The Caldor Fire ripped through El Dorado National Forest in late August. The skiing world watched as the Sierra-at-Tahoe resort sat in the crosshairs. Thanks to tremendous efforts by firefighters and the crew at Sierra, most buildings were protected and the resort was hoping to open on time this winter.
According to an article in Active NorCal, a fire damage assessment is being conducted and found damage to a couple of chairlifts. The Nob Hill lift and the Short Stuff lift sustained some damage. The extent of the damage is unclear at this time but given the potential danger of a damaged chairlift, it is important to exercise extreme caution. Neither of these lifts would be considered primary chairlifts at Sierra. That said, when the resort is crowded, Nob Hill is a great way to access some steep tree skiing.
The fire assessment will continue. Sierra has stated that they are aiming for a normal opening day. It stands to reason that these fire damage assessments will play a vital role in whether or not that is possible.
Images from: Sierra-at-Tahoe Facebook Page