Sierra ski resort closing early as heat wave melts snow

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Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort in Tuolumne County has announced it will close for the season on Sunday at 4 p.m. unless another major snowstorm arrives. The resort cited recent rains and unusually warm temperatures that have erased gains from February's blizzard, leading to a rapid decline in the Sierra Nevada snowpack.

Why it matters

The early closure of Dodge Ridge highlights the growing impact of climate change on California's ski industry, as warmer temperatures and reduced snowpack force resorts to shut down operations earlier in the season. This trend threatens the livelihoods of workers and businesses that rely on the winter tourism industry.

The details

Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort said it is 'hopeful that this will not be the end of our season, and aim to resume operations should we receive significant snowfall at a later time.' In the meantime, Dodge Ridge pass holders can ski at the resort's sister locations of Bear Valley in Alpine County and China Peak in Fresno County for the remainder of the season.

• Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort will close at 4 p.m. on Sunday, March 14, 2026, unless another major snowstorm arrives.

What’s next

Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort will monitor the weather in the coming days and decide whether to extend the season if another major snowstorm arrives.