Peter Ashcroft and Wally Juchert
Co-chairs, Friends of the Lodge

Did you know that our rustic lodge at Donner Summit is in jeopardy? A hearty group of Sierra Club volunteers built Clair Tappaan Lodge in 1934 as a rustic retreat for hikers, skiers, and mountain climbers. The Lodge is a charming home base from which to explore the riches of the Sierra Nevada.

The lodge has been expanded over the years and on winter weekends is packed with 140 skiers. Unfortunately, the lodge during non-winter periods and during the week all year is underutilized. The facility needs upgrading to current standards, including accessibility and fire sprinklers. More consistent use throughout the year would generate the income to make changes.

The Sierra Club Board of Directors proposes to enter into a contract with the Golden Gate Council of the American Youth Hostels to manage the Lodge. Both AYH's management expertise and marketing mechanisms can benefit the lodge.

considering more profound change, we will solicit member's thoughts. AYH would like to provide personal cooking facilities in addition to the current meal service. AYH would also like to make CTL alcohol free.

Right now, please evaluate the two issues carefully and decide just how important they are to you. If a consensus is reached that we are not willing to prohibit alcohol and let some guests cook for themselves, the Task Force will take this into consideration and then make a decision in the best interests of the Club. You may send your responses to ctl.committee@sierraclub.org.