How Hill Hiker’s Inclined Elevator Won the 2025 Elevator World Project of the Year
At Hill Hiker, Inc., we’re proud to announce that our work on the Merkin Vineyards Hilltop Winery & Trattoria has been awarded the 2025 Elevator World Project of the Year in the inclined lifts category. This recognition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to innovation, safety, and creating custom solutions for even the most challenging terrains. From conception to execution, this project showcases what’s possible when technology, creativity, and functionality come together.
But what makes this award-winning inclined elevator so special? Let’s look closer at the details behind this stunning achievement and why Hill Hiker, Inc. continues to set the standard for hillside-inclined elevators.
The Challenge: A Steep Vision
Nestled in the heart of Cottonwood, Arizona, the Merkin Vineyards Hilltop Winery & Trattoria is more than just a vineyard; it’s a destination. Owned by Maynard James Keenan, lead singer of the band Tool and a passionate wine aficionado, this multi-use facility features vineyards, a state-of-the-art wine production facility, and a trattoria perched atop a steep hill overlooking Cottonwood’s historic Old Town. At the base of the hill lies the Pocket Park Gelateria, a gourmet gelato shop offering a sweet complement to the fine dining experience above.
Connecting these two points presented a unique challenge: a 116-foot incline with a 26.5-degree slope. The solution had to be safe, ADA-compliant, efficient, and seamlessly integrated into the property’s rustic aesthetic, all while accommodating a high volume of guests traveling between the two levels. That’s when Hill Hiker was called in to turn the vision into reality.
The Solution: Hill Hiker’s Custom Inclined Elevator
From the outset, Hill Hiker’s President, William “Bill” MacLachlan, and his team knew this would be a project unlike any other. Leveraging their extensive expertise in hillside inclined elevators, they collaborated with Architecture Works Green, Inc., structural engineering firm VAA, and local contractors to deliver an inclined elevator that met every requirement and exceeded expectations.
Blending Design and Functionality
Inspired by Cottonwood’s rich copper mining history, Hill Hiker, Inc. designed a custom elevator car with a rugged yet elegant aesthetic. The car features:
Rustic Design Elements: Powder-coated sheet metal sides, expanded metal panels for visibility, and a curved, unfinished corrugated metal roof designed to naturally rust over time, mimicking a historic mine car.
Spacious ADA-Compliance: Measuring 5×5 feet with a 36-inch car gate opening, the elevator car comfortably accommodates up to six passengers, including wheelchair users. A flip-up bench seat provides additional flexibility.
Safety and Convenience Features: Motion-activated lighting, emergency battery backup lighting, an in-car monitored phone, and code-compliant emergency doors ensure passenger safety and comfort.
Engineering Excellence
To handle the steep incline and outdoor conditions, Hill Hiker’s team incorporated advanced engineering and safety systems:
Energy Chain Innovation: Traditional traveling cables posed challenges for this incline. Hill Hiker, Inc. partnered with igus® GmbH to develop a custom energy chain system. This outdoor-rated, heavy-duty solution provides smooth, reliable cable management, even in extreme weather conditions.
Custom Rail and Track System: The elevator runs on a robust steel c-channel track system, with concrete piers spaced every 10 feet for maximum stability. Hill Hiker, Inc. fabricated the track rails and brackets in-house to ensure precision and durability.
Upgraded Control Panel: Working with ISC Companies, Hill Hiker, Inc. developed a simplified commercial control panel using relay logic instead of a programmable logic controller (PLC). This design improves reliability and makes troubleshooting straightforward for mechanics unfamiliar with inclined elevators.
Safety First
Hill Hiker’s commitment to safety is evident throughout the project:
Emergency Exit Door: A new uphill emergency exit door allows first responders to access the car from the outside without a key while keeping passengers secure inside. This innovative design is a first for Hill Hiker, Inc. and sets a new standard for safety.
Fully Enclosed Motor Room: Located below grade, the motor room houses the drive machine, control panel, and electronics. It is air-conditioned and protected from the elements, ensuring reliable operation year-round.
Protective Fencing and Landings: The track is enclosed with 84-inch-high fencing to protect animals and adventurous visitors. The landing platforms feature manual, self-closing doors with electrical interlocks for added security.
Overcoming Challenges with Innovation
Every complex project comes with its challenges, and the Merkin Vineyards lift was no exception. Supply chain shortages during the design phase required creative problem-solving. For example, Hill Hiker’s decision to use relay logic in the control panel was driven by both the need for simplicity and the availability of components. Similarly, the adoption of the igus energy chain marked a departure from traditional methods, demonstrating Hill Hiker’s ability to innovate under pressure.
Another unique challenge was the slope’s moderate incline, which ruled out the use of cable reels or wireless technology commonly used in residential inclined elevators. The energy chain proved to be the perfect solution, and its success on this project has made it Hill Hiker’s preferred method for all future traveling cables.
A Collaborative Effort
The success of the Merkin Vineyards inclined elevator is a testament to the power of collaboration. Hill Hiker worked closely with architects, engineers, contractors, and the client to bring the project to life. Special thanks go to:
- Architecture Works Green, Inc. for its visionary design.
- VAA for their structural engineering expertise.
- Alexander Building Co., Inc. for their exceptional construction work.
- ISC Companies for their contributions to the control panel design.
Why Hill Hiker Stands Out in the Industry
Hill Hiker’s ability to deliver custom, code-compliant inclined elevators for challenging terrains has cemented its reputation as an industry leader. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Customized Solutions: Every project is tailored to the client’s specific needs, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.
- Commitment to Safety: From design to installation, safety is our top priority. Our systems meet or exceed all national and local codes.
- Engineering Expertise: Decades of experience enable us to tackle even the most complex projects with confidence.
- Innovation: Whether it’s pioneering new cable management systems or designing unique emergency exits, Hill Hiker, Inc. is always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Elevating the Visitor Experience
The Hilltop Tram at Merkin Vineyards isn’t just a practical solution; it’s an experience. Guests can now enjoy a smooth, scenic ride from the gelateria to the trattoria, taking in breathtaking views of the vineyard and surrounding landscape. By seamlessly integrating form and function, Hill Hiker has enhanced the property’s appeal and accessibility, making it a must-visit destination in Cottonwood.
Looking to the Future
Winning the 2025 Elevator World Project of the Year Award is more than just a milestone for Hill Hiker, Inc. — it’s a springboard for future innovation. As we continue to refine our designs and embrace new technologies, we remain committed to providing the best-inclined elevator solutions for clients worldwide. From hillside vineyards to beachfront properties, Hill Hiker is ready to take on the next challenge.
Explore Award-Winning Hillside Inclined Elevators
If you’re considering a hillside-inclined elevator for your property, let Hill Hiker, Inc. show you what’s possible. With a track record of excellence and a passion for innovation, we’re here to bring your vision to life.
Contact us today or visit our featured project page to learn more about our award-winning projects and customized solutions. Visit our Merkin Vineyards Hilltop Winery & Trattoria project page to see our project as featured in Elevator World trade magazine.
