Donner Ski Ranch

If you are searching for a simpler, more relaxed ski & snowboard experience, a resort that offers everything the major resorts do, without the hassles and expense, Donner Ski Ranch is the resort for you and your family. One of the oldest ski resorts in the West, high atop Donner Summit, it has an annual average snowfall of 33 feet. You will find a variety of terrain and an atmosphere that is relaxing and carefree. Explore over 45 wide open runs with challenges for even the most advanced skier. Enjoy the experience of short lift lines and continuous uncrowded skiing and snowboarding everyday. Donner Ski Ranch provides spectacular views of Donner Lake, Castle Peak and 360 degree views of the Summit area. We top the list of the most affordable ski resorts offering the lowest rates on lift tickets, rentals and lessons for every level. Come and join us at one of the most intimate resorts in the West!

Historically Speaking:

Donner Ski Ranch was first utilized for skiing in 1937. The area's first rope tow was located at the base of our current lodge and ran to a location approximately 75 yards west of the current midway unloading ramp on Chairlift #1. That rope tow was named Jerry Ellis. Jerry was the primary individual involved in making the ski area a reality. Even though travel to the Donner Summit area took two or three times longer than it does today, old time skiers reported the popularity of this rope tow by recalling the long lift lines.

Today's resort is much improved from what it was in the early years but the old time attitude and family ski hill atmosphere still exists at Donner Ski Ranch.

3½ miles from I-80 on Soda Springs Rd/Norden Exit

45 Runs (up to 1.2 miles)
25% advanced, 50% intermediate, 25% beginner
6 Lifts: 1 triple, 5 double
Base: 7,031' elevation, Top: 7,781' elevation
750 feet vertical drop
435 skiable acres with 300 acres of grooming
Snowmaking 15% - 65 acres
Snowboarding & Terrain Park
Trail Map
Latest ski report

Hours and Seasons
During our Winter operation our resort is open at 8am through 6pm daily with the chairlifts operating from 9am to 4pm, from mid-November through mid-April. Summer operations are limited to specific weekends from June through October each year, when we offer "Rage' n at the Ranch" bicycle races and the annual "Old 40 Motorcycle Days."
Facilities and Services
Donner Ski Ranch offers a full cafeteria, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. A Cocktail lounge, rental and retail shop, personal storage lockers, PSIA Certified Winter Sports School, fully certified Professional and National Ski Patrol and FREE guided Ski Run/Historic Tours - offering fantastic views of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range and the surrounding area.

Lift Tickets

Daily lift ticket pricing at Donner Ski Ranch is now affordable and geared to fit the budget of most families, allowing more trips to the slopes to enjoy the winter sports season.

Sports Instruction

Enjoy Great Outdoor Winter Sports Family Fun. Donner Ski Ranch's teaching system is one of the best in the Truckee/Tahoe area. You will learn to ski, snowboard, or Telemark while you explore the mountain.

On-site Lodging

The Summit House
P.O. Box 118, Norden, CA 95724, Telephone: (530) 426-3622

Photos and information courtesy Donner Ski Ranch

19320 Donner Pass Road
P.O. Box 66, Norden, CA 95724
Conditions Phone & Office: (530) 426-3635, Fax (530) 426-9350

marketing@donnerskiranch.com

Historically Speaking:

Lift Tickets

Sports Instruction

On-site Lodging

URL: http://bizxwww/SkiTahoe/dsr.htm