The Sky Tavern Ski Area is a 150 acre, 900 vertical foot ski area in the Sierras located 20 miles from Reno, Nevada. It is the second oldest ski area in the Sierras. The property is owned by the City of Reno and leased to the Sky Tavern Junior Ski Program. Lifts consist of two (2) fixed grip Yan triple chairs and three (3) surface lifts. The mountain has a designated race hill with two lanes, a terrain park, a ski cross run and a moguls run. Four year- round employees manage and maintain the program and the property with twenty additional seasonal employees, such as lift operators and bus drivers. Approximately 800 adults volunteer time to provide staffing for all other positions. Parents that serve as instructors attend classes taught by PSIA/AASI certified Trainers, Level 1 or above. Parents also attend classes to advance their own skiing and teaching. Sky Tavern Junior Ski Program is a learn to ski and board program. Started in 1948 by a grade school teacher, over one hundred thousand kids have learned to ski or ride at Sky Tavern. It was once part of the City of Reno’s Park and Recreation Department and is now a 501(c)(3) thanks to the effort of involved parents. All participants join the Junior Ski Program for the season which varies in length due to conditions, but averages eight weeks. Pre and post-season training for teams and instructors is common on the hill, allowing for increased use. STJSP offers continuing training and coaching past the recreational skier or boarder level. Other programs include;
Alpine Race Team
Freestyle Ski Program
Freestyle Snowboard Program
Ski Patrol Cadet Program
Junior Instructor Program
The Sky Tavern Junior Ski Program maintains and manages the property exclusively. Program fees, rentals, special events and donations are the main sources of income. The annual budget is just under $500,000 while serving 3,100 members for the 2012 season.
