Donner Ski Ranch slopes and chairlift
Photo Credit: Donner Ski Ranch

We have put together a list of everything you need to know about Donner Ski Ranch.

Donner Ski Ranch Overview

Donner Ski Ranch is a family-friendly ski resort located on the Donner Summit in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California. It's known for its diverse terrain accommodating all skill levels, a laid-back atmosphere, and being one of the oldest ski resorts in the state, preserving the classic ski experience.

Ski Terrain

  • Beginner runs: 30%
  • Intermediate runs: 35%
  • Advanced runs: 35%
  • Expert runs: 0%
  • Total ski runs: 52
  • Terrain Parks: 1

Mountain Statistics

  • Summit elevation: 7781 feet
  • Skiable area: 500 acres
  • Average Snowfall: 114 inches

Donner Ski Ranch Trail Map

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Donner Ski Ranch Lift Tickets

Donner Ski Ranch has several lift pass options including day lift tickets and season passes. Below is a breakdown of the lift passes and the key differences between the passes.

Day Lift Ticket

The day lift ticket gives you daily access to Donner Ski Ranch, it is valid for the set days you’ve purchased the ticket. It is available for half-day or full-day and can be purchased at the ticket office on the day of your visit. To save time, please print and fill out the liability release form and bring it to the ticket office.

Season Pass

The Season Pass gives you unlimited and unrestricted access to the skis and rides at Donner Ski Ranch all season long. Please visit Donner Ski Ranch to purchase a Season Pass.

Donner Ski Ranch Ski and Snowboard Lessons

Donner Ski Ranch Ski and Snowboard School only offer private lessons. This is a fully customize one-on-one hourly lesson, an extra hour or an extra person can be add-on with additional charges. Many of the instructors can speak both English and Spanish. Lessons are available on first come, first served at the main ticket windows up through the tunnel.

Nearest Town to Donner Ski Ranch

The nearest town to Donner Ski Ranch is Truckee, California, which is just about 16.3 miles away. Skiers often choose to stay in Truckee due to its proximity to several ski resorts, vibrant community, and abundant dining and shopping options. Truckee is known for its charming downtown area that retains a rustic, old-western feel and its access to various outdoor activities, including mountain biking, and water sports at the nearby Donner Lake.

Beyond skiing at Donner Ski Ranch, visitors can easily access a number of other notable ski resorts within a short drive. These include Palisades Tahoe (Squaw Valley), Northstar California, Sugar Bowl Resort, and Boreal Mountain Resort. Each of these offers a unique blend of terrain and amenities, making the area around Truckee a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders.

On Mountain Dining

Donner Ski Ranch offers limited on-mountain dining options compared to some larger ski resorts. Here are some of the options.

Old 40 Bar & Grill

Located at the base area at the Main Lodge, features a full bar and offers a typical grill menu.

Opening hours (subject to change): 11 am-8 pm (Sun - Thur), 11 am-9 pm (Fri - Sat)

Google Maps

Main Lodge Cafeteria

The Main Lodge at Donner Ski Ranch features a cafeteria-style restaurant serving a variety of food items including burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, soups, and more.

Opening hours (subject to change): 11 am-8 pm 

Google Maps

Donner Ski Ranch Contact Information

Address: 19320 Donner Pass Rd, Norden, CA 95724, United States

Phone number: (530) 426-3635

Email: dsrinfo@donnerskiranch.com

Google Maps | Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there ski packages to Donner Ski Ranch?

There are no ski vacation packages to Donner Ski Ranch. That said, there are ski vacation packages to most destination resorts in Lake Tahoe and California, including Heavenly and Northstar California.

How much does it cost to rent ski equipment at Donner Ski Ranch?

Rental equipment can be purchased at the ticket window on the day of your visit, the cost of

the most basic ski/snowboard starts from $49 per day for adults. Poles and helmet can be added on for $12 per day and $16 per day respectively. Please visit Donner Ski Ranch Rental for more information.