El Dorado County (Oct 12, 2024) – What was once known as “Little Norway,” a beloved stop along U.S. Highway 50 at the top of Echo Summit, is now just a memory. The long-standing bar, restaurant, and Greyhound bus stop, originally established as a post office in 1961, has been demolished. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Little Norway served as a popular après-ski destination for decades, drawing in locals and tourists alike.
Over the years, Little Norway faced multiple tragedies. Three fires ravaged the area, in 1967, 1988, and 1991, with the 1988 fire being determined as arson. Despite these setbacks, the site held strong sentimental value for Lake Tahoe locals, who fondly remembered grabbing a burger and beer after a day on the slopes at Sierra Ski Ranch in the 1960s.
Little Norway’s history stretches back to its heyday in the mid-20th century, when Highway 50—also known as the Lincoln Highway—was a bustling route for travelers heading to Lake Tahoe and Reno. The roadside village, designed with a Scandinavian flair, created an alpine escape for tourists seeking respite from the twisting mountain roads. By the 1960s and 70s, it had become a favored destination for families, skiers, and adventurers.
However, time wasn’t kind to Little Norway. Larger resorts emerged, and the site eventually closed, falling into disrepair. A 2001 attempt to revive the 2.3-acre property, complete with plans for an inn, restaurant, bar, and recreational area, never materialized. The property changed hands once again after being labeled a nuisance due to its abandoned state.
Today, Little Norway has been cleared out. A demolition permit was issued, and the building, along with all debris, has been removed. Only scattered remnants of pavement and a dumpster remain. The new owners have applied for a Design Review permit with plans to build an 8-pump gas station and a 5,000-square-foot convenience store, to be named “Oasis Convenience Market.” While this application is still under review, the plans mark a significant shift for this once-iconic stop in the mountains.
As Little Norway fades into history, a new chapter of development begins at this scenic site along Highway 50. The past may be gone, but the landscape continues to evolve with the changing times.
