Donner Ski Ranch, Norden

Donner Ski Ranch is by far the best value for anyone traveling from Sacramento or the Bay. It is the closest family resort AND they still offer the value days! after the Christmas holiday, you can ski for $10 on Old School Thursday- This year they added Wacky wednesday- WHAT A DEAL! I've been snowboarding for 10 years, and still ahve a blast on this mountain-the backside is virtually untouched, so powder days last for a week sometimes! the off the groomed areas are the best part of this mountain, and they more than make up for the small size in the variable terrain that always provides a challenge- To top it all off, the international staff they hire are so helpful and friendly- they are approachable and love talking about hteir home country- it is nice to go somewhere and be greeted at hte bottom of each lift, and feel like the people working there really care about their job and their customers.