How to Get off a Ski Chair Lift

Safely Unwind: How to Get off a Ski Chair Lift

Getting off a ski lift can be tricky, especially for beginners. A smooth, safe unload takes some preparation and practice. This guide will provide tips to help skiers of all levels safely and easily unload from a chairlift without taking a tumble. Follow these best practices to look like a pro coming off the lift.

Here are expanded sections for Prepare in Advance and Proper Posture for Unloading:

Prepare in Advance

Getting on the ski lift ready and equipped for smooth unloading is a key first step. Rushing to get on the lift without proper preparation can cause issues. Take the time to check your equipment and clothing before loading the chairlift.

Secure boots very tightly in bindings and pull any loose straps. Wiggling feet in loose boots is a recipe for losing balance when standing up on the unload. Boots fitting snugly keeps better contact between your feet and skis. Also, check that boot soles are free of snow and ice buildup. Packed snow under boots can cause slips.

Organize poles carefully so both are gripped together firmly in one hand. Having two separate poles swinging around can complicate the unloading process. Adjust the length of poles if needed prior to loading the lift. Make sure pole straps are snug around the wrists.

Take a few minutes to zip up any open jackets or coats you may have and secure Velcro straps and zippers on ski pants. Flying open clothing acts like a sail in the wind and can throw you off balance as you unload. Secure hats under helmet straps and pull goggles down over the eyes. You want to avoid anything blowing off and distracting you.

Finally, take care of any equipment adjustments or quick bathroom breaks before getting in line. Once on the ski lift, it's difficult to reach down to adjust bindings or gear. Taking care of any issues in advance means you can focus purely on the unloading process once the top nears.

Proper Posture for Unloading

As the unloading area approaches, body position is critical for smoothly exiting the chairlift. Sitting casually or leaning back when the terrain drops away below typically leads to awkward or unbalanced unloading. Instead, get your body into the optimal athletic stance before the chair reaches the top:

Slide your bottom forward on the seat so you are perched right at the edge. Keep your back straight to maintain balance. Leaning forward puts your weight in the right spot over your feet for standing up.
Drive your shins firmly into the front cushion or bar on the chair. This also shifts weight forward. Keep leg muscles engaged.
Grip both poles together tightly in your outer hand, the one opposite the chair. Poles help propel you forward.
Bend knees and elbows very slightly - not locked straight. Soft joints act as shock absorbers when standing.
Point your skis straight forward and keep them parallel, matching the chair direction. Angled skis can twist you off balance.

This compact, forward-leaning posture keeps your center of gravity in the ideal spot to smoothly rise from the chair. The chair provides back support as you make the motion to stand up. Avoid leaning back or casually crossing your legs. Lean and grip forward.

Unload Smoothly

The actual motion of standing up and exiting the chair is where proper technique matters most. As the chairlift approaches the top, let it come to a complete stop before attempting to stand. The attendant will sometimes jog the chair slightly to help stabilize it for unloading.

When the chair stops, immediately rise up using the bent legs you have been keeping engaged. Drive down firmly through your shins and keep your weight centered between your feet as you fully extend your legs. Lean your upper body away from the chair to counterbalance as you gain footing. Avoid tipping or twisting to either side.

Try not to slam your skis down forcefully onto the ramp. The impact can throw off balance. Allow skis to lightly contact the ground and bend your knees to absorb the forces. Think of standing as more of a lifting motion, not abruptly slamming or stomping skis down.

Once up, steer skis straight off the ramp at a controlled pace. Do not try to aggressively turn or stop immediately after unloading. Build some momentum first before initiating turns.

Move smoothly out of the unloading area so you don't obstruct the next riders coming in behind you.

Mistakes like leaning back in the chair, swinging skis violently, or standing before the chair reaches the unloading point can ruin your stability. Maintain strong forward posture and a smooth, easy motion all the way through the unload process.

Recover From a Fall

Despite your best efforts, falls still happen. If you feel yourself starting to lose balance, try to stay upright. Plant poles solidly in the snow and regain your stance over the skis. Strong pole plants can save many near falls.

If a fall seems inevitable, sit back down gently onto the chair rather than reaching for the chair in panic. The attendant will notice and stop the lift. It is better to settle back onto the seat than grasping at the chair.

If you do tumble over, roll into the fall and avoid trying to catch yourself with stiff arms or hard landings. Get up slowly and calmly. The attendant will make sure you are okay and stop the lift as needed. Do not feel rushed to scramble up.

The key is to avoid reaching or grabbing in desperation. Stay compact if you feel off balance and settle back onto the chair. Let the fall happen smoothly rather than fighting it if needed. The attendants are there to assist.

Special Considerations

Certain situations call for extra precautions when unloading. If skiing with small children, let them unload first while holding the chair back slightly. Give them space to move forward, then unload behind them. Children can lose focus easily, so remind them to get ready.

In poor weather like heavy snow or gusty winds, go slow with unloading and give yourself extra time to gain balance. Consider asking the operator to slow the lift if needed. Deep snow or slick ice on the ramp may require cautiously sliding off the chair and gentler ski placement.

With conveyor belt-style lifts, wait until the conveyor ramp levels off completely before attempting to stand. The timing takes practice. Consider asking the operator for a slow pass until you get the hang of when to unload.

Practice Makes Perfect

While proper technique helps, smoothly unloading from a ski lift only comes with practice—particularly for beginners. Take advantage of the lower speed lifts like magic carpets to work on your form without feeling rushed. The attendant can offer tips for when to stand and how to position your body. Don't feel embarrassed to ask for a refresher.

If you need more practice runs, politely request to ride the lift again. Most ski resorts are happy to pause the lift and let you unload repeatedly to build confidence. Take the time to get comfortable, even if you hold others up briefly. It takes patience.

Even advanced skiers should consider a few warm up runs at slower lift speeds to sharpen form before hitting high speed chairs. Review the proper stance so you instinctively unload in a controlled, centered stance. Turn unloads into an art form through practice.

Getting off a ski lift is simple once you know the proper technique. With the right preparation and posture, you can unload from any chairlift with confidence. Focus on keeping your weight forward, absorbing impact with your legs, and moving smoothly away from the lift. Practicing proper technique ensures you'll safely unwind from every ski lift adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I unload from a T-bar lift?

As the T-bar approaches the top, slide your bottom forward to the edge of the seat. Grip the T-bar firmly and stand up as you ride off the lift. Absorb the landing by bending knees. Let go of the T-bar only after fully clearing the ramp.

Should I try to stop quickly after getting off the chair?

No. Attempting to abruptly stop or turn once unloaded can throw off your balance. Glide off the lift in a straight path before initiating turns at a comfortable pace.

What should I do if I miss the unloading area?

Stay seated until the chair swings back around the bullwheel. The lift operator will be prepared to stop the lift and help you unload on the second pass.

Ski chair lift etiquette and safety

Advanced chair lift exiting methods

Beginner's guide to chair lift dismounts