Arguably the most iconic gondola in the Lake Tahoe region – or anywhere in the U.S. – will undergo a major renovation and won’t be available next ski season.
Ever ride the historic Village Gondola at Sugar Bowl ski resort? The gondola had a lifespan and it was time for it to receive modernization – following its Easter Sunday usage this ski season. Construction of the gondola will start in the spring of 2026 and will reportedly be ready for the 2026-27 ski season.
This marks the fourth generation of the Village Gondola since the original “Magic Carpet” opened in 1953. To celebrate that history, cabins from each of the previous versions will be displayed in the new terminal as a visible tribute to the legacy that continues to carry forward.
Every design choice, from materials to form and finish, reflects the Village’s classic alpine character. Built along the existing line, the new gondola will carry forward the same cherished experience and timeless beauty that define Sugar Bowl.
The new gondola will deliver a smoother, more consistent operations and double the capacity with 8-person cabins replacing the current 4-person design. The result will be a faster, more comfortable ride that’s inclusive for all—keeping the Village and mountain connected.
The current Village Gondola will continue to operate on its regular schedule this ski season through Easter Sunday, after which terminal upgrade work will begin. It’s worth the time to take at least one final historic ride on the Village Gondola, snap a photo, and honor a lift that has carried generations of skiers into the heart of Sugar Bowl.
Sugar Bowl, one of the oldest resorts in California, opened in 1939 and is home to the state’s first chairlift. Located off Interstate 80 at the Norden exit on Donner Summit, the resort is rich in history, known for high snow totals, and the closest large Tahoe ski resort to Sacramento.
For history lovers, Hollywood legend Errol Flynn, Rita Hayward and Walt Disney are part of Sugar Bowl’s 86-year-old legacy.
DINING CHANGES: As part of our Resort Development project, Village Lodge dining has been completely changed. Sugar Bowl says the new focus is on fresh flavors, faster service, and more ways to connect over good food and mountain views.
The Village kitchen has been rebuilt and doubled in size, giving the culinary team an updated workspace to craft modern mountain food choices. Outside, the former Village Lodge Deck has been transformed into The Terrace, a slopeside restaurant designed to create an après location that flows between The Terrace and the Belt Room.
The Terrace is the resort’s newest slopeside restaurant, designed for quick lunches between laps and relaxed après when the lifts stop spinning. Set against panoramic Sierra Crest views, the restaurant features fire pits, expanded seating, and QR code table service – meaning guests can order food or drinks without leaving the table.
NEW LOCKER FACILITIES: Located just below The Terrace and steps from the lifts, the Village Locker Room gives skiers and riders more room to stash gear.
With returning members receiving first rights each season, locker availability is limited – secure yours now while there’s still space.
For more information on Sugar Bowl, visit www.sugarbowl.com or call 530 426-9000.
