Donner Ski Ranch is a family-run ski area on Donner Summit near Donner Pass in California’s Tahoe National Forest, with skiing at the site dating to 1937. Long known as a budget-oriented resort, it has 52 runs spread across both sides of the summit, with terrain divided among beginner, intermediate, and advanced skiers. Its base area preserves a rustic character, centered on a wood-built main lodge from 1947 and an adjacent building added in 1951 by owner-operator John Sloan Woodard. Norm Sayler helped build the first chairlift in 1955, managed the resort from 1958 for 46 years, and later owners Janet and Marshall Tuttle renovated the lodge and lifts.