are riding, do not jump from the chair. Stay put, and remain calm. A member of Ski Patrol will be along shortly to provide information and instructions  for an evacuation or alternative unload. 

As you prepare to unload, make sure you are holding your poles, and any other loose items, securely. Raise the bar completely before you reach the unloading ramp. Keep your ski or snowboard parallel to the ground with the tips up, as to glide off the lift.

After you unload from the chairlift, ski clear of the unloading area to make room for the upcoming chairs and unloading passengers.

When loading the T-Bar, wait in the lift line until the lift operator signals that it is clear for you to proceed into the loading area.  Watch over your inside shoulder for the next T to come around the bullwheel; the lift operator will lower it, and place it behind your mid-thigh.

While riding you should:  

• Stand with knees slightly bent
• Keep your skis parallel with tips pointed uphill
• Distribute weight evenly on both skis
• Look uphill - not at your ski tips
• Stay in the track; do not edge or traverse in path unless absolutely necessary

You should not: 

• Sit on the T or lean against your partner
• Unload before reaching the top
• Edge or traverse in path
• Jump or bounce on the T

As you prepare to unload, make sure you and your riding partner are in agreement as to who will unload first and who will hold on to the T. Check for any loose clothing, equipment or straps that could have become tangled, and be sure to release the T gently, to prevent it from swinging, as it continues to the bullwheel. Clear the unloading area quickly, as other riders approach. 

The only other surface lift here at Sugarloaf is the Moose-Calator conveyor belt on the Birches.  When preparing to load, wait for the lift operator to signal that it is safe for you to proceed into the loading area. Give at least two feet between you and the passenger ahead of you.  Keep your skis parallel with the tips pointed uphill, and your weight evenly distributed on both skis. Do not walk on the conveyor belt. As you unload, ski away from the unloading area quickly to allow for other passengers to unload. 

While we make it our priority to keep you safe while you are on our ski slopes and chairlifts, it is also your responsibility to keep yourself safe. Here are a few things that you can do to help:

• Be aware of yourself, your surroundings, and other guests
• Report a problem when you see or hear one
• Do not jump off of any chairlift
• Do not bounce, or swing your legs to cause the cable to or chairs to rock/sway