How to Use a Ski Tow Rope

North America's first tow rope was installed in 1942 and was powered by a Dodge automobile with the rope wrapped around a wheel rim. Today, tow ropes have become a common type of ski lift that tend to serve beginner areas, terrain parks and race courses. Unlike chairlifts, which allow skiers to enjoy a passive ride up the mountain, tow ropes require skiers to hold on to the rope, so these lifts are often intimidating to beginning skiers.

Things You'll Need

  • Skis
  • Lift ticket
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Instructions

    • 1

      Enter the tow rope queue through the designated entrance. Wait in line until the lift operator signals to you that it is your turn.

    • 2

      Align yourself parallel to the rope with your skis parallel to each other and facing up the hill. Keep your gloves on. With your poles under one arm, place your hands around the rope, and allow the rope to flow through your hands. The rope is designed to not wear through standard ski gloves. Wait until the skier before you is at least 10 feet up the hill.

    • 3

      Tighten your grip on the rope to begin riding up the hill. Keep your skis parallel and pointing up the hill. Stay in the designated track. If there is a fallen skier in the designated track, or if you fall, let go of the rope and move out of the track as soon as possible to avoid being hit by other skiers. The lift operator should see you and stop the lift.

    • 4

      When you reach the top of the hill, loosen your grip on the rope and ski out of the rope tow track. If you accidentally hold on to the rope for too long, you will hit the stop gate, which will stop the lift temporarily.