Owning a lakefront home is the American dream. However, that dream often comes with a steep reality. Many of the most beautiful shorelines in North America sit at the bottom of rugged cliffs or high banks. For decades, homeowners have relied on grueling flights of wooden stairs to reach the water. But today, savvy property owners are choosing a better way.
A hillside tram from Marine Innovations transforms a difficult climb into a luxury experience. Our systems handle inclines up to 70 degrees with an 860-pound capacity. Whether you are moving coolers and fishing gear or helping a loved one with mobility challenges, an inclined elevator makes the lake accessible for everyone.
Here are the top ten lakes where a hillside tram is the ultimate home upgrade.
Lake Travis, TX
Lake Travis is famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs. While the views are world-class, the trek to the dock can be exhausting. Because the water levels fluctuate, your walk to the boat might get longer during summer and fall. A hillside tram saves your knees and adds massive value to these luxurious Austin-area estates.
Lake Tahoe, CA/NV
With a median home value often reaching into the millions, Tahoe homeowners expect the best. The terrain here is notoriously rocky and steep. Furthermore, high elevations mean winter snow can make stairs dangerous. Our powder-coated aluminum and galvanized steel systems are built to withstand these alpine winters.
Lake of the Ozarks, MO
Known as the “Magic Dragon” for its winding shape, this lake is defined by its rugged Ozark hills. Many homes sit on bluffs that offer deep-water access but require a vertical commute. Instead of building 200 wooden steps that will eventually rot, residents are opting for durable, engineered inclined lifts.
Lake Coeur d’Alene, ID
This Idaho gem features massive elevation changes. The homeowners here and want to age in place without losing their beach access. A custom-engineered tram ensures that the grandkids and grandparents can all head down to the water together safely.
Flathead Lake, MT
Flathead is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. Its glacial history left behind steep, rocky shorelines. Because we use a proprietary pin pile anchoring system, and strong, durable rock anchors we can install a lift with minimal impact on the natural Montana landscape.
Lake Geneva, WI
Lake Geneva is home to historic estates and the famous Shore Path. Many properties have significant slopes from the main house down to the private pier. A hillside tram offers a premium experience for guests, providing lake access without the need for a single step.
Lake Minnetonka, MN
As Minnesota’s premier metro lake, Minnetonka has many high bank lots in bays like Wayzata and Lafayette. Since the soil can be prone to erosion, our pin pile foundations are perfect. They provide a stable ride for decades without disturbing the hillside.
Gull Lake, MN
Located in the heart of Brainerd Lakes area, Gull Lake is a favorite for multi-generational families. Hauling watersports equipment and snacks up a steep hill is a chore of the past. Our systems are the most reliable in the industry, and we have been the North American leader since 1991.
Lake Washington, WA
Seattle’s premier lake features many high bank waterfront homes. Space is often tight between neighbors. Because our systems are designed for each exact application, we can fit a tram into narrow corridors where traditional stairs might not even be allowed.
Lake Okoboji, IA
The blue water lake of Iowa has many steep points and embankments. Homeowners here take great pride in their landscaping. Our lifts are built with safety and aesthetics in mind, allowing you to enjoy the view without a bulky, ugly structure blocking it.
Why Choose Marine Innovations?
We are one of the few companies in the industry that is fully engineered and code compliant. This means we handle your system from the initial design to the final installation. Our systems meet or exceed ASME A17.1, section 5.4 standards. We back our work with a 15-year structural warranty because we believe in what we build.
If you are ready to reclaim your shoreline with easy lake access, we are here to help. Our dealers or staff visit every site to provide a firm estimate and a custom plan.
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