In The News – Sky Tavern announces lease extension to 99 years with City of Reno, names new Board Chairman
October 22, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 10/22/2026, Staff Report
Sky Tavern, the nation’s oldest nonprofit ski and snowboard training facility, has secured a lease amendment with the City of Reno extending its existing lease to a total term of 99 years, through October 31, 2118, and appointed Thomas J. Powell as Chairman of its Board of Directors. The extension provides long-term the stability needed to build toward the community organization’s goals as it prepares to celebrate its centennial in 2038.
Sky Tavern’s skiing history dates to 1938, with the Reno Junior Ski Program establishing its tradition of youth instruction in 1948. Since then, more than 100,000 children have learned to ski and snowboard on its slopes. Among those who have emerged from this tradition are World Cup champions and Olympians such as Tamara McKinney, Lane Spina, and three-time Olympic medalist David Wise. The community mountain is supported by generations of volunteer instructors, parents, donors, and community members.