Sky Tavern, a nonprofit ski and snowboard area in Northern Nevada, has secured a major long-term commitment from the City of Reno, with the city extending the mountain’s lease to 99 years. The agreement provides a foundation for the organization to continue its mission of introducing young people and families to outdoor recreation for generations to come.
Sky Tavern has evolved significantly throughout its history. What began with basic infrastructure, including rope tows and T-bars, has grown to include chairlifts, snowmaking capabilities, and mountain biking trails. Despite those changes, the organization says its focus on making outdoor recreation accessible has remained central to its mission.
A Long-Term Commitment to Youth Recreation
Sky Tavern’s roots in youth skiing date back to 1948, when local schoolteacher Marce Herz launched the Reno Junior Ski Program. Since then, the organization says more than 125,000 young people have learned to ski or snowboard through its programs.
Today Sky Tavern operates as a nonprofit focused on affordable, accessible outdoor recreation. Its Learn to Ski and Ride program combines instruction with opportunities for young participants to practice their skills, with adult volunteers playing a central role in keeping the program running.
The mountain also supports adaptive skiing, competitive snowsports training, and summer trail activities, extending its reach beyond traditional learn-to-ski programming.
The extended lease will help it Sky Tavenr toward the future, with plans to create new outdoor opportunities, invest in the mountain, and strengthen its connection with the surrounding community. The announcement did not detail specific construction projects or a timeline for future improvements. Sky Tavern’s goal is to continue introducing new generations to skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor pursuits while keeping those experiences within reach for local families.
Learn more about the organization’s programs and history on the official Sky Tavern website.

