More Than a Ride: North America’s Last Single Chairs

In an era of high-speed six-packs and heated gondolas, the single chairlift is a quiet rebellion against progress. It’s a relic of a bygone era, a slow, creaky, and beautiful reminder of skiing's roots. For a sport that now celebrates cutting-edge technology and lightning-fast laps, the humble single chair stands as a testament to the soul of mountain culture. It’s a journey, not just a ride, and a portal to a time when getting to the top was part of the experience, not just a means to an end.

Riding a single chair is a profoundly different experience from anything else on the mountain. There's no idle chatter, no shared space, just you, your skis, and the silent rhythm of the lift. As you ascend, you have a moment to yourself, a chance to scope your line, take in the vastness of the landscape, and simply exist in the quiet. This isn't about crushing vertical or racing your friends. It's about a connection to the mountain, a sense of solitude that has all but disappeared from modern resort skiing.

These lifts often access terrain that is untamed, a little wilder, and reserved for those willing to embrace the slow approach. They are a throwback to a time when skiing was simpler, more challenging, and deeply personal.

While many have been torn down, a handful of these unique lifts remain, fiercely protected by their local communities and a testament to their enduring appeal.

Mad River Glen, Vermont Often called the "last bastion of skiing," Mad River Glen is home to North America’s most famous single chair. Installed in 1948, this lift is an icon. The mantra "Ski It If You Can" perfectly captures the spirit of the mountain, which has maintained its rugged, natural terrain and classic vibe. The lift itself is a pilgrimage for skiers who appreciate the old-school ethos and the challenging terrain it accesses.

Mt. Eyak, Alaska Perched on the edge of Cordova, Alaska, Mt. Eyak offers a single chairlift with a view unlike any other. It’s a community-run operation that gives access to big mountain terrain with views of Prince William Sound. The lift is a vital part of the town’s identity, proving that a simple, slow lift is all you need when the terrain and views are this good.

Bachalp, Grindelwald, Switzerland: For an alpine experience steeped in history, the Bachalp single chair offers a breathtaking journey in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Situated in the Grindelwald-First area, the lift provides stunning, unhurried views of the Eiger and the surrounding peaks, serving as a quiet escape from the modern hustle of the more famous resorts.

"Pizza Box" (Niseko): This infamous single chairlift, officially the Grand Hirafu King #4, is a legendary part of the Niseko experience. The chair is described as a small, square plank of wood with no safety bar, giving it its nickname. Riding it is a terrifying yet thrilling experience that's become a rite of passage for many skiers.

Seki Onsen: This is Japan's oldest ski area and home to an "ancient single that rattles and shakes so loudly it's amazing it doesn't just fall to pieces". It's a pure powder experience that reminds skiers why they love the sport.

So why do these single chairs endure? It's not about efficiency. It's about soul. They exist because the communities that cherish them recognize that something valuable is lost when you replace them with a high-speed machine. They are living museums, a tangible connection to the sport’s history. They ensure that a piece of that original mountain spirit remains for future generations.

The next time you’re planning a trip, skip the crowded lines and seek out a single chair. It might be the slowest ride of your life, but it could also be the most memorable.