It leads from the Alpmatten neighborhood at 1870 m to the centre of the car-free resort Bettmeralp at 1935 m.[1][2] The single-cabin line functions with a counterweight.
While other installations provided access for skiers, the Schräglift ("inclined lift") was proposed for non-skiers, seniors, and families with children by a transport commission set up in autumn 1996.
[3] A bus line, a chair lift, and a covered escalator were considered as alternatives.
[3] The assembly of the municipality of Betten approved the project in 1998, despite opposition favoring expansion of the existing installations.
[4] Shares were subscribed by the municipality of Betten, Bettmeralp Bahnen, and local residents and businesses.