How to Ride a Snowboard on T-Bar Lifts

There are many types of ski lifts, but one in particular poses a problem for snowboarders trying to get to the top of a mountain: the T-bar lift. This type of lift consists of a bar shaped like an upside-down T, which skiers and snowboarders lean against as it pulls them up the hill. Though the T-bar lift can be difficult for snowboarders to use at first, it can be mastered with the right technique and a little practice.

Things You'll Need

  • Snowboard
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Instructions

  1. How to Board a T-Bar Lift

    • 1

      Watch other people board the lift and learn from them. After you feel comfortable with the basic concepts of riding a T-bar lift, get in line for the lift. As you approach the lift loading area, unclip your back foot from the binding. If you have trouble keeping your balance, rest your unclipped foot on the board's anti-slip pad. Unclipping your back foot from the binding is standard practice for most lifts, so practice if you are uncomfortable doing so. Each T-bar accommodates two people, so be prepared to approach the lift with your lift-riding partner.

    • 2

      Move to the lift track when it is your turn to get on. Lean on the bar at the same time as your lift-riding partner so the bar does not swing. The best way to do this is for both of you to grab the T-bar's middle shaft as it approaches you and squat down a little to rest your weight on the bar.

    • 3

      Point your front foot forward so your snowboard is not caught in the snow on your way to the top of the hill. While riding the T-bar lift, your snowboard will not leave the ground. The lift will simply pull you to the top of the hill. Do not lean too far back, or you could fall off the lift backwards. Also avoid squatting down low because if your board gets caught in the snow you are more likely to roll forward off the lift.

    • 4

      Stand up and release yourself from the lift when you have reached the top of the hill. To do this, stand straight up and gently push off the T-bar to give yourself momentum to get off the lift track. The lift operators will slow the lift down as you approach, and they sometimes even stop the lift if a person is having a difficult time getting off the lift.

    • 5

      Ask for help if you are still having trouble getting the hang of riding the T-bar lift. Lift operators and snowboarding instructors are often helpful if you need help learning to ride a T-bar lift.