Alpine Meadows has always been one of my favorite resorts in Tahoe. For me, it has just the right mix of terrain, amenities, fast lifts, close parking, easy access and customer service. It also had affordable lift ticket prices – until now.

I wondered when I heard the news that Alpine would combine operations under common ownership with Squaw Valley how it would affect the lift prices. It’s now official – Alpine joins Squaw and Northstar as the priciest lift tickets in the Tahoe region. Alpine’s base price is now $92 for an adult ($96 for peak/holiday), up a staggering 30% over last year’s price of $71 ($77 for peak/holiday.)

Alpine has 2,400 acres with 100 designated runs. Compare this with Northstar at 3,170 acres for $92/$96 or Heavenly’s 4,800 acres for $85/$88 peak.

What do you think? Is Alpine worth the price? Will you ski/ride at Alpine this year?