The ski resort of China Peak is located close to Fresno in Central California. Chinese Peak was the name of the mountain when it first opened in 1958. It has 1,200 acres of skiable terrain, with snowmaking covering 40% of it. The mountain rises 1,700 feet vertically from the base to the summit, reaching an altitude of 8,700 feet at its highest point. About 70 miles northeast of Fresno, on the south shore of Huntington Lake, is where you will find China Peak. In this article, we will discuss China Peak, its history, features, the original name of China Peak, and how you can get it.
History
Knut Flint established China Peak after realizing the need for a ski area on the Sierras’ southwest flank. Schwarz oversaw the resort’s permitting, construction, opening, and operations. When the first chairlift was put into service in 1958, it had a midway station and was over a mile long, making it the longest chairlift in the United States. Riblet Lift Company, using some cutting-edge design principles at the time, produced it. Due to a lack of local electricity, the resort also had to rely on a diesel generator and fuel tank.
The lack of nearby lodging and dining options, as well as the distance from Fresno via the Toll House Road, presented the resort with some difficulties in its early years. However, as more lifts, trails, snowmaking equipment, lodges, restaurants, and shops were added, it gradually improved and expanded its services and amenities.
Features
Everyone can find something to enjoy at China Peak, regardless of skill level. There are 45 runs total, ranging from simple green circles to difficult black diamonds. For freestyle skiers and snowboarders, it also has four terrain parks: Firebowl, Canyonlands, Burton Progression, and Ullmann’s Alley. Three triples, four doubles, two handle tows, one t-bar, and one moving carpet are among the resort’s numerous lifts.
China Peak also offers a range of services and facilities for its guests. It has a ski and snowboard school, where certified instructors can teach all levels and ages. It has a rental shop where visitors can rent or buy equipment and accessories. Skis and Snowboards can be tuned up or fixed by technicians in the repair facility. It has a sports store where customers can purchase apparel and equipment from prestigious brands. There is a ticket office there where skiers and snowboarders can buy season passes or lift tickets.
The origin of the name “China Peak”
Upon its opening in 1958, China Peak was referred to as Sierra Summit. Knut Flint, who recognized the potential for a ski area on the southwest side of the Sierra Nevada, founded it. At the peak of the mountain, they erected the first chairlift, which at the time was the longest in the United States, and ran it on a diesel generator. When Tim Cohee, a former ski racer and coach, purchased the resort in 2010, the resort’s name was changed from Sierra Summit to China Peak. Additionally, he desired to develop a distinctive brand that would attract more clients.
What are a few of China Peak’s amenities and attractions?
Whether you are looking for relaxation or adventure, China Peak has something for you. Some of the attractions and amenities at China Peak are:
- A comfortable lodge, The Inn at China Peak has 60 rooms, a restaurant, a bar, a fireplace lounge, an outdoor pool, and a hot tub.
- The Day Lodge is a big structure with a cafeteria, a pizza place, a coffee shop, a store, and a place to rent things.
- Ski and snowboard lessons are available for people of all ages and skill levels at The Learning Center, which also provides adaptive programs for those with disabilities.
- The Mountain Bike Park is a popular summer destination with more than 20 miles of cross-country and downhill biking trails, as well as bike rentals and maintenance services.
- A venue that hosts a variety of events and weddings throughout the year, including music festivals, races, competitions, and ceremonies.
How can you get to China Peak?
China Peak is easily accessible by car or bus from Fresno or other nearby cities. The resort is situated on well-maintained, year-round Highway 168. There are also several parking lots at the base of the mountain that offer free or paid parking options. If you prefer to take public transportation, you can take the China Peak Express Bus from Fresno or Clovis. The bus runs on weekends and holidays during the winter season and costs $20 per person round-trip. You can also book a private charter bus for groups of 25 or more.
Deals and suggestions for China Peak
Skiers and snowboarders of all income levels and tastes can find affordable and adaptable options at China Peak. The following is some advice and offers for China Peak:
- Up to 40% off the window price is available when purchasing lift tickets in advance online. For even greater savings, consider purchasing season passes or multi-day tickets.
- Look into the discounts and bundles that include lodging, ski passes, rentals, instruction, and meals. Discounts are available for locals, military personnel, senior citizens, groups, and students.
- Online equipment rentals are available for pickup at the resort. The rental shop also offers free overnight equipment storage.
- Use the complimentary shuttle service that runs between the Day Lodge and the Inn at China Peak. While you ski or snowboard, you can store your belongings in the lockers or the basket check.
- To avoid the crowds and take more runs, visit the resort during the week or off-peak hours. For more adventure, you can also explore the backcountry or cross-country trails.
Conclusion
Incorporating both contemporary features and amenities with history and charm, China Peak is a ski resort. Skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels and preferences should visit this location. Visitors from Fresno and other nearby cities can also take advantage of this practical option. China Peak is more than just a ski resort; it is a mountain adventure.
FAQs
Q1: When did China Peak open?
In 1958, China Peak officially opened.
Q2: What is China Peak’s elevation and vertical drop?
The maximum elevation of China Peak is 8,700 feet, and the vertical drop is 1,700 feet.
Q3: How many runs and lifts are there at China Peak?
Four terrain parks are among the eleven lifts and 45 runs at China Peak.
Q4: What dining and lodging options are there at China Peak?
In addition to a hotel and a number of cabins and condos, China Peak has three dining establishments.
Q5: How far away from Fresno is China Peak?
The distance between China Peak and Fresno is about 70 miles.
