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 Dylan Steckle, co-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 Steckle. “Others simply don’t want to lug toys, drinks, and beach gear up and down all day.” Whether it’s accommodating family members with mobility issues, having your children and grandchildren visit more, or wanting to spend time enjoying your property rather than navigating it, a tram can be an excellent investment in supporting your lifestyle.
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 Steckle. 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 Steckle 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 Steckle 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!
What the process looks like
For cottagers curious about taking the next step, Steckle says the process is straightforward. It begins with an initial phone call to learn more about your needs and property, followed by a walkthrough of the basic process, investment requirements, and possible timelines. From there, Cobble Design schedules a free in-person assessment (something competitors often charge for) where they evaluate the proposed tram location, site conditions, and other factors that will shape the tram’s design.
Once the assessment is complete, Cobble Design produces a price-guaranteed quotation. “The price we quote you is the price you pay,” says Steckle. After a 50 per cent deposit is received, the tram is scheduled for production and installation, typically taking six to eight weeks to build and ship, and five to seven business days to install on-site. Cobble Design primarily schedules installations in the spring and fall to avoid disrupting the summer cottage season.
The company operates out of Bayfield, Ontario, and services properties within roughly six hours, covering Bluewater, much of the Bruce Peninsula, the Kawarthas, Muskokas, Trent-Severn, and Prince Edward County.
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.