Through the years, Hill Hiker® has built a number of outdoor lift systems all over the world. Each one offered a unique challenge, and we eagerly rose to every occasion. Here are two interesting projects we built in the past. Each involves a lengthy track of about 300 feet, stretching across some difficult terrain.
The Mountain Lake Lift
The Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina
offer peaceful getaways and stunning views. With dense forests interspersed with lakes, it’s a popular spot for cabins and homes. One property owner had a beautiful spot overlooking a lake, but access to the water was troublesome. With a 28 degree incline, the walk down was difficult. The fact that the ground had a heavy clay element didn’t help matters either.
We solved the lake access problem with a hillside lift system built to meet the needs of the users. The outdoor lift used 300 feet of track to reach the deck just above the shoreline. Because the area receives a bit of rain, snow and occasional freezing conditions, we used materials that would hold up to the challenges of the environment. This includes our outdoor NEMA 4X rated electronics and enclosures, outdoor grade powder coat finishing for steel components, industrial-grade, outdoor-rated gearbox and motors, galvanized cable and stainless steel hardware.
The track gets extra support from multiple concrete columns. This helps keep the structure from shifting in the soft soil. Last of all, the system uses a winding drum system to lower and raise a cart full of passengers. A winding drum is an efficient and reliable design that offers utility and aesthetics.
Situated on the Minnesota/Wisconsin border, this stop was pretty familiar to us—it’s almost in our backyard. The valley features a number of scenic ridges and bluffs descending down to the riverbank. One of our client’s had a great spot on a sloping river bank, only problem was the height and length of the decline to the water.
The area was heavily wooded, with mature trees looming over the thicker underbrush of saplings. Getting a kayak and other recreational gear down the hill was problematic for these residents, which is unfortunate because the St. Croix River offers a great setting for paddle sports and other recreation.
We remedied the problem by clearing a path through all the brush. Then we began to install our custom made design. The slope had a few creases, requiring us to make a track that curved with the natural contours of the ground. The hillside lift system adjusts to the 30 to 42 degree range of the slope’s incline. To ensure the 285 foot ride went smoothly, we installed a leveling package, preventing the car from jostling about unevenly.
We’ve been fortunate to visit many scenic places as we’ve installed hillside lifts around the world. We’re proud to have helped residents, vacationers and other travelers across tougher terrain with a view. Check out more of our projects from around the globe. Visit our gallery.
