From soaring over alpine wildflowers to floating above glacier-carved valleys, these chairlift rides prove you don’t need snow (or skis) to experience some of the most breathtaking views in North America.
One of the best-kept secrets of summer in the mountains is that many ski resorts keep their chairlifts spinning long after the snow has melted. Instead of carrying skiers uphill, they transport hikers, photographers, families, and sightseers to panoramic overlooks that would otherwise require hours of climbing.
Whether you’re chasing wildflowers, mountain lakes, or simply looking for an unforgettable view, these scenic chairlift rides deserve a spot on your summer bucket list.
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (Wyoming)
Chairlift: Bridger Gondola & Sweetwater Gondola
The Tetons are spectacular from any angle, but riding high above Jackson Hole offers an entirely different perspective. During summer, visitors float above forests and wildflower meadows before arriving at sweeping overlooks of Grand Teton National Park and the Snake River Valley.
At the top you’ll find hiking trails, mountain biking, waffles at Corbet’s Cabin, and some of the best photography opportunities in the Rockies.
Don’t miss: Sunrise or sunset rides.
Snowbird (Utah)
Chairlift: Aerial Tram
Snowbird’s famous tram climbs nearly 3,000 vertical feet to Hidden Peak at over 11,000 feet.
From the summit, visitors enjoy nearly 360-degree views across the Wasatch Range, distant Great Salt Lake, and rugged alpine terrain that remains snow-covered well into summer.
It’s one of the easiest ways in North America to reach true alpine scenery without breaking a sweat.
Telluride Ski Resort (Colorado)
Chairlift: Gondola
Technically a gondola rather than a chairlift, but it’s too spectacular to leave off the list.
Connecting Telluride with Mountain Village, the free gondola glides over waterfalls, dense forests, and towering San Juan peaks.
Many visitors consider it one of the most scenic public transportation systems anywhere in the world.
Whiteface Mountain (New York)
Chairlift: Cloudsplitter Gondola
Located in the Adirondacks, Whiteface offers panoramic views stretching across Lake Placid and the High Peaks Wilderness.
Summer visitors can hike, picnic, or continue to the summit via the Veterans Memorial Highway.
On exceptionally clear days, visibility can exceed 100 miles.
Whistler Blackcomb (British Columbia)
Chairlift: Peak Express Chair
For an unforgettable open-air ride, hop aboard Peak Express Chair, the highest chairlift operating at Whistler Blackcomb during the summer season. The lift climbs into the resort’s rugged alpine, offering sweeping views of snow-dusted peaks, ancient glaciers, turquoise alpine lakes, and the dramatic Coast Mountains of British Columbia. The chair operates during the summer, weather permitting, and provides access to Whistler Mountain’s alpine hiking trails, the Cloudraker Skybridge, and the Raven’s Eye Cliff Walk.
Even in the middle of July, it’s common to see lingering snowfields surrounding the upper mountain, creating a stunning contrast with blooming wildflowers below. For photographers and sightseers, few chairlift rides in North America offer a more spectacular combination of alpine scenery and easy access to high-mountain adventures.
Keep an eye out for moose and elk in the valleys below.
Mammoth Mountain (California)
Chairlift: Panorama Gondola
At over 11,000 feet, Mammoth delivers one of California’s most dramatic high-elevation viewpoints.
You’ll look out across the Sierra Nevada, ancient volcanic formations, alpine lakes, and—on exceptionally clear days—all the way toward Yosemite National Park.
Even in July, patches of snow often remain near the summit.
Related: The 7 Most Beautiful Mountain Towns in Colorado You Should Visit
Killington Resort (Vermont)
Chairlift: K-1 Gondola
Vermont’s Green Mountains are famous for their fall colors, but summer may be even more beautiful.
Rolling green forests stretch to the horizon while wildflowers bloom across the slopes.
At the summit you’ll find hiking trails, mountain biking, and one of New England’s highest peaks.
Deer Valley Resort (Utah)
Chairlift: Sterling Express
Deer Valley transforms into a mountain paradise every summer.
The chairlift carries visitors above colorful wildflower meadows filled with lupine, paintbrush, and daisies while offering spectacular views over Park City.
Bring a picnic or spend the afternoon exploring the extensive trail network.
Alyeska Resort (Alaska)
Chairlift: Aerial Tram
Few rides anywhere compare to Alyeska.
As the tram climbs above lush rainforest, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking views of Turnagain Arm, hanging glaciers, and the snow-covered Chugach Mountains.
On clear days, it’s one of Alaska’s most unforgettable viewpoints.
Keep binoculars handy—you may spot beluga whales in Turnagain Arm below.
Schweitzer Mountain (Idaho)
Chairlift: Great Escape Quad
Often overlooked compared to larger western resorts, Schweitzer offers stunning views over Lake Pend Oreille—the largest lake in Idaho.
The combination of sparkling blue water, forested mountains, and quiet hiking trails makes it one of the hidden gems of the Northwest.
It’s especially beautiful in late afternoon as golden light spreads across the lake.
Why Summer Lift Rides Are Worth It
You don’t have to be an expert hiker—or even particularly adventurous—to experience incredible mountain scenery. Scenic chairlifts and gondolas make high-alpine landscapes accessible to families with young children, older visitors, photographers, and anyone who simply wants to enjoy the view.
Many resorts also offer:
- Mountaintop restaurants
- Guided nature walks
- Wildflower hikes
- Mountain biking
- Disc golf
- Live music
- Sunset rides
- Stargazing events
Before visiting, check each resort’s website for summer operating dates, hours, ticket prices, and weather conditions, as schedules can vary throughout the season.
Which Ride Tops Your List?
Whether you’re gazing across the Tetons in Wyoming, watching glaciers in Alaska, or floating above the Green Mountains of Vermont, these scenic lifts prove that some of the best mountain adventures begin with simply taking a seat and enjoying the ride.