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Ski California Resorts Unveil Extensive Upgrades for 2024-25 Winter Season

Michael FultonMichael Fulton
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Ski California Resorts Transform Winter Experience with Comprehensive Upgrades Ski California's 36 member resorts in California and Nevada are gearing up for an exceptional 2024-25 winter season, introducing new lifts, innovative programs, and enhanced lesson offerings to welcome newcomers to skiing and snowboarding. With new dining concepts, the return of popular events, and much more, these resorts are set to provide unforgettable experiences for all winter sports enthusiasts.The upcoming season follows a record-breaking 2023-24 winter, where Ski California resorts boasted the highest average snowfall in the nation, with 20 feet of snow falling in February and March alone. The resorts collectively hosted 7.6 million visits, marking the second-best season since 2011. This success aligns with the overall U.S. ski industry's fifth-best season on record, totalling 60 million skier visits, of which California residents make up 11.2% nationwide.Michael Reitzell, Ski California president, emphasized the industry's commitment to growing the sport: "This year, resorts will not only continue to welcome people to the mountains but offer access to new and innovative programs and resort experiences that turn first-timers into passionate, lifelong skiers and riders."

From the summit of Heavenly Ski Resort the views of Lake Tahoe are hard to beat. Credit: SnowStash Safety remains a top priority for Ski California. The association will continue its focus on safety education through its award-winning digital Mountain Safety Guide and the seventh annual Ski California Safety Day on January 25, 2025. In partnership with Glade, Ski California will host multiple gear giveaways, encouraging participation in the Mountain Safety Guide quiz for a chance to win prizes including the coveted Ski California Gold Pass.Here are the highlights of what's new at Ski California resorts for the 2024-25 season, including projected opening dates (weather and conditions permitting):ASC XC Training Center: More LED lighting has been added to the trail network, with Cross Country night skiing now offered on 1.5km of trail on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays until 7:30 p.m. This marks the 96th season ASC has offered snow sports to the region. Opens: Nov. 28Bear Valley Adventure Co: Extensive trail clearing occurred this summer, and the Trailblazers youth cross-country ski team returns for a second season. New this season, all third grade students are eligible for a free season pass and lesson. Opens: Nov. 28Bear Valley Mountain Resort: Guests will find a new triple chair for beginners, new quad chair serving intermediate and advanced terrain, revamped food service including a new pizza bar in the day lodge, and a new resort app. New events include Boarding for Breast Cancer, Cali Pass Banked Slalom, The Grizz Challenge, BV Soap Box Derby, and Bear Beach. Opens: TBDBig Bear Mountain Resort: This season introduces the new Midway high-speed 6-passenger lift at Bear Mountain and celebrates Snow Valley's history and Fish Camp rec area. Opens: TBDBoreal / Woodward Tahoe: Celebrating its 60th anniversary season, Boreal brings back Play Forever Fridays, offering $25 lift tickets once a month for everyone, with $5 from every ticket supporting a charity. Opens: Nov. 22Diamond Peak: A new backcountry access gate near the top of the Crystal Express Chairlift will open up multiple backcountry zones. The resort also introduces a 3-Day Flex Pass for flexible skiing options. Opens: Early December

Looking out towards the KT-22 peak from the base village at Palisades Tahoe. Credit: SnowStash Dodge Ridge: The resort will introduce River's Otter Run Tubing and Snowplay, a new rental system, and a new resort app. Favourite events like Santa Sunday, B4BC, Grom Fest, and the Pinecrest Invitational return. Opens: TBDGranlibakken Tahoe: Opens: Nov. 28 for sledding; lifts Dec. 13Heavenly: New this season is "My Epic Gear," a membership program offering access to high-quality gear with premium valet services. A new 9-week Adult Development Team program and lessons in 10 different languages will be available. The California Lodge introduces Golden State Kitchen, a new restaurant concept. Opens: Nov. 22June Mountain: With 1,500 acres of uncrowded slopes and breathtaking views, June Mountain continues to offer free skiing and riding for kids 12 and under. Opens: Dec. 21Kirkwood: New parking options will enhance the arrival experience, with a reservations-based program on weekends and peak periods. Returning events include a New Year's Eve Celebration, Banked Slalom, and Slush Cup. Opens: Dec. 6Lee Canyon: A new 300-foot conveyor lift completes the beginner terrain expansion. Lift access ranges from $19 to $129+, with kids 12 and under skiing free. Opens: Nov. 29Mammoth Mountain: Major investments include replacing Broadway Express (Chair 1) with a 6-seat detachable chairlift and upgrading Face Lift Express and Unbound Express. $3.5M has been committed to improve snowmaking efficiency. Woolly's Adventure Summit day lodge will open, and Tamarack Lodge celebrates its 100th anniversary. Opens: Nov. 15Mountain High Resort: Despite challenges from the Bridge Fire, Mountain High plans to open as scheduled to celebrate its 100th season. Opens: Nov. TBDMt. Baldy: Updates to the Westside Chair #4 will allow for up and downhill loading. Lift tickets start as low as $29. Opens: TBDMt. Rose Ski Tahoe: Preparing for its 60th anniversary season, the resort has invested $2.2 million in improvements, including a dining area renovation and snowmaking enhancements. The popular 'Open Late' schedule extends to both Fridays and Saturdays starting February 2025. Opens: Nov. 8Northstar California: Like Heavenly, Northstar introduces "My Epic Gear" and continues its reservation-based paid parking program in select lots. The 4th annual Women's Weekend returns, along with other popular events. Opens: Nov. 22Palisades Tahoe: Celebrating its 75th anniversary with $75 lift tickets on opening day. On-mountain investments include $1.4M in snowmaking upgrades and a shift to renewable diesel in snowcats. The new Little Bear Café will open across from the Tram. Opens: Nov. 27

About the author

Michael Fulton

Michael Fulton

Melbourne-based skier and snowboarder with 50+ resorts across 5 continents. Specialises in Australian resorts and international resort comparisons.

50+ resorts visited15 years skiing

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