Has anyone tried elevating the front wheel of their bike when it's on a trainer to 'simulate' riding up a hill? I find I use different muscles when I'm climbing (a lot more glutes for instance).

I've recently taken to putting about 8" of books under my front wheel which gives me a little incline and a little more attention required for balancing.

Anyone tried putting their trainer setup on a ramp or otherwise elevating the front wheel? And most importantly, did you find it effective?

Lance did.

Well, at least I'm fairly sure that it was in Charmichael's book that I have seen this suggested, for the same reason you mention. Change in angle changes the muscles used, so it better prepares you for climbing. I haven't done it, but it makes sense to me.

Several books say the same thing. I put my front wheel up because it's more comfortable for the bike I have on the trainer, where "comfortable" is a relative term of course.