 Mountain Conditions Quickview
|
||||
| Last Updated: | ||||
| Mtn. Conditions | Base | Summit | ||
| Currently | ||||
| MPH Winds | ||||
| Base | ||||
| 24 Hour Snow | ||||
| Overnight Snow | ||||
| Daytime Snow | ||||
| Mtn. Report | ||||
| Open Runs | ||||
| Groomed Runs | ||||
| Scheduled Lifts | ||||
| Open Lifts | ||||
Webcams Quickview
Information Quickview
mountain
& passes
& rentals
& things to do
at sugar bowl
estate
WEBCAMS
CONDITIONS
.jpg)
| Mtn. Conditions | Base | Summit | ||
| Currently | ||||
| MPH Winds | ||||
| Base | ||||
| 24 Hour Snow | ||||
| Overnight Snow | ||||
| Daytime Snow |
| Resort Status | ||
| Hours of Operation: |
|
|
| Mtn. Report | |
| Open Runs | |
| Groomed Runs | |
| Scheduled Lifts | |
| Open Lifts | |
| Road Conditions | ||
| I-80 |
|
|
| Highway 40 (I-80 - Sugar Bowl) |
|
|
| Highway 40 (Truckee - Sugar Bowl) |
|
|
CONDITIONS
WEBCAMS
mountain
& passes
& rentals
& things to do
at sugar bowl
estate
gorge xc
| Mtn. Conditions | Base | Summit | ||
| Currently | ||||
| MPH Winds | ||||
| Base | ||||
| 24 Hour Snow | ||||
| Overnight Snow | ||||
| Daytime Snow |
| Resort Status | ||
| Hours of Operation: |
|
|
| Mtn. Report | |
| Open Runs | |
| Groomed Runs | |
| Scheduled Lifts | |
| Open Lifts | |
| Road Conditions | ||
| I-80 |
|
|
| Highway 40 (I-80 - Sugar Bowl) |
|
|
| Highway 40 (Truckee - Sugar Bowl) |
|
|
5 Exercises for Skiing & Riding
5 Reasons to Work at Sugar Bowl
Best Outdoors Wedding at Sugar Bowl: 10 Ways
What’s the Best Time of Year to Visit?
The Green Team
Sugar Bowl’s Wildfire Prevention Efforts
Trains & Donner Summit History
Director of Mountain Operations: Greg Bretz
5 Exercises for Skiing & Riding
Want to know how the pros are getting ready for ski season? Check out this 5-part preseason exercise series with Jamey Conley, Director of Performance at Sugar Bowl Academy. Jamey shows us five ways to prepare the key muscles, or “primary movers” that you’ll use skiing and riding this season– think knees, thighs, glutes and core. This series of exercises are simple to do at home and they don’t require any specialized equipment.
A couple benefits to preseason training include:
- Building overall strength and endurance
- Preventing injury
- Being a little less exhausted on the first powder day of the season
A little background on Jamey…
Jamey has a BS in Athletic Training from Springfield College, where he played on the Men’s Lacrosse Team. He is a Certified Athletic Trainer and Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist with experience working in collegiate and professional sports settings, as well as in the private setting working with middle school, high school, collegiate, and professional athletes. Prior to joining SBSTA, Jamey was a Performance Coach for Altis Performance and for U.S. Ski & Snowboard High Performance.
Exercise 1: The Classic Squat
- Start in a standing position with your feet shoulder-width apart (Slightly wider is okay, but avoid trending too wide)
- Get tall through the top of your head and keep your back straight
- As you descend, your goal should be to descend straight downward
- Keep your feet flat on the ground- you should feel weight in your heels all the way to your big toe.
- Make sure your knees are tracking straight over shins
Exercise 2: Lateral Lunge
- Similar to the squat, remember to stay tall in your upper body with a straight back
- From standing, keep one foot anchored while stepping the other foot out to the side.
- Try to hit a 90 degree angle between your hip and your knee
- Drive from the inside edge of the foot
- Lateral Lunges are an important movement especially for skiing. When you are making a big arcing turn with speed, you’re using the same lateral movement as this lunge. Lateral lunges also help us train the muscles that absorb impacts on the hill. Stability prevents injury.
Exercise 3: Single Leg Squat
- Stand facing away from a stable surface (like a coffee table, chair, or bench)
- Shift your weight onto the foot of the leg you’re going to be squatting towards. Slide the other foot forward and lift it off the floor.
- Keeping your upper body tall, squat straight down to tap the bench and be sure to keep your knee tracking straight over your toes.
- This is a great exercise for building stability in the knee joint and preventing injury.
Exercise 4: Dead Bug
- Lay with a flat back on the floor and bring your arms and legs up to 90 degrees (like an upside down table.)
- Take turns extending an opposite arm and leg outwards.
- Keep your back flat to the floor and remember to take deep breaths.
- Building a strong core is essential for being able to control our turns.
Exercise 5: Squat Jumps
- Get tall and set up like you would for a squat.
- Get low and bring your arms down towards your sides (your arms will go where ever your hips go.)
- Explode up to the ceiling and bring your arms up overhead.
- When absorbing the landing, don’t stop stiffly or drop all the way to the floor, try to stop somewhere right in the middle.
- Jumping exercises help build explosive strength in our legs.
While Sugar Bowl Ski Team alumni have gone on to become members of the U.S. Ski Team and to compete at the NCAA Division I level, SBST’s primary objective is to provide a fun environment in which kids learn to love the sport of skiing. They emphasize character development through the challenges faced here on Donner Summit.
5 Reasons to Work at Sugar Bowl
There are a lot of jobs out there, so what makes someone choose Sugar Bowl? There’s something special about working at this quirky independent resort perched on Donner Summit… (Hint: it’s not just our massive snowfall or legendary terrain.) Wanna know what it is? You’re in luck, we’ve compiled our top 5 favorite reasons to be a part of the team.
1. Skiers first, professionals second
Nearly every day of the season, employees have an opportunity to get out and ski or ride during their work day. Their manager will often be the one telling them to take lunch and get out for a few laps. If it’s a powder day, don’t be surprised to hear “stop typing and get your boots on.” Working at Sugar Bowl is a way to integrate a passion for winter sports into a job.
2. Expansive terrain across four mighty peaks, all on your lunch break.
The terrain at Sugar Bowl is legendary and it’s fun to ride all season, in all conditions. If an employee wants to max out a quick lunch, they can often squeeze in 3 hot laps on Disney in 30 minutes. If it’s a powder day, they might venture over to scope out some big honkin’ lines between Sugar Bowl and the Palisades. In the spring, wide open groomers and perfect corn are the name of the game… All this and we didn’t even spill the beans on our staff favorite secret zones to ski!
3. There’s an opportunity for impact at an independent mid-sized resort.
Our base of operations is right here at Sugar Bowl, not at a high-rise office building in another state. The people who run this resort are here at the mountain nearly every day.
We think Sugar Bowl is a Goldilocks-sized company– We’re not too big, not too small. We’re small enough that our employees can directly see and feel the impact of the work they contribute to the resort. At the same time, we’re big enough that, if we channel our resources, we have enough manpower to meet and exceed our goals.
4. Plus tons of perks to sweeten the Sugar Bowl deal.
Where do we start? Employees and their qualified dependents are issued free unrestricted season passes. Additionally, all employees are granted a bundle of $20 friends and family day ticket vouchers to share. Wages have recently increased and now start at $20/hour for most positions. Sugar Bowl has more employee housing than any resort in the region, plus, it’s affordable and fun. The cherry on the cake has got to be our epic employee parties, where a few times a season, we stay open outside of operating hours and run the lifts for the staff to enjoy the mountain privately.
5. Of course we’re a team, but we’re also a community
What happens when you bring together a group of passionate mountain-loving individuals? In our experience, it builds one truly special community. From first-year seasonal staff to year-round employees with decades of experience, everyone on team Sugar Bowl is part of building up our resort’s character.
What really sets Sugar Bowl apart from other resorts is our great team. We are known for regularly going above and beyond for our guests, for our genuine, friendly employees, and our desire to help guests create lasting memories. These elements are at the core of our brand and our culture. We call it “Plus One Service,” a commitment to ensuring we exceed our guests’ expectations.
The Sugar Bowl community is welcoming and full of opportunities for growth. The best way to describe being an employee here is “work hard play hard” which means that in addition to the duties of the job, there’s also often a lot of FUN going around here too!
Direct from our Employees
Speaking of community, let’s bring our staff into the conversation. We asked employees from a range of departments to explain why they choose to work at Sugar Bowl. Trigger warning, their answers might give you the warm-and-fuzzies, or is that just us?
Parker G, Terrain Parks Manager
“Sugar Bowl is independent and family-oriented. It’s definitely not a small mountain but it still has that small-mountain community feel. I have a young family and it’s the kind of place I would want my kid to learn to ski.”
Sarah Duffy, Special Events & Weddings Coordinator
“I have met so many lifelong friends at Sugar Bowl, when I started here I hardly skied and I didn’t know many people in the area. After two years here I am confidently ripping down the mountain with endless ski pals! Plus- it doesn’t get much better than skiing on your lunch break!”
Dave Eastwood, Royal Gorge General Manager
“I work at Sugar Bowl for two reasons – the staff and my love of the outdoors. The staff is like a family and we all work as a team to make Sugar Bowl the best resort in the Sierra. The local outdoor scene is fantastic in summer and winter. Whether it’s cycling, trail running, hiking, skiing or riding, the Donner Summit area has something for everyone.”
Mark Beevor, Executive Director of Hospitality
“I stumbled across Sugar Bowl by accident and have found it combines my passion for hospitality and my love of the mountains. One of our values is that we celebrate resilience. When it is time to come together because of big events or big snow no one misses a beat. We are a community first and our employees go out of their way to help each other, homeowners and visitors. This is not something that is taught but rather is at the very core of everyone that works here and that’s why I love it.”
Joel C, Skier Services Manager
“Having worked at both large, corporate ski resorts and small, independent ski areas over the past 25 years, I can confidently say that Sugar Bowl is the best of both worlds. Being an employee here makes you a part of the Sugar Bowl family. We care about each other, our mountain, our community, and we love to ski and ride!”
Well there you have it, 5 reasons (and then some) to work at Sugar Bowl. Apply today for an opportunity to learn what else is great about our work environment. We can’t wait to show you around.
Best Outdoors Wedding at Sugar Bowl: 10 Ways
1. Easy access to hiking, mountain biking, & climbing.
Location, location, location! Donner Summit is any adventurer’s dream. From your base camp, you can climb world-class granite cliffs, hike a section of the famous Pacific Crest Trail, and mountain bike the Donner Lake Rim Trail with panoramic views of the surrounding Sierra.
2. Pre-wedding tip: Enjoy our signature “Lake Mary Day” to maximize outdoor family time the day before your wedding.
While adventure sports aren’t within everyone’s wheelhouse, a day of outdoor fun at our private lake is accessible for all. The day before your wedding, plan to paddle, swim, and connect with your guests in a stress-free setting. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, enjoy custom catering from our Lake Mary restaurant. If spending the day at a beautiful alpine lake can’t calm your pre-wedding jitters, what will?
3. Best wedding theme ever: Authentic Alpine Experience.
Our resort has been in operation since 1939, so you’ll nail a vibe that captures Old Tahoe charm with some European alpine flair mixed in. Capitalize on the cool ski area vibe because your guests are in for a mountain-top party like no other. You may want to warn them: stilettos not recommended.
4. Dancing under the stars, swoon!
If summertime weather has you wanting to spend every possible moment outside, we’re with you. Take advantage of the amazing Tahoe weather May-September and plan your whole party to be outdoors: ceremony, cocktail hour & reception. The deck of our Village Lodge is the perfect place to throw a raging outdoor dance party. Of course, as a backup, you’ll have the charming Belt Room Bar, the Lounge with its oversized stone fireplace, or the lovely Lake Mary cabin. We’ve got our fingers crossed for a perfect warm day & cool night for your big event.
5. Ride a chairlift
Incorporating chairlift transport into your wedding day makes limo travel feel a little basic, doesn’t it? Your guests will be giddy (and others probably a little nervous) about the prospect of hopping on a lift and soaring to the summit of Disney at 7,953’. Reaching the summit, you’ll be surrounded by expansive views of the Sierra from Van Norden Meadow to Castle Peak. Even your “afraid-of-heights” guests will agree the adventure was worth it.
6. Adventurers gotta eat!
If you’re leaning towards a Tahoe wedding, we’re sure you’re planning some fun mountain adventures to entertain your guests (and yourself!). With all these fun-filled and eventful days, your crew is going to work up an appetite. Sugar Bowl’s catering department delivers. Under the skillful guidance of French-trained executive chef Mark May and the masterful Chef Able, our catering is fresh and delicious. We pride ourselves in having the range to accommodate any mountain event, elevated or casual.
7. Catch a Sierra sunset unlike any other
As the daylight fades, the Sierras light up. High alpine sunsets in our mountain landscape are a sight to behold. As your wedding day transitions to the after party, the scenery won’t disappoint. It can’t hurt to have a little extra “glow” on your big day.
8. Beautiful presentations integrate incredible scenery into your wedding
Every scene of your wedding at Sugar Bowl is complete with a stunning backdrop. Our wedding planners are experts at crafting each space so it’s both functional for your event and still highlights the natural beauty of our landscape.
Let us design these spaces for you:
- A simple and elegant ceremony on the lawn surrounded by towering pine trees.
- A show-stopper cocktail hour on the summit accessed via chairlift.
- A lively base area where you’ll dine & dance under the stars.
If you want to plan an unforgettable event, start with a spectacular mountain landscape and we’ll take care of the rest!
9. Find some peace and quiet in the mountains
The best thing about a Sugar Bowl wedding is how private the venue feels. After our last day of the ski season each spring, our resort closes to the public each summer, so you can be sure that your group is the only wedding party on site. If you’re after a laidback mountain vibe with plenty of peace and quiet, look no further.
10. Base camp for your closest friends and family
Hosting an event at Sugar Bowl grants you exclusive use of the entire venue, including bar, lounge, dining room, decks and lawn for the whole weekend. Basically you’ve organized a mini summer camp with the people that matter to you most. We know this event is important, but let’s make sure it’s really, really FUN.
Start Planning. Send an email to weddings@sugarbowl.com or call (530) 426-6769 to speak with a Wedding Specialist at Sugar Bowl.
What’s the Best Time of Year to Visit?
Any month of the winter season can be a great time to ski or ride at Sugar Bowl. Here’s a little preview of the typical conditions we get throughout the season.
Sweet Tips
- Choose midweek/non-holidays if possible to take advantage of a more relaxed environment.
- If you want to ski & ride as much powder as possible this season, sign up for the powder planner email. We’ll email you when there’s a storm on the horizon so you can plan your trip.
Late-November through early-December
Every year is different, but sometimes early-season operations involve limited terrain until we get enough snow to open up additional areas. As more and more terrain opens for the season, skiers and rider go wild with stoke. After a long summer, we’re just excited to be back at it!
Events to look out for: Opening Day Celebration, Toys 4 Tots drive, Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, Royal Gorge Full Moon Snowshoe Tour
Late December
The holidays are typically our busiest time of the season— for good reason! Spending the holidays at Sugar Bowl is a great way to enjoy your time with friends and family. Let us show you what happens when you mix great skiing & riding with holiday cheer.
Events to look out for: Santa on the Slopes, Wine & Shop
January, February, and early March
Typically our snowiest & coldest times of year. These months are your best chance to score the “authentic winter experience.” i.e. sweet powder skiing. If you want to optimize your powder turns this season, sign up for the powder planner email. We’re always watching the weather and we’ll alert you when there is an upcoming storm so you can plan accordingly.
Events to look out for: Mac & Cheese Festival, Poker Run, Wine & Shop, Demo Days, Banked Slalom, Mardi Gras
Late-March & April
The springtime ski scene at Sugar Bowl is all about leaving your jacket in the car and seeking out great corn skiing in the warm California sun. With softer, more forgiving snow, it’s a great time to progress, whether that means learning a new trick in the park or trying skiing/riding for the first time. You can expect spirited après on the sundecks outside of both lodges. Driving to and from the mountains is typically simpler (but storms still do happen!) Look for late-season lift ticket specials in April.
Events to look out for: Mini-Pipe Meltdown, Tiki Pond Skim
More tools to help you plan your trip
Use these handy links to:
- Check the Weather
- Check Road Conditions
- See Current Conditions on the Mountain
- Read the Open Snow Tahoe Forecast
- Sign up for Powder Alerts
The Green Team
This week, our year-round employees joined forces to carry out another successful “green up” event at Sugar Bowl. Our Human Resources Director, Diane Binder, led the charge to remove trash from the resort and nearby roadways. Diane explains the green team’s mission:
“Every few weeks in the spring and summer we set aside two hours for all employees to step away from their regular work assignment and come together to grab a trash bag, gloves, and a picker and go out to “green up” a section of Sugar Bowl’s grounds.”
“Sugar Bowl’s Core Value #1 is to love and respect nature and the outdoors. Our employees care deeply about the environment and take pride in our mountain being a responsible organization in terms of environmental and sustainability goals. These “green up” events are just one small part of our overall sustainability efforts and great reminder that everyone, regardless of department or job, plays a role in helping to make a positive impact in our community.”
How much trash did the team remove?
“This past “green up” was a huge success. Our team members found a lot of really large and heavy items (rolls of carpet, wooden boards, sheets of metal, etc.) We had three full loads in the back of a pick-up truck of items that were picked up disposed of properly.”
Is participating in a green up event fun, gross, tiring or all three?
“FUN! Our employees enjoy switching up their day to do something different, challenging, and fun. It also helps foster a sense of community and teamwork. Temperatures were in the high 80’s at the “green up” so aside from fun, it was really warm and a bit exhausting due to the heavy items but the team embraced the challenge!”
What was the funniest or most interesting item of trash found?
“My personal favorite at this “green up” was a plush navy blue office chair with wheels that was rolled out from a ditch. However It was a little too gross for anyone to sit on.”
How can other people find out more information about hosting their own “green up” events?
‘It truly doesn’t take much effort aside from coordinating a day, time, and location. Once you have some clean up supplies which are relatively cheap and a few drinks and snacks as refreshments for the teams’ hard work you are good to go. The most important thing is just to make the effort to prioritize these types of events.”
Thanks to our team members who participated in this event. A friendly reminder to all — reduce waste wherever possible and be sure to place refuse into the appropriate recycle/trash container.
Sugar Bowl’s Wildfire Prevention Efforts
The mighty forests stretching across the Sierra Nevada shape Sugar Bowl’s iconic landscape, but amidst the grandeur, wildfire danger looms.
The risk is evidenced by last summer’s Caldor Fire which tore through Sierra at Tahoe and threatened the town of South Lake Tahoe. Even more recently, a 12-acre fire ignited within the city limits of the Town of Truckee, bringing the threat very close to home. As members of this community, we are all responsible for mitigating the risk of wildfire.
To mitigate the risk of wildfire at Sugar Bowl, our team has been taking three steps over the past few years.
- The first has been to reduce low limbs, shrubbery, and other ladder fuels, which could allow an on-site fire to climb from the forest floor to the canopy developing into a crown fire.
- Next is reducing fuels in wooded terrain around the resort, so if a fire does occur in a neighboring forest, we are as prepared as possible to stop the fire from advancing.
- Finally, improving defensible space is necessary as a final line of defense around all homes and buildings in our base area.
What’s Happening Around the Mountain?
Currently, Sugar Bowl is running a team of nine Trail Crew Sawyers focused on removing fuels around buildings and lifts, creating the necessary defensible space required as a last line of defense. A noticeable impact from their efforts can already be seen throughout the resort, where many trees and heavy vegetation have been removed.
This summer, we have begun thinning, laddering, and removing ground fuels in 72 acres west of the resort on our private property boarding the PG&E fire break to our west.
What’s Next?
In 2023, we will thin out an additional 40 acres of forest west of the resort. We also plan to begin developing a “Shaded Fuel Break” towards Crow’s Peak. A Shaded Fuel Break is a defensible space where fuels are significantly reduced to avoid a canopy fire, but not a clear-cut of all vegetation and trees. Fire suppression resources can utilize this location to suppress wildland fires due to the modification of fuels which may increase the probability of success during fire suppression activities.
The Challenge Ahead
As you can tell, we have significant work ahead of us, but the team is up to the challenge. We’re proud of what our team has already accomplished and we’re looking forward to working as a community to continue to build on our efforts.
Tips for Improving Your Defensible Space
Are you feeling motivated to improve the defensible space around your home? Check out this handy guide for the best practices to follow for protecting your home and our community.
Trains & Donner Summit History
Driving by History
When we’re cruising up Old 40 from Donner Lake to Sugar Bowl, sometimes we forget to pay attention to all the history we’re driving past. You’ve probably noticed the horizontal stripe of snowsheds set into the landscape BUT do you know the story behind these train tunnels?
Completing the Transcontinental Railroad
More than 150 years ago, the train tunnels were constructed by thousands of Chinese laborers. The challenging puzzle piece completed a crucial section of the Transcontinental Railroad. This feat of engineering involved drilling through miles of solid granite and building huge walls from the excavated rock. Most of this dangerous work was completed by hand.
Resilient Pioneers
While the pioneers of the infamous Donner Party are often remembered in Tahoe’s history, far fewer realize these railroad tunnels were engineered by Chinese immigrants who endured two big Sierra winters— even bigger than the ‘16-17 season. Not only did the tunnel builders avoid the same fate as the Donner Party, they succeeded in producing one of our nation’s most impressive infrastructure achievements.
Want more information about the train tunnels?
Check out this article (with gorgeous photos) by SF Gate.
Read more about Donner Summit history from the The Donner Summit Historical Society.
P.S. Since you’re into trains…
We’ve got another little known train fact for you. There used to be a ski train that skiers could take directly to Sugar Bowl. How cool is that?
Snowball Specials
This particular photograph was used in the 1930’s as an advertisement for the Southern Pacific railroad’s “Snowball Specials” which ran from the Bay Area all the way to Truckee. The trains would depart from Oakland at midnight and were equipped with all the comforts a skier might need. Of course, there was a well-stocked bar car so travelers could party through the night. There was even a “Ski Hut” that sold socks and mittens and offered professional rental equipment fittings. Arriving at Sugar Bowl early the next morning, skier could enjoy the mountain for the day, returning exhausted on the train that evening. Just sayin’… who else wants to bring back the ski train!?
Director of Mountain Operations: Greg Bretz
Join us in welcoming our new Director of Mountain Operations Greg Bretz. Greg just started at Sugar Bowl this summer but his ski industry experience already spans more than 25 years between stints at Mammoth and Doppelmayr.
Greg’s illustrious career in the ski industry began by chance in 1996, while he was backpacking through the southern Sierra with his young son. While passing through Mammoth, a friend mentioned that there was a job opening for a welder at the mountain. Greg applied and the detour became permanent. He raised his son quite literally on the mountain, who would grow up to become an Olympic halfpipe rider in the 2014 games in Sochi.
From the moment he stepped into his first ski area job, Greg dedicated himself to mastering just about every behind-the-scenes skill that makes any mountain run. We are so excited to add Greg’s expertise and passion to our team. If you’re keen to get to know Greg a little better, check out the interview below:
Q: Can you start by introducing yourself?
“Hi I’m Greg Bret, I’m the Director of Mountain Operations at Sugar Bowl. I’ve been in the ski business since ’96. I’ve worked at Mammoth and Doppelmeyer and I’ve ended up here at Sugar Bowl this summer.”
Q: What’s your approach to managing a mountain?
“I’m kind of a hands-on manager. I love to get out there and work. I’d never ask anybody to do something I wouldn’t do myself.”
Q: What work needs to get done this summer before the snow flies?
“Each lift has state requirements that we have to meet– so there’s line work, motor room work, grip work. Each lift takes about 2,000 man hours of lift maintenance and we try to get it done by November 1. Currently, we’re about to start a big job on the Judah lift and we’re also in the middle of servicing the drive motor on Lincoln.
Q: Can you give us a play-by-play of your current project on Lincoln?
Each year we plan specific maintenance on different drive motors that are on our lifts. This year we did the drive motor on Lincoln. We brought in a crane to remove the motor then we sent it down to a rebuilder in Modesto. When we get it back we’ll put it back in with a crane and load test the lift to make sure everything is working properly and safely.
We’re doing this in the off-season because it would get a little tougher, to say the least, if something were to go wrong in the middle of the ski season. It can take about 3 weeks to rebuild, so we do this planned maintenance to make sure the motor doesn’t fail in the middle of the season.”
Q: What’s the hardest part of your job?
“I’m in charge of planning the day’s events for everybody. I work across a lot of departments– vehicle maintenance, snowmaking, trail crew, lift maintenance, and patrol. During the summer months there are several projects around the mountain that need to be completed, like the weather station at the top of Lincoln and RFID gates over at Royal Gorge. It’s a challenge to plan a schedule that keeps everyone busy and makes sure that our projects get done. The hardest part of the job is tying it all together.”
Q: What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
“I’m new to the mountain manger world, mostly I’ve been the Director of Lift Operations and I started as a technician, so I think this year is all about getting everything together. Between plowing the snow, clearing the parking lots, grooming, opening the lifts, and avalanche control, it takes a lot to get the mountain open. I’m excited to get that all rolling and see how well we can do. When everything comes together and the product is perfect for the guest, that’s the most rewarding part of the job.”
Q: What do you love about working in the ski & ride industry?
“Well, the nice thing is, in the positions I’ve had, you pretty much get to ski every day. The opportunity for my son to grow up snowboarding was huge. We had a great time when he was a little kid and he went on to a career in competitive snowboarding, eventually competing in the 2014 Sochi Olympics. If I wasn’t in the ski industry, and mountain wasn’t his babysitter, that would have never happened.”
Q: What’s special about working at Sugar Bowl?
“Being with Dopplemeyer, I’ve done a lot of work at Sugar Bowl over the years and gotten to know the people and the terrain. It’s an incredible mountain with a great atmosphere. Compared to a lot of other resorts in the area, it has a more laid back vibe and doesn’t feel so crowded. I love being a part of the management team and trying to make the experience better for our guests every day.”
Purchase your lift tickets online in advance for guaranteed availability and the best rates.
The Sugar Bowl Hotel
The Hotel at Sugar Bowl is open for the 2022/23 ski and snowboard season! Amenities such as Nob Hill Cafe, Belt Room Bar, Dining Room and Sporthaus Fitness Center and Spa will also be open.
The Hotel will accommodate guests for Thursday - Saturday night stays only and daily during holiday periods. Reservations will open on August 15.
Advance Purchase Required
We plan to release lift tickets, rentals and lessons for the 2022/23 winter season in the fall.
Ticket prices will be dynamic and highly variable this season, with midweek non-holiday dates priced significantly lower than peak weekend/holiday dates. Buy as far in advance as possible to get the best deal!
5 Exercises for Skiing & Riding
5 Reasons to Work at Sugar Bowl
Best Outdoors Wedding at Sugar Bowl: 10 Ways
What’s the Best Time of Year to Visit?
5 Exercises for Skiing & Riding
Want to know how the pros are getting ready for ski season? Check out this 5-part preseason exercise series with Jamey Conley, Director of Performance at Sugar Bowl Academy. Jamey shows us five ways to prepare the key muscles, or “primary movers” that you’ll use skiing and riding this season– think knees, thighs, glutes and core. This series of exercises are simple to do at home and they don’t require any specialized equipment.
A couple benefits to preseason training include:
- Building overall strength and endurance
- Preventing injury
- Being a little less exhausted on the first powder day of the season
A little background on Jamey…
Jamey has a BS in Athletic Training from Springfield College, where he played on the Men’s Lacrosse Team. He is a Certified Athletic Trainer and Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist with experience working in collegiate and professional sports settings, as well as in the private setting working with middle school, high school, collegiate, and professional athletes. Prior to joining SBSTA, Jamey was a Performance Coach for Altis Performance and for U.S. Ski & Snowboard High Performance.
Exercise 1: The Classic Squat
- Start in a standing position with your feet shoulder-width apart (Slightly wider is okay, but avoid trending too wide)
- Get tall through the top of your head and keep your back straight
- As you descend, your goal should be to descend straight downward
- Keep your feet flat on the ground- you should feel weight in your heels all the way to your big toe.
- Make sure your knees are tracking straight over shins
Exercise 2: Lateral Lunge
- Similar to the squat, remember to stay tall in your upper body with a straight back
- From standing, keep one foot anchored while stepping the other foot out to the side.
- Try to hit a 90 degree angle between your hip and your knee
- Drive from the inside edge of the foot
- Lateral Lunges are an important movement especially for skiing. When you are making a big arcing turn with speed, you’re using the same lateral movement as this lunge. Lateral lunges also help us train the muscles that absorb impacts on the hill. Stability prevents injury.
Exercise 3: Single Leg Squat
- Stand facing away from a stable surface (like a coffee table, chair, or bench)
- Shift your weight onto the foot of the leg you’re going to be squatting towards. Slide the other foot forward and lift it off the floor.
- Keeping your upper body tall, squat straight down to tap the bench and be sure to keep your knee tracking straight over your toes.
- This is a great exercise for building stability in the knee joint and preventing injury.
Exercise 4: Dead Bug
- Lay with a flat back on the floor and bring your arms and legs up to 90 degrees (like an upside down table.)
- Take turns extending an opposite arm and leg outwards.
- Keep your back flat to the floor and remember to take deep breaths.
- Building a strong core is essential for being able to control our turns.
Exercise 5: Squat Jumps
- Get tall and set up like you would for a squat.
- Get low and bring your arms down towards your sides (your arms will go where ever your hips go.)
- Explode up to the ceiling and bring your arms up overhead.
- When absorbing the landing, don’t stop stiffly or drop all the way to the floor, try to stop somewhere right in the middle.
- Jumping exercises help build explosive strength in our legs.
While Sugar Bowl Ski Team alumni have gone on to become members of the U.S. Ski Team and to compete at the NCAA Division I level, SBST’s primary objective is to provide a fun environment in which kids learn to love the sport of skiing. They emphasize character development through the challenges faced here on Donner Summit.
5 Reasons to Work at Sugar Bowl
There are a lot of jobs out there, so what makes someone choose Sugar Bowl? There’s something special about working at this quirky independent resort perched on Donner Summit… (Hint: it’s not just our massive snowfall or legendary terrain.) Wanna know what it is? You’re in luck, we’ve compiled our top 5 favorite reasons to be a part of the team.
1. Skiers first, professionals second
Nearly every day of the season, employees have an opportunity to get out and ski or ride during their work day. Their manager will often be the one telling them to take lunch and get out for a few laps. If it’s a powder day, don’t be surprised to hear “stop typing and get your boots on.” Working at Sugar Bowl is a way to integrate a passion for winter sports into a job.
2. Expansive terrain across four mighty peaks, all on your lunch break.
The terrain at Sugar Bowl is legendary and it’s fun to ride all season, in all conditions. If an employee wants to max out a quick lunch, they can often squeeze in 3 hot laps on Disney in 30 minutes. If it’s a powder day, they might venture over to scope out some big honkin’ lines between Sugar Bowl and the Palisades. In the spring, wide open groomers and perfect corn are the name of the game… All this and we didn’t even spill the beans on our staff favorite secret zones to ski!
3. There’s an opportunity for impact at an independent mid-sized resort.
Our base of operations is right here at Sugar Bowl, not at a high-rise office building in another state. The people who run this resort are here at the mountain nearly every day.
We think Sugar Bowl is a Goldilocks-sized company– We’re not too big, not too small. We’re small enough that our employees can directly see and feel the impact of the work they contribute to the resort. At the same time, we’re big enough that, if we channel our resources, we have enough manpower to meet and exceed our goals.
4. Plus tons of perks to sweeten the Sugar Bowl deal.
Where do we start? Employees and their qualified dependents are issued free unrestricted season passes. Additionally, all employees are granted a bundle of $20 friends and family day ticket vouchers to share. Wages have recently increased and now start at $20/hour for most positions. Sugar Bowl has more employee housing than any resort in the region, plus, it’s affordable and fun. The cherry on the cake has got to be our epic employee parties, where a few times a season, we stay open outside of operating hours and run the lifts for the staff to enjoy the mountain privately.
5. Of course we’re a team, but we’re also a community
What happens when you bring together a group of passionate mountain-loving individuals? In our experience, it builds one truly special community. From first-year seasonal staff to year-round employees with decades of experience, everyone on team Sugar Bowl is part of building up our resort’s character.
What really sets Sugar Bowl apart from other resorts is our great team. We are known for regularly going above and beyond for our guests, for our genuine, friendly employees, and our desire to help guests create lasting memories. These elements are at the core of our brand and our culture. We call it “Plus One Service,” a commitment to ensuring we exceed our guests’ expectations.
The Sugar Bowl community is welcoming and full of opportunities for growth. The best way to describe being an employee here is “work hard play hard” which means that in addition to the duties of the job, there’s also often a lot of FUN going around here too!
Direct from our Employees
Speaking of community, let’s bring our staff into the conversation. We asked employees from a range of departments to explain why they choose to work at Sugar Bowl. Trigger warning, their answers might give you the warm-and-fuzzies, or is that just us?
Parker G, Terrain Parks Manager
“Sugar Bowl is independent and family-oriented. It’s definitely not a small mountain but it still has that small-mountain community feel. I have a young family and it’s the kind of place I would want my kid to learn to ski.”
Sarah Duffy, Special Events & Weddings Coordinator
“I have met so many lifelong friends at Sugar Bowl, when I started here I hardly skied and I didn’t know many people in the area. After two years here I am confidently ripping down the mountain with endless ski pals! Plus- it doesn’t get much better than skiing on your lunch break!”
Dave Eastwood, Royal Gorge General Manager
“I work at Sugar Bowl for two reasons – the staff and my love of the outdoors. The staff is like a family and we all work as a team to make Sugar Bowl the best resort in the Sierra. The local outdoor scene is fantastic in summer and winter. Whether it’s cycling, trail running, hiking, skiing or riding, the Donner Summit area has something for everyone.”
Mark Beevor, Executive Director of Hospitality
“I stumbled across Sugar Bowl by accident and have found it combines my passion for hospitality and my love of the mountains. One of our values is that we celebrate resilience. When it is time to come together because of big events or big snow no one misses a beat. We are a community first and our employees go out of their way to help each other, homeowners and visitors. This is not something that is taught but rather is at the very core of everyone that works here and that’s why I love it.”
Joel C, Skier Services Manager
“Having worked at both large, corporate ski resorts and small, independent ski areas over the past 25 years, I can confidently say that Sugar Bowl is the best of both worlds. Being an employee here makes you a part of the Sugar Bowl family. We care about each other, our mountain, our community, and we love to ski and ride!”
Well there you have it, 5 reasons (and then some) to work at Sugar Bowl. Apply today for an opportunity to learn what else is great about our work environment. We can’t wait to show you around.
Best Outdoors Wedding at Sugar Bowl: 10 Ways
1. Easy access to hiking, mountain biking, & climbing.
Location, location, location! Donner Summit is any adventurer’s dream. From your base camp, you can climb world-class granite cliffs, hike a section of the famous Pacific Crest Trail, and mountain bike the Donner Lake Rim Trail with panoramic views of the surrounding Sierra.
2. Pre-wedding tip: Enjoy our signature “Lake Mary Day” to maximize outdoor family time the day before your wedding.
While adventure sports aren’t within everyone’s wheelhouse, a day of outdoor fun at our private lake is accessible for all. The day before your wedding, plan to paddle, swim, and connect with your guests in a stress-free setting. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, enjoy custom catering from our Lake Mary restaurant. If spending the day at a beautiful alpine lake can’t calm your pre-wedding jitters, what will?
3. Best wedding theme ever: Authentic Alpine Experience.
Our resort has been in operation since 1939, so you’ll nail a vibe that captures Old Tahoe charm with some European alpine flair mixed in. Capitalize on the cool ski area vibe because your guests are in for a mountain-top party like no other. You may want to warn them: stilettos not recommended.
4. Dancing under the stars, swoon!
If summertime weather has you wanting to spend every possible moment outside, we’re with you. Take advantage of the amazing Tahoe weather May-September and plan your whole party to be outdoors: ceremony, cocktail hour & reception. The deck of our Village Lodge is the perfect place to throw a raging outdoor dance party. Of course, as a backup, you’ll have the charming Belt Room Bar, the Lounge with its oversized stone fireplace, or the lovely Lake Mary cabin. We’ve got our fingers crossed for a perfect warm day & cool night for your big event.
5. Ride a chairlift
Incorporating chairlift transport into your wedding day makes limo travel feel a little basic, doesn’t it? Your guests will be giddy (and others probably a little nervous) about the prospect of hopping on a lift and soaring to the summit of Disney at 7,953’. Reaching the summit, you’ll be surrounded by expansive views of the Sierra from Van Norden Meadow to Castle Peak. Even your “afraid-of-heights” guests will agree the adventure was worth it.
6. Adventurers gotta eat!
If you’re leaning towards a Tahoe wedding, we’re sure you’re planning some fun mountain adventures to entertain your guests (and yourself!). With all these fun-filled and eventful days, your crew is going to work up an appetite. Sugar Bowl’s catering department delivers. Under the skillful guidance of French-trained executive chef Mark May and the masterful Chef Able, our catering is fresh and delicious. We pride ourselves in having the range to accommodate any mountain event, elevated or casual.
7. Catch a Sierra sunset unlike any other
As the daylight fades, the Sierras light up. High alpine sunsets in our mountain landscape are a sight to behold. As your wedding day transitions to the after party, the scenery won’t disappoint. It can’t hurt to have a little extra “glow” on your big day.
8. Beautiful presentations integrate incredible scenery into your wedding
Every scene of your wedding at Sugar Bowl is complete with a stunning backdrop. Our wedding planners are experts at crafting each space so it’s both functional for your event and still highlights the natural beauty of our landscape.
Let us design these spaces for you:
- A simple and elegant ceremony on the lawn surrounded by towering pine trees.
- A show-stopper cocktail hour on the summit accessed via chairlift.
- A lively base area where you’ll dine & dance under the stars.
If you want to plan an unforgettable event, start with a spectacular mountain landscape and we’ll take care of the rest!
9. Find some peace and quiet in the mountains
The best thing about a Sugar Bowl wedding is how private the venue feels. After our last day of the ski season each spring, our resort closes to the public each summer, so you can be sure that your group is the only wedding party on site. If you’re after a laidback mountain vibe with plenty of peace and quiet, look no further.
10. Base camp for your closest friends and family
Hosting an event at Sugar Bowl grants you exclusive use of the entire venue, including bar, lounge, dining room, decks and lawn for the whole weekend. Basically you’ve organized a mini summer camp with the people that matter to you most. We know this event is important, but let’s make sure it’s really, really FUN.
Start Planning. Send an email to weddings@sugarbowl.com or call (530) 426-6769 to speak with a Wedding Specialist at Sugar Bowl.
What’s the Best Time of Year to Visit?
Any month of the winter season can be a great time to ski or ride at Sugar Bowl. Here’s a little preview of the typical conditions we get throughout the season.
Sweet Tips
- Choose midweek/non-holidays if possible to take advantage of a more relaxed environment.
- If you want to ski & ride as much powder as possible this season, sign up for the powder planner email. We’ll email you when there’s a storm on the horizon so you can plan your trip.
Late-November through early-December
Every year is different, but sometimes early-season operations involve limited terrain until we get enough snow to open up additional areas. As more and more terrain opens for the season, skiers and rider go wild with stoke. After a long summer, we’re just excited to be back at it!
Events to look out for: Opening Day Celebration, Toys 4 Tots drive, Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, Royal Gorge Full Moon Snowshoe Tour
Late December
The holidays are typically our busiest time of the season— for good reason! Spending the holidays at Sugar Bowl is a great way to enjoy your time with friends and family. Let us show you what happens when you mix great skiing & riding with holiday cheer.
Events to look out for: Santa on the Slopes, Wine & Shop
January, February, and early March
Typically our snowiest & coldest times of year. These months are your best chance to score the “authentic winter experience.” i.e. sweet powder skiing. If you want to optimize your powder turns this season, sign up for the powder planner email. We’re always watching the weather and we’ll alert you when there is an upcoming storm so you can plan accordingly.
Events to look out for: Mac & Cheese Festival, Poker Run, Wine & Shop, Demo Days, Banked Slalom, Mardi Gras
Late-March & April
The springtime ski scene at Sugar Bowl is all about leaving your jacket in the car and seeking out great corn skiing in the warm California sun. With softer, more forgiving snow, it’s a great time to progress, whether that means learning a new trick in the park or trying skiing/riding for the first time. You can expect spirited après on the sundecks outside of both lodges. Driving to and from the mountains is typically simpler (but storms still do happen!) Look for late-season lift ticket specials in April.
Events to look out for: Mini-Pipe Meltdown, Tiki Pond Skim
More tools to help you plan your trip
Use these handy links to:
- Check the Weather
- Check Road Conditions
- See Current Conditions on the Mountain
- Read the Open Snow Tahoe Forecast
- Sign up for Powder Alerts
The Green Team
This week, our year-round employees joined forces to carry out another successful “green up” event at Sugar Bowl. Our Human Resources Director, Diane Binder, led the charge to remove trash from the resort and nearby roadways. Diane explains the green team’s mission:
“Every few weeks in the spring and summer we set aside two hours for all employees to step away from their regular work assignment and come together to grab a trash bag, gloves, and a picker and go out to “green up” a section of Sugar Bowl’s grounds.”
“Sugar Bowl’s Core Value #1 is to love and respect nature and the outdoors. Our employees care deeply about the environment and take pride in our mountain being a responsible organization in terms of environmental and sustainability goals. These “green up” events are just one small part of our overall sustainability efforts and great reminder that everyone, regardless of department or job, plays a role in helping to make a positive impact in our community.”
How much trash did the team remove?
“This past “green up” was a huge success. Our team members found a lot of really large and heavy items (rolls of carpet, wooden boards, sheets of metal, etc.) We had three full loads in the back of a pick-up truck of items that were picked up disposed of properly.”
Is participating in a green up event fun, gross, tiring or all three?
“FUN! Our employees enjoy switching up their day to do something different, challenging, and fun. It also helps foster a sense of community and teamwork. Temperatures were in the high 80’s at the “green up” so aside from fun, it was really warm and a bit exhausting due to the heavy items but the team embraced the challenge!”
What was the funniest or most interesting item of trash found?
“My personal favorite at this “green up” was a plush navy blue office chair with wheels that was rolled out from a ditch. However It was a little too gross for anyone to sit on.”
How can other people find out more information about hosting their own “green up” events?
‘It truly doesn’t take much effort aside from coordinating a day, time, and location. Once you have some clean up supplies which are relatively cheap and a few drinks and snacks as refreshments for the teams’ hard work you are good to go. The most important thing is just to make the effort to prioritize these types of events.”
Thanks to our team members who participated in this event. A friendly reminder to all — reduce waste wherever possible and be sure to place refuse into the appropriate recycle/trash container.
Sugar Bowl’s Wildfire Prevention Efforts
The mighty forests stretching across the Sierra Nevada shape Sugar Bowl’s iconic landscape, but amidst the grandeur, wildfire danger looms.
The risk is evidenced by last summer’s Caldor Fire which tore through Sierra at Tahoe and threatened the town of South Lake Tahoe. Even more recently, a 12-acre fire ignited within the city limits of the Town of Truckee, bringing the threat very close to home. As members of this community, we are all responsible for mitigating the risk of wildfire.
To mitigate the risk of wildfire at Sugar Bowl, our team has been taking three steps over the past few years.
- The first has been to reduce low limbs, shrubbery, and other ladder fuels, which could allow an on-site fire to climb from the forest floor to the canopy developing into a crown fire.
- Next is reducing fuels in wooded terrain around the resort, so if a fire does occur in a neighboring forest, we are as prepared as possible to stop the fire from advancing.
- Finally, improving defensible space is necessary as a final line of defense around all homes and buildings in our base area.
What’s Happening Around the Mountain?
Currently, Sugar Bowl is running a team of nine Trail Crew Sawyers focused on removing fuels around buildings and lifts, creating the necessary defensible space required as a last line of defense. A noticeable impact from their efforts can already be seen throughout the resort, where many trees and heavy vegetation have been removed.
This summer, we have begun thinning, laddering, and removing ground fuels in 72 acres west of the resort on our private property boarding the PG&E fire break to our west.
What’s Next?
In 2023, we will thin out an additional 40 acres of forest west of the resort. We also plan to begin developing a “Shaded Fuel Break” towards Crow’s Peak. A Shaded Fuel Break is a defensible space where fuels are significantly reduced to avoid a canopy fire, but not a clear-cut of all vegetation and trees. Fire suppression resources can utilize this location to suppress wildland fires due to the modification of fuels which may increase the probability of success during fire suppression activities.
The Challenge Ahead
As you can tell, we have significant work ahead of us, but the team is up to the challenge. We’re proud of what our team has already accomplished and we’re looking forward to working as a community to continue to build on our efforts.
Tips for Improving Your Defensible Space
Are you feeling motivated to improve the defensible space around your home? Check out this handy guide for the best practices to follow for protecting your home and our community.
Trains & Donner Summit History
Driving by History
When we’re cruising up Old 40 from Donner Lake to Sugar Bowl, sometimes we forget to pay attention to all the history we’re driving past. You’ve probably noticed the horizontal stripe of snowsheds set into the landscape BUT do you know the story behind these train tunnels?
Completing the Transcontinental Railroad
More than 150 years ago, the train tunnels were constructed by thousands of Chinese laborers. The challenging puzzle piece completed a crucial section of the Transcontinental Railroad. This feat of engineering involved drilling through miles of solid granite and building huge walls from the excavated rock. Most of this dangerous work was completed by hand.
Resilient Pioneers
While the pioneers of the infamous Donner Party are often remembered in Tahoe’s history, far fewer realize these railroad tunnels were engineered by Chinese immigrants who endured two big Sierra winters— even bigger than the ‘16-17 season. Not only did the tunnel builders avoid the same fate as the Donner Party, they succeeded in producing one of our nation’s most impressive infrastructure achievements.
Want more information about the train tunnels?
Check out this article (with gorgeous photos) by SF Gate.
Read more about Donner Summit history from the The Donner Summit Historical Society.
P.S. Since you’re into trains…
We’ve got another little known train fact for you. There used to be a ski train that skiers could take directly to Sugar Bowl. How cool is that?
Snowball Specials
This particular photograph was used in the 1930’s as an advertisement for the Southern Pacific railroad’s “Snowball Specials” which ran from the Bay Area all the way to Truckee. The trains would depart from Oakland at midnight and were equipped with all the comforts a skier might need. Of course, there was a well-stocked bar car so travelers could party through the night. There was even a “Ski Hut” that sold socks and mittens and offered professional rental equipment fittings. Arriving at Sugar Bowl early the next morning, skier could enjoy the mountain for the day, returning exhausted on the train that evening. Just sayin’… who else wants to bring back the ski train!?
Director of Mountain Operations: Greg Bretz
Join us in welcoming our new Director of Mountain Operations Greg Bretz. Greg just started at Sugar Bowl this summer but his ski industry experience already spans more than 25 years between stints at Mammoth and Doppelmayr.
Greg’s illustrious career in the ski industry began by chance in 1996, while he was backpacking through the southern Sierra with his young son. While passing through Mammoth, a friend mentioned that there was a job opening for a welder at the mountain. Greg applied and the detour became permanent. He raised his son quite literally on the mountain, who would grow up to become an Olympic halfpipe rider in the 2014 games in Sochi.
From the moment he stepped into his first ski area job, Greg dedicated himself to mastering just about every behind-the-scenes skill that makes any mountain run. We are so excited to add Greg’s expertise and passion to our team. If you’re keen to get to know Greg a little better, check out the interview below:
Q: Can you start by introducing yourself?
“Hi I’m Greg Bret, I’m the Director of Mountain Operations at Sugar Bowl. I’ve been in the ski business since ’96. I’ve worked at Mammoth and Doppelmeyer and I’ve ended up here at Sugar Bowl this summer.”
Q: What’s your approach to managing a mountain?
“I’m kind of a hands-on manager. I love to get out there and work. I’d never ask anybody to do something I wouldn’t do myself.”
Q: What work needs to get done this summer before the snow flies?
“Each lift has state requirements that we have to meet– so there’s line work, motor room work, grip work. Each lift takes about 2,000 man hours of lift maintenance and we try to get it done by November 1. Currently, we’re about to start a big job on the Judah lift and we’re also in the middle of servicing the drive motor on Lincoln.
Q: Can you give us a play-by-play of your current project on Lincoln?
Each year we plan specific maintenance on different drive motors that are on our lifts. This year we did the drive motor on Lincoln. We brought in a crane to remove the motor then we sent it down to a rebuilder in Modesto. When we get it back we’ll put it back in with a crane and load test the lift to make sure everything is working properly and safely.
We’re doing this in the off-season because it would get a little tougher, to say the least, if something were to go wrong in the middle of the ski season. It can take about 3 weeks to rebuild, so we do this planned maintenance to make sure the motor doesn’t fail in the middle of the season.”
Q: What’s the hardest part of your job?
“I’m in charge of planning the day’s events for everybody. I work across a lot of departments– vehicle maintenance, snowmaking, trail crew, lift maintenance, and patrol. During the summer months there are several projects around the mountain that need to be completed, like the weather station at the top of Lincoln and RFID gates over at Royal Gorge. It’s a challenge to plan a schedule that keeps everyone busy and makes sure that our projects get done. The hardest part of the job is tying it all together.”
Q: What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
“I’m new to the mountain manger world, mostly I’ve been the Director of Lift Operations and I started as a technician, so I think this year is all about getting everything together. Between plowing the snow, clearing the parking lots, grooming, opening the lifts, and avalanche control, it takes a lot to get the mountain open. I’m excited to get that all rolling and see how well we can do. When everything comes together and the product is perfect for the guest, that’s the most rewarding part of the job.”
Q: What do you love about working in the ski & ride industry?
“Well, the nice thing is, in the positions I’ve had, you pretty much get to ski every day. The opportunity for my son to grow up snowboarding was huge. We had a great time when he was a little kid and he went on to a career in competitive snowboarding, eventually competing in the 2014 Sochi Olympics. If I wasn’t in the ski industry, and mountain wasn’t his babysitter, that would have never happened.”
Q: What’s special about working at Sugar Bowl?
“Being with Dopplemeyer, I’ve done a lot of work at Sugar Bowl over the years and gotten to know the people and the terrain. It’s an incredible mountain with a great atmosphere. Compared to a lot of other resorts in the area, it has a more laid back vibe and doesn’t feel so crowded. I love being a part of the management team and trying to make the experience better for our guests every day.”
Purchase your lift tickets online in advance for guaranteed availability and the best rates.
The Sugar Bowl Hotel
The Hotel at Sugar Bowl is open for the 2022/23 ski and snowboard season! Amenities such as Nob Hill Cafe, Belt Room Bar, Dining Room and Sporthaus Fitness Center and Spa will also be open.
The Hotel will accommodate guests for Thursday - Saturday night stays only and daily during holiday periods. Reservations will open on August 15.
Advance Purchase Required
We plan to release lift tickets, rentals and lessons for the 2022/23 winter season in the fall.
Ticket prices will be dynamic and highly variable this season, with midweek non-holiday dates priced significantly lower than peak weekend/holiday dates. Buy as far in advance as possible to get the best deal!
Located atop Donner Summit | 11:00 am to 3:00pm Saturdays & Sundays + Holiday Mondays (July 4th and Labor Day)
Located at the crest of Donner Summit along Old 40, the Summit Haus features awesome locally-crafted sausages with homemade accompaniments and a beer garden.
On the menu:
- Frankfurter w. Sauerkraut & Smothered Onions
- Grilled Andouille Po'Boy w. Smothered Onions & Slaw
- Grilled Portobello "Dog" (a veggie alternative)
- Sides include: Potato Salad, coleslaw, baked beans and tomato salad
- Cold beer & soft drinks
- Plus, a daily special or two!
New this summer, we will host live music at Summit Haus on select Saturdays. Summit Haus will be open 11am - 8pm on these dates, with music from 5pm - 8pm.
- July 16 - Miranda Rae Love
- July 23 - Jeff Connor
- July 30 - James Clark
- August 6 - Bread & Butter Band
Have peace of mind knowing your lift ticket purchase will be refunded if your plans change. Trip Flex is an optional $20 add-on to each lift ticket. (Learn More)
How to Add Trip Flex: After you select the age group for the ticket, scroll down (on desktop or mobile) to the section called "Upgrade Your Experience". Click on the circle to the right of Trip Flex to add to each of your desired lift ticket selections. Trip Flex cannot be added once your purchase is complete.
Book Online and Save
To add-on a Lesson OR Equipment Rental to a calendar-based lift ticket order, OR to purchase a discounted, combination Lift Ticket, Lesson and/or Equipment Rental Package, click on the LESSONS & RENTALS tab.
Unfortunately, purchases from each tab will require separate orders and payments. We apologize for this inconvenience we hope to solve in the coming months.
Book Online and Save
To add-on a Lesson OR Equipment Rental to a calendar-based lift ticket order, OR to purchase a discounted, combination Lift Ticket, Lesson and/or Equipment Rental Package, click on the LESSONS & RENTALS tab.
Unfortunately, purchases from each tab will require separate orders and payments. We apologize for this inconvenience we hope to solve in the coming months.
Advanced Ticket Purchase: Cancellation Policy
- All purchases are final and cannot be cancelled, refunded or transferred to another person.
- Tickets may not be cancelled or transferred to another day for any reason including weather conditions or road conditions/closures.
- All tickets and passes are subject to restrictions described in the product description and/or pickup instructions.
- Your credit card will be charged for the amount shown, regardless of whether or not the purchased ticket(s) is/are used.
- We do not guarantee driving conditions, snow conditions, weather conditions, open terrain or number of lifts operating.
Select Resort
Select Pass Type
December Lift Ticket Special
$99 Any Day in December is Your Ticket to Fun. Kids Ski for $49 Any Day All Season. We’re making it easier and more affordable than ever for families and passionate skiers and riders to say “yes” to a day on the mountain at Sugar Bowl. Buy all-day lift tickets online at least two days ahead and pay just $99 any day in December, including weekends and holidays (youth and seniors are $79 any day in December). The deal gets sweeter with kids ages 6-12 skiing and riding for only $49 any day all season long.
Tahoe's Best Value
Have a day on the slopes that your family can afford. At Sugar Bowl, we pride ourselves on offering a big mountain, with huge value. From the time you save driving, the money you save on tickets, rentals and lessons, plus the quality of the mountain terrain, it all adds up to an unmatched experience on the snow. Check out all of the terrific ways to save at Sugar Bowl during the holidays.
Sugar Bowl Lesson Options
Lesson Types:
Children Group Lessons (Ages 4-5)
Guaranteed class size of 3. All-day or half-day options. Due to limited availability, these lessons are not available for online bookings but reservations can be made over the phone (more info)
Children Group Lessons (Ages 6-12)
Guaranteed class size of 3. All-day or half-day options. Ski or Snowboard.
Guaranteed class size of 3
We specialize in children's ski, provided by quality professional instructors, with additional focus on safety, fun and learning. Children's lessons are offered at both Judah and Village base areas. Sugar Bowl currently only offers ski lessons for ages 4-5.All day lesson package starts at 9:45am and requires a reservation at least 24 hours in advance. This package includes a full day lesson, rental equipment, full mountain lift ticket, and lunch. Sign-up for an Early Drop Off for only an additional $35 if you are looking to hit the slopes when the lifts start spinning at 9am.
Half day lesson packages are offered at 9:45am or 1:00pm and also requires reservations at least 24 hours in advance. This package includes a half-day lesson (2hr.), rental equipment, and full mountain lift ticket. Lunch is not included with half-day lesson packages.Guaranteed class size of 3 students per instructor.
To ensure availability of instructors prior to your arrival reservations are required. Lessons will sell-out most weekends and holidays.
All day lesson package starts at 9:45am and requires a reservation at least 24 hours in advance. This package includes a full day lesson, rental equipment, full mountain lift ticket, and lunch. Sign-up for an Early Drop Off for only an additional $35 if you are looking to hit the slopes when the lifts start spinning at 9am.
Half day lesson package is offered at 9:45am or 1:00pm reservations highly recommended. This package includes a half day lesson, all day rental equipment, and full mountain lift ticket.
To ensure availability of instructors prior to your arrival reservations are required. Lessons will sell-out most weekends and holidays.
Sign up for our lesson package and get a half day ski or snowboard lesson, full day lift ticket and all day equipment rental.
Ages 4-5 | $295
With a maximum class size of 3 participants per coach, we guarantee an intimate learning environment and close supervision in our children's group lessons for ages 4-5. Select a morning session (9:45 am to 12:00 pm) or afternoon session (1:00 pm to 3:15 pm).
Ages 6-12 | $225
For children ages 6-12 who want to learn how to ski or snowboard, select a morning session (9:45 am to 12:00 pm) or afternoon session (1:00 pm to 3:15 pm).
Ages 13+ | $225
It's never to late to learn! For our adult and teen lessons, select a morning session (10:00 am to 12:15 pm) or afternoon session (1:00 pm to 3:15 pm).
Lessons should be booked online at least two (2) days in advance of the preferred lesson date. Inside of two days days, please call (530) 426-9000, option 3, to inquire about availability. Lessons will sell-out most weekends and holidays. View Cancellation Policy
How to determine your ability level
Packages includes a half day group lesson, rental equipment and an all-mountain lift ticket.
Morning Half Day Lessons
10:00 am to 12:15 pm
All ability levels
Afternoon Half Day Lessons
1:00 pm to 3:15 pm
All ability levels
Guests renting equipment should arrive at least one-hour prior to the lesson start time.
Lessons should be booked online at least two (2) days in advance of the preferred lesson date. Inside of two days days, please call (530) 426-9000, option 3, to inquire about availability. Lessons will sell-out most weekends and holidays. View Cancellation Policy
A lesson-only option is also available for $175.
A lift access product (lift ticket or season pass) is required to participant in any lesson.
Reservations are highly recommended to ensure availability. Please book at least 24 hours in advance. Space does sell out on weekend and holiday periods. Download and submit the form below to reserve your private lesson.
Fantastic Conditions. Look No Further Than Sugar Bowl.
2016/2017 Season Extended into May
Sugar Bowl will be open Friday - Sunday only, until May 7th
Ski or ride into May this season thanks to 0" of snowfall year-to-date. Sugar Bowl will finish the season operating Friday, Saturday and Sunday from April 28 - 30 and again on May 5 - 7, with only the Village Portal lifts and services. Parking at the Gondola is encouraged. Please check sugarbowl.com for daily updates. Lift Tickets will be discounted: Adult- $88, Young Adult/Senior - $71, Child/Super Senior - $51 Ski & Board School will only be offering private lessons for $99. Reservations are encouraged and can be made by calling (530)426-6772. |
||
| Fri - Sun, April 28 - 30 | Fri - Sun, May 5 - 7 | |
| Scheduled Lifts: | ||
| Disney Express | 9:00am - 4:00pm | 9:00am - 4:00pm |
| Mt. Lincoln Express | 9:00am - 4:00pm | 9:00am - 4:00pm |
| Christmas Tree Express | 9:00am - 4:00pm | 9:00am - 4:00pm |
| Nob Hill | 9:00am - 4:00pm | 9:00am - 4:00pm |
| Village Gondola | 7:00am - 7:00pm | 7:00am - 7:00pm |
| Jerome Hill Express | * | * |
| Mt. Judah Express | - | - |
| White Pine | - | - |
| Village Portal: | ||
| Village Lodge | ✔ | ✔ |
|
✔ | ✔ |
|
✔ | ✔ |
|
✔ | ✔ |
|
$99 Privates Only | $99 Privates Only |
|
✔ | ✔ |
|
10:00am - 6:00pm | 10:00am - 6:00pm |
|
Lunch Only | Lunch Only |
|
7:30am - 2:00pm | 7:30am - 2:00pm |
|
8:00am - 2:00pm | 8:00am - 2:00pm |
| Judah Portal: | ||
|
- | - |
|
** | ** |
|
- | - |
|
- | - |
|
- | - |
|
||
|
- | - |
|
- | - |
| ( ** ) May open if demand requires ( - ) Closed for the day. | ||
Post Season Uphill Travel is Closed
- Uphill travel is closed inside the Sugar Bowl Resort boundary.
- Area is closed, not patrolled & snow safety mitigation is not performed.
- Ski area is not maintained for public use.
- Within the ski area boundary, man made objects, lift towers, snow roads and other hazards exist.
- Avalanches may occur.
- Palisades and surrounding area is closed to all activity.
- Access Forest Service Land at your own risk.
- Enter at your own risk.
Stay two nights plus get lift tickets for two, as low as $374/night
Sugar Bowl is the closest resort to Sacramento and the Bay Area, and the historic Sugar Bowl Hotel is the closest lodging to the lifts. Enjoy slopeside lodging and two (2) Adult 1-day lift tickets per nights stayed, for as low as $374 per night, based on double-occupancy. In addition to uncrowded slopes and the most snow in Tahoe, get a cozy room and hotel amenities including a classic dining room, the inviting Belt Room Bar, and access to the Sporthaus spa & fitness center with outdoor lap pool, hot tubs and fitness equipment.
The Pre-Christmas Ski & Stay Package is valid for 2-night minimum stays from December 9-10 or December 16 -22. Includes lift tickets per night stay valid the consecutive day from. Package subject to tax and additional restrictions may apply. Offer subject to availability, rooms may sell-out.
Ski & Stay package lift tickets may only be used between the arrival and departure dates of the reservation, are non-transferrable, not for resale, and may not be refunded or canceled for any reason. Travel insurance is recommended
Renting ski/snowboard equipment at Sugar Bowl provides you with an easy and convenient way to enjoy a day on the slopes. Our expert team will expertly fit the equipment to ensure a comfortable and memorable day on the mountain.
Our basic ski package features skis from K2 with Dalbello boots, while the Performance Ski Package offers state-of-the-art models from Volkl with Dalbello boots. Snowboarders can select from a variety of sizes from Burton and K2.
This season, as part of our COVID-19 safety protocol, rentals must be purchased online, 3+ days in advance of your visit. There will be no opportunity for day-of, walk-up rentals.
During the online purchase process, you’ll be asked to select a rental fitting appointment time. There are limited appointments available in each time slot. If your preferred date/time is not available, check back. We will frequently adjust inventory.
Guaranteed class size of 3
We specialize in children's ski, provided by quality professional instructors, with additional focus on safety, fun and learning. Children's lessons are offered at both Judah and Village base areas. Sugar Bowl currently only offers ski lessons for ages 4-5.All day lesson package starts at 9:45am and requires a reservation at least 24 hours in advance. This package includes a full day lesson, rental equipment, full mountain lift ticket, and lunch. Sign-up for an Early Drop Off for only an additional $35 if you are looking to hit the slopes when the lifts start spinning at 9am.
Half day lesson packages are offered at 9:45am or 1:00pm and also requires reservations at least 24 hours in advance. This package includes a half-day lesson (2hr.), rental equipment, and full mountain lift ticket. Lunch is not included with half-day lesson packages.Guaranteed class size of 3 students per instructor.
To ensure availability of instructors prior to your arrival reservations are required. Lessons will sell-out most weekends and holidays.
Reservations for group lessons must be made by made online at least 2 days in advance. Reservations are encouraged as lessons will sell-out on weekends and holidays.
All day lesson package starts at 9:45am and requires a reservation at least 24 hours in advance. This package includes a full day lesson, rental equipment, full mountain lift ticket, and lunch. Sign-up for an Early Drop Off for only an additional $35 if you are looking to hit the slopes when the lifts start spinning at 9am.
Half day lesson package is offered at 9:45am or 1:00pm reservations highly recommended. This package includes a half day lesson, all day rental equipment, and full mountain lift ticket.
To ensure availability of instructors prior to your arrival reservations are required. Lessons will sell-out most weekends and holidays.
Reservations for group lessons must be made by made online at least 2 days in advance. Reservations are encouraged as lessons will sell-out on weekends and holidays.
Our instructors are certified by the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) and have the highest level of teaching expertise. They are highly skilled in turning an enthusiastic first-timer into a lifelong skier or snowboarder. Instructors can also take advanced riders to the next level while exploring some of the best spots on the mountain that only locals know about. Everyone in the lesson can access the chairlifts faster by using the express line bypassing the general line.
This season, Private Lessons must be booked online, at least 2 days prior to your arrival. Secure your spot early, as most days will sell out.
Includes a one-hour group lesson, plus an all-day equipment rental and beginner lift ticket. Lift ticket valid on White Pine and Flume Carpet for the full-day. Available for skiing only, ages 6+. This package is only available at the Judah Base Area.
Lesson Times | 10:00am, 11:00am or 1:00pm
To ensure availability of instructors prior to your arrival reservations are required. Lessons will sell-out most weekends and holidays.
Stay two nights plus get lift tickets for two, as low as $374/night
Sugar Bowl is the closest resort to Sacramento and the Bay Area, and the historic Sugar Bowl Hotel is the closest lodging to the lifts. Enjoy slopeside lodging and two (2) Adult 1-day lift tickets per nights stayed, for as low as $374 per night, based on double-occupancy. In addition to uncrowded slopes and the most snow in Tahoe, get a cozy room and hotel amenities including a classic dining room, the inviting Belt Room Bar, and access to the Sporthaus spa & fitness center with outdoor lap pool, hot tubs and fitness equipment.
The Pre-Christmas Ski & Stay Package is valid for 2-night minimum stays from December 9-10 or December 16 -22. Includes lift tickets per night stay valid the consecutive day from. Package subject to tax and additional restrictions may apply. Offer subject to availability, rooms may sell-out.
Ski & Stay package lift tickets may only be used between the arrival and departure dates of the reservation, are non-transferrable, not for resale, and may not be refunded or canceled for any reason. Travel insurance is recommended
629 Sugar Bowl Rd.
Norden, CA 95724
