Who Owns Dodge Ridge Ski Resort?

By Anna Duncan

Dodge Ridge Ski Resort is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts in California. Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the resort offers breathtaking views and a variety of ski runs for all skill levels. But who exactly owns this iconic ski resort?

The History of Dodge Ridge Ski Resort

Dodge Ridge Ski Resort was founded in 1950 by Earl Purdy, who opened the resort with just one lift. Over time, the resort expanded with additional lifts and runs, becoming a beloved destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

In 1976, Purdy sold the resort to George and Gretchen Engel. The Engels continued to own and operate the resort for over two decades until they sold it to Frank Helm in 1998.

The Current Owners of Dodge Ridge Ski Resort

Today, Dodge Ridge Ski Resort is owned by the Helm family, who have been operating the resort since they purchased it from the Engels in 1998. The Helm family has made significant investments in the resort over the years, including adding new lifts and runs, expanding parking lots, and improving snowmaking capabilities.

In addition to owning Dodge Ridge Ski Resort, the Helm family also owns several other businesses in Tuolumne County.

The Impact of Ownership Changes on Dodge Ridge Ski Resort

Over its more than 70-year history, Dodge Ridge Ski Resort has changed ownership several times. While these changes have brought new investments and improvements to the resort, they have also had some negative impacts.

For example, when George and Gretchen Engel owned the resort in the 1980s and early 1990s, they were criticized for their management style. Some skiers felt that their focus on making money limited their willingness to invest in improvements to the ski runs or provide good customer service.

When Frank Helm took over ownership of Dodge Ridge Ski Resort in 1998, he promised to make significant investments in the resort, and many skiers have praised his efforts to improve the resort over the years.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Helm family currently owns Dodge Ridge Ski Resort. Over its long history, the resort has changed owners several times, with each new owner bringing new investments and improvements to the resort. Today, under the Helm family’s ownership, Dodge Ridge Ski Resort continues to be a beloved destination for winter sports enthusiasts in California.