Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

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. 

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

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.

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

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. 

1. 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. 
2. 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.
3. 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.

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

Cap off a Saturday of summer adventures in Tahoe with live music, a cold brew, and a sausage at the Summit Haus Biergarten. New this summer, we’re excited to roll out the Summit Haus Music Series, a free live show every Saturday evening from 5-8pm July 16 through August 6. 

Kicking it off on July 16

Miranda Rae Love will be rocking the house with her “mountain heart and country soul.” Through her guitar and vocals, Miranda navigates between rock and country with ease, bringing passion to every performance.

July 23

Jeff Connor has an incredibly deep catalog spanning five decades of rock and roll. He is a multi-instrumentalist with a great sense of humor. He loves to engage with the audience, so you better be on your toes for this performance.

July 30

Using extensive loops, layers, and catchy melodies, James Clarke’s live performances navigate through sultry vocals and dip into the grittiness of rock.

August 6

Don’t miss the finale show of our Summit Haus Music Series — The Bread and Butter Band. Joel and Lindsay are a very soulful duo with a southern swagger. They have the gift of bringing you in to the moment and slowing world down song by song. Rock, blues, and contemporary hits fuel every set.

What’s on tap next?

Rockin’ the Bowl returns this December! At the kick-off of the ’22/23 winter season, Sugar Bowl will host free live shows on the Judah and Village Lodge sundecks every Saturday & Sunday, weather permitting.

How to find the Summit Haus:

Aptly named, you can find the Summit Haus at the tip-top of Donner Pass, tucked into the parking area where the Pacific Crest Trail crosses Donner Pass Road. (Yep, we really ARE smack dab in the middle of the PCT!)  From Truckee, wind your way up Donner Pass Road half a mile past the rainbow bridge overlook. If you’re traveling east on i80, hop off at Norden/Soda Springs (exit 174) and turn right on Highway 40 eastbound, continuing 3 miles.

What are the hours of operation?

The Summit Haus is open mid-day on weekends, see the Summit Haus webpage for an updated schedule.

What summer fun can we find near Donner Summit?

• Running or hiking on the famed Pacific Crest Trail
• Mountain Biking in Tahoe Donner
• Road biking up Donner Pass Road – a classic challenge!
• Swimming and paddleboarding on Donner Lake
• Rock Climbing on Donner Summit

What kind of food is served at the Summit Haus?

Of course, our famed Biergarten fare features locally-crafted sausages and great brews, but we also offer veggie options like our Portobello “Dog” and non-alcoholic options as well. 

Free Live Music

• Saturday, July 16, 5-8pm: Miranda Rae Love
• Saturday, July 23, 5-8pm: Jeff Connor
• Saturday, July 30, 5-8pm: James Clarke
• Saturday, August 6, 5-8pm: Bread and Butter Band

We’ll see ya on the summit for a good time this summer!

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

We are so excited to bring back the Banked Slalom on February 26 for the first time since 2019! In a few short weeks, our racers will be zipping through the banked turns and rollers of the best snake-run course in Tahoe. The course is currently under construction by our terrain park crew. Check out the interview below with Terrain Park Manager Parker Gokey for an insider’s look into the event.

If you want to sign up, don’t delay. The event is already more than halfway sold out with less than 60 spots remaining. We have multiple categories for men’s and women’s skiers, snowboarders, and adaptive athletes.

Interview with Banked Slalom Designer Parker Gokey

Q: Have you already started building the course?

“Yes, for the Banked Slalom this year we started the build early so we’ll have a great course in place for the event on February 26. 

Q: Where is the course this year?

“The course will be River Run Gully which is in-between Golden Gate and Coldstream trails with the finish line poking back onto Golden gate above and in-between Judah and Jerome Lifts visible from the tents and Judah Deck areas.”

Q: What kind of design are you building for the banked slalom course this year?

“The top of the course will be flowy with some big deep turns at the top and into the middle section. As you enter into River Run Gully in the trees, the turns will get a little tighter all the way to the end. The course pops back out onto Golden Gate to the finish line.”

Q: How do you build the course?

“We use a snowcat to build the very top and bottom of the course. In the middle section, we can do some cat work but most of the work will be done by hand.  We will also ride and ride and ride the course so we know the turns are good.”

Q: What’s cool about this banked slalom event?

“This event is special in a lot of ways but most importantly all the proceeds go directly to the High Fives Foundation. It will be a great honor to host them and race your friends in support of this great organization.”

Q: Any words of advice to the banked slalom participants out there?

“Skies, snowboarders, and adaptive riders are all welcome and we have some awesome prizes! So bust out the wax and let’s get racing!”

Schedule

• Registration: 7:30am-8:30am – Judah Lodge
• Racer’s Meeting & course inspection: 9:45am – top of River Run Gully
• Race Start: 11:00am
• Party Train lap to the after-party: 2:30pm
• After-Party with live music: 2pm-4:30pm
• Awards: 3:00pm – Judah Deck.

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

Getting fed up with your current committed mountain relationship?

Perhaps you’re tired of waiting in long lift lines, getting stuck in traffic, and riding down crowded runs… We heard you! Have a fling at Sugar Bowl this spring with the Spring Fling 3 Pack. Come out to soak up some sunny days and spring vibes on Donner Summit. This 3-day pack is $299 for all ages and grants you access to any three days of skiing/riding from March 1, 2022 until the season concludes in mid-April, now including Saturdays! Buy the pack now and choose your dates later.

What’s great about spring skiing and riding at Sugar Bowl?

Spring skiing is already amazing thanks to the beautiful California weather we are treated to but here are a few reasons it’s even better at ‘The Bowl’.

1. Spring Events

On snow events like the Pond Skim, Pop Bars and more happen throughout the spring when the weather is more predictable. Plus we are Rockin’ The Bowl with live music on the Judah and Disney decks each Saturday & Sunday. (Keep in mind, 3-packs aren’t valid on Saturdays but après is always allowed!)

2. Corn Snow

This elusive snow is actually very desirable and often falls in the “hero snow” category, but it can be hard to time. It is generally found in the spring when freeze/melt cycles affect the snow. Large grains of snow freeze together overnight, then they loosen as the sun warms them during the day. Corn refers to the snow during the time window when it has become soft and forgiving, but not too wet and slushy. In other words, it’s the “Goldilocks” of snow—not too hard, not too soft, but just right.

3. Après

In spring what you do on the snow is just as important as what occurs after ski (après). Both the Disney and Judah Decks are perfectly situated to enjoy a cold beverage (Palisades Pale Ale anyone), soak up the soak and enjoy some tunes (See #1).

Hot Tip: Free Pack Flex “Pack Flex” — a $60 value — is automatically included, allowing you to shift your reserved visit dates if your plans change. Pack Flex does not mean a refund, just flexible dates until the end of the season.

If you’re tired of waiting in long lift lines and riding down crowded runs, have a fling at Sugar Bowl this spring! 

Big mountain terrain, with a small mountain vibe: Take 3-days to experience the alternative. We’ll show you how we do things differently at Sugar Bowl. But be warned, after a 3-day honeymoon on our uncrowded slopes, you might not want to leave.

Hot Tip: Direct to Lift Once you print out your lift ticket for the first time, plan to reuse your media card each time, when you login to your account and choose your dates, your lift ticket media card will automatically be reloaded. That means you can roll into the parking lot and go direct to lift without stopping at the ticket window.

FAQ

Q: How do I use a 3-pack?

Log into your account on at sugarbowl.com and purchase a 3-Pack through our online store You’ll be able to logon later to book dates if you don’t want to choose them immediately. On your account you can see how many days you have left to use.

Q: How much does it cost?

The Spring Fling 3-pack costs $299, or about $99 per day.

Q: When is it valid?

Sunday – Friday, March 1 until at least April 10.

Q: Is there any fine print?

• 3 Packs are non-transferrable.  All 3 days must be used by the 3 Pack holder on separate dates
• No refunds or credits for unused days.
• Valid through the end of the 2021/22 season.  No dates will be rolled over for any reason.
• Dates must be booked online by 11:59pm the day prior to arrival.
• Dates may be moved to another valid date within the 2021/22 season.
  • Date changes must occur before 11:59pm the day prior to arrival.
• Any unused dates expire after April 11.
• If the season is extended, the ability to select dates for the 3 Pack will be extended too.

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

It’s no secret, Tahoe is a popular place on winter weekends. Traffic can get jammed and lines can grow long. But if you choose Sugar Bowl and follow our five favorite tips, you can make lines on the mountain instead of waiting in them! (Hint: #5 is our favorite.)

1. Don’t Drive Farther on I-80 than you have to.

The the closer you get to Lake Tahoe, the more congested the roads get. Sugar Bowl’s exit (174 at Soda Springs) is the first ski area exit off of I-80 when driving up from Sacramento and Bay Area communities. You’ll be taking your first Sugar Bowl chairlift ride while others might still be stuck in a traffic jam farther down the road. And since you’ll skip that same traffic jam when your day is done, you can be home for dinner!

2. Nail the Timing

Let’s talk about days and hours. If you want a ski & ride experience that’s as quiet and relaxed as possible, you’ve come to the right place. Even on a peak weekend, we preserve the skiing and riding experience at Sugar Bowl by not overcrowding the resort.

Here are some ways to optimize your timing even more:

• Visit midweek. Of course, midweek days – especially Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays – are the least popular days to ski or ride. You’ll often score non-existent lift lines on Fridays and Mondays, too, so if you can extend or shift your weekend by a day… you might even get lonely out there.

• Get an early start. Our early birds who catch the lifts at the crack of 9:00 am are often rewarded with short lines until everyone else gets themselves together an hour later. But don’t kid yourself about the amount of time it takes to get on the road. Early birds are booting up in the parking lot at 8:30 am at the latest, and they’ve already defrosted their windshields and eaten their breakfasts. Set your alarm!

• Start when others leave. Alternatively, you can opt for an afternoon start. When most skiers and riders get “lunch legs” at noon and head home, you’ll be fresh and ready to go. Perks of the 12:00 to 3:00 pm ski day? You’re lined up perfectly to enjoy our legendary après. Sugar Bowl hosts Rockin’ the Bowl every Saturday and Sunday from 1:00 to 4:00 pm on both the Judah and Village sundecks, so wrap up your ski day right with live music and your beverage of choice.

3. Really, Really Get Out of Dodge

If you’re up for an adventure, here are three ways to separate yourself from the pack:

• Hike for turns. Try some hike-to inbounds terrain like Crow’s Peak or Roller Pass.

• Extend your ski/ride day. Get your heart pumping with a lap or two of uphill travel outside of normal operating hours. Uphill travel is open from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm, as conditions allow (and you’ll need a touring set up with skins.)

• Head up and out. Take advantage of Sugar Bowl’s open boundary policy and plan a day of backcountry skiing/riding. Avalanche training and safety equipment is recommended for any form of backcountry travel, so be sure to inquire about training with your preferred guide service. We recommend ASI (Alpine Skills International), headquartered near Sugar Bowl on Donner Summit.

4. Alpine Lodge > Alpine Start

Choose to spend the night a snowball’s throw from the lift you plan to ride in the morning. Don’t spend your morning driving to Tahoe with the I-80 crowd. The Hotel at Sugar Bowl is located in the heart of Tahoe’s only snowbound village. Wake up slopeside, grab a breakfast burrito from the Nob Hill cafe, and still have time to nab first chair.

5. Choose a Resort that Manages the Crowds, so you Don’t Have To

Sugar Bowl follows a simple, yet radical, rule. Each season, we choose a specific number of season passes to sell, and we just stop selling ‘em when we hit that number. On top of that, we also limit lift tickets each day to preserve the on-mountain experience.

Less traffic getting here, less people in line, and less skiers on the mountain. That means more fun for you. Our proudly independent resort has been operating since 1939, and our team cares deeply about continuing our legacy of authentic alpine experience. We believe that requires managing how many skiers and riders come to enjoy our resort, every single day of the season.

Bonus Time-Saving Tips:

Closest Parking for Ski & Board School

If you are signed up for a group or private Ski & Board School lesson, we offer free priority parking directly in front of the big white tent located near the Judah Lodge. You’ll be steps away from the check-in desk for your lesson.

Reload & Go Direct to Lift

Save your ticket! If you decide to ski/ride another day, you can login to your sugarbowl.com account and purchase online. Choose to “reload your existing ticket” and you’ll be ready to go straight to the lifts next time you visit Sugar Bowl, no stop at the ticket windows needed.

Beat the crowds and come see how we do things differently at Sugar Bowl. Next time you visit Tahoe, you’ll be making lines on the mountain, not waiting in them.

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

This January 22, 2022, join us for a family-friendly game of poker—on snow! The poker run is simple to participate in and it’s a fun way to explore the mountain. Just ski or ride to at least five Poker stations we’ll have set up around the mountain and take a picture of yourself at each one. Then head to the lodge to pick up a card for each station you stopped at. The person who has the best poker hand of cards is the winner! No problem if you don’t know the game, we’ll help you choose your best hand.

Have fun while supporting a good cause

All proceeds from the event benefit Excellence in Education, in support of students and teachers in the Truckee-Tahoe school district. Register in advance online for $20… or $15 for kids 12 and under. First 100 sign-ups receive a custom deck of Sugar Bowl Poker Run cards. Day-of registration is $25.

Stick around for the after-party at Judah Lodge with awards and live music by Jelly Bread. A $1000 grand prize plus tons of raffle prizes are up for grabs!

3 Important Reminders if you Plan to Participate

1. On Saturday Jan 22, from 9-11am, come by the registration tent at Judah Lodge. You will need to sign a liability form and get a wristband. No wristband = no prizes (and no fun). Remember cash for the raffle. See full schedule below.

2. You will need a valid Sugar Bowl lift ticket or season pass to play. Lift tickets must be purchased in advance and are subject to sell out.

3. You will need a smartphone or digital camera to document that you went to each station. Take a selfie at each station to prove you were there. Photo must include: your face AND the numbered poker chip.

Schedule

• 9-11am Registration Tent: Course Overview
• 10am-2pm Ski or Ride around to Poker Chip Stations, take selfies to prove you were there!
• 12-2pm Return to registration and dealer will deal your hand
• 1-4pm After Party & Live Music by Jelly Bread
• 2:30pm Awards & HUGE raffle

FAQ

How do I play poker?

• Don’t worry about it, just go to the Poker Chip Stations, take a selfie with each one, and we can help you select your best hand at the end.

How do we know where to go?

• Look at the Poker Chip Station map at check-in, we have provided trail maps and sharpies so you can mark down the locations.

What do the Poker Chip Stations look like?

• Look for a giant Poker Run Chip mounted on a bamboo pole. Take a selfie at each station so you can prove you were there!

How long will the checkpoints be on the mountain?

• Check points will be available from 10AM – 2PM.

Do we have to go to every location?

• No you do not, however your chances of playing a good hand increase if you do!

Is this a race?

• No, although check in to play your hand will end promptly at 2:30PM.

Where are the Joker’s hidden?

• Follow us on Instagram and look for our Stories!

What do I do after I visit 5 or more stations and I’ve taken a selfie to prove I was there?

• Come back to registration at the Judah Lodge to be dealt your hand.  Check-in will be from 1:00pm – 2:30pm.

How many cards can I get?

• Depending on how many stations you visit, you can get up to 7 cards. The minimum number of stations you need to visit is 5. Remember to take a selfie each time to prove you were there.

Can we trade cards with another player?

• No way! You will be dealt all your cards at once back at the registration tent, so you’d have to be a real card shark to pull a switcheroo. 

What happens in a tie?

• The two people who tie will pull 5 cards from a deck and play their best hand.

What are the prizes?

• $1000 Grand Prize. This will happen at 2:30PM at the Judah Lodge. Our top 3 winners will receive cash plus great prizes from our sponsors, Totally Board, Silver Legacy Casino, Giro, RMU Truckee, Deschutes Brewery, and HitchFire.

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

The information below pertains to 2021/22 season passholders only. Information about perks & details for 2022/23 passholders can be found at sugarbowl.com/seasonpass.

I’m a Midweek/Slightly Restricted Passholder, what are my blackout dates? 

In general, slightly restricted passes have a few blackout days between Christmas and New Year’s Day and during long holiday weekends like Presidents’ Day weekend and Martin Luther King weekend. Midweek passholders have Saturdays and Sundays restricted in addition. See the specific dates on the Existing Passholder Info page. 

What if I want to ski or ride on one of my blackout days? 

You qualify for discounted lift tickets on your blackout days. Visit the Existing Passholder Info page for details on how to purchase. Thanks to the installation of RFID gates, Midweek and Slightly Restricted passholders will now be able to go direct-to-lift with the purchase of a blackout date lift ticket. Advance purchase online is required – at least one day in advance. Once purchased, the blackout day lift ticket will be loaded onto your existing season pass card and you can go direct-to-lift on your designated ski/ride day. 

How many Friends and Family Tickets do I have? 

As a passholder, you receive an allotment of 50% off tickets to share with your friends & family.  These vary by pass type and are detailed here. As a reminder, these tickets are subject to sell-out and could be challenging to secure for peak days. You will need to purchase these tickets 1+ day in advance.

How do I redeem them? 

To access your Friends & Family tickets, log in to your account on the online store. Different pass types qualify for different amounts of tickets, so check your account to see how many you have. For a step-by-step guide on how to redeem these tickets, visit the Existing Passholder Info page. 

What’s the discount for a friends and family ticket? 

Guests will get 50% off a full-priced ticket, not off any discounted online rates available. 

Do you offer insurance for friends and family tickets or regular lift tickets? 

Yes, you can purchase Trip Flex to make your tickets refundable. Lift tickets are non-changeable and non-refundable, however during the check-out process, you may elect to add-on Trip Flex to any lift ticket for only $20. By adding Trip Flex to your lift ticket, you will make it refundable and you may request a refund for your date up until 11:59PM PST on the date of your scheduled arrival.  

What discounts do I get on food and retail at the resort? 

With your season pass, you can save 15% on retail, food, tuning and repair, and weekday private lessons. Visit the Existing Passholder Info page for the specifics of how your passholder discount can be applied. Please note, the passholder must be present and show their season pass to receive the discount. Discounts above may not be combined with any other offers. 

Can I upgrade my pass from a midweek or slightly restricted pass to an unlimited pass? 

No, sorry. Since season passes are sold-out, we are no longer offering upgrades. 

How can I check to see if Old 40 is open for easy access to the mountain? 

Old 40 is the best shortcut from Truckee to Sugar Bowl. If you want to know the status of Old 40 this winter, text “Old40” to 855-835-5599 and we’ll send you a message anytime Old 40 opens or closes. 

Can I visit other resorts with my Sugar Bowl season pass? 

Yes! We have partnered with several resorts of similar size and quality of Sugar Bowl including new partnerships. See our partner resorts on the Existing Passholder Info page. 

How do I contact customer service about a question/problem with my pass? 

If you have already reviewed the Existing Passholder Info page for your answer and need additional assistance, please email seasonpass@sugarbowl.com. During the busy winter season, we receive a large volume of requests, so please allow a few days of response time. 

Posted By:

Jon aka "Flanimal"

Our focus is offering a seven-day/week lift service, maximizing open terrain, and providing a memorable experience. By reducing the footprint of our operation, we can provide the same level of service you have come to expect in the venues that remain open. Below is a list of operational changes that could potentially impact your experience during the upcoming holiday period.

What you will experience this winter:

Subject to change based on staffing and business levels

Lift Ticket Windows

• Minimum one-day advance purchase for all lift tickets. 
• Open Daily: Village Tickets: 8:00am – 5:00pm, Highway: 8:00am – 1:00pm, Judah Tickets: 8:00am – 5:00pm
• Judah Special Tickets will not be open.

Rentals

• Judah & Village Rentals will be closed for the season. Sugar Bowl will not offer equipment rentals and encourage you to rent at a shop in your local community.
  • Lesson participants and parents can get rentals at Judah Kids with advanced booking of their lesson programs.
• The Finishline Tuning & Repair is closed for the season.

Ski & Board School

• Advance sales only. Minimum two-day advance booking required for all lesson programs.
• Guests should check-in at Judah Kids, open 8:00am – 5:00pm.
• Village Kids will be closed for the season.

Retail

• Village Ski & Sports will be open daily from 8:00am – 5:oopm
• Judad Ski & Sports is closed at this time.

Food & Beverage

• The Dining Room will be closed for the season.
• The Belt Room Bar will be open with various operating hours:
  • Thursday: Food 11am to 5pm.  Bar closes at 5pm.
  • Friday and Saturday: Food 11am to 8pm. Bar closes at 9pm.
  • Sunday and Monday: Food 11am to 5pm. Bar closes at 5pm.
  • Tuesday and Wednesday: Bar service only 10am to 5pm.

• Judah Café breakfast will only offer cold grab ‘n go. Nob Hill Café will provide hot breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays, plus Monday 1/17 of MLK weekend. Nob Hill Café will offer cold grab ‘n go Monday-Friday. Both locations will offer hot food and grab ‘n go for lunch.
  • Breakfast daily, 7:30am – 10:30am.
  • Lunch daily, Hot Food – 11am – 2pm, Cold Grab ‘N Go – 2pm -3pm.
• Sierra Vista Bar, daily 10am – 4:30pm.
• Mid Mountain Café, Open Friday- Sunday & Holidays, 10am – 3pm.
• Village Espresso will be closed for the season.

Hotel

After January 3^rd, the hotel will only be open for Friday & Saturday night bookings plus the MLK holiday and Ski/Skate Week. We are now accepting reservations at sugarbowl.com/hotel.

Lift Operations

• The Gondola will be open daily with flucating hours.
  • Monday – Thursday: 7am – 7pm
  • Friday & Saturday: 7am – midnight
• Summit Chair is closed for the season.
• Crow’s Peak Lift will be open Weekends and Holiday when staffing levels allow.
• Other lifts will operate on their traditional schedule.

Royal Gorge

• Summit Station & Café, Open daily 8am – 5pm.
• Trail passes purchased online; 1-day advance purchase required.
• Rentals and Lessons, 2-day advance purchase required, Open daily 8am – 5pm
• XC Access from Village.
  • Rentals and Private Lessons available for Villagers or Hotel guests.
    • Mon – Friday: by appointment only from Village Kids.
    • Sat – Sun & Hol: 8am – 5pm.

As you can tell, we had to make some very difficult choices, and none were taken lightly. We chose to sacrifice areas, such as Rentals, that would allow us to redeploy team members to essential operations. If staffing levels improve, we hope to add operations back, adjust hours and get back to normal.

Posted By:

Jon aka "Flanimal"

We are running a fun contest to see all the funny rituals people do to make it snow. You can enter by posting an Instagram story of what you do and tagging us @sugarbowlresort and #makeitsnow. Our three favorites, posted by December 1, will win an exclusive Sugar Bowl belt from Arcade, a New Era hat and more.

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

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!?

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

Let’s Get Comfortable

Dialing in your outerwear and gear will help you have a great day on the slopes. Here is some insight on how you can prepare for your best day possible. Forget something? Stop by one of our retail stores at the Judah Lodge or the Village Lodge. We have just about everything you might need. 

Sierra Weather 

Our California winters run the full spectrum of Sierra weather. Conditions at Sugar Bowl range from blizzard days with gale-force winds to sunny spring T-shirt weather. Be prepared to dress for success in a variety of different weather scenarios. 

Outerwear

Start with the basics: a wind & water resistant jacket and pants. As with all ski gear, there’s a wide range of price/quality in outerwear. You can kit yourself out with brand name Gore Tex, or there are plenty of budget friendly options out there. Some retailers even rent soft goods, so you don’t have to buy a full ski kit to get started. 

Pro Outerwear Tip

The water resistant pants you choose should have a wide enough cuff to fit over your boot. This will prevent snow from getting into your boots. Try to choose jackets and pants with thigh/underarm vents if possible to help regulate your body temperature.

The Beauty Within: Layers!

Next, make a plan for your layers underneath. Non-cotton, sweat-wicking pieces of clothing will help keep you dry and comfortable. If it’s a sunny day and temps are above freezing, you may choose to simply go with a light pair of long underwear or yoga pants underneath your ski jacket and pants. If it’s a cloudy day or temps are below freezing, you may want to add additional layers, like a fleece or wool sweater. 

Pro Layering Tip

if you are bundling up, try to choose some upper body layers that don’t all have hoods. Stacking too many hoods might make you feel like you’re in a straight jacket once you zip everything up!

Fingers and Toes

Socks

Your socks should follow the same rules as your layers— no cotton. If possible, choose a pair of ski-specific socks. Whatever you do, don’t be tempted to double up socks, it doesn’t help. 

How can I keep my feet from getting cold?

Start with a high-quality pair of ski-specific socks. Look for a non-cotton, wicking pair of socks that fit slim to your foot without wrinkling or bunching. Next, if you’re wearing ski boots, you can unbuckle your boots as you walk across the parking lot or every time you ride lifts. This will help get the blood flowing through your feet while you aren’t using your boots for downhill performance. Just remember to rebuckle before you take your next run.

Gloves

While you probably don’t need to run out and buy a new pair of gloves just for skiing or riding, here are a couple considerations. It can be helpful to choose a glove with a synthetic exterior, like nylon, that has some kind of a water resistant layer. Choosing a glove with some insulation will help you stay warm in cold, wet conditions. Ski & ride-specific gloves will often have abrasion-resistant patches on the palm and fingertips for durability.

Pro Gloves Tip

It can be helpful to stash an extra pair of gloves in the car, even if they aren’t the ones you plan to ski in. If you have to put chains on before arriving at the mountain, you won’t want to get your gloves sopping wet before you even start your day. It can be nice to switch gloves midday or before your après activity.

Get your Head in the Game

Let’s protect your noggin! First, we always recommend a helmet. If you don’t want to purchase one, many retailers have helmets for rent. If you are taking a ski or board lesson at Sugar Bowl, we’ll include a complementary helmet rental.

Next, given our weather extremes in Tahoe, we highly recommend goggles over sunglasses. If it’s snowing, sunnies just don’t cut it. If it’s a bluebird day, the sun will be reflecting off the snow and you’ll want eye protection from all angles. Getting a sunburn on your eyeball is not a good look. 

The third element you should plan for is a balaclava or neck gaiter. Depending on the temps, you may want a light stretchy neck gaiter for light sun and wind protection. If it’s really cold, you may choose a fleece neck warmer. Our go-to choice is typically the light stretchy neck gaiter. If it gets wet, it’s really easy to have an extra one stashed in your jacket (they are inexpensive and fold up really small!)

Pro-tip: How should my helmet fit?

Your helmet should be snug but not so tight that you can feel pressure on the sides of your head. A good test is to rock your head side-to-side / yes-and-no. If your helmet sloshes around, it’s too loose. If it’s giving you a headache, too tight. There are many different helmet types to accommodate different shaped heads. A good rule of thumb is to use a helmet that is 5 or less years old. 

Pocket Essentials

How to Properly Wear your RFID Ticket

Seems simple right? Buy your ticket online, use the QR code to redeem it at a kiosk, then pop it in your jacket pocket… You’d be surprised how many people get stuck in the lift line because they’ve done it wrong! Here’s a couple things to remember (in additional to zipping your pocket up tight!)

• Choose a pocket on the left side of your jacket.
• Your ticket rides solo, not in your wallet or with a phone.
• Don’t punch a hole in your ticket
• Essentials for the other pockets: sunscreen, lip balm, medicine if needed, and a Cliff Bar or other light snack.

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

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.

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

So you want to take the hard way up, huh? You’ve come to the right place! Here at Sugar Bowl, we’re excited to offer uphill travel on three designated routes. Most of our uphillers are here for one of two reasons, either to access the backcountry or to get a great workout. Whatever your reason for skipping the lift, we’re excited to host splitboarders and ski tourers at Sugar Bowl.

That said, the uphill scene at Sugar Bowl is no free-for-all. Follow the uphill guidelines to make sure that you have a safe uphill experience and the community can keep enjoying these privileges.

Why Uphill?

Early morning workout

If you’re here to work out before the work day, plan to arrive at Sugar Bowl with skins on between 6-7am. We’re giddy just thinking about the combination of crisp corduroy, the sunrise, and a thermos of coffee at the top. If you’re up for a challenge, it’s possible to skin from the Judah Parking Lot to the summit of Lincoln and ski/ride back in 50 minutes. You’ve still got a whole hour to get to the office if you’re a 9-5er.

Sunset Jaunt

If you’re more of an end-of-the-day adventurer, our uphill hours stretch through the entire day all the way to 7pm. When the sunset is hovering around 5pm in the shortest days of winter, you’re primed for an epic Sierra sunset (but you’ll want to have a headlamp in your pocket.) The afternoon uphill experience pairs well with a visit to the Belt Room afterwards. 

Backcountry Access

Sugar Bowl has an open boundary policy. Please be mindful of the backcountry access gates and do not exit through the gates if they are marked as closed. If you plan on traveling in the backcountry, you’ll want to equip yourself with a beacon, shovel, probe, and a base level of understanding of how to travel avalanche terrain. A 3-day AIARE 1 avalanche course is a great place to start.

Want to learn to Uphill? 

There are a variety of local guide services in North Lake Tahoe that teach uphill and backcountry skills. Sugar Bowl partners with Alpine Skills International, who offers a handy one-day Intro to Backcountry course. 

The Basic Rules of Uphill:

• A lift ticket or season pass is required to travel uphill inbounds.
• Review and sign the Uphill Use Policy before traveling uphill.
• Travel is allowed between 6am-7pm, but always check the website to make sure uphill travel is open. (Rule of thumb, if it’s really storming, we’ll probably close uphill travel… always check!)
• Use designated uphill travel routes only, stick to the edges of the trail and cross the slope only where directed. See descriptions below.
• Expect to encounter on-snow vehicles like snowmobiles and snowcats, etc. Plan to yield… Are you really in that much of a hurry?
• Sorry, no dogs permitted. But you can try cross country skiing in Van Norden Meadow with your favorite furball. 

A Note about Safety from Patrol:

Be aware of oncoming traffic. We close uphill when visibility becomes a safety issue, basically during weather events. Always check the Sugar Bowl website to see what the current status of uphill is. And lastly, follow the designated uphill routes.” 

Courtney Meyerhotlz. Sugar Bowl Ski Patrol Director

Route Descriptions

Mt. Disney 7,943′

~1,000 vertical feet of climbing from the Judah Parking Lot

Ascent & Descent Routes (listed from bottom, up): Disney Return, to Disney Traverse, to Disney Meadow, to Disney Traverse (the easiest way down).

Mt. Lincoln 8,369′

~1,400′ vertical feet of climbing from the Judah Parking Lot

Ascent & Descent Routes (listed from bottom, up): Union Street, to Silver Belt Run Out, to Cat Walk (Do not ascent straight up Silver Belt Run Out, stay to the left and utilize Cat Walk to avoid downhill traffic), to Henderson’s Bowl, to California Street, to Crowley’s Traverse (the easiest way down).

Mt. Judah 8,245′

~1,300 vertical feet of climbing from the Judah Parking Lot

Lower: Ascent & Descent Routes (listed from bottom, up): Season passholders may ascend starting at Lower Coldstream, to Tunnel 41, to Buena Vista. (Non-ticketed, non-passholder guests will end from the SnoPark parking at the top of Donner Summit. Enter the resort boundary by crossing Pacific Crest Trail and up Tunnel 41, to Buena Vista).

Upper: Ascent & Descent Routes (listed from bottom, up): Buena Vista to Tunnel.

More Details to keep in mind

• Uphill travel is not permitted inbounds outside of the normal operating season (don’t try to sneak in during early November, we’ll ask you to turn around!)
• If you’ve gotten this far you should know better but… uphill gear is required. Don’t try to walk uphill, no snowshoes, and you must have skis or a split board with metal edges to ascend. If you are looking for snowshoeing, check out Royal Gorge.
• Parking: you’ll most likely want to park in the Judah Lot if you are accessing the Lincoln or Disney uphill tracks. 

Remember, be an uphill travel steward. Offering this program to our Sugar Bowl community requires the cooperation (and the goodwill) of many departments including patrol, grooming, lift maintenance, snow removal, parking and more. Ignoring the rules is dangerous and will make it impossible for us to continue to offer uphill travel. Whatever you do out there, don’t be the clown to jeopardize uphill travel for the entire community! 

Visit our uphill status page for details. For daily uphill status call (530) 426-6775.

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

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

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

If you want to capture great memories on the mountain, don’t miss these great photo opportunities.

We gotta say, while the summit of Sugar Bowl is spectacular, pretty much everyone gets off the chair at the top of Mt Lincoln, pulls out their smartphone, and poses for a group photo. Yeah, we’re guilty too. Here’s the thing, it’s a great shot but it’s time to branch out. Behold: Our selection of 6 alternative photo locations you may not have thought of, curated by Sugar Bowl’s own professional photo team.

Whether you’re a pro photog with an official shot list or smartphone camera hero, use these insider spots for-the-win. With a little creativity and framing, your camera roll is going to be filled with the sweetest memories of Sugar Bowl.

1. Best Shot of the Palisades (without actually skiing them!)

Head to the top of the Christmas Tree then out along Ridge Run and get the view facing back towards the STEEP east face of Disney and Palisades. It will give you the impression of being surrounded by giant peaks.

2. Best get-the-whole-picture shot

Head to the edge of the gondola parking lot (on top of the parking garage). You’ll see just about everything from here: Judah, Lincoln, Disney and Crow’s. Hello holiday card family portrait!

3. Capture Sugar Bowl History in the Background

From the modern day Disney lift or while skiing/riding down, you can spy a tower off to the right from the first chairlift in California still standing.

4. Best hike-to shot

Roller Pass may be inbounds, but it feels like a world away. Our “best hike-to” shot is located in the saddle between Lincoln and Judah. You can access it most easily by riding up Lincoln and skiing down Crowley’s Traverse. Turn off at the obvious big elbow in the run, in the flat zone after the headwall.

A little bonus history for you, back in the era of the pioneers, Roller Pass is where the pioneers “rolled” their covered wagons over the pass on their journey westward. Just think about that if you get tired hiking.

5. Cleanest corduroy

There are two important tricks to nailing this one: Show up for first chair and make sure the terrain you pick to ski is east facing (so your shot will be in the light even when the sun is low in the sky.) The early morning light is magical off of East Face via Disney (make sure your skier model can handle it!) and the view won’t disappoint either.

6. Best Pow shot

Nothing beats a powder shot from the top of Silver Belt. It’s high elevation which means the it’s going to receive the most and highest quality snowfall. It’s got plenty of dramatic jagged rocks for snow to pile up on top of, which pretty much guarantees your shot is going to be insta-worthy.

Bonus Photo Spot

For the best shot en route to Sugar Bowl, head up Old 40 to catch a view of Donner Lake from the Rainbow Bridge. There’s a handy parking area here. Text “Old40” to 855-835-5599 to be notified every time the road opens or closes.

P.S. we hope you still took a photo at the top of Lincoln. It’s amazing up there!

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

Sugar Bowl has a variety of ways to park and enjoy the mountain including free lots with first-come-first-serve parking, a 10-minute drop-off zone, and reserved parking options. Remember to carpool when possible.

Park at the Mt Judah Lodge

• Slopeside parking, most convenient option for chairlift access
• Free parking in all three parking lots around Judah Lodge
• First-come-first serve basis

On weekends and holidays, a free shuttles circulates the Judah parking lot to bring skiers and riders directly to the base area.

Judah Lodge: Mt Judah Lodge, Sugar Bowl Rd, Truckee, CA 96161

Judah Drop-Off Zone: Free 10 min Parking

Sugar Bowl guests are welcome to use the Judah drop-off zone to unload belongings and equipment. Drive through the Judah Lot to the roundabout near Judah Lodge and look for drop-off zone signage. Please do not leave your vehicle unattended and plan to limit your usage to 10 minutes or less.

Judah Lodge Preferred Parking: Sold Out

All preferred parking passes for the 2021/22 season have been sold. We do not anticipate making any additional parking passes available.

Judah Kids Ski School Parking

There is limited first-come-first-serve parking for ski school participants at the Judah Kids Building. Use the upper parking lot at Judah to access, it will be on your left as you drive into the Judah Lot.

Park at Village Access Gondola Parking Lot

• 10-minute gondola ride from parking lot to Village Lodge & chairlift access
• Free parking in our smaller, secondary parking lot
• First-come-first serve basis

Village Gondola Parking Lot: 58370 Donner Summit Rd, Norden, CA 95724

Village Gondola Lot for Hotel & Village Guest Parking

Hotel and Village guests have access to the covered indoor parking at the base of the gondola. After parking in the garage, head upstairs to board the Gondola, and you will arrive inside The Hotel in just a few minutes. Please note, we do not offer overnight parking in our Judah base area parking lots nor adjacent to The Hotel, so we highly encourage taking the Village Gondola during your stay.

Limited Overnight Parking

There is a small amount of overnight parking available for guests and employees located near the Village Gondola Parking Lot on Old 40. Please do not attempt to park overnight in the main lot. The overnight lot is located east of the gondola on the south side of the road. Look for a small parking lot that runs along the gondola-side of the road.

Please note, there is no overnight parking, including RVs, in the main Judah lot or the main Village Gondola parking lot due to snow removal concerns.

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

Our ski lessons are offered in FOUR fantastic levels so you can drop in with a group that’s tailored to your skill level.

• Level 1 (first time skiing)
• Level 2 (beginner)
• Level 3 (intermediate)
• Level 4 (advanced)

Benefits to signing up for the right level ski lesson include:

• The content of the lesson will be catered to your current abilities
• You’ll be learning in a group with skiers of a similar level
• You’ll be taught by an instructor best suited to teach your level

Take a few moments to read through this handy breakdown to ensure you have chosen your level correctly. You’ll be set up for a great ski lesson at Sugar Bowl.

Level 1: I’m a First Time Skier

Green Circle Runs

Q: Have you ever skied before?

No? You are a Level 1 skier. Pretty simple, there is no need to read further until you return for more lessons on your path to becoming a lifetime skier/rider.

Yes? If you have skied before in the past few years, and you already know how to make a wedge turn, consider exploring Level 2 lessons instead.

More about Level 1

Booking a Level 1 lesson with one of our certified ski instructors will get you started in the right direction. The progress you can make with an hour of ski instruction can replace many days of figuring it out on your own. You’ll cover how ski equipment functions and learn foundational skills like turning and stopping. A Learn to Ski Package is the best way to get started and includes rentals, a lesson, and a lift ticket.

Level 2: I’ve skied before and I’m all about the wedge turn

Green Circle Runs

Q: Can you stop and change direction using a wedge?

Q: Do you use a wedge at any time during a turn?

Q: Do you prefer skiing green runs? 

Q: Can you ride a chairlift?

If the skier above sounds like you, Level 2 is a great next lesson for you. If you are already transitioning to parallel turns, move ahead to Level 3.

More about Level 2

Mastering the wedge turn (otherwise known as the “pizza”) is a great first step towards learning to ski. You’ll be able to stop, turn, and generally get to where you need to go on the mountain. As your control and balance improves, you’ll be ready to start learning “parallel turns” and gain the skills to ski more advanced terrain in Level 3

Level 3: Sometimes I Can Make Parallel Turns

Blue Square Runs+

Q: Can you comfortably link parallel turns on blue runs?

Q: Are you starting to work up to skiing some easy black runs?

Q: Can you ski with poles?

If you have transitioned from wedge turns to parallel turns and you are starting to move from blue terrain to black terrain, keep progressing with a Level 3 lesson.

More about Level 3

If you’re skiing with parallel turns some or most of the time, you’ve made it into Level 3. You should feel confident on blue square runs and want to start mixing in some easier black diamond terrain. It’s okay if your happy place is still blue runs, but hopefully you are starting to feel that if you took your time, you would be confident controlling your skis on more advanced terrain. 

Level 4: I’m an Advanced Skier ready to fine tune my skills

Black Diamond Runs+

Q: Can you ski a variety of conditions? Groomed/ungroomed/bumps etc.

Q: Can you make dynamic turns skiing in parallel the whole time?

Q: Are you confident skiing black and double black runs? chutes, steeps, or bumps?

If you are confident making parallel turns in a variety of conditions in a range of terrain, Level 4 can provide helpful insight into taking your skiing to the next level.

More about Level 4

Don’t settle once you’ve transitioned from an intermediate to an advanced skier. Sure, you may be able to ski the whole mountain comfortably, but can you do it with style? Skiing is a lifelong pursuit and Level 4 will help you fine tune your skills, break out of bad habits, and have you on your way to becoming an expert skier.

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

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.”

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

Your Guide to 48 Fabulous Hours at Sugar Bowl

Use these tips to maximize fun, even if your time in the mountains is at a minimum. With a little research and some proper planning, you can get a lot done in a weekend. Between the easy highway access, uncrowded slopes, and authentic alpine vibe, Sugar Bowl Resort is the perfect spot for a quick ski getaway in Tahoe.

Drive at Non-Peak Times:

If you want to travel as efficiently as possible, plan your drive time well outside of peak traffic hours 3pm-6pm. If you are traveling east on i80 and aiming for a Friday evening arrival, consider leaving extra early midday or pushing the trip into the late evening. If Saturday morning is your target, break out the extra big coffee thermos for an alpine start and try to hit the road before dawn. Sugar Bowl is generally WAY less crowded than other large resorts in Tahoe BUT that doesn’t mean the highway won’t be busy if you’re traveling on a weekend. If you must travel at peak times on the weekend, don’t worry, Sugar Bowl is only 3 miles off the highway and you won’t be contending with the bulk of the traffic that is closer to Lake Tahoe.

Winter driving tips: plan around the weather and prep your vehicle. Have chains on board (and make sure you know how to install them) or choose a vehicle with snow tires and 4-wheel drive if possible.

Friday Night Arrival:

Where to stay: There are 2 convenient options for staying close to Sugar Bowl. If you want to be as close as possible to skiing, choose to stay slopeside at The Hotel or in a nearby vacation rental. If you prefer to stay in Truckee to be closer to the nightlife, no big deal, just hop on i80 going west and you can typically make it from Truckee to Sugar Bowl in under 25 minutes.

9am: Saturday Ski Day: 

Now that you’ve unpacked your gear and gotten your bearings, let the fun begin!

Where to ski:

First let’s start with a trail map.

• Looking for easy green runs? Try White Pine near the Judah Lodge and work your way up to the Jerome Hill lift.
• Comfortable on moderate blues & blacks? Rahlves Run off of Lincoln is a classic. You’ll get to experience the tallest summit at Sugar Bowl and there’s a moderate way back down to the base.
• All about challenging black runs? Tick off the East Face of Disney or the 58 off of Lincoln.

Two important tips: 

1. If you need a lift ticket, remember to purchase it at least a day in advance. Keep in mind that we sell a limited amount of lift tickets every day, so plan ahead if you want guaranteed availability. 
2. Early birds get… good skiing: We groom our runs overnight, so showing up at or before 9am is usually the best way to catch good snow conditions.

11am:  Coffee Break at Village Lodge

After a couple solid hours of skiing and riding, treat yourself to an artisan coffee and pastry at Village Espresso in the Village Lodge. You’ll be surprised to find an exceptional third-wave coffee shop nestled right into the heart of our historic Village Lodge. Temple Coffee Roasters out of Sacramento adds some serious panache to the standard ski resort coffee offering… but hey, if you want to keep it simple with a cup of drip, don’t worry, we’ve got that too.

We always find that a little caffeine perks up our tired legs for a few more hours of skiing or riding. After a good midday break, you’ll be ready to finish out day 1 on the slopes strong.

2pm: Day 1 Après

At Sugar Bowl, we maintain that the skiing and riding “lifestyle” is just as important as the actual sport itself. And that lifestyle…we’ll it’s all about Après! Once the afternoon rolls around, we head down to the Belt Room in the Village Lodge. Try one of our famous Bloody Mary’s or order up some classic American fare to top off any great day. If it’s sunny, and it often is, the expansive deck in front of the Belt Room is the place to be found with your beverage of choice in hand. 

Check our calendar to see if there are events or live music happening that day.

Evening: Post-skiing Day 1 

Staying in on the summit? Join us for an evening in the Dining Room at Village Lodge for the ultimate union of delicious food and incredible ambiance. Our Dining Room defines fine dining with a view: Bay Area-inspired California cuisine in our classic high-alpine lodge, complete with an oversized wood-burning fireplace. 

Heading into Town? What to Eat in Truckee: 

• Try Moody’s or the Cottonwood for upscale dining
• Best Pies for pizza
• Casa Baeza for Mexican
• Alibi for craft beers and pub food

What to See in Truckee: 

• Downtown Truckee: go for a stroll through the charming downtown strip. Truckee is a historic railroad town, if you’re lucky, you’ll see a great big train rumbling through the heart of downtown. 
• Walk the Truckee River via the Legacy Trail on the outskirts of town.
• Bundle up and watch the sunset from the east end of Donner Lake.
• If you’re up for a drive, you can typically get to Lake Tahoe in about 40 minutes from Sugar Bowl.

Day 2: Another day on the slopes

Maybe you want to rack up as many hot laps as you can before heading home… Or maybe you’re ready to mix it up? If you’re skiing the resort, you already know the drill, but if you’re ready to branch out on Day 2, here are some of our favorite Sunday activities:

Try cross country skiing at Royal Gorge.

Did you know that Sugar Bowl operates the largest cross country ski resort in North America? Explore the Van Norden Meadow and catch an incredible view of the terrain you were downhill skiing just the day before. Royal Gorge encompasses more than 6,000 acres and features 92 trails for classic cross-country skiing, skate skiing, and snowshoeing. Trails are appropriate for guests of all ages and ability levels and rentals and lessons are available daily. Plan to purchase at least a day in advance if you need rentals, a lesson, or a day ticket. 

P.S. If you are traveling with your furry friend, a $5 dog pass grants you access to over 30km of dog-friendly trails.

Up for a day of backcountry skiing? 

Unlike most resorts in the Tahoe region, Sugar Bowl, in conjunction with the USFS, maintains an open boundary policy for backcountry skiing and riding. If you’re an experienced backcountry user with avalanche training and proper safety gear, the world is your oyster- there is excellent backcountry terrain to be found off of Lincoln, Judah, and Crows. If you’re an inexperienced backcountry user or if you’d prefer to travel under the guidance of a mountain professional, there are numerous professional mountain guide services that operate in Tahoe. Hire a guide to take you up the resort lifts and out beyond the boundary of Sugar Bowl to explore the backcountry. More about our backcountry policy here.

Day 2: Last Stop before you hit the road

Stop by one of our retail stores for some keepsake shopping. We launched an all-new logo wear catalog this winter and we know you’ll want to bring something home with you.

Make it happen:

Now that you’ve got a basic weekend itinerary, it’s time to make a plan and customize our ideas to fit your style. Even if you have limited time at Sugar Bowl this winter, be sure to make your time in the mountains count. How many days are you going to ski this season? Set a goal and see if you can hit it. We can’t wait to see you on the slopes.

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

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.

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

Welcome to the Real-time Information Hub, a collection for our favorite tips, tricks, and handy links to help you stay connected with what’s happening at Sugar Bowl Resort. If knowing information before everyone else is your thing, you’ve come to the right place! Bookmark/follow/download these tools for quick access to this crucial information. Stay in the loop and have your best possible day on the slopes.

Weather & Road Conditions

Knowing the weather and road conditions will help you know what to expect when traveling to the resort.

Weather

Sign up for the Powder Planner Email

• When we see a storm on the horizon, we let you know so you can plan accordingly.

Check Donner Summit Weather

• Be sure to check high elevation weather for Tahoe, above 7,000′ for the most accurate data.

Road Conditions

• Check Caltrans for i80 Road Conditions 
• Old 40 Updates
  • Old 40 is the best shortcut from Truckee to Sugar Bowl. If you want to know the status of Old 40 this winter, text “Old40” to 855-835-5599 and we’ll send you a message anytime Old 40 opens or closes.

Current Conditions on the Mountain

This mega page is THE page to check. It has our updated snowfall (recorded twice daily) plus snow reporters notes. It has real-time lift operations that are updated every time a lift status changes. You’ll also find a detailed grooming report plus an interactive grooming map. It also pulls in basic weather and road conditions to give you a solid overall sense of the conditions to expect at Sugar Bowl that day.

No Frills Twitter Updates

Want to get direct updates with no frills? We’ve got just the thing. We tweet a daily conditions report each morning along with any changes to operations, whether it’s a lift going on hold during a wind event or new terrain opening during a storm day.

Real-time Mountain Operations Updates

Seeing is believing: Up-to-Date Images

If you want an updated image of what conditions look like at Sugar Bowl check our webcams or social media.

Webcams

Do you need to decide what goggle lens to wear? Check the webcams, they are located all over the mountain.

Social Media

Do you want to see how good the powder is skiing while you’re stuck at work? You know we’ll be posting stories to our instagram account if there is any new snow on the ground. Que the FOMO!

In Case of Emergency

Oh oh… it does happen, so be sure to add this important contact into your phone. If you witness an injury or you’re involved in one, you’ll be able to reach the dispatch office who can send a team of ski patrollers as necessary. Unless you’ve memorized this place inside out, it can be helpful to carry a paper trail map in your pocket. That way, if you need to report the precise location of an injury, you won’t be fumbling for the name.

When reporting an accident, always remember to be brief, direct, and report the most important information first. First state your location, then a brief description of the injured person(s), and the nature of the injury. Dispatch will also want to know the number of the phone from which you are calling. If you suddenly get disconnected or your phone battery dies in the cold, at least dispatch will know your location, so they can send a ski patroller for further investigation. You can also report injuries to the chairlift attendants or anyone in a Sugar Bowl uniform.

Ski Patrol and Emergencies

• call (530) 426-6727
• or 9-1-1

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

With the right preparation and a couple helpful pointers, you’ll have a lot of fun learning to ski or ride at Sugar Bowl Resort.

1. Go with a Pro & Book a Lesson

Friends are great for carpooling but they almost always fall short as ski instructors. Book a lesson with one of our certified ski & ride instructors and we’ll get you started in the right direction. The progress you can make with an hour of ski instruction can replace days or weeks of figuring it out on your own.

As I’m sure you learned all too well during the pandemic, we send our kids to professional teachers in school for a reason…they are trained to teach.  Same goes for our PSIA certified Ski Instructors.

Is the whole family learning to ski? Choose a private family lesson, or, we have options for kid-specific and adult-specific lessons.

2. Know the Rules of the Road

The Skier Responsibility Code is a crash course in ski area etiquette. but it’s a good idea to get a basic idea of the do’s and don’ts before you hit the slopes. The list includes common sense items such as always stay in control & be able to stop, but also some items you might not consider, like stopping in a safe spot where you can be seen.  When possible, I like to stop behind a sign or tree for an added level of protection.  

3. Study the Trail Map

When you’re just getting started, look for the zones with the most green circles. (Hint: both parking areas have access to beginner terrain.) Get an idea of which chairlifts you want to ride that day to access the terrain you want to ski or ride. If you take a few minutes to get your bearings before your first day, you’ll feel much more confident when you arrive. Here’s a link to our trail map.  Have questions while at the mountain, just ask someone in a blue Sugar Bowl uniform.  Our team is passionate about skiing and snowboarding and loves to share that passion with others.

4. Gearing up? Get the Right Tool for the Job

Sure, your friend might have a free set of skis you can borrow, but if they are better suited for a ski museum or a foot taller than you, the “savings” are doing you no favors.  

One of our friendly base area rental shops can help get you and/or your family dialed in for your first day on the slopes. A professional technician will make sure your skis or boards are properly adjusted to match your skill level. You can rest assured that our state-of-the-art rental fleet is waxed, tuned, and ready to rock. Rentals are only available for skiers and riders taking a lesson at Sugar Bowl. Be sure to book at least a day in advance!

5. What to Wear: Outfitted for the Outdoors 

A great day in the mountains starts with comfortable outdoor clothing. The basics are: waterproof jacket and pants, insulating/moisture-wicking base layers, helmet, googles, gloves, and ski socks. Remember to avoid cotton wherever possible, because it gets cold when wet. For a step-by-step guide, check out this helpful blog.

Pocket essentials: we like to have a travel size sunscreen, lip balm, microfiber goggle cloth, and tissues. Forgot something? We can help at one of our on-mountain stores.

6. Give Yourself a Break

If it’s your first day, it’s safe to say that you’ll be learning a lot of new skills (and testing out a couple new muscles too!) Taking a lunch break at one of our on-mountain dining locations is an opportunity to rest, relax, hydrate, and enjoy the view of the surrounding Sierra. You’ll be ready for another round of skiing or riding after a little down-time.

On a budget? Keep a spare Cliff Bar in your pocket. Kids learning to ski too? Pack two for them! Parking lot car picnics are allowed and encouraged.

7. Acclimate to the Elevation

Many of our guests travel to Sugar Bowl from sea level and will hop on the lifts that lead straight to our highest peak at 8,383’. While this altitude change is typically manageable, you may notice a mild headache and some extra huffing and puffing going up the stairs. Stay hydrated, take it slow, and keep an extra Advil in your pocket just in case.

8. Celebrate your First Day with some Après 

Don’t go just yet! After your big first day on the slopes, plan to enjoy the legendary après culture Sugar Bowl has to offer. Join us for great food and party vibes at the Belt Room. Looking for a laidback soak in the sun? Try the picnic tables outside of Judah Lodge. Whatever you’re up for, our skiing and riding culture at Sugar Bowl is a lot of fun, and we’re excited to show you what it’s all about.

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

My First Year at Royal Gorge

I finally joined the skinny ski club and I’m OBSESSED. Before last year, I was certain that I’d be a diehard downhiller at Sugar Bowl for life, alas, last December I found myself gliding into the fabulous world of skate skiing at Royal Gorge. Now I’m a proud owner of a combo pass and I’m living out my wildest winter dreams on Donner Summit. Sometimes I even get to do both in the same day.

A couple of reasons why I decided to learn to skate last year:

1. It’s incredible exercise

I can keep my cardio up all winter without using a treadmill, the most boring invention on the planet. Pro-tip: you burn so many calories skate skiing that you get to wear a fannypack to store all your extra snacks.

2. My border collie needs the aforementioned exercise more than I do.

There are 11.7km of groomed dog-friendly trails around Van Norden Meadow. Every day my dog gets to go skate skiing is the best day of her life.

3. The landscape is unreal.

Where do I start? It’s the largest cross country resort in America so there’s a lot to see. There’s an amazing view of Sugar Bowl from the meadow, you can skate to Point Mariah to see the massive canyon where the American River starts, you can hoof it all the way up to the top of Rowton Peak and gaze over the Sierra Crest, and of course— simple pleasures, skating through snowy woods is always a winner.

4. It’s a great alternative if the ski resort conditions aren’t perfect.

Hard pack groomer at the resort? Ideal skating conditions. Skiing and skating are the ying and yang of winter sports.

We covered the nice stuff, now let’s get real.

My first day of skate skiing was, in full transparency, a slippery slam fest. It would be better classified as a comedy show for my fellow cross country skiers. But don’t worry, hopefully you can learn from my mistakes. Furthermore, I’ll be the first to tell you that the challenging start was worth it.

Step #1: There’s a bit of a learning curve

I learned that my proficiency on downhill skis does NOT immediately translate to a mastery of skate skis. On day 1 I asked myself many times, “Where are the metal edges? How do they get these skis SO slippery? How am I supposed to propel myself forward with these floppy bindings and squishy boots?”

I watched skaters twice my senior glide effortlessly past me shouting friendly “hello-how-are-ya’s.” Everyone else was a lot less sweaty than me. It turns out that just because you can downhill ski/run/you’re-an-athlete doesn’t mean it won’t be challenging to try skating for the first time. The experience was humbling to say the least… but the sun was out, the trees were snowy, and it was a lot of fun!

Step #2: It’s time to do the work, how do I get better at this?

Take a Lesson

I spent at least three days wobble-wiggling through the motions before I finally booked a lesson with a professional Royal Gorge instructor. My instructor broke everything down into simple steps and showed me a series of the techniques to use on different types of terrain. We practiced drills that helped improve my single leg glide and error-corrected some bad habits I had fallen into while learning on my own. The lesson was an hour long, cost $60, and set me off on the right foot. In hindsight, I would have started here in the first place.

Watch Biathlon

Personally, I believe the evenings I spent watching YouTube clips of old Olympic races, drinking wine, and yelling at the computer screen were an important part of my early skate ski training. Maybe it was the professional lesson that I finally ponied up and paid for. Either way, it’s called manifesting.

Practice!

This is the fun part. Starting to skate ski is challenging in every way— it’s as mental as it is physical. While my brain was working out how this strange side-to-side movement could propel me forward, every muscles in my body was working out too. Especially the tiny weird shin muscles I didn’t realize I had, those got really sore at first. If you like a challenge and you’re prepared to be humbled, you’ll love learning to skate as much as I did.

Step #3: Where do we go from here?

Only time will tell… I’m still a diehard downhiller, but I’ve grown to appreciate my slippery skinny skis and the calm of the trails. This winter if I’m not out slashing pow at Sugar Bowl, you can find me skating around Royal Gorge to explore all the places on the trail map that I haven’t gotten to yet. Devil’s Peak anyone? If you’re learning to skate this season like I did last year, remember to be humble, don’t be afraid to fall, and eat a lot of snacks. I’m still pretty new at this to be dolling out advice but I think skate skiing is a good example of where “the journey is in the destination.” I can’t wait to get skating again this winter and keep improving. Hope to see you out there too!

Cheers,

sk8r_grl

P.S. if you had a lot of questions (I did) Here are some handy FAQ for you:

Q: What should I know if I’m a beginner?

Royal Gorge has two parking areas, one at Van Norden Meadow and one at Summit Station. If you need rentals or a day ticket, plan to go to Summit Station first. In total Royal Gorge has 27 beginner trails with stunning views of the Northern Sierra and Van Norden Meadow.

Q: What winter sports can I do at Royal Gorge?

You can choose between classic cross-country (where you shuffling your skis straight ahead) and skate skiing (skis move laterally like ice skates). Most beginners start out with classic skiing, but if you want to go big and start with skating, why not!? There are also great snowshoeing trails at Royal Gorge.

Q: Can I rent gear?

Yes! Royal Gorge has state-of-the-art equipment rentals are available daily. You can rent one type of equipment package (skate, classic or snowshoe) and trade it in same day for a different type. Book in advance and, on the day of your arrival, rental gear can be picked up at Summit Station.

Q: Can I take a lesson?

There are group or private lessons available at Royal Gorge with experienced instructors. Lessons are available daily but sell out, be sure to book in advance.

Q: Where should I go if I’m learning?

There is a great practice area right in front of Summit Station. There are plenty of short flat loops that start and finish here as well. The Van Norden Meadow is also beginner-friendly.

Q: What do you wear for cross-country skiing?

Dress in non-cotton layers that move easily and wick sweat.

Q: Can I bring my dog?

Yes! Park at Van Norden Meadow and enjoy the 11.7km of dog trials. See trail map and on-trail signage for details.

Posted By:

Sugar Bowl Admin

Aaaand we have a winner! We are pleased to bring you an interview with ’21-22 Passholder Beanie Designer Sophia Sperman. Last spring, during our first ever beanie design competition, Sophia submitted her trail map themed masterpiece. Although we received hundreds of submissions, Sophia’s design was quickly selected for the next round of the competition by a highly professional panel of judges (otherwise known as the Sugar Bowl marketing department). Our top eight picks were then blasted out on all our social channels, awaiting judgment from our faithful followers. A rigorous voting session ensued and when it all shook out, we had a clear winner. Congratulations Sophia!

The new beanies will be given out to passholders at random during the ’21/22 winter season. Hope you get one! Now, on with the interview:

Q: How did you come up with your design? What was the inspiration behind the map?

“I designed this beanie with the Sugar Bowl’s brand in mind. I wanted it to be identifiably on-brand and unique. While brainstorming ideas that fit these criteria, I remembered the resort map. I thought it would be hilariously charming to point to a map on my head if someone asked me for directions.”

Q: What’s your go-to creative outlet? Art, design, music, cat photos on Instagram… whatever

“My go-to creative outlet is absolutely art. Growing up, I drew on every scrap of paper I could get my hands on. My teachers were often irked by doodles on the edges of assignments, and I used my school planner as a sketchbook. In high school, I took a graphic design class and fell in love with Adobe Illustrator. I used Adobe Illustrator to design my entry to the Sugar Bowl Beanie Contest! I also love sculpture and print making, and most recently, I taught myself to crochet — I’ve been working on blankets for my apartment next semester. I find the overlap of physical and digital arts fascinating, and I plan on exploring that overlap in the near future!”

Q: Have you done design work before or is this amazing hat design totally out of the blue for you?

“I’ve done design work in the past. I first learned the ropes of graphic design in high school, and was later competitively chosen to revamp the logos and branding guidelines for my high school (San Leandro High School) as well as the school’s business academy logo. It’s really rewarding to see the logo I designed newly painted on the school’s exterior! Later, I worked on logos for small businesses, and I frequently find small jobs in photo editing. I’ve also dabbled in digital illustration for children’s books.”

Q: Are you going come up and ski/ride Sugar Bowl this winter? If yes, what are you most excited to experience at Sugar Bowl/Lake Tahoe?

“Unfortunately, with college and internships, I don’t think I’ll make it to Sugar Bowl this winter. However, it is a favorite destination for my aunt and me, so as soon as I can make a snowboarding trip, Sugar Bowl will 100% be in my itinerary. Hopefully, I’ll be able to come back soon for a pre-graduation trip!”

Q: What are you going to do with your $500 cash?

The $500 prize will help me pay for textbooks and lab fees during my upcoming semester at UC Berkeley! I am so grateful!

Q: What’s your experience like being a student at Berkeley? What are you studying?

“I love it here at UC Berkeley! It is easy to get a quick workout walking along the many campus footpaths – there is always somewhere new to explore! Coming into college, I was determined to find a career path that combined both art and STEM. I am an intended Chemistry major–I plan to declare my major once the fall semester starts–but I also take a lot of art classes which help me unwind from those long chemistry labs. Additionally, I’ve been interested in the chemical processes behind the art of tattoos for a long time, and majoring in chemistry is a great way to explore that niche topic.”

Q: Did your major in college help you come up with your design or totally unrelated?

“I approach chemistry with an artistic lens, which informed my artistic process designing the hat. Maps, like the one I included in my entry, are inherently structural. Maps give visual structure to the process of conveying concepts of direction and space. In a similar vein, chemistry gives us the words to describe how matter works in our world. Finding artistic ways to portray these chemical processes makes chemistry accessible and my art functional, which is important to me. Thus, I spent extra time making sure the map in my design was both functional and beautiful.”

Q: What outfit is going to look best with this beanie?

“This beanie is a statement piece that would add a fantastic touch to anyone’s outfit. I’m also a big fan of versatility in fashion, so I combined the primary colors with the Sugar Bowl color palette to ensure that this beanie will look wonderful with an outfit of almost any color scheme. Personally, I will be pairing my beanie with a light blue long-sleeved turtle neck layered under a black cami and tucked into my favorite pair of forest green jeans. Of course, I’ll have to add some cute black fuzzy boots and, if it gets cold enough here in Berkeley, my favorite blue-grey North Face raincoat.”

Q: We’re going to send you a bunch of hats, who are you going to share them with?

“I plan to share my beanies with my family–especially my aunt Phoebe Chandler, the habitual snowboarder of the family. While I was growing up, she would take me to Sugar Bowl during winter vacation to snowboard with her. She’s also the one who told me about this contest. I would not have known to enter without her, so I am very grateful that she thought of me when she saw the contest details! I also will send a beanie to my high school graphic arts teacher, Ms. Deborah Reinerio, without whom I would not have had the skills to create an entry. I am so lucky to have the support of many wonderful people in my life, and I am so excited to share my winning beanies with them!”

Q: If you could see anyone in the world wearing your design, who would it be?

I would love to have seen my Opa (the German word for grandfather) wear one of my beanies. After he was liberated during WW2, he received graphic design training in Switzerland and went on to make a living in the U.S. designing logos and product packaging. Plus, he was always wearing a hat. If he were still alive, I am sure he would be ecstatic to see what I’ve accomplished in this contest, and I know he would wear my beanie design with pride.

Q: Besides for getting to wear your beanie, what are you most excited about for this upcoming winter?

I’m a cold-weather person, so winter is my favorite season and I am excited for winter itself (along with eggnog and hopefully seeing family and friends). This winter, I am hoping to see a picture full of map-hat clad super fans of Sugar Bowl! What a treat to see my art enjoyed.

Want to get one of the ’21-22 passholder beanies?

We’ll be passing out thousands of these sweet hats throughout the season. But remember, these limited edition hats can’t be purchased, to get one you must:

• Be a season passholder
• Be out skiing or riding
• Be in the right place at the right time

Good luck and hope you get one!

Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

We are thrilled to welcome new Terrain Park Manager Parker Gokey to the Sugar Bowl Team. Parker brings tons of prior terrain park and mountain management experience into his new role and he is highly respected in his field. We caught up with him for a quick interview to see what he has planned for the ’21/22 season at Sugar Bowl. Check it out:

Can you start by introducing yourself and giving us an overview of your experience in the ski industry?

“Hi I’m Parker Gokey. I’m the terrain park manager at Sugar Bowl. I’ve been building parks at Mount Ashland in Southern Oregon for the last 10 years, I was their Outdoor Operation Manager. I’m brand new here, starting last May.”

I also want to build a park that every kind of person can enjoy, from the little shredders to the Rad Dad or Mom. We’ll be building more snow features in the area near our halfpipe. When you look down the flow park, you won’t see a straight line of features. There will be features spread across the area that all connect into one another.”

What are you excited to build at Sugar Bowl to improve the terrain park experience?

“I want to bring flow park features into the Sugar Bowl Terrain park. Of course, we will have our main park with jumps, rails, everything like that, but I also want to build a park that every kind of person can enjoy, from the little shredders to the Rad Dad or Mom. We’ll be building more snow features in the area near our halfpipe. When you look down the flow park, you won’t see a straight line of features. There will be features spread across the area that all connect into one another.”

For example, maybe you have a jump to start, but on the side of that jump you’ll have an oval or a volcano that will bring you across [gesturing] to a hip over there [gesturing]. I’m also excited to build more terrain-based learning features into our program.”

What’s unique about your approach to building parks?

“I’m very hardworking. I’m generally always the first person to show up at work, whether it’s here or any job I’ve ever hand. My style is getting everything out there. I never want to see features in the parking lot, I want to see feature on the snow and I want to see people hitting those features.”

What do you love about working in the ski & ride industry?

“I’m originally from New Hampshire so ski history is very much in my blood. I love snowboarding and skiing together. I do both as well— I’ve skied since 1992 and snowboard since 2004. The most rewarding part of working in this industry is seeing people in our terrain parks, hitting features, and having fun. That’s what skiing and snowboarding is all about.”

What are your favorite terrain & conditions to ride? 

“I mostly lap the park and I am always looking for a rock to jump off of. On a powder day I’ll be first in line with the other powder hounds.”

What made you want to become the Terrain Park Manager at Sugar Bowl?

“It’s 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.”