Definition

Noun: A mechanical system at a ski area that transports skiers uphill by means of a continuously moving loop of rope which they hold onto. It is a basic and often inexpensive type of ski lift.

Usage

A "rope tow" is a specific type of ski lift. It is used to describe the infrastructure at a ski slope. The term is typically used in the context of skiing, winter sports, and mountain resorts.

Examples

• The beginner hill is serviced by a slow rope tow.
• Learning to use the rope tow without falling can be tricky for new skiers.
• This small resort has two chairlifts and an old rope tow.

Advanced Usage

• "to ride the rope tow": This phrase describes the action of using the rope tow for ascent.
  • The children learned to ride the rope tow on their first ski lesson.

Variants and Related Words

• Ski tow (n): A general term for any mechanical device that pulls skiers uphill. A rope tow is one kind of ski tow.
• T-bar lift (n): A different type of surface lift where skiers rest on a moving T-shaped bar.
• Poma lift (n): Another type of surface lift using a platter that skiers place between their legs.

Synonyms

• Tow rope (n): This is a less common but sometimes used synonym, reversing the word order.
• Beginner tow (n): This term highlights its common use on beginner slopes.

Notes

The "rope tow" is considered a surface lift, as it pulls skiers along the ground rather than carrying them in the air like a chairlift. It is known for being a simple, economical lift often found on beginner or nursery slopes.

Noun

1. a ski tow offering only a moving rope to hold onto