TAHOE DONNER, Calif. — The wait is nearly over for the debut of Tahoe Donner’s new Downhill Ski Lodge, a purpose-built facility set to open for the 2025–26 season. The lodge will replace the resort’s former base building and is designed to improve the experience for beginner and family skiers through upgraded guest flow, expanded dining, modern amenities and improved access to rentals and ski school services.

The new lodge is scheduled to open Dec. 19, coinciding with the start of the winter season.

“We have 12 ski resorts within 45 minutes of Truckee,” said executive director of Visit Truckee Tahoe Jackie Calvert. “Residents and Visitors have choices in the area, and Tahoe Donner is one of those exceptional resorts where it’s incredibly family friendly easy terrain.”

Exterior Improvements

The exterior of the new lodge features a redesigned loading and unloading zone for parking lot shuttles, with direct service to the main entrance. Guests arriving at the lodge will have immediate access to check-in and welcome desks, as well as the rental and retail areas located inside.

A wide, open staircase on the exterior allows passholders to head directly to the lifts from the base area. The staircase also provides a convenient exit route at the end of the day for guests carrying gear.

An expanded sun deck has also been added, offering views of the ski runs and level access to both the lifts and dining areas. The deck is surfaced with hydronic pavers designed to provide a stable walking surface in winter conditions. 

Interior Features

Inside, the lodge opens into a spacious main entrance with a large service desk for check-ins and guest services. The entry area connects directly to the rental and retail spaces, streamlining the process for first-time visitors and returning skiers alike.

New elevators and a skier-friendly staircase provide access to the upper floors, which house dining services, the sun deck and lift access.

The lodge also includes new restrooms equipped with motion sensor fixtures aimed at conserving water. A redesigned equipment rental area is intended to improve service flow and includes pay-per-use lockers for guests.

A new retail space will offer ski and snowboard outerwear and accessories. For families, the lodge features a dedicated kids’ ski school flex-space with its own dining area, lunch service, restrooms and storage cubbies.

Dining Upgrades

Dining at the new lodge will feature panoramic mountain views, expanded indoor seating and an open servery for ordering food. Seating options will include community dining tables, along with a bar area anchored by a fireplace. Guests will also have direct access from the dining area to the sun deck and nearby lifts.

Additional Guest Services

Among the new technology upgrades are Express Ticket Pickup Boxes, which allow guests who purchased lift tickets in advance online to redeem them without waiting in line. Guests can scan the barcode from their confirmation email — either printed or on a mobile device — to receive an RFID lift pass on site.