"The Escarpment" Blog

From Ski Hill to Photo Spot: Our Custom Poma Lift Bench is Complete

Sometimes the best additions to a property are the ones that tell a story.

We're excited to share one of our newest—and most unique—features: a custom-built bench created from a decommissioned Poma ski lift from a local Ontario ski hill.

What was once helping skiers make their way up the slopes has been transformed into a one-of-a-kind gathering spot that now sits proudly at the corner of our property. Blending craftsmanship, local heritage, and a love for the outdoors, it has become the final piece of our landscaping project and a feature we hope guests will enjoy for years to come.

Giving New Life to a Piece of Ontario Ski History

For generations of Ontario skiers, Poma lifts were a familiar part of the winter experience.

Long before modern high-speed lifts became common, skiers would grab onto a Poma tow and be pulled uphill for another run down the mountain. While many ski hills have since upgraded their lift systems, these iconic pieces of equipment remain a nostalgic reminder of skiing's earlier days.

When we came across a decommissioned Poma lift from a local Ontario ski hill, we knew it deserved a second life rather than ending up in storage or being scrapped.

Turning an Old Ski Lift into a Custom Bench

The project started with a simple idea: create something functional, memorable, and unique to our property.

To bring the vision to life, custom steel legs were fabricated and welded to provide a strong, durable foundation. We then installed beautiful cedar boards to create comfortable seating while adding warmth and natural character to the design.

The combination of steel and cedar perfectly balances rustic charm with durability, creating a bench that feels right at home in the Blue Mountains.

The finished product is unlike anything you'll find elsewhere—a true conversation piece with a story behind it.

The Final Piece of Our Landscaping Project

Over the past several years, we've invested in improving and enhancing our outdoor spaces.

From gardens and greenery to gathering areas and curb appeal improvements, every element has been thoughtfully planned to create a welcoming environment for our guests.

The Poma lift bench was the final piece.

Its installation officially completed our landscaping vision, adding a distinctive focal point that celebrates Ontario's outdoor culture while providing a practical place to sit, relax, and enjoy the surroundings.

The Perfect Place for Family & Group Photos

Since placing the bench at the corner of the property, we've realized it serves another purpose beyond being a unique landmark.

It's become the perfect photo spot.

Whether you're visiting for:

  • A family vacation
  • A ski weekend
  • A reunion with friends
  • A bachelor or bachelorette getaway
  • A special celebration

The bench offers a memorable backdrop for group photos and vacation snapshots.

We expect it will become a popular stop for guests looking to capture a little piece of their Blue Mountains experience.

A Conversation Starter

One of the things we love most about the bench is how often it sparks curiosity.

Guests immediately ask where it came from, what it was used for, and how it became part of the property.

For those who grew up skiing in Ontario, it often brings back memories of learning to ski, winter weekends with family, and the simpler days of tow lifts and rope tows.

It's amazing how a single piece of ski equipment can carry so many memories.

Built to Last

The bench was designed to be enjoyed for many years to come.

The welded steel frame provides exceptional strength and stability, while the cedar seating offers natural beauty and durability through every season. As the cedar matures and weathers, it will continue to develop the character that makes handcrafted projects so special.

Like the surrounding landscaping, it was built with longevity in mind.

Stop, Sit, and Take a Photo

The next time you stay with us, be sure to check out our custom Poma lift bench.

Take a seat, gather your family or friends, and snap a photo in front of one of the property's most unique features.

What was once carrying skiers up a hill is now helping create new memories for visitors from across Ontario and beyond.

And as the final touch in our landscaping project, we couldn't imagine a better way to bring the entire vision together.