Sierra-at-Tahoe, CA, Caldor Fire Update

Shortly after the Caldor Fire reached Sierra-at-Tahoe, CA, the communities in the South Lake Tahoe area were evacuated, prompting employees and friends to pack their essentials and seek refuge away from the Tahoe Basin.

“Being patient for information has been one of the greatest challenges, as Sierra is more than just a ski resort, it’s our community…it’s our home. I was glued to the webcams, cringing at the images in the night, not knowing what would become of our beloved Sierra. But my heart has been restored with hope after learning that our mountain was resilient through the inferno!”

– Katie Hunter, Director of Marketing at Sierra

The Caldor Fire passed through Sierra burning trees in various spots around the mountain but also left many areas unscathed. The Nob Hill and Castle Creek areas of the resort were some of the most impacted based on initial reports, but further inspection of the entire mountain will need to be completed to assess the damage. Off the mountain, the maintenance shop located at the base was destroyed along with Chill Carpet, a surface lift utilized primarily by beginners learning their first turns on the front side of the mountain. But, thanks to the preventive work completed by staff and firefighters on the ground, all Base Area buildings and lodges located on the mountain were saved.

• Related: Caldor Fire Burns Sierra-at-Tahoe Ski Area | California Side of Lake Tahoe Basin Under Mandatory Evacuation Order

With Highway 50 still closed and access to the resort prohibited, fire crews and personnel are on-site to continue monitoring hot spots to prevent further damage to the resort. When the smoke clears, and air quality improves, Sierra will engage with specialists in fire damage restoration to assess everything from hazard trees and lifts to buildings and power to check for heat, smoke, and collateral damage.

“I have been blessed for so many years to be part of a great place, the people who call it home, and the raw beauty of the area. We can come back. We will be back, to celebrate our 75th anniversary with our Sierra Family this winter.”

– General Manager, John Rice told staff

With hope for the situation to stabilize soon, we look forward to persevering through the challenges ahead and are optimistic that we will resume preparations for the upcoming 2021/22 winter season.