How to use a ski lift on a snowboard

Getting off the lift is the part most snowboarders worry about, so we cover it first. You will have practiced every move in it already if you can do a straight glide with one foot strapped in. Take it step by step:

1. Point the board straight. As the chair reaches the unloading ramp, keep the board pointing forward and put your board flat on the snow.
2. Place your back foot on the board. Rest it against the back binding or on the stomp pad, just as you practiced in your straight glides.
3. Stand up at the sign. When you reach the unload point, stand up, keeping your weight over your front foot. You can push lightly off the chair with a hand.
4. Glide straight down the ramp. Look ahead, not down. Keep the board flat and let it run until you have space. Turning too early, before you are clear of the chair, can easily knock you off balance.
5. Stop and move out of the way. Drag your back foot, or make a gentle turn to slow down once you are clear of the ramp. Then move well away from the exit before you strap in, so the next people can get off safely.

If you fall, move off the ramp as quickly as you can, or stay down and let the attendant stop the lift if the next chair is close. If you do not manage to get off at all, stay seated and do not jump; signal to the lift staff, who can stop the lift.

Unloading with a friend on the same chair

Agree before the top which way each of you will go, so you do not glide into each other. We suggest each rider heads away on their own side of the ramp, but follow any signs or directions from the attendant. Stop only once you are clear of the unloading area, where the NSAA’s Your Responsibility Code says you should stop only where you are visible from above and do not restrict traffic.

Lifts are one of the milestones on our beginner learning path, and they come after you can stop and turn for a reason. Before your first ride, check that the lift goes to terrain you can ride down. Lifts are for getting to runs that suit your level; the trail map and signs at the base show where each one goes. If in doubt, ask.

The same code says you must know how, and be able, to load, ride and unload lifts safely, and to ask the lift attendant if you need help. Tell the attendant it is your first time on a snowboard. They can explain where to stand and what to expect, and may be able to slow the lift for you.

Lift rules differ between resorts and lift types, for example whether a board leash is required. Read the signs at the lift and follow the attendant’s instructions. If you are in a lesson, your instructor will usually take you on your first lift ride.

Getting your board from the car or lodge to the lift line is a separate job; see carrying a board and walking in boots.

• Support the board. A hanging board pulls on your front leg. If the chair has a footrest, rest the board on it. Otherwise you can rest your free foot under or against the board to take some of the weight, as long as you stay seated and still.
• Sit still. Do not bounce, rock the chair or turn round to adjust equipment.
• If you drop something, let it fall. NSAA’s lift safety page says exactly that, and adds that ski patrol or the lift attendant at the top can help you get it back.
• Get ready for the top. Look for signs telling you when to raise the bar. NSAA advises preparing to raise it as you approach the top terminal, but not too soon; then sit near the front of the seat with your board pointing straight ahead and your free foot ready.

Surface lifts such as T-bars, button (platter) lifts and rope tows pull you uphill while your board stays on the snow. They are common in beginner areas, and they can be tricky on a snowboard at first.

• Set up the same way. Front foot strapped in, back foot free. Once you are moving, place your back foot on the board against the back binding or stomp pad.
• Take the bar as shown. Perisher’s T-bar guide describes the bar sitting between your legs, like a hook, with a little push-off from your back foot as it takes you away. Expect a jolt as the slack comes out. Button lifts and rope tows work differently, so follow the attendant’s instructions for the lift in front of you.
• Do not sit down. The bar pulls you, it does not hold your weight. Stand with knees soft and the board pointing up the track.
• Keep the board flat and in the track. An edge catching in the track can pull you off. Look ahead up the lift line.
• If you fall, let go. Perisher advises letting go as soon as possible to avoid injury; then move out of the track quickly so you do not block others.
• At the top, let go of the bar when signed, glide clear, and move to a safe place before strapping in. Perisher suggests that beginners sharing a T-bar can have their partner hold the bar while they get off.

Sharing a T-bar with a skier is common; Perisher notes the snowboarder usually faces the skier. If surface lifts feel too hard at first, ask the attendant or your instructor about alternatives in the beginner area.