For many cottagers, opening weekend is a reason to celebrate. But if your cottage sits on a steep hill, it can also be a logistical nightmare. Carrying coolers, luggage, firewood, and even kids up and down endless steps can turn your dream retreat into an unwelcome workout. That’s where a hillside tram from Cobble Design comes in. But how do you know if it’s the right choice for your property, your family, and your future? Let’s look at the key factors involved in making the right decision.
The layout of your property
The first thing to consider is terrain and stability. “One of the big issues we look at is how stable the hillside is,” says Alf Goodall, owner of Cobble Design. If erosion is a problem, it needs to be addressed before installation. Beyond that, factors like slope, property lines, and accessibility to power will all determine how feasible a tram is for your site. Most tram runs range from 50 to 150 feet, with steeper slopes (above 35 degrees) requiring more careful planning. Fortunately, Cobble Design has over a decade of experience installing trams on wooded hillsides, loamy slopes, and Canadian Shield terrain—so chances are, they’ve worked with a property like yours.
Your family’s lifestyle
A hillside tram isn’t just a luxury—it’s an investment in accessibility, safety, and convenience. “Many of our clients have family members with mobility issues or young kids,” says Goodall. “Others simply don’t want to lug toys, drinks, and beach gear up and down all day.” In one case, a tram allowed a cottager’s spouse to continue enjoying their lakeside property despite a serious health condition. In another, a client told Cobble Design they wished they had installed one years earlier after seeing how much their entire family benefited from it.
Long-term investment vs. short-term fix
If you’re considering staircases as an alternative, think about how practical they are in the long run. A tram is a permanent solution that makes your property more accessible for decades. “We’ve had clients install a tram not because they needed it today, but because they saw it as a smart, long-term investment,” says Goodall. And unlike stairs, which require constant maintenance and repairs, a tram system is built to last with minimal upkeep.
Budget considerations and property value
The price tag of a tram can be a sticking point for some—installations typically start at $125,000 and can go up to $200,000 or more, depending on the project. But Goodall reassures homeowners that a tram adds significant value to a cottage. “Real estate agents tell us all the time that the expense of adding a tram adds immediate value to the property,” he explains. “While we can’t put hard numbers on it, we’re extremely confident that in no world would it detract value.” In many cases, properties without easy access to the lake, or to the cottage itself, can sit on the market longer, making a tram a worthwhile investment.
Common hesitations (and why they disappear)
Some cottagers hesitate, wondering if they truly need a tram right now. But Goodall says no client has ever regretted installing one. In fact, most say they wish they had done it sooner. “Most people who install a tram have no accessibility issue of any kind,” he says. “As many of them say, ‘We can take the stairs—we just don’t want to.’” Beyond accessibility, trams are simply easier. One client used to make a dozen trips carrying groceries and luggage up a 100-foot incline. Now, with a tram, they can move everything in just two or three trips while actually enjoying the process. Another client found that their grandchildren were the most excited about the tram—they now beg to visit just so they can ride it!
Ready to explore a tram for your cottage?
If your cottage has a steep incline, a tram isn’t just a convenience; it’s a game-changer. Whether you’re thinking about accessibility, safety, or resale value—or if you’re just making cottage trips easier—Cobble Design’s team of experts can help you explore the best options for your property. Visit cobbledesign.ca to learn more.