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

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