Sierra At Tahoe Updates - Fire Damage Means West Bowl Will Not Open This Season
As reported on SIN, Sierra-at-Tahoe resort has indicated that it will not be able to fully open for the coming ski season after damage from the Caldor Fire which burned in and around the resort. They have now issued an update stating that the area served by the Westview Express will be closed for the winter as will the Grandview Express lift.
Grandview Express’ haul rope, which suspends the ski lift’s chairs, was damaged during the fire and a replacement cable is currently in production in Switzerland. Due to these challenges, Grandview Express will be delayed and they currently do not have an estimated date for allowing access to this lift. They are focused on making repairs and restoring Sierra to optimal condition, while simultaneously navigating global supply chain and shipping challenges for essential equipment and components.
"We are still conducting a thorough evaluation of Sierra’s lifts and trails to understand the full impact of the fire. That evaluation will determine what operations look like for opening the resort for the 2021/22 winter season. Repairs, routine yearly maintenance + annual inspections continue on Nob Hill, Short Stuff , El Dorado + Easy Rider Express, as well as mitigation for fire-damaged trees along ski trails accessed by these lifts. The operating status for individual trails accessed by each of these lifts is still unknown as they undergo inspection.
"Based on initial assessments, we do know that the trails and area accessed by West Bowl Express will be inaccessible this winter. In addition, many of the in-bound tree skiing areas, such as Jack’s + Avalanche Bowl, will likely be closed for the season."
The resort is also offering options for customers to help employees affected by the fire:
Doing right by our guests and employees is core to who we are at Sierra. By sticking with us as a loyal member of the Sierra fam through these uncertain times, you can get in on the action! With the Season Pass Recess program, you have the power to choose to receive either a one-time $50 rebate on your season pass for any inconvenience caused by these circumstances or elect to donate your $50 to assist employees affected by the fire. All donations of the $50 rebate will go directly to supporting our employees, and Sierra’s ownership will match the funds raised, dollar for dollar.
"Continuing to be a season passholder or guest through 2022/23 is the most helpful way to show your support. If you would like to donate directly to employees affected, The Sierra Education Foundation has set up a Go Fund Me with 100% of donations going to support employees impacted by the fire."
