The term designates a specific mechanism for vertical transportation, commonly found in mountainous terrain. It facilitates the movement of individuals from a lower elevation to a higher one, often in the context of recreational activities or accessing elevated locations. An example would be its utilization to carry skiers and snowboarders up a slope during winter months.
Such systems provide access to areas that would otherwise be difficult or time-consuming to reach. Benefits include increased accessibility for a wider range of individuals, including those with mobility limitations, and a more efficient means of traversing significant vertical distances. Historically, similar transportation methods have played a crucial role in the development and accessibility of mountainous regions.