Several times each summer we host scenic chairlift rides on Chair 2 to allow easier access to the high alpine trails for hikers and berry pickers, or a round trip on the lift to just enjoy the scenery. We hope you’ll join us for a different perspective on the Chugach Mountains. All dates are subject to weather cancellation – it’s no fun if it’s raining.

The lift has safety bars for guests’ comfort, and we can slow the lift if needed for offloading. Due to the steep, primitive construction of the available trails, this activity is not suggested for guests who have mobility issues.

Note: Due to safety concerns, we are unable to accommodate children ages 3 and under, or those who cannot sit securely on the seat by themselves. All guests (including children) must sit in the seat on the lift and be able to load and unload with minimal assistance. No children are allowed in packs or wraps. Only two people per chair. Young children cannot ride alone.

2026 Schedule

The lift operates from 11am-4pm.

Dates are subject to cancellation due to weather – please check this page or our social media before heading to Arctic Valley.

• Saturday, June 20 @ Chugach Fest
  • Scenic lift ride tickets are included with Chugach Fest tickets! No separate purchase necessary.
• Friday, July 3
• Sunday, July 5
• Sunday, July 12
• Sunday, July 19
• Sunday, August 9
• Saturday, August 15
• Sunday, August 16
• Sunday, August 23
• Saturday, August 29
• Sunday, August 30
• Sunday, September 6
• Sunday, September 13

Rules

• Kids: Due to safety concerns, we are unable to accommodate children ages 3 and under, or those who cannot sit securely on the seat by themselves. All guests (including children) must sit in the seat on the lift and be able to load and unload with minimal assistance. No children are allowed in packs or wraps. Only two people per chair. Young children cannot ride alone.
• Check in: All guests must check in at the Rendezvous Cafe to sign or verify their waiver and receive a ticket before boarding the lift.
• Restrooms are available in the lower parking lot (first lot on the left as you drive up). The lodge is closed.
• Wear warm clothes and sensible shoes for hiking
• If you want to upgrade from one-way to roundtrip ticket, do so at the Rendezvous Cafe
• No dogs allowed on the lift.
• Last ride up is 4:00 pm
• Last ride down is 4:30 pm
• Total ride time is approximately 25 minutes each way
• No refunds unless the lift doesn’t operate
• Tickets may be rescheduled for another date this season. You must email us before 11am on the day the ticket is valid to reschedule.

Tickets

Purchase tickets online or at the Rendezvous Cafe in the main parking lot. Last ride up is at 4pm and last ride down is at 4:30pm.

Suggested hiking routes

There are lots of great opportunities to explore Arctic Valley from the top of Chair 2 depending on how much you want to hike, and your comfort level.

Note: No rescue services are available at the ski area in the summer. Call 911 if you have an emergency on the trail.

Here’s a few suggestions:

• Rendezvous Ridge-Marston Trail: Hike Rendezvous Ridge to Hunter Pass, then drop onto the new Marston Trail to head back to the ski area. This is about 6 miles, and includes some truly spectacular views of Ship Creek Valley!
• Rendezvous Peak/Mt Gordon Lyon and the Saddle Trail: Visit both of the popular peaks just across a small valley from each other, then enjoy a leisurely walk down the saddle trail back to the parking lots. Easiest route (especially if you skip one or both of the peaks). Approximately 2.75 miles (including both peaks).
• Arctic Valley Ridge: Walk along the ridge past the tops of each of our chairlifts as you make your way down, taking in the views up Ship Creek Valley. Stop at the Ship Creek Overlook benches and return on the Marston Trail. Medium difficulty – some steep sections. Approximately 1.75 miles.