CHAIRLIFT RIDES

CHAIRLIFT RIDES AT TWEETSIE RAILROAD IN BLOWING ROCK, NC

WHAT THE RIDE IS LIKE

The open-air chairlift carries guests between the Country Fair area and Miners Mountain, providing elevated views of the park and surrounding landscape. It is a transportation ride as well as a scenic attraction, and riders remain seated on an open bench while the lift moves continuously.

AGE AND WEIGHT REQUIREMENTS

Children younger than 7 must ride with someone age 13 or older. The maximum combined weight is 450 pounds per chair. Riders must be able to load, sit safely and unload as directed by the operator.

HOURS AND OPERATING SEASON

Regular daytime operations run from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tweetsie Railroad is open Saturdays and Sundays from April 4 through May 31, plus Memorial Day Monday; five days a week from June 1 through August 8, closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays; and Saturdays and Sundays from August 9 through November 1, plus Labor Day Monday.

Ghost Train operates Friday and Saturday nights from September 25 through October 31, from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Tweetsie Christmas runs on select evenings from November 27 through December 30, from 5:00 to 9:30 p.m. Miners Mountain and several daytime attractions are not open during the nighttime events.

ADMISSION AND PARKING

Regular daytime admission is $65 for ages 13 and older, $45 for children ages 3–12, and free for children age 2 and younger. Taxes and fees are included. Parking is free and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Golden Rail season passes are $150 for adults and $110 for children and include unlimited regular daytime admission plus pass benefits.

ALTERNATIVES TO THE CHAIRLIFT

A bus runs continuously from the Tweetsie Palace to Miners Mountain and can carry wheelchairs and strollers. Guests can also use the walking trail. These alternatives are the better choice for anyone uncomfortable with heights, unable to board a moving chair safely, traveling with a stroller or wheelchair, or caring for a pet.

ACCESSIBILITY AND SAFETY

The chairlift is not wheelchair accessible and requires a transfer. Keep the safety bar in place, sit fully back in the chair, face forward and follow the operator’s loading and unloading signals. Pets are not permitted on the chairlift.

WEATHER AND CLOSURES

The lift may pause for lightning, high wind, heavy rain or maintenance. Because it is fully exposed, temperatures can feel cooler on the ride than at ground level. The lift and Miners Mountain are part of the regular daytime season and are not available during some nighttime events.

BEST TIME TO RIDE

Ride soon after opening for lighter lines and clearer views, or use it near midday when traveling to the Miners Mountain attractions. Allow extra time late in the afternoon when families are returning from the mountain.

WHAT TO BRING

Secure hats, phones and loose items before boarding. Wear closed shoes and bring a light layer on cool or windy days. Strollers should be taken on the bus rather than the chairlift.

WHO THIS ACTIVITY IS BEST FOR

The chairlift is best for guests who enjoy scenic views and open-air rides and who can board and sit safely. The bus provides the easiest alternative for young children, mobility devices and visitors who do not enjoy heights.