Industry News
Donner Ski Ranch in Lake Tahoe, California, is leaving the decision of when to close for the season this year up to its skiers and riders. In a recent social media post, the small ski area announced it will remain open until “there is no snow or no interest,” encouraging guests to keep showing up if they want to extend the season. It is a rare move in an industry where spring closures are usually dictated by construction projects, workforce availability, or Forest Service requirements tied to wildlife considerations.
Donner Ski Ranch’s approach taps into the annual spring skiing dilemma. Even with plenty of snow and sunny skies, many skiers and riders shift focus to other activities by late April or May, making it difficult for resorts to justify the costs of keeping lifts spinning. Donner Ski Ranch is challenging that trend by giving dedicated spring skiers a chance to control the calendar. The ski area is also offering discounted lift tickets as an extra incentive to keep the momentum going. Daily tickets are priced at $69, and guests who show a valid 2024-2025 season pass from any other resort can score a $25 lift ticket. With many Tahoe resorts already wrapping up their seasons, Donner’s flexible closing date could attract a crowd.
Around the region, only a handful of ski areas are still operating. Palisades Tahoe plans to stay open through Memorial Day weekend, conditions permitting. Sugar Bowl has scheduled an encore weekend from April 25 to April 27, and Mt. Rose-Ski Tahoe is planning to close sometime after April 27. For now, at Donner Ski Ranch, the message is simple: if you keep skiing, they will keep the lifts turning.
