Sierra-at-Tahoe Faces Uncertain 2021-22 Season after Fire Damage, Offers Passholders Refund Options

Background

Since August of this year, the Caldor Fire has raged through California, burning over 220,000 acres of terrain. On August 30, the fire reached Sierra-at-Tahoe ski resort, causing extensive damage to lifts, facilities, and some terrain. At least two lifts—Nob Hill and Short Stuff—have sustained considerable damage. In addition, a maintenance shop and beginner surface lift has been destroyed.

Sierra has released periodic updates since the fire passed by the resort, but this week, the resort explained they are uncertain of the amount of terrain they will be able to open this year. The resort still needs to assess trees and lifts for fire damage, make repairs to on-mountain infrastructure, and conduct extensive work with outside contractors. The task is compounded by macroeconomic factors, including the global supply chain shortages.

As a result of these circumstances, Sierra is offering a number of compensation options for season passholders. Passholders who retain their purchase will receive a free pass extension to 2022/23 plus a $50 rebate; the rebate can be used as a donation to employees impacted by the fire, matched by Sierra’s ownership. The resort says this option is the best way for passholders to support the recovery. Alternatively, passholders can opt for a full pass refund.

Our Take

Sierra-at-Tahoe may be modest in size, but it packs some excellent glades and hike-to expert terrain. It’s a tragedy that wildfire damage has considerably upended the resort’s operational abilities for the upcoming winter.

We have to give Sierra major props for thinking of their customers during these devastating times, and we hope this provides some flexibility for guests who want to have a predictable 2021-22 ski season. Sadly, Sierra arguably had one of the best season pass deals in all of Tahoe, with an overall experience close to the resorts on Epic and Ikon for the price of resorts that are nowhere near as good. Hopefully, the resort can recover quickly for a fully operational 2022-23 season—and passholders who choose to forego refunds can enjoy the full resort that winter.

For more on Sierra-at-Tahoe and the regional resort landscape, check out our Sierra review and Lake Tahoe rankings.