Frequently Asked Questions

(FAQ)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • The Donner Ski Ranch Lodge opens at 8:00 am. You can purchase tickets and rentals at that time.Description text goes here

  • Yes, we serve breakfast from 8:00 am to 11:00 am. Our cafeteria is open from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm for lunch, and then we switch to our Grill Dinner Menu from 4:30 pm to 9:00 pm.

  • At Donner Ski Ranch, we believe skiing shouldn't be a sport reserved for the rich and famous. We believe skiing should be accessible to everyone. That's why for 80 years, Donner Ski Ranch has offered one of the most affordable skiing experiences. So, whether you're a hardcore local or a first-timer, you can have the time of your life without breaking the bank.

    So, starting on January 6th, 2026, every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, you can purchase tickets and rentals at our Old School Rates. Excludes February 17, 18, 19 - 2026.

  • Donner Ski Ranch never has a set closing date; we remain open until the snow is gone or until interest wanes. Our closing date varies depending on weather conditions. Still, it’s usually sometime in May.

  • We do not allow snowshoeing or winter hiking on the property during the winter season. This helps keep the trails safe and enjoyable for everyone, while also protecting the snow surface so skiers and snowboarders have the best possible experience. Thanks for understanding and helping us take care of the mountain!

  • Donner Ski Ranch offers several fun and affordable ways to hit the slopes without breaking the bank. Look out for special free or discounted ski days throughout the season, such as Spring Fling—where dressing up in a costume can score you a free lift ticket—Mother’s Day specials, and Carload Fridays, where groups can save big. These events are perfect for families and friends who want to enjoy great skiing while taking advantage of fantastic deals and community celebrations. Keep an eye on the resort’s event calendar so you don’t miss out on these excellent opportunities to ski for less!

  • Cancellation & Refund Policy

Tubing

  • The tubing ticket is good for 2 hours, and the 2-hour session starts at the time of purchase.

  • No, we welcome everyone to have fun at our Tubing Hill!

  • While there is no formal age limit for tubing, the activity is best suited for toddlers and up, especially since children who ride independently must be able to carry their own tubes. For a shared ride with a toddler, you can ride on the same tube, provided you both have tickets.

  • Yes, an adult and a child (ages 1 and up) can share a single tube. However, all riders must have a valid ticket, as each ticket is valid for one person, not per tube. This arrangement is suitable for young children who are ready to ride but may not be old enough or confident enough to go in their own tube yet.

  • Parents who wish to accompany their child up the hill will also need a ticket, regardless of whether they ride down.

Lifts

  • No, to ride any chairlift at Donner Ski Ranch, you must have ski or snowboard equipment; this is a requirement.

  • No, Donner Ski Ranch does not offer cross-country skiing.

  • Donner Ski Ranch features six chairlifts: three on the front side and three on the back side, which cater to runs of varying difficulty, ranging from beginner to advanced. We also have a Moving Carpet (bunny hill) for first-time skiers and snowboarders, as well as a Tubing Hill Moving Carpet.

  • No, DSR offers a variety of runs for all levels, from green runs to black diamonds. We have some of the best tree skiing and riding in the area.

  • Due to a change in the insurance policy, Donner Ski Ranch no longer allows ski bikes.

Rentals

  • Ski Equipment includes: Skis, ski boots, and poles.

  • Snowboard Equipment includes: Snowboard and snowboard boots.

  • Helmets are not included with either the ski or snowboard rental packages, but you can rent one separately. We have a limited supply and strongly recommend wearing one

  • No, we do not rent skis or ski boots separately. If you rent ski equipment from us, you’ll need to rent the complete package and use our boots with our skis.

    We will not set our skis with your ski boots .

  • No, we do not rent skis or ski boots separately. If you rent ski equipment from us, you’ll need to rent the complete package and use our boots with our skis.

    We cannot rent our boots only to be used with your personal skis.

  • Yes, we do rent only the snowboard.

  • Yes, we do rent only snowboard boots.

    • Smallest: XXS (fits approximately a 4-year-old)

    • Largest: 2XL

    • Smallest: Size 10 (Little kids’ shoe size), 15.5 cm insole length, 201 mm sole length.

    • Largest: Size 14 (Adult shoe size), 32.0 cm insole length, 365 mm sole length.

    • Smallest: 77 cm

    • Largest: 177 cm

    • Smallest: 95 cm

    • Largest: 162 cm

    • Smallest: Size 1 (Child’s shoe size)

    • Largest: Size 14 (Adult’s shoe size)

Lessons

  • No, Donner Ski Ranch only offers private lessons. You can book lessons through our website by clicking on the Ski School Tab.

  • Yes, you need to purchase a regular lift ticket or a moving carpet ticket for all lessons. If it's your first time skiing or riding, we recommend purchasing a moving carpet ticket, which is valid for the day.

  • Checkout our helpful tips and tricks