Alpine Meadows vs Donner Ski Ranch

Alpine Meadows (California) and Donner Ski Ranch (California) head-to-head: stats, terrain, and 2026-27 pass coverage.

StatAlpine MeadowsDonner Ski Ranch
Vertical drop1,637 ft (499 m)538 ft (164 m)
Summit elevation8,494 ft7,310 ft
Base elevation6,857 ft6,772 ft
Lifts146
Runs9318
Beginner terrain5%53%
Intermediate terrain60%18%
Expert terrain35%29%
Night skiing--

Alpine Meadows has the bigger vertical (1,637 ft vs 538 ft); Alpine Meadows has more runs (93 vs 18); Alpine Meadows skews more expert (35% expert terrain).

Which pass covers them?

ResortPass coverage (2026-27)
Alpine MeadowsIkon Pass: 7 days
Donner Ski RanchIndy Pass: 2 days

No single pass covers both, so skiing both means separate passes or lift tickets. Check your full resort list in the pass finder →

Stay near Alpine Meadows

Lodging near the base fills up first during peak weeks. Search stays near Alpine Meadows

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More detail: Alpine Meadows stats · Donner Ski Ranch stats