Meadows Blog
9/1/2010 10:21:00 AM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 8 comments
September 1, 2010, Mt. Hood, OR - Mt. Hood Meadows is holding prices on season passes - offering the same prices as last year’s early season group deals, but not requiring a group to be formed to get the special pricing. Mt. Hood Meadows season passes provide direct-to-lift access to Oregon’s most popular ski resort. Unlimited season passes offer the best bargain and most convenience - with 150+ days of operation scheduled this season, an adult unlimited season pass brings the cost down to under $3 per day!
Early Purchase Individual Unlimited Season Pass Deals!
Mt. Hood Meadows is offering individual discounts on unlimited season passes purchased on-line by November 7. In the past these deals were available only by forming a group!
- $449 for ages 23 – 64 regular price $900 after 11.7.10
- $339 for ages 15 – 22 regular price $600 after 11.7.10
- $229 for ages 7 – 14 regular price $400 after 11.7.10
- $349 for ages 65+ regular price $450 after 11.7.10
- $474 for ages 65+ includes 8 midweek bus rides to the mountain
- Kids 6 and under receive a FREE season pass when a parent or grandparent purchases an unlimited season pass for themselves.
Those wanting to use last season's pass can renew online. Here's the details on how to renew.
Mt. Hood Meadows season passes and 10 Time Passes at these early season special prices are available online right now!
Mt. Hood Meadows features Oregon’s most varied and exciting terrain and also boasts one of the longest ski seasons in the nation. This year's forecast for a cold and wet La Nina in the Northwest - the last La Nina brought almost 800 inches of snow to Meadows - makes a season pass purchase even more prudent!
Passholders also receive valuable discounts on resort services, 25% off midweek ski school lessons and day care, 10% off retail purchases, demo equipment and weekend ski school lessons and day care.
September Online Value Add Bonus
Those purchasing a pass online in September can receive a 25% bonus when adding value to the pass. This added value can be used for purchases at the resort's restaurants, ski school, retail and rental shops.
- $100 of added value will get the pass holder an extra $25;
- $200 of added value will get the purchaser an extra $50.
- The added value bonus is offered at time of online purchase through September 30.
10 Time Pass offers affordability and direct-to-lift convenience
Mt. Hood Meadows lift ticket pricing is $69 for a 9 AM – 4 PM lift ticket. The resort sells several multi-time picture products offering direct-to-lift convenience, the most popular is the 10 Time Pass early-season priced at just $349 (under $35 / day).
Midweek Season Pass
$500 - If your schedule allows you to recreate midweek, then take advantage of this special Monday – Friday pass. Offered for sale after early season unlimited season pass promotion ends.
Meadows After Dark (Night Season Pass)
$250 - Meadows is scheduled to operate five nights a week (Wednesday – Sunday) through March 6. Night skiing is 3 – 9 PM. (Operational schedule subject to change with conditions and weather)
Nordic Pass
$75 - A track pass provides access to the Meadows Nordic Center Thursdays - Sundays plus holiday time frames through the season and also includes track access to Cooper Spur Nordic Center.
8/7/2010 7:14:00 AM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 0 comments
The National Forest Foundation is organizing a volunteer "Friends of the Forest" event at Mt. Hood Meadows August 28. You're invited to spend the morning with us collecting native plant seeds, removing invasive species or picking up litter.
We value our relationship with the National Forest Foundation - they have organized events like these throughout the National Forest system. We're especially pleased that they've selected the native plant seed collection as an activity since that is a program that was pioneered at Mt. Hood Meadows and has spread to other ski area operations throughout the country.
Here's a video of the event from two seasons ago.
Volunteers said the experience was personally rewarding - spending the morning on the slopes of beautiful Mt. Hood and performing a service of valuable at a location that they love. We hope you'll join us for the Friends of the Forest day August 28.
Lunch is provided to those who pre-register. For more information or to register on line visit the National Forest Foundation web site.
7/28/2010 4:02:00 PM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center, Parks Blog
| 18 comments
We’re almost at the midpoint between seasons – and here on Mt. Hood that’s not as long as most ski resorts. We’ve been hard at work with summer trails and lift maintenance so we can continue to consistently offer the best skiing and snowboarding experience that we can provide. Looks like we’re going to get a lot of help from nature this season – a La Nina is forecast, which for the Northwest and Mt. Hood historically means colder temperatures and more snow accumulation. Let’s hope it starts early so we can all be enjoying the slopes in November (or even earlier if possible!)
Season Pass Renewal
Season passes will be on sale on our web site by September 1. Prices will be announced soon - we’re finalizing the process of allowing last year’s pass holders to simply renew their pass online (through the purchase process,) which will allow you to use last year’s pass this season. So those not wanting to get a new picture will be able to go direct to the lifts this season using last season's pass. We still need to get a liability release signed for this season and we’re working out details to make that most convenient, which includes a schedule of appearances at movie premiers, retail locations, sign up parties and of course the Portland Ski Show to make it convenient for you.
New Adventures in Freestyle
This season we’ll be offering the “New Adventure Freestyle Terrain Park” weekends and holidays, staffed by our ski school for those venturing into freestyle. It will be located next to the Shipyard Park under the Buttercup lift, and serviced by our “repurposed” rope tow - no additional charge to those being coached in our freestyle lessons.
Summer trail maintenance includes the popular terrain where we build parks, which will allow us to operate parks more consistently regardless of weather conditions. Fun, flow and progression along with consistency in operation is our freestyle experience focus to allow park riders to responsibly select features to match their ability and progress their skills.
A new freestyle online web experience will debut this fall – showcasing the features in our parks. We'll be able to locate features in our online parks as they are constructed in our real parks - and you'll be able to help us enhance the online experience by sending us your pix and video on those features. Together we'll be able to keep our park riding community connected.
You’ll also be hearing more about our Terrain Park Education program, emphasizing the Smart Style approach to freestyling. A challenging online quiz will be offered and those who take the challenge and pass will be rewarded with prizes, discounts and incentives. A blog on this topic will be coming this fall.
Welcome to Fresh Tracks Deli
Fresh, healthy, quality food and hospitable service done consistently and quickly in a very welcoming and friendly environment is the mission for our new Fresh Tracks Deli. Located in the old Meadows Mart location – slope level of the North Lodge – Fresh Tracks will offer made-to-order sandwiches, salads and other fresh, healthful faire. The menu will favor local ingredients, organic when possible, and there will be some gluten free items available. The fresh smoothies, parfaits, stir-fried veggies over brown rice and organic oatmeal should be instant hits! A proud Director of Food Services Mark Fellows gives you a video tour of Fresh Tracks.
Congratulations to Andy Jewell who suggested “Fresh Tracks Café” on our Facebook page. Andy receives a $50 gift card and will be invited to the grand opening of Fresh Tracks Deli at the beginning of the season. Our own Kelly Crowe also receives a $50 gift card – she also suggested the “Fresh Tracks” name early on in the process.
Cooper Spur Mt. Resort
Take a welcome break to Cooper Spur Mt. Resort on the north side of Mt. Hood. Surrounded by forest, Cooper Spur is a convenient escape for an overnight respite or a multi-day getaway. The combination of lodge hotel rooms, condos or cabins, hot tubs, accessability to hiking and great dining in the restaurant make for a relaxing and refreshing break. Check out the new online reservation system at Cooper Spur Mt. Resort. It’s been a great summer and right now we’re offering some awesome rafting / lodging packages.
Blog Worthy
What would you like us to cover in the Blog, particularly as we're gearing up for the upcoming season? Comment with your suggestions - what is that you want to know about? In the meantime, join the conversation on our Facebook page. Our community continues to grow and it's great to see snow sport enthusiasts keeping engaged and excited about the season to come!
6/6/2010 5:59:00 PM
by Meadows Team
in Media Center, Connection
| 2 comments
Three Time Winter X Games Medalist Sammy Carlson & Best Friend Scott Rowley Seek to Increase Autism Awareness and Raise $25,000 for Talk About Curing Autism (TACA)
Hood River, Oregon (PRWEB) June 2, 2010 –Oregonians Sammy Carlson and Scott Rowley have organized a bicycle trip from Hood River, Oregon to Ogden, Utah in an effort to raise awareness for Talk About Curing Autism (TACA). The event will take place from July 8-18. Team Hood River 2 Ogden (H2O) will cycle over 1,000 miles and seek to raise $25,000 to support TACA.
Carlson is a 3-time X-Games medalist in freestyle skiing. He spends his winters traveling the world in an effort to revolutionize the sport and encourage youngsters to participate in freestyle skiing. He is currently training for H2O and next ski season at Mt Hood, Oregon.
Rowley recently received his bachelor’s degree from Oregon State University in international business and entrepreneurship. He learned the value of giving back to his community when he earned his Eagle Scout rank in high school. His energy is currently directed towards training for H2O, raising awareness for TACA and seeking new opportunities. Carlson and Rowley have been best friends since the age of 13 and are very excited about this new endeavor.
“This fund-raiser has been motivated by a strong desire to do something positive for our community and help families affected by autism in the state of Oregon,” said Rowley.“ Rowley and Carlson both have family friends that have been affected by autism and view this as an opportunity to help. All proceeds will benefit TACA, enable them to set up a chapter of their organization in Oregon and continue helping families affected by this neurological disorder.
Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) provides support, education, information, and resources to over 16,000 families across the United States effected by autism. One in every 91 children in the United States is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. TACA provides the largest national telephone and email response team for parents who have a child affected by autism. 95 percent of TACA's programs and services are provided at no cost to parents. They include education and support meetings, parent mentoring, and the Autism Journey Guide. TACA aims to speed up the cycle time from the autism diagnosis to effective treatments. TACA helps to strengthen the autism community by connecting families and the professionals who can help them, allowing them to share stories and information to help people with autism.
For information regarding sponsorship and support please contact Scott Rowley or visit www.tacah2o.com!
Scott Rowley
H2O Event Manager
Phone: (503) 860-0698
Email: scott.rowleys@gmail.com
4/19/2010 8:00:00 AM
by Dave Tragethon
in Media Center
| 0 comments
GET READY FOR THE 4TH ANNUAL SNO-KONA POND SKIM AT MT. HOOD MEADOWS HAPPENING SATURDAY APRIL 24, 2010
April 19, 2010, Portland, OR — Snowboarders and skiers, get ready to launch yourself across 90 feet of frigid water at the 4th annual Sno-Kona Pond Skim, where you could win a free trip for two to Hawaii. Brought to you by Kona Brewing Company, the Sno-Kona Pond Skim takes place Saturday April 24 at Mt. Hood Meadows with festivities kicking into high gear from 9 am to 4pm. The day will be jam-packed with live music, Polynesian décor, leis and other giveaways, many on-snow high jinks and of course, plentiful Kona beer sampling. The tension builds throughout the day with all contestants vying for the grand prize of a trip for two to Oahu, including round trip airfare and hotel, courtesy of All About Hawaii.
Registration is now open at the Mt. Hood Meadows site (www.skihood.com). The field is limited to 100 competitors who will take a qualifying run, and if they make it across the pond they’ll advance to the skim-offs. All competitors must be 21 or over.
The Pond Skim’s local celebrity judges will include weather and all-around outdoors guru Matt Zaffino from KGW-TV, 105.9 The Brew afternoon radio personality Bozyk and Squid from 94.7 FM. Judging will be based on: Best skimming style, Best costume, Best impression made by a woman, and Best showmanship comprised of Best costume and Best crowd reaction while skimming the pond.
“Last year we had a record amount of participants and everyone had an incredible time,” said Dave Tragethon, executive director of communications for Mt. Hood Meadows. “2009 was also the loudest year to date with the crowd really supporting the contestants trying to win that grand prize trip to Hawaii and everyone made the best of a crazy weather day. No matter what, the Pond Skim is memorable for all of us!”
Prizes - First Place - Trip for 2 to Hawaii, KEEN shoes, KEEN messenger bag, $25 REI gift certificate
- Second Place - Kona Prize Pack (includes two beach chairs, skimboard, backpack cooler, Kona beach towel, set of 12 Kona glasses), KEEN shoes, Yakima Fatcat 4 ski rack, $25 REI gift certificate
- Third Place - $50 Bamboo Grove Restaurant gift certificate, KEEN messenger bag, Yakima Big Powderhound ski rack, $25 REI gift certificate
- Best Costume - Snowboard provided by Monster Energy
- Best Costume - Yakima Big Powderhound Ski Rack
- Best Splash - Snowboard provided by Monster Energy
- Best Splash - Yakima Fatcat 4 Ski Rack
- Best Impression Made by a Female - Dakine Freestyle Bag provided by REI
- Best Impression Made by a Female - REI Ski Bag
Cost to participate in the Pond Skim is $25 per entrant online, which includes a complimentary Kona beach towel. Day of registration (at $40) will open up only if spots are available, and the event date will be changed to Sunday April 25th in the case of inclement weather.
4/11/2010 5:07:00 PM
by Dave Tragethon
in Connection, Media Center
| 0 comments
Mt. Hood Meadows officially dedicated two buildings Saturday, both receiving Green Building Council LEED certification. The Mountain Medical Clinic, constructed two summers ago received a LEED certified gold award, and the midmountain Patrol Headquarters constructed three summers ago was LEED certified silver.
Excerpts from Mt. Hood Meadows CEO Matthew Drake address at the ceremony:
We are honored to be awarded the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Gold and Silver ratings administered by the US Green Building Council for the Mountain Medical Clinic and for the Ski Patrol Headquarters Building. We have designed and constructed these buildings consistent with the core Vision of our company: “Provide an ideal mountain resort experience while respecting Mt. Hood”.
As we make critical decisions about the use, design and construction of our facilities, we know they must function in a challenging mountain environment. Further, they must be part of our long term commitment to sustainability. As a result, we have chosen to make proactive business decisions based on sustainable practices, which are interconnected with our bottom line as a business.
These two buildings we dedicate today generate an energy cost savings of 49.7%. They are designed and built with earth berming on the lower levels to reduce heat loss in this cold climate and with low-e glazing to minimize heat gain and maximize light transmission. They have high efficiency heating and air conditioning systems and controls, including geothermal heat utilizing a ground source heat pump for water and climate control. Native plants were selected to replant vegetation in disturbed areas, as is our normal practice, to keep natural vegetation in all construction areas.
These buildings are designed to serve our guests for many years into the future, with a minimal impact on our fragile and sometimes ferocious mountain environment. As they serve us and future generations, we will know that they function with minimum environmental impact and maximum cost efficiency creating a virtuous cycle which realizes our three core values of safety, sustainability and service.
We are very proud to have attained LEED Gold and Silver certification for these buildings. I would like to sincerely thank the design, construction and Meadows teams for their dedicated hard work that makes this celebration today possible. Together, we have achieved recognized excellence, consistent with our vision and values.
Thank you and ski safely and sustainably!
Elected officials from Clackamas and Hood River counties, a representative from Senator Ron Wieden's office, forest service officials, and representatives from the architectual and construction companies, as well as Mt. Hood Meadows staff attended the dedication. The event was opened with a traditional blessing by Chief Delvis Heath, Chief of the Warm Springs, Confederated tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation.
Pictured Left to Right:
Jay Ward Senator Ron Wyden’s Office
Clackamas County Commissioner Charlotte Lehan
Hood River County, Commission Chairman, Ron Rivers
Mt. Hood Meadows CEO Matthew Drake
Clackamas County Commissioners Jim Bernard
Chief Delvis Heath, Confederated tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation
Hood River County Commissioner Chuck Thomsen
Kneeling: Mt. Hood National Forest Supervisor Gary Larsen
4/3/2010 9:20:00 PM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 11 comments
Our miracle March has taken us into Amazing April. Saturday was our peak day of the season - it's amazing what the attraction of 6 feet of fresh powder will do. Our apologies to those who were turned away today - but our lots were full by 10:30 AM and we had no place to park, resulting in some turn aways. In situations like this we update our snow phones, web page, twitter feeds and Facebook page regarding parking lot status. We started those today at 9:30 AM anticipating a busy day. As some of the morning powder hunters left for the day, we allowed parking on a space by space available basis - and by 11:40 AM we were back to parking most everyone coming up at that time.
Visibility and storm recovery prevented the operation of Cascade and Vista - the storm continued throughout the day. There's so much powder cats couldn't even make the climb this morning to the top of Cascade. We'll continue working on both lifts to get them open Sunday - a nice Easter gift for sure! We also couldn't open Heather due to extremely poor visibility - significant debris in the main Heather gut at Twilight with evidence of airblast - significant concern about the Clark side and debris/airblast hitting the run out. We know it was disappointing for guests not to be able to get into Heather today but safety comes first.
Sunday should present the same exceptional conditions - but being Easter we don't expect as many guests. But you never know, as awesome as the conditions are (and as the pictures below will attest to) what would you rather be doing with your Sunday?
Happy Easter - and we'll see you on the mountain soon!
Sammy Carlson in S&R Cliffs photo by Richard Hallman.
Who needs a terrain park - Sammy can fly anywhere! Richard Hallman photo.
Photographer Randy Boverman puts down his camera long enough to enjoy the powder! Grant Myrdal Photography.
The powder even brought out the elusive Sasquatch - that's how good it is! Aaron Schulz photographer, Grant Myrdal Photography.
3/30/2010 7:19:00 AM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 10 comments
The storm of the decade raging on Mt. Hood has dumped nearly 3 feet of snow in the last 48 hours at Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort. Snow accumulated at rates of up to 2 inches of snow an hour and has increased the base depth to almost 11 feet. In the past 24 hours, 19 inches of fresh light powder has fallen.
Storm of the decade? Well, maybe we're taking some latitude here, but the decade started January 1, 2010 and this is definitely the biggest storm of this young decade. Regardless the conditions are spectacular!
The awesome conditions have prompted the resort to announce an extension to the season. Meadows will operate daily through April 25 and intends to continue operations on weekends in May through May 16, conditions permitting. The additional six days in May will bring the total days of operations this season at Meadows to 172 days. More details on the May operations including scheduled lifts and operational hours will be announced soon.
The resort is offering a special 5 Time Spring Pass for just $99 beginning April 1. The direct-to-lift pass allows the holder 5 days of epic spring riding at Meadows for under $20 / day. It can be purchased online to save time at SkiHood.com or at the resort and it can be upgraded to the unlimited spring pass for just $80.
3/26/2010 7:11:00 PM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 0 comments
Mark this one down as the best powder day so far this season. In fact, mark today on the calendar as the best powder ever on March 26. Here's a couple of photos of Ari Delashmutt shot by good friend Grant Myrdal in Private Reserve today.
Saturday's shunshine should be stunning. Cascade didn't run Friday so there'll be untracked in the morning. Heather was open from Twilight down so conditions permitting there should be some great powder turns in the Canyon. We'll keep you updated. If you like these pictures there's more in our gallery.
3/24/2010 4:37:00 PM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 2 comments
Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of Levi Sage Krukowski who suffered fatal injuries while snowboarding at Mt. Hood Meadows Monday. Words can not express how deeply sorry we are for their loss. Losing a loved one is especially tragic with one so young, just 18 years old. People ski and snowboard to recreate and celebrate. The news of a death on the mountain comes unexpectedly and shockingly.
Family members said Tuesday they are devastated. Levi began snowboarding in 2004. Family members said he loved adventure, had a zest for life and lived to snowboard. It saddens us to lose someone who shared such passion for the sport. Levi’s death affects all of us at the mountain.
For the second time this season we post a blog addressing such unfortunate news. In this case it is especially tragic, as Levi’s last run led him under a closed area rope and ultimately over a waterfall.
This story underscores why the rules of the responsibility code are so important to know and abide by. In this case, rule #6 - “Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas,” may have prevented this devastating loss.
Part of the attraction of this sport is pushing personal limits to increase our abilities and explore new and exciting terrain. But one boundary that should never be crossed is a rope line marking closed territory.
On behalf of the entire Meadows family we extend our thoughts and prayers to Levi’s family.
With our deepest sympathy,
-- Meadows Team
KGW Newschannel 8 Coverage of the accident
3/19/2010 3:09:00 PM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 0 comments
Mt. Hood Meadows Spring Splash March 20 - April 25
- Hero Snow, Sunshine Fun, Entertainment on the Deck highlight the Spring Splash
- Resort will give away a trip for 2 to Hawaii April 24
MT. HOOD, OR (Immediate Release) – Mt. Hood Meadows presents the Spring Splash – a celebration of all the good things spring brings the to mountain. Boasting a base depth of over 100 inches – one of the deepest in North America – the resort announced daily operation will continue through April 25, and is considering extending the season into May based on snow conditions and turn out.
The Spring Splash is all about corn snow, warm sunshine and the occasional midwinter-like storm common to this time of the season. It’s a fun and spectacular time on the mountain, ideal for cruising the groomers, hitting the parks and basking in the sun on the deck at the end of the day. Beginning March 20 special events, entertainment, clinics and contests will be presented weekends and holidays.
There’s also daily registration to win a trip for two to Hawaii to be given away April 24 (must be present on April 24 to win – one registration / person / day). The trip will include round trip airfare and hotel accommodations for four nights.
There’s more prizes and surprises at the Spring Splash, presented by KEEN Footwear and Monster Energy Drink, March 20 – April 25 at Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort.
March 20 – Spring Beer Fest Enjoy flavorful Microbrews from Full Sail, Double Mountain, Widmer, Kona, Red Hook and Lompoc breweries. On the deck in the sun!
March 21 – NW Demo TourFree demo from dozens of ski and snowboard manufacturers
March 20 – 21 Garcia Birthday Band 12 – 4 PM on the Paradise Sun DeckPiñatas for the kids at 3 PM
March 22 – 24
3 Day Holiday Kids Camps /
Freestyle CampsCamps offer specialized instruction for kids of similar abilities who team up with a coach for all three days.
March 23 – 25 Mark of Mystery 1 – 4 PMMark is an illusionist, specializing in slight of hand and table magic entertaining and astonishing guests close up.
March 27 – 28 Miriam Wells 12 – 4 PM presented by Stella Artois - Paradise Sun DeckPiñatas for the kids at 3 PM
March 27 - Chamber of Commerce Showcase
A day to recognize all of the towns that surround this beautiful mountain, and highlight some of the things that make this area so very special
March 28 – Safety Fair
Find our Safety Codesters – Know The Code and win prizes!
March 29 – 31
3 Day Holiday Kids Camps /
Freestyle CampsCamps offer specialized instruction for kids of similar abilities who team up with a coach for all three days.
3/13/2010 7:00:00 AM
by Meadows Team
in Parks Blog, Media Center
| 0 comments
Mt. Hood Meadows turns into a snowboarding haunt during U.S. Snowboarding 2010 Revolution Tour March 16-21. The tour makes Meadows its last stop of four stages and the final competition to pluck up top juniors in the country to feed into the USSA pipeline.
The event produces the top national juniors who then are named to U.S. Snowboarding's Project Gold. The top four male and female junior athletes in halfpipe and snowboardcross will be selected for the project based on their overall results from the tour, which included competitions earlier in the season around the country. Project Gold athletes train together in the summer and receive invitations to select project events.
The Revolution Tour features open class competitions in halfpipe, slopestyle, and snowboardcross. The event at Mt. Hood Meadows launches March 16 in Rose City Park with slopestyle competitions for women and men followed March 17 with the halfpipe competitions taking place off the Easy Rider chair. The snowboardcross takes place March 18 on a course built in Daisy Bowl.
Spectators can watch some of the nation's best juniors competing in the tour. Slopestyle and halfpipe riders will range between 13-19 years old, but USSA does not permit snowboardcross for riders under 15 years old.
The 2010 NorAm Snowboardcross is also part of the event. Catch some of the best Canadian and U.S. competitors as they duke it out on the Daisy course March 20-21.
3/10/2010 5:01:00 AM
by Meadows Team
in Media Center
| 0 comments
MT. HOOD, OR (Immediate Release) – Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort is offering a special $10 3 – 9 PM evening ticket for this Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday (March 10, 11 and 14.) This is the last week of Meadows After Dark night operations for the season, operating until 9 PM Wednesday – Sunday nights. The $10 ticket can be purchased online or at the resort those evenings.
The resort is scheduled to continue daily operations through April 25. Meadows received 3 inches of new snow overnight and has a base depth of 98 inches, one of the deepest snowpacks of any ski resort in the United States. The resort is receiving intermittent snow Wednesday morning with more snow forecast through the week.
Meadows is also offering incentives to online ticket purchasers of its normal $57 lift ticket. The online ticket includes a $5 coupon for food, and a $5 coupon for a retail merchandise purchase. No minimum purchase is required but the coupons need to be used the same day the ticket is used.
3/7/2010 5:18:00 PM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 1 comment
This week's weather forecast is signalling a return to winter. We thought you'd enjoy some ticket specials to "justify" taking a day up to the mountain.
$25 Tuesday Ticket Online Special
We have a special offer for you - a $25 lift ticket for this Tuesday, March 9. This is an online ticket offer only - you must purchase in advance through our web site. This week's forecast is calling for a return to wintry weather with snow levels dropping down to below 1,500 feet - so the conditions are going to be awesome! This offer is not available at the ski resort - you have to purchase online in advance!
$10 Night Ticket Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday March 10, 11 and 14
We've also announced a special $10 3 – 9 PM evening ticket for this Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday (March 10, 11 and 14) for our last week of night operations. We're down to our final week of Wednesday - Sunday Meadows After Dark operations, so take advantage of the special pricing (Friday and Saturday nights regular lift ticket rates apply). The $10 ticket can be purchased online or at the resort those evenings.
Online Special - $57 Lift Ticket includes $5 Coupon for Food & $5 Coupon for Retail
We're also offering incentives to online ticket purchasers of its normal $57 lift ticket. The online ticket includes a $5 coupon for food, and a $5 coupon for a retail merchandise purchase. No minimum purchase is required but the coupons need to be used the same day the ticket is used.
You have to purchase this online in advance to receive the coupons.
Take advantage of these great offers - the conditions are going to be best of the season! We'll see you on the mountain this week!
-- Meadows Team
3/6/2010 6:00:00 PM
by -- Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center, Parks Blog
| 1 comment
MT. HOOD, OR (March 6, 2010) – More than 200 people packed the Finish Line Sports Bar and Grill Saturday to see the top 10 finalists of the 1st Annual Mt. Hood Meadows Film Festival. The crowd was blown away by the creativity, riding ability, showcasing of Mt. Hood Meadows and overall quality of film making the finalists presented.
Meadows Executive Director of Communications Dave Tragethon said the festival was extraordinarily successful beyond what organizers originally expected. “We have passionate, talented and dedicated film makers who totally impressed our judges and the audience with their exceptional work. It was the perfect combination of scenic mountain and terrain, talented riders and the creative eyes of filmers and editors to showcase the great mountain.”
Taking top honors was Adam Fleck’s “So Far So Good” which combined a crew of very talented riders, panoramic shots showcasing all aspects of Meadows terrain, time lapse photography and slow motion to present style, grace and intrigue.
Here's Adam's award winning video.
The “films” were submitted on video and evaluated on several criteria:
- Skiing / snowboarding at Mt. Hood Meadows in a compelling, positive, entertaining and/or intriguing way.
- Quality of finished piece – video, post production, audio quality, use of music.
- Creative aspects and approach to the project.
- Story telling.
- Overall impression.
All finalists received a logoed backpack from Columbia Sportswear, a GoPro Camera and a $50 gift card to Meadows. Fleck also took home the best of show prize of $500. Event sponsors included Columbia Sportswear, Go Pro Cameras, Full Sail Brewing, Fuel TV and Vaya Creative.
Here are links to the Finalists that were showcased at the Film Festival. These and other submissions can be seen in our online video gallery.
Adam Fleck
Keaton Abbot
Matt Robertson
Hood Crew
Sebastian Tronolone
Tommy Ellingson
Scott Rowley
John Jackson & Taylor Cramer
Paul Klein
Jeremy Carples
2/25/2010 8:16:00 AM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 1 comment
It's the storm we've all been waiting for - so far 15 inches of in the past two days, 8 of that in the last 24 hours and 5 inches since the lifts closed for night operations Wednesday evening. That means fresh tracks this morning for powderhounds.
High winds are still limiting access to the upper mountain placing both Cascade and Vista on standby. We ran cats up there to groom but within minutes their tracks are covered with six foot wind drifts. It's amazing what high winds and a lot of snow can do.
Private Reserve will open at 9 AM this morning. Patrol has been running AC routes in Heather since dawn and there's a much better chance of the Canyon opening - at least from Twilight down - today than yesterday. So those heading to the Canyon will be treated to all 15 inches of fresh along with deep pockets of wind deposited POW!
Have fun in the new snow, but be aware of deep snow hazards. Ski and ride with a buddy and keep track of each other.
We'll see you in the powder!
Oh - and one last shameless plug for those who haven't already purchased a season pass - the online Spring Pass $149 special ends Sunday. Looks like El Nino is delivering as promised - late season snow - so now's a great time to get the best price on the best spring skiing and riding on Mt. Hood!
-- Meadows Team
2/24/2010 4:49:00 PM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 0 comments
The Police Action which closed Highway 26 requiring a detour has ended, and Highway 26 is now open through Sandy. Traffic is moving smoothly in both directions. Come on up for some great powder at Meadows After Dark!
-- Meadows Team
2/24/2010 1:25:00 PM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 0 comments
A police action in Sandy has traffic backed up on Highway 26. It may be adviseable to travel to the mountain on I-84 through Hood River, as it is unknown how long this action will take to resolve.
There is a detour through Sandy that you can take - here's a picture of that or you can select this Google Map Link.
Sandy Detour Wednesday, February 24, 2010 1:13 PM
Click image for larger view
Turn by turn heading East towards Mt. Hood Meadows (Google Map Link):
US-26 E
1. Head southeast toward Ruben Ln 125 ft
2. Turn right at Ruben Ln 0.2 mi
3. Turn left at Dubarko Rd 0.1 mi
4. Take the 2nd left onto Sandy Heights St 0.8 mi
5. Turn left at Tupper Rd 0.4 mi
6. Slight left at Meinig Ave 197 ft
7. Take the 1st right onto Highway 26 174 ft
Drive careful - have patience. See you on the mountain!
-- Meadows Team
2/24/2010 5:50:00 AM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 0 comments
Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort received 7 inches of new snow overnight in a snow storm that promises to deliver that much more the next few days. Resort officials say this is the storm that powder hounds have been waiting for, as it could deliver more than a foot of fresh powder total before the weekend.
The resort reports an 88 inch snowpack depth in the base area. The resort has been operating at 100% with all terrain open, although storms can affect lift operations. Resort officials say it is setting up to be a great week of powder skiing and riding, leading to a weekend that will have clearing and sunshine.
Mt. Hood Meadows is scheduled to operate daily through April 25, and offers night skiing and riding five nights a week at least through March 14. The resort may extend both day and night scheduled operations depending on snow conditions and turn out.
The Unlimited Spring Pass is available for $149 on the resort’s web site – SkiHood.com. The special offer ends Sunday – after that the pass will cost $179. The Unlimited Spring Pass offers daily (and nightly) direct to lift access for the remainder of the season beginning March 1.
2/22/2010 6:28:00 AM
by -- Meadows Team
in Connection, Parks Blog, Media Center
| 3 comments
Mt. Hood Meadows is a beacon for winter film making. The resort and it's rugged and graceful slopes have been featured in travel, ski and more recently snowboard films and videos for more than 40 years. Meadows provides a beautiful backdrop and the subject matter for epic film making.
The Meadows Film Festival will be presented March 6 to showcase not only the beauty and majesty of our mountain, but the creativity and talent of our guests. Talent in the form of on-the-snow action skiing and riding showing off the attributes of the resort. There is nothing more splendid than capturing the perfect match of terrain and athleticism. Creativity in the story telling - the way the images, clips and edits are presented to make for an intriguing story.
The deadline for the Film Festival is Sunday, February 28. Our panel of esteemed judges will select up to the top 10 choices for showcasing March 6 at the Finish Line Pizzeria and Sports Bar. We'll award prizes, including a $500 first prize to the winning entry. Our thanks to Columbia Sportswear, Go Pro Helmet Cams, Full Sail Brewing, Fuel TV and Vaya Creative for supporting this event.
Get details on submitting your entry here.
See you at the Film Festival!
-- Meadows Team
2/17/2010 5:36:00 PM
by -- Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 0 comments
Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort raised more than $21,500 for Mercy Corps during Monday evening’s Haitian Relief night. The resort announced the fundraiser less than two weeks ago, offering to extend operational hours on the President’s Monday holiday and challenging skiers and snowboarders to purchase their $10 night ticket online, pledging all $10 of the online purchase would be donated to the Mercy Corps Haitian Relief efforts.
More than $8,000 was raised through the generosity of advance purchasing guests, some of whom didn’t even use the lift ticket. Meadows officials are donating an additional $12,700 from the evening’s proceeds to up that total to $20,760. Meadows guests also dug deep into their pockets offering spare change and bills (some with big numbers on them) to Mercy Corps volunteers attending the event. In total the evening generated $21,533 for Haiti.
Meadows has a page on the Mercy Corps web site for those that would still like to contribute:
Resort Executive Director of Communications Dave Tragethon said the evening exceeded expectations. “We are grateful and humbled by the turn out of our guests looking for a good deal and an even better cause. It is with great pleasure and pride that on behalf of our guests and staff we present Mercy Corps with this $21,533 donation. We know these funds will be used to help the noble people of Haiti rebuild their lives and their country.”
Mercy Corps efforts are creating thousands of jobs for survivors, securing clean water and sanitation services for hard-hit neighborhoods, providing jobs to 7,000 survivors to help clear debris and rebuild their community and helping kids traumatized by the earthquake.
“Mercy Corps is honored to be the recipient of Mt. Hood Meadows’ fundraiser and the generosity of those who participated in this great event for Haiti” said Mercy Corps spokeswoman Caitlin Carlson. “Mercy Corps responded immediately to the needs in Haiti and is committed for the long haul to help the country rebuild. Donations from the event will be used to improve lives of Haitians affected by this devastating earthquake. We thank everyone who participated.”
Mercy Corps helps people in the world’s toughest places turn the crises of natural disaster, poverty and conflict into opportunities for progress. Driven by local needs and market conditions, our programs provide communities with the tools and support they need to transform their own lives. Our worldwide team of 3,700 professionals is improving the lives of 16.7 million people in more than 40 countries. For more information, see mercycorps.org.
2/17/2010 12:00:00 PM
by -- Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center, Parks Blog
| 1 comment
On Saturday, February 13, 23 year old Kyle Cryblskey suffered fatal injuries while landing a jump in a terrain park at Mt. Hood Meadows.
On behalf of the entire team here at Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort, we want to express our deepest condolences to Kyle’s family. Words seem so inadequate at a time like this. We can only imagine the grief and sorrow they are feeling.
Kyle’s untimely passing has impacted all of us here at Mt. Hood Meadows greatly. Although we did not know Kyle, it is evident that he had great passion for snow boarding and the outdoors in general. We share that same passion and will continue to do so in his honor.
Kyle’s family is urging everyone to wear helmets when skiing or snowboarding. We want to use this blog to help educate guests about helmets, as well as the Smart Style approach to riding terrain parks. Sharing this knowledge here may prevent such a tragedy in the future.
Smart Style Information
The National Ski Areas Association has developed the "Smart Style" Freestyle Terrain Safety initiative, a cooperative effort to continue the proper use and progression of freestyle terrain at mountain resorts, while delivering a unified message that is clear, concise, and effective.
1. MAKE A PLAN - Every time you use freestyle terrain, make a plan for each feature you want to use. Your speed, approach and take off will directly affect your maneuver and landing.
2. LOOK BEFORE YOU LEAP - Scope around the jumps first, not over them. Know your landings are clear and clear yourself out of the landing area.
3. EASY STYLE IT - Start small and work your way up. (Inverted aerials not recommended).
4. RESPECT GETS RESPECT - From the lift line through the park.
The four points of Smart Style are printed in our trail map and on our web site. Signs are also posted at the entrance to our terrain parks.
This video explains how the Smart Style points apply to responsible park riding.
The video is aimed at educating guests on how to use freestyle terrain properly, and integrates the four points of Smart Style with the ATML method: Approach, Take-Off, Maneuver, and Landing. The video highlights an instrumental message in freestyle terrain use: avoid the backseat and land on your feet.
Helmet Usage
Skiing and snowboarding have always had risks, but they also have an excellent safety record. Skiers and snowboarders have less than a one in a million chance of being seriously injured or dying on the slopes. Serious head injuries account for only 2.6 percent of overall skiing/snowboarding injuries. Each skier or snowboarder’s behavior has as much or more to do with the safety of the sports as does any piece of equipment. If you choose to wear a helmet or use other types of equipment to protect yourself, be sure you understand the limits and proper use of that equipment. Don’t let safety equipment give you a false sense of security.
- A helmet can make a difference in reducing or preventing a head injury from a fall or other impacts. However, no helmet can protect the wearer against all foreseeable impacts and injuries to the head. You should be familiar with and/or memorize the "Your Responsibility Code.”
- A helmet's fit is most important. It's helpful to have an experienced sales person assist you with fit. A properly fit helmet will be comfortable with no pressure points. A helmet is not an item that you want to grow into. Mt. Hood Meadows sells and rents helmets.
For those that have read this far – thank you. Please ride safely and share these messages with others.
Here are some links that provide additional information regarding safety on the slopes.
-- Meadows Team
2/13/2010 9:03:00 AM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 1 comment
This holiday weekend runs the gamut as far as social and societal events go.
Chairway 2 Heaven
Sunday is the "Chairway 2 Heaven" speed dating on the Blue Chairlift. Kudos to our special events crew for imagineering this fun and creative mixer. The love lift is scheduled from 11 - 5, and there'll also be a Meadows Mingle at the bottom of Blue where you can meet others as well. It's all for fun, but who knows - maybe a love connection or two will be created, all starting with a 9 minute chailift ride on Blue.
It made us wonder about how many love connections got their start on the slopes? There are already a couple of guest stories that talk about this:
Luke & Emily
Sharon & Danny
If you have a story about someone you met at a ski area that turned into more than a few shared runs together - post it here!
Haitian Relief Fundraiser
Monday is our Haitian Relief Fundraiser to benefit Mercy Corps. We're extending lift operations until 9 PM (normally lifts close at 4 PM Monday) and offering a special $10 lift ticket good from 3 - 9 PM. Purchase this lift ticket online and all $10 of it goes to Mercy Corps.
Since this is a special fundraiser, everyone riding the lift Monday after 4 PM will need to purchase the $10 ticket - including season pass holders. Other tickets such as Costco, destination, online tickets (other than the special $10 fundraising ticket) will expire at 4 PM. We will be selling $10 tickets at the ski resort Monday, but you should purchase the ticket online as all $10 of the online ticket is donated to Mercy Corps.
Have a great holiday weekend - and we'll see you on the slopes!
2/9/2010 6:55:00 AM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 1 comment
The new website of Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort, designed and developed by ISITE Design, has been named North American Travel Site of the Year by web content management software provider Sitecore.
The site was recognized for supporting an immersive, engaging and interactive online experience for skiers and snowboarders who visit Mt. Hood Meadows, a premier winter sports destination in the Pacific Northwest. The new site engages resort visitors before, during and after their trip to the mountain. It provides vibrant photos and videos, user-contributed media and stories, and real-time data on trail conditions, weather, lifts, and more. The site also integrates with business-critical systems, including Mt. Hood Meadows’ resort management system and ecommerce, helping drive strong customer engagement and online revenue.
“Mt. Hood Meadows had an ambitious set of site requirements. They wanted a great visual design, an elegant user experience for a wide array of visitors and new functionality like user-contributed photos and videos,” said Paul Williams, CEO and President, ISITE Design. “It was a tall order with a deadline of 4 months and the need to provide a highly scalable platform on which they could grow.”
Williams added, “The Sitecore CMS provided ISITE and Mt. Hood Meadows a flexible development framework to create a robust and engaging web experience that is easily maintained by Meadows staff.”
The website re-launch, coming just before the start of the 2009-2010 winter season, engaged customers immediately. The site reflects Mt. Hood Meadows’s status as a premier travel destination in the Pacific Northwest.
“We are extremely pleased with the presentation of content, imagery and the user experience that SkiHood.com delivers to our guests. The improved navigational system and one click ability to reach popular sections such as our conditions page, photo gallery, events schedule and online store has vastly improved the browsing experience, delivering the preferred content fast and efficiently,” said Dave Tragethon, Executive Director of Sales, Marketing, Communications and IT.
He added, “The Sitecore application allows us to decentralize the administrative task of managing our site to involve those who are most knowledgeable and excited about their specific sections of the site. The site has helped us accomplish our mission to communicate more immediately and accurately with our guests in both a proactive and responsive basis. This site is helping our guests to advance plan their trip and commit to visiting Mt. Hood Meadows, while setting the appropriate expectation of what they will experience when they get here.”
Sitecore’s Site of the Year contest recognizes customers who have leveraged Sitecore’s technology to develop the most outstanding websites.
Read the entire release here.
2/1/2010 5:02:00 AM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 0 comments
Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort is adding a special night to its operating schedule Monday, February 15, to raise money for Haitian relief efforts. The resort is offering a special $10 lift ticket good from 3 – 9 PM Monday, February 15.
All $10 of the ticket purchased online in advance through the resort’s web site will be donated to Mercy Corps’ Haitian relief efforts. The ticket can be purchased directly online. The special night is being held on the President’s Monday Holiday, when lifts usually close at 4 PM. We hope the holiday, the special lift ticket price of $10 (normally $25) and the great need of the Haitian people will create a good turnout. We'll also offer guests additional ways to contribute to Haitian relief and representatives of Mercy Corps will be at Meadows to discuss their efforts.
We've set up a fundraising page on the Mercy Corps web site. This is for those who would like to contribute in addition to the $10 lift ticket purchase.
Since this is an extension beyond Meadows’ regularly scheduled lift operations anyone riding the lift after 4 PM Monday will need the special fundraising ticket, including season pass holders, 10 Time Pass holders, online tickets (other than the special Haiti Relief Night ticket), Costco and destination tickets.
-- Meadows Team
1/25/2010 5:09:00 PM
by Barbara Ayers
in Guest Stories, Media Center
| 0 comments
Rotary Ski Night 2010 was the first time on the mountain for kids, including an after school program from St. Francis House in Odell. The Rotary Club of Hood River and Mount Hood Meadows Ski Resort teamed up to present the annual Rotary Ski Night to Oregon outdoor enthusiasts. The goal of the event is to bring the community together in the great outdoors and to raise money to support charitable causes.
Held on a Monday in January, this year’s event fell on January 18 - the holiday in which we honor Martin Luther King Junior. The holiday timing allowed thousands of people to join the event and help raise funds to support student scholarships and other Rotary community services. Monday, more than 2,300 Rotary lift tickets were used on the mountain, a vast increase in participation for the annual event.
The Hood River Rotary club rents the ski area for this fund raising event and lift tickets are sold for ten dollars each. Skiers had unlimited use of the mountain from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m., access to a slalom race course and free entertainment in the lodge. Tickets were sold by Hood River Rotarians, Columbia Gorge businesses, Mount Hood Meadows ticket booths and many of the Rotary Clubs that comprise Rotary District 5100. Without strong support from Mount Hood Meadows, an event of this magnitude could not happen.
By offering tickets at a low cost and holding the event on a holiday, more people than ever were able to attend from communities in Oregon and Southwest Washington. The event drew families, students and community members who might otherwise be working. Numerous first-time skiers and boarders also enjoyed the event.
“Everyone has such a great time at Rotary Ski Night and the best part is, proceeds from this event raise money to support Rotary causes - such as scholarships for graduating seniors, free dictionaries for local school children and numerous other projects,” said Michael Schock, Hood River Rotary Ski chairman. “The idea is to bring everyone together on one special night. Offering lift tickets at a low cost allows more people to join in the fun. We are so thankful that Mount Hood Meadows let us hold Rotary Ski Night on a holiday – this allowed many more people to get involved.”
Photo: Danny, a student from an after school program at St. Francis House in Odell, shows his superb skills on his first run on a snowboard at Rotary Ski Night
-- Barbara Ayers
1/25/2010 4:05:00 PM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 0 comments
Mt. Hood Meadows Unlimited Spring Season Pass is on sale on the resort’s website at a special promotional price of $119. The pass is valid beginning March 1 and offers the pass holder direct to lift convenience every day the rest of the season. A pass purchased at the ski area beginning March 1 will be $179, so those purchasing online in advance by January 31 will save $60.
The Unlimited Spring season pass will offer pass holders 56 days of daily scheduled operations through April 25, plus extra days if the season is extended into May as the resort has done the past several seasons. That brings the cost of skiing or snowboarding down to a little more than $2 / day! Even a casual rider who would come up just four times (every other weekend in March and April) would benefit from the $119 price – bringing the daily price down to under $30 / day.
Unlimited Spring pass holders receive benefits including discounts on demo equipment, adult and children ski school lessons and clinics, day care, retail shop purchases and midweek lodging at Cooper Spur Mt. Resort.
Click here for additional information on the Unlimited Spring season pass.
1/24/2010 9:29:00 PM
by Meadows Team
in Media Center, Connection
| 0 comments
A major winter storm is dropping a significant amount of fresh powder on Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort. The light powder is piling up at a rate of more than an inch an hour, and is expected to continue overnight. Snow starting dropping late morning and in a 10 hour period a foot of fresh powder has accumulated.
Our snowpack in the base area reached 80 inches Sunday!
Monday will be an exceptional powder day, but we want to remind you to be aware of the dangers associated with deep snow conditions, particularly tree wells. Make sure you are riding or skiing with a buddy and keep track of each other at all times.
Get more information on deep snow tree skiing safety in our safety section.
-- Meadows Team
1/21/2010 10:43:00 AM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 18 comments
In the early evening of Sunday, January 17, a hard slab avalanche approximately ¾ of a mile wide near the top of the Wy’East face at the 10,650 foot level on Mt. Hood fractured and slid. The “crown” or fracture line ranged in depth from approximately four to ten feet and the incident triggered slides into three different watersheds – White River Canyon (between Meadows and Timberline), Newton Canyon (to the North of our permit area) and most significantly Clark Canyon, just inside our permit area.
The avalanche continued down the Clark Canyon drainage depositing itself in the foothills area about 200 yards shy of the Heather Chair Lift. In total it traveled 2.75 miles, collecting several thousand tons of snow, ice and debris before exhausting itself. The pile of ice, snow, rubble and debris in the deposition zone ranging in height from 15 to 30 feet.
The Hard Slab avalanche released naturally on an old crust that was formed just over a week prior. This event occurred above our permit area where no avalanche hazard reduction occurs. The conditions leading to this natural release were a hard ice layer formed from rain then a melt freeze cycle. This was followed by a storm cycle that deposited five to ten feet of wind loaded snow on top of this layer, including the moderate precipitation on Sunday.
The course and debris entered the ski area at the most remote part of our permit area, and at a time the terrain was closed. No guests, staff members or physical property was involved in this incident.
Avalanche Info
Avalanche starting zones generally occur on slopes between 30 and 60 degrees. They can run, and even accelerate, at pitches between 15 and 30 degrees especially when confined, such as the terrain in Clark Canyon. When the slopes hit 15 degrees or less the avalanche will generally decelerate to a stop, leaving huge amounts of debris in the deposition zone.
In terms of size, avalanches are measured on “R = Relative size to path” and “D = Destructive Force” scales –from 1 to 5, 5 being the largest and most destructive. Sunday’s avalanche was classified “R4” and “D4”.
Sunday's Avalanche Stats:
- Slope distance travelled: 14,500 feet, 6,000 meters or about 2.75 miles from start to finish.
- Elevation lost: 5,400 feet from the crown at around the 10,650 foot level to the “toe” at the 5,240 foot level.
- Width of the starting zone: 3/4 mile wide.
- Crown height at the fracture: Ranging from 4 to 10 feet
- Deposition field is in the millions of cubic feet of debris with up to 15 to 30 foot depths.
Sunday’s avalanche is not as uncommon as originally reported. Since 1976 there have been 23 naturally occurring avalanches, R4 or bigger, in the Heather Canyon drainage. During this same time period, there have been 16 R4 or bigger events in the Clark Canyon drainage. The majority of these larger natural slides, in the Heather drainage, occurred prior to 2002. Since that time patrol has increased the frequency and effectiveness of avalanche hazard reduction in Heather Canyon. This has greatly reduced the number of large, natural avalanches in Heather Canyon. However, current reduction measures for Clark Canyon are a challenge because some of the larger start zones are above our permit area.
This file photo taken from Super Bowl gives some persective and a "lay of the land" view of Clark and Heather Canyons. You can see the remnants of an avalanche track in Clark which is the more natural path of avalanches which start above our permit area.
Fortunately no guests, staff members or physical property was involved in Sunday's avalanche. This is an awesome display of nature that we respect, admire and learn from.
Coincidentally, January 16 – 22 is National Ski Area Safety Awareness Week. It is appropriate to focus on rule #6 of the Responsibility Code:
Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
There are times that we close the gates to Heather Canyon, or portions of Heather Canyon, because of these conditions. We ask you to respect those boundaries, and never cross a rope line. The consequences can be deadly.
When heading into any of our gated access terrain – Heather Canyon, Clark Canyon, Private Reserve and Search & Rescue Cliffs, we highly recommend Skiing/Riding with a partner and carrying a beacon, probe, and shovel.
Enjoy the pictures – and let them serve as a reminder of just how awesome the nature of our mountain is. The pictures were taken by Executive Director of Mountain Operations Steve Warila, and Tighe Stoyanoff Head of Snow Safety. Thanks to Tighe and Nicholi Stoyanoff - Snow Safety, Patrol Director Melissa Toney and Patrol Manager Brandon Backman for their assistance in presenting this blog.
Also - kudos to our snow safety, patrol and grooming departments who were able to reopen lower Heather Monday before noon. Our groomers moved a lot of snow to create access back to the Heather Chair for our guests.
The crown or fracture line is right at the top of the Wy'East face. The majority of the slab and debris slid down and was collected into Clark Canyon, typical of these slides which start above our permit area.
From Accordian Bowl, a patroller views the track leading to the deposition zone just before the cut off to the Heather chair ramp.
Working down off the flats below Accordion Bowl, encountering debris along the edge of the track left by the avalanche as it rounded a corner. An R5 may have taken those trees out as well.
Notice the gouging of the earth by the avalanche as it passed through the flats of Accordion - the berm is between 25 and 30 feet high indicating the height of the avalanche at that point.
Measuring a five foot tall ice boulder with a rock encased in it.
The Avalanche created this 25+ foot high berm or side cut as it smashed into the side of the canyon and altered course.
The berm is still pronounced and you can just barely make out the ramp up to the Heather Chair beyond the debris, which is almost impossible to ski through once it sets up into varying sized ice and snow clumps. The deposition zone ranged in depth from 15 to 30 feet.
Looking back at the deposition zone from the ramp leading to the Heather Chair you can see the massive depth on the right hand side – that’s a 20 foot tall tree the snow is pushing over.
1/16/2010 9:53:00 AM
by Parks Crew
in Parks Blog, Media Center
| 4 comments
It's been a busy week for Parks Crew which has been doing a great job embellishing our parks product even without the extra helping of snow we usually get.
The InGround SuperPipe is open! We used all kinds of crazy techniques to scrape the snow together and shape it into the 18 foot walls. This last snow storm literally put us over the top and the Northwest's ONLY SuperPipe is open at Mt. Hood Meadows!
The banked slalom course was built Friday night. The start pad is a little ways uphill from the easyrider bullwheel off of red road. The course runs down wallflower finishing just above the inground SuperPipe.
The ball feature has been added to the end of Forest Park. We extended Forest Park Tuesday evening adding 1 rainbow rail after the picnic table. The park is growing with additional rails being added.
Park Place was also extended further down Breakaway. We added 1 down rail.
Congrats to the crew - they've been working hard and the reward is yours with five parks (incuding Shipyard and The Zoo) and a SuperPipe for your holiday weekend enjoyment!
-- Parks Crew
1/14/2010 8:37:00 AM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 4 comments
January 16 - 22 is National Ski Area Safety Awareness Week and we'll be celebrating safety at our Safety Fair this Saturday at Mt. Hood Meadows. We urge you to first learn, then abide by the seven rules of the Responsibility Code, which when followed, increase safety on the slopes. The Code has been used for half a century to serve as common sense guidelines which help set a course for a more enjoyable day on the slopes.
Saturday’s Safety Fair will encourage guests to find the seven Safety “Codesters”, learn the rules and win prizes ranging from safety whistles to safety messenger bags. Those who collect all seven Codester stamps on their Code Card will be eligible to win a 10 Time Pass given away in drawings in the afternoon and evening.
Representatives from Meadows Pro Patrol will be on hand to discuss safety issues and introduce guests to the safety search and rescue dogs. A contest will also be presented to allow guests to find hidden targets with tracking beacons used by backcountry enthusiasts. The Safety Fair is presented by Fuel TV, Monster Energy Drink and the Anheuser-Busch Responsibility Matters Program.
Mt. Hood Meadows endorses the NSAA Code of Responsibility and encourages guests to “Know The Code” before and while visiting the mountain.
- Stay in Control.
- People ahead have the right of way.
- Stop in a safe place for you and others.
- When starting downhill or merging, look uphill and yield.
- Use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.
- Observe signs and warnings and keep off closed trails.
- Know how to use the lifts safely.
Meadows has won three national safety awards in the past two seasons for efforts to educate guests and employees about safety awareness. We hope these efforts will help you to be more aware as you prepare yourself for the slopes, leading to more enjoyable days on the mountain.
For more details on National Ski Area Safety Week visit the National Ski Area Association web site.
See you on the mountain!
-- Meadows Team
1/7/2010 12:20:00 PM
by Parks Crew
in Parks Blog, Media Center
| 22 comments
Freestyling is all about finding new and creative ways to express yourself. That's why we work with Kurt Heine of Heine tools to develop features for our parks. Kurt sent us some pictures of his latest innovation which we are calling "The Ball".
It is a gigantic globe, mounted on a four sided pedastal. Each pedastal has a trapezoidal face which should allow approaching it from three sides. A skilled stall on the top could even bring the down side into play on the dismount.
"The Ball" will be appearing soon most likely in Forest Park. So come to Meadows and get on the Ball! Have a Ball at Meadows! OK - that could be a little lame. Do you have a better name for this new feature?
-- Parks Crew
1/4/2010 8:07:00 AM
by Meadows Team
in Media Center, Connection
| 0 comments
MT. HOOD, OR (Immediate Release) – January has been proclaimed Learn A Snow Sport Month in Oregon, and Mt. Hood Meadows is offering many affordable packages for first timers. Meadows has the largest ski school in Oregon, with certified professionals with a vast amount of experience in introducing beginners to skiing and snowboarding. The resort’s “Buttercup” beginner chairlift services the gradual terrain where first time lessons are conducted. Meadows also has the Northwest’s only enclosed over the conveyer called “The Ballroom Carpet” which gives first timers a fun uphill experience. Most ski areas rely on the traditional “rope tow” which tend to wear out beginners being pulled up the hill.
As part of Learn A Snow Sport month, anyone who brings a beginner to enroll in a beginner package at Mt. Hood Meadows in the month of January can enter to win an unlimited 2010-2011 season pass.
Meadows learn to ski or snowboard packages include a Buttercup beginner lift ticket, ski or snowboard equipment rentals and a two hour lesson. They are very affordable and some are offered at even greater discounts at the resort’s website.
One Day Package - $60 at the ski resort / $50 online (age 13 and older)
Includes a Buttercup beginner lift ticket, 2 hour lesson and equipment rentals.
A second two hour lesson can be added for just $10 more.
Night Package - $25 (age 13 and older, offered Wednesday – Sunday Evenings)
Includes a Buttercup 3 – 9 PM beginner lift ticket, 2 hour lesson and equipment rentals.
3 Time Passport - $99 (age 13 and older)
Includes three days – lift ticket, 2 hour lesson and equipment rentals each day. First two days include Buttercup beginner lift ticket, third day is an all mountain lift. Any three days, no reservations required.
3 Time Night Passport - $75 (age 13 and older)
Includes three evenings – 3 – 9 PM lift tickets, 2 hour lesson and equipment rentals each day. First two evenings include Buttercup beginner lift ticket, third evening is an all night operating lift. Any three nights, no reservations required.
4 Time Learn to Ski or Snowboard - $160 (age 13 and older)
This 4 week program includes an all day lift ticket, ski rental package (skis, boots, poles), and a 2 hour lesson for 4 consecutive weeks offered through weekend middle school, high school and adult programs. January programs kick off January 9 and 10; February programs begin February 6 and 7. The package is also offered through the midweek (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) adult programs. The first two weeks include a ticket for beginner lift only; last two weeks include an all-mountain lift ticket.
Twilight Kids Club is offered Saturdays and Sundays. Parents receive 1 free adult 3pm – close lift ticket for each child enrolled in Twilight Club. Kids are supervised from 3 PM – 7 PM with a two hour on snow lesson offered in between. Equipment rentals is just $5 for kids in Club.
1/3/2010 6:07:00 AM
by Parks Crew
in Parks Blog, Media Center
| 6 comments
Construction of Forest Park was started last night. It contains rollers, 1 funbox, 1 pole jam, 1 table top, and 1 down rail. It's a work in progress with more features planned. It will probably open for riding (when we get appropriate clearance) today.
You can send mobile device pix to: true82stand@photos.flickr.com - we'll post them in our photo gallery.
To get to Forest Park you can take Lady Slipper from the top of Stadium, or Lady Slipper from the top of Hood River Express.
And you've probably seen that we've been working on the SuperPipe. We hope to get that open this week!
-- Parks Crew
1/2/2010 11:26:00 AM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, FAQ, Media Center
| 8 comments
You may have noticed that the temperature and windspeed values on our conditions page are reported in near real time this season. This was made possible by the installation this fall of new "data loggers" at the Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center (NWAC) telemetry stations located at the top and bottom of our Mt. Hood Express lifts. These data loggers provide continuous readings, which we update on our web site every five minutes. This entirely automated process provides the most accurate and immediate weather readings to our conditions page and those who view it.
We still provide the link to the NWAC 24 hour telemetry, which records hourly readings. However, there is a delay of up to 30 minutes before the hourly data is presented. This can create discrepencies between the "real time" readings reported on our site, and the hourly reading reported on the NWAC site, but we feel it is better to provide the most current data possible.
We also use the real time data for our snow phone reports, our Fuel TV monitors in the lodge and the emailed snow report which goes out to subsribers at 5:40 AM each morning. Because some of our guests have noticed discrepencies in the NWAC hourly temperature reports and our "real time" reports, we did a comparison of the two over an 11 day period. Keep in mind, the readings are coming from the same data loggers units, this is just a difference in time of when they are recorded.
Here’s a comparison of the 5:40 AM temps reported in our email compared to the 5 AM temps reported on NWAC. The first temperature is the 5:40 AM value which was sent out in our snow report email each morning. The second temperature is the NWAC 5 AM reading. We "bolded" any discrepencies between the two.
Date: Bottom .. Top
01/02: 27 / 28 .. 22 / 23
01/01: 35 / 36 .. 30 / 31
12/31: 24 / 25 .. 21 / 22
12/30: 25 / 25 .. 20 / 22
12/29: 21 / 21 .. 19 / 20
12/28: 27 / 27 .. 24 / 23
12/27: 17 / 17 .. 18 / 18
12/26: 29 / 30 .. 25 / 25
12/25: 34 / 33 .. 40 / 40
12/24: 28 / 28 .. 32 / 32
12/23: 22 / 22 .. 24 / 28 (The 6 AM NWAC was 24 so the temp was dropping between 5 AM and 6 AM)
So out of the 11 days reported, the 5:40 AM "real time" reading appearing in our snow report emails:
Bottom Telemetry:
4 Days 1 Degree less than 5 AM
6 Days Exact Match of 5 AM
1 Day 1 degree more than 5 AM
Top Telemetry:
1 Day 4 Degrees less than 5 AM
1 Day 2 Degrees less than 5 AM
4 Days 1 Degree less than 5 AM
4 Days Exact Match of 5 AM
1 Day 1 Degree more than 5 AM
Bottom line:
7 out of 11 days the 5:40 AM matched or was warmer than the 5 AM at the Bottom of Express.
5 out of 11 days the 5:40 AM matched or was warmer than the 5 AM at the Top of Express.
We present this information so you can better understand where these temperature readings come from and how we report them. Again, this all comes directly from the telemetry automatically - it is not altered or filtered in any way by Mt. Hood Meadows. We believe this is the best way to present the most accurate and immediate weather data for our guests.
-- Meadows Team
12/16/2009 3:51:00 PM
by Meadows Team
in Media Center
| 0 comments
NetGreen News recently featured Mt. Hood Meadows' sustainability efforts, sending a reporter Casey Hatfield to the resort to interview Sustainability Manager Heidi Logosz. The video report is included below, although you can view the NetGreen Web newscast in full version with the supporting story here.
For more information on Meadows' sustainability efforts, contact Heidi Logosz at 503.337.2222 x1215, or Dave Tragethon 503.659.1256 x1190.
12/7/2009 3:29:00 PM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 1 comment
On one of the coldest days in Meadows history, Glen Plake stopped by to take a few runs and sign some autographs. The normally Spiked-Mohawked Plake let his hair down today (although as cold as it was it would have naturally frozen into perfectly spiked fashion) and visited with the hearty guests hitting the mountain.
Here Glen took over directing Guest Services "Get those cookies handed out now!"
Glen and Chris from accounting getting ready to hit the slopes on a bluebird but chilly day (Glen is on the one on the right).
Glen is a great ambassador of the sport and we thank him for dropping in today!
For more pictures of Glen at Meadows visit our Photo Gallery.
--Meadows Team
12/7/2009 7:28:00 AM
by Meadows Team
in FAQ, Connection, Media Center
| 0 comments
Consecutive Week Programs offer custom multi-time lift ticket, lesson and rental packages at affordable prices. There are a variety of programs offered weekends and midweek for youth and adults during January and February.
This season we are offering online registration for these programs with a pre-registration deadline of December 18, after which these program packages will increase $50.
Those looking for transportation to the mountain as part of the program, should enroll with a Group Organizer, with a GO Code. Using a GO Code will connect you with that specific Group Organizer's bus that is scheduled on the session days you select. The easiest way to find a neighborhood program, Group Organizer and their related GO Code is with our MicroMap system, which allows you to find pick up locations near your home.
MicroMap Bus Finder Locations
You can also get a GO Code by calling our Clackamas Office at 503.659.1256. Once you have a GO Code you can go to the Consecutive Week Programs enrollment page and enter the GO Code in the designated box. The products that appear are attached to that Group Organizer and the prices include transportation, if that Group Organizer is running a bus.
I Don't Need Transportation - I just want to purchase a consecutive week program and drive up myself.
OK. Here are links to the different programs. You don't need a GO Code.
4 Time Weekend Sessions
Weekend Session Dates:
- January Saturdays: Jan 9, 16. 23. 30
- January Sundays: Jan 10, 17, 24, 31
- February Saturdays: Feb 6, 13, 20, 27
- February Sundays: Feb 7, 14, 21, 28
Midweek Adult Program
-
Tuesdays (1/5, 1/12, 1/19 ,1/26, 2/2, 2/9, 2/16, 2/23)
-
Wednesdays (1/6, 1/13, 1/20, 1/27, 2/3, 2/10, 2/17, 2/24)
-
Thursdays (1/7, 1/14, 1/21, 1/28, 2/4, 2/11, 2/18, 2/25)
* 6 Week Program can choose six of the above eight dates.
Or you can always call our Clackamas office 503.659.1256 for assistance!
12/4/2009 8:25:00 PM
by Meadows Team
in Media Center
| 1 comment
MT. HOOD, OR (12/4/09) – Park & Ride - Mt. Hood Meadows shuttle service from Portland – will roll this weekend offering round trip service both Saturday and Sunday, December 5 and 6. The shuttle service is scheduled to operate weekends and holiday time frames through March.
The shuttle picks up in Tualatin, Beaverton and Gateway between 6:45 AM and 7:30 AM, delivering passengers to the mountain right around the time the lifts open. Ultra convenient, the shuttles drop off right in front of the main lodge. The return is scheduled at 4 PM giving passengers a great day on the slopes.
Park & Ride Products
- $79 Adult (15 and older) Lift Ticket & Bus
- $65 Junior (7 – 14) Lift Ticket & Bus
- $79 Beginner Ski or Snowboard* & Bus
- $35 Bus Only
*Beginner Ski or Snowboard package includes Buttercup Lift Ticket, 2 hour lesson and equipment rentals. Bus is also included in this special Park & Ride package.
Park & Ride Details
Purchase Park & Ride here
11/22/2009 3:08:00 PM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 11 comments
"Meadows After Dark" – Mt. Hood Meadows night operations – kicks off for the season this Friday, November 27 in time for the Thanksgiving holiday. Meadows will extend lift operations until 9 PM five nights a week, Wednesdays – Sundays. There's a whole new romance to the night scene at Meadows – 140 acres of runs are illuminated by night lighting, as well as the moon and the stars which add to the ambiance.
Nighttime riding is fun and offers a chance to explore and discover Meadows in a whole new light. Meadows After Dark also offers terrific affordable lift tickets and learn to ski and snowboard packages, as well as discounts for families. Weekends and holidays live entertainment is presented in the Finish Line from 3 - 7 PM.
Best of all, this whole new world comes at a reduced price - just $25 from 3 - 9 PM. Meadows After Dark also presents some of the best learn to ski or ride offers.
Evening Lift Ticket from 3 – 9 PM is just $25
5 Time Night Pass - $75
Indvidual direct to lift picture pass good for 5 nights for just $75. No restriction or black out dates (non-transferable).
Learn to Ski/Board Package - $25 (ages 13 and older)
Packages a Buttercup beginner lift ticket with a 2 hour lesson and equipment rentals.
Meadows After Dark 3 Time Learn To Ski or Snowboard Passport (age 13 and older) - $75
Packages your first three evenings (3–9 PM) of lift tickets, lessons and equipment rentals all for one low price! First two days include Buttercup beginner lift ticket, last day is all night operating lift access.
Shell FREE Wednesday Night Lift Ticket
Purchase 10 gallons or more of gasoline from a participating Shell service station and receive a "Ski Free" coupon, which provides you one "Free" Wednesday evening (3-9PM) lift ticket with the purchase of a Wednesday night (3-9PM) lift ticket. Both tickets must be used the same evening. Details including participating service stations can be found at www.skifreedeals.com.
Twilight Kids Club
$65 for lift ticket, 2 hour on-snow lesson & indoor supervision for children age 4-12. Add rental equipment for $5 and dinner for $8. Offered 3-7pm on weekends. Also includes 1 free adult 3–9 PM lift ticket!
11/21/2009 5:31:00 AM
by Dave Tragethon
in Connection, Media Center
| 1 comment
MT. HOOD, OR (Immediate Release) – A major winter storm which arrived Friday has dropped a foot of new snow on Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort, bringing the base area snow depth to 4 feet. Resort officials report accumulations of five feet higher up on the mountain.
The resort has been operating daily since November 11 and has been delighting skiers and snowboarders with extraordinary early season conditions. Seven lifts are scheduled for 9 AM – 4 PM operation Saturday, and additional lift openings are anticipated thanks to the phenomenal November snow.
NORDIC CENTER OPENS
The Hood River Meadows Nordic Center will be open from 9 AM – 4 PM Saturday and Sunday. It is rare that the Nordic Center operates in November, but with the early snowpack has allowed the resort to set track and open. The Nordic Center is scheduled to operate weekends and holiday time frames.
Nordic Center information
11/13/2009 3:53:00 PM
by Dave Tragethon
in Connection, Media Center
| 1 comment
Hi folks!
A major storm is blanketing Meadows with light November powder, accumulating at a rate of more than an inch an hour. It started snowing just before our lifts launched this morning at 8:55 AM, and as of 3 PM nine inches had fallen. The wind at the top of Mt. Hood Express is wind loading powder back into the bowls so it's first track powder every run. The forecast is calling for another 6 - 10 inches this evening so we're not done yet! And how about this to celebrate:
WE HIT 40 INCHES AT THE BASE AREA STAKE!
Six lifts are scheduled from 9 AM - 4 PM Saturday, including four high-speed quads. Mt. Hood Express and Shooting Star Express, which have been operating since opening day, will be joined by Vista Express if the weather system clears the upper mountain by morning as forecast. Keep in mind that with this storm raging it will take some time to prep the lift, but we will get it open as early as possible. That should offer guests chest deep powder stashes on virgin terrain since no one has been up there yet this season.
Hood River Express is also scheduled to provide uplift service from the Hood River Meadows parking lot. If we get enough snow that we can pack we may open a lane for skiing or riding back down to the parking lot, but we won't know until Saturday morning. Otherwise we'll shuttle you back to your car if you're parked at HRM.
The Paradise Parks Crew has been busy building "The Zoo" on Mitchell Creek - so we expect to have a line of mini-jumps there, if the wind doesn't fill them all in. You can check the Parks Blog for details.
Lift tickets will be priced at non-peak rates: $57 for adults, $35 for Juniors age 7 – 14, $35 for Seniors age 65+ and $9 for a season pass for kids 6 and under.
We'll operate our Adult Ski and Snowboard School and Children's Learning Center out of the South Lodge Learning Center. We'll also have our equipment rental center, Meadows Boutique retail shop, High Performance Center for demos, Day Care, and five restaurants, including the Finish Line opening up for the season, and the Renaissance Cafe at HRM.
Get ready for a sensational day at Meadows! Drive careful and use your traction devices - please don't be the guy that spun out and backed up traffic!
We'll see you on the mountain!
-- Meadows Team
11/11/2009 6:42:00 PM
by Meadows Team
in Connection, Media Center
| 8 comments
What an incredible opening day! The day broke with 4 inches of new snow on top of our 30" snowpack offering some opening day powder for those fortunate enough to kick off their season today at Mt. Hood Meadows.
We wanted you to have a place to comment on the day, as well as to see some of these awesome pictures taken by photographer Richard Hallman. If you have some good shots, upoad them and we'll put them into our Opening Day Gallery!
Richard Hallman Photos of Opening Day!
Kudos to the crew for making the most of the 42" of snow that fell since Friday and turning into some fantastic early season fun! It was a great way to open an epic season, and we are glad to share it with you here today!
KOIN LOCAL NEWS - 6 Opening Day Coverage
KPTV-12 Opening Day Coverage
See you on the slopes!
-- Meadows Team
11/10/2009 3:05:00 PM
by Dave Tragethon
in Connection, Media Center
| 16 comments
Hi Folks!
Here's what you've been waiting for - we're opening Wednesday with four lift scheduled from 9 AM - 4 PM: Buttercup, Easy Rider, Mt. Hood Express and Shooting Star Express. We're working hard to get the terrain served by these lifts ready for opening day. The current base is 30 inches at the base area, deeper higher up on the mountain. That's good coverage for November, but early season conditions exist, expect unmarked obstacles and as always ski and ride with care.
Having said that, we're stoked! This storm that has already given us nearly 40 inches is forecast to stick with us this week. Looks like powder on opening day! Check our snow conditions page or call our snow phones:
Snow Phones
503.227.7669 (227.SNOW) Portland
541.386.7547 (386.SKIS) Hood River
Mt. Hood Express and Shooting Star – are scheduled for opening day, along with the Easy Rider lift, Buttercup and the Ballroom Carpet in the Fun Zone. The two high speed quads serve up some of the tastiest terrain on the mountain, well worth an early season plunge, especially if there's some powder sprinkled on top.
Shipyard is under construction and we'll have several rails for jibbin' and grinding.
Lift ticket prices will be
Lift Ticket Pricing for Opening Day
$52 for adults
$30 for juniors age 7 to 14
$30 for seniors age 65+.
Kids 6 and under get a season pass for just $9.
Veterans and military personnel receive a $10 discount with I.D.
Passholder Services will be taking pictures in the new location - South Lodge down from Concierge across from the Tully's coffee cart.
Passholder Services Open at 8 AM
Season Pass Liability Release Link for parents or legal guardians to sign for their kids
Adult and Children's ski school lessons will be offered. Adults can purchase group and private lessons at our Daycare Center, which is also open daily. Children's Lessons can be purchased in the North Lodge Rental Center or at Daycare in the South Lodge.
Children's Ski School
2 hour lesson and lift ticket $75 / rentals $5 extra
Must be registered at least half hour prior to the lesson start time.
Lessons go out at 10am and 1pm daily.
Two - 2hr lessons for $100 / No supervision between lessons.
You can rent skis and snowboards as well as helmets from our Salomon Equipment Rental Center in the North Lodge, or demo equpiment at the HPC. Bring your appetite - The Alpenstube, Schuss. Meadowmart and Tully's Coffee Cart will be open for your eating enjoyment. And you can outfit yourself for the entire season in fashions with function at Meadows Boutique.
Here's some trivia - oening dates at Mt. Hood Meadows for tha past 15 seasons:
Opening Dates
94-95 11/4/94
95-96 12/3/95
96-97 10/21/96
97-98 11/24/97
98-99 11/22/98
99-00 12/3/99
00-01 12/1/00
01-02 11/24/01
02-03 12/17/02
03-04 11/20/03
04-05 12/18/04
05-06 11/11/05
06-07 12/9/06
07-08 11/23/07
08-09 12/14/08
09-10 11/11/09
So as you can see, we're already getting a better start on the season then 12 of the past 15 years!
Drive careful and we'll see you at the mountain Wednesday for the opening of the 2009/10 season!
-- Meadows Team
11/7/2009 5:38:00 PM
by Dave Tragethon
in Connection, Media Center
| 52 comments
Hi Folks!
Great news - this storm is delivering the accumulation we need to open the resort next week, most likely Wednesday. We've received 23 inches of snow since Friday and the storm continues to rage dropping two inches of snow per hour the last few hours. We're confident that with this snowfall, the forecast for more accumulation through the weekend and colder weather through the week that we'll be able offer and sustain a great early season experience.
The number of lifts and trails, as well as confirming an opening day will be announced here on our web site.
Season passes are on sale through Sunday online and also at the Ski Fever and Snowboard Show at the Expo Center. Monday season pass prices increase significantly, so pleae take advantage of these deals!
See you on the slopes - real soon!
--Meadows Team
11/5/2009 9:08:00 AM
by Dave Tragethon
in Connection, Media Center
| 9 comments
It’s exciting when important and significant things converge – almost like Jupiter aligning with Mars. This is the dawning of the age of … Recreating Yourself! OK enough with the singing..
There’s a significant storm heading our way – and all the models and forecasts say this has the potential to dump two to three feet or more on us. Check out the special weather statement. More importantly, the system is forecast to persist into next week bringing cold temps and more snow. So we’ll state it here:
This storm has season opening potential.
When? There are a lot of variables – how much, how fast, how much moisture content, how much the wind blows it around, where it deposits, etc., etc., etc. We’re all anxious to get the season going, but remember that this first snow is precious – we’re building the base for the entire season on it. So while we can’t say exactly when (particularly since it hasn’t started snowing yet) – we can say that it shouldn’t be long.
We are prepping for an early opening – that is – an opening before the November 20 or so average opening date. We’ll see how the snow falls, give our crews time to groom it into a sustainable snowpack, and keep you up to date on the progress through the storm.
Meanwhile – you should prep for the opening of another great season as well! If you haven’t already purchased your unlimited season pass, you have until Sunday (November 8) to take advantage of the early season discount. You don’t need to join a group – you can purchase them right now on line. There is huge savings on Adult ($499 / normally $900); Ages 15 – 22 ($389 / normally $600); and 7 – 14 ($279 / normally $400) passes. If you buy these passes at the Portland Ski Fever ski show and get your picture taken there, we’ll include season ski check (a $35 value).
If you already have your pass bring it to the ski show and have it “Scanned to Win!” We’ll scan your pass to automatically enter you into a drawing to win one of three great prizes:
- Up Front Parking Pass for the entire season!
- Season Locker Rental ($425 Value!)
- $250 Meadows Gift Card
So we’ll see you at the ski show this weekend, and on the mountain soon!
Onward!
Meadows Team
10/18/2009 6:43:00 PM
by Dave Tragethon
in Connection, Media Center
| 9 comments
Hi Folks!
There’s good news for skiers and snowboarders in the winter forecast. The Oregon chapter of the American Meteorological Society held its 17th Annual Winter Weather Meeting Saturday at OMSI. This is the event where meteorologists and climatologists predict what the winter will bring to the Northwest. They examine patterns of indicators like changing pacific ocean temperatures or sun spots. They find similar patterns from past seasons, and then make a forecast based on that information.
Last year they pretty much agreed we’d be skiing before Thanksgiving. Oops.
So keep in mind, this is science, but it is far from exact. It’s speculation – but these are the experts and here’s what they think this winter will bring (Play the Video):
George Taylor – former state climatologist, see’s an early start to the winter, which should be near average in snow.
Pete Parsons Meteorologist for the Oregon Department of Agriculture expects a near average winter, with the possibility of big snows in January.
The most optimistic skier forecast came from Kyle Dittmer a Hydrologist – Meterologist for the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission. He thinks the year will bring above average snowfall – particularly December through February.
For more details you can download the individual presentations from the AMS website. We want to thank George, Pete and Kyle for sharing their forecasts with us and please – no nasty emails to them, OK?
So you’ve heard from some of the experts – it’s time for you to weigh in on what you think winter will bring to Mt. Hood this season. Let’s have some fun here – take a guess on the following:
- What day will Meadows open for the season, and what will the snowpack measured at the telemetry at the bottom of Mt. Hood Express be?
- How much snow do you think we’ll get total this season at Meadows – remembering that we set a record of 780 inches last year, well above our average of 430 inches.
We look forward to hearing from you, and, based on what the expert forecasters say, we will see you on the mountain soon!
Onward!
Meadows Team
8/28/2009 12:00:00 AM
by Dave Tragethon
in Media Center, Connection
| 6 comments
Mt. Hood Meadows has announced pricing for season passes for the 2009/2010 season. Back by popular demand are the 4x4, 3x3 and 2x2 group season pass purchase plans, allowing friends and/or family to group up and receive substantial savings on their passes. New this year is early purchase pricing for individual season passes for those who don't want to group up with others. Kids 6 and under receive a FREE season pass when a parent or grand parent purchases an unlimited season pass for themselves.
The group purchase plan price for adults (age 23 - 64) is $449 each when purchased on-line in with a group of four - the regular season pass price is $900. The 3x3 unlimited pass offer for ages 15 - 22 (purchased on-line in a group of 3) is $339 compared to the regular season pass price of $600. The 2x2 unlimited pass allows two 7 - 14 year olds to purchase passes together for just $229. These group deals must be purchased on-line at skihood.com by October 31.
For those wanting a great deal but not able to join or put together a group, Mt. Hood Meadows is offering individual discounts on unlimited season passes purchased on-line by November 8: $499 for ages 23 - 64; $389 for ages 15 - 22; $279 for ages 7 - 14. Meadows will be at the Portland Ski Fever and Snowboard Expo November 6 - 8 for those looking for the best individual deal. This offer ends November 8, when regular season pass prices begin.
The unlimited Platinum season pass includes season ski check, a season locker and up-front reserved parking space all season long. The pass includes Nordic track privileges at Meadows and Cooper Spur Nordic Center and a Cooper Spur season lift and tube pass.
Mt. Hood Meadows lift ticket pricing is $57 offpeak, and $69 during peak times. The resort sells several multi-time picture products offering direct-to-lift convenience. The 10 Time Pass is $349 (under $35 / day).
8/27/2009 12:00:00 AM
by Dave Tragethon
in Media Center
| 1 comment
Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort is making upgrades and improvements this summer to enhance the guest experience for the 2009 - 2010 season. Some projects such as the paving of the Sunrise Parking Lot (formerly known as “The Annex”) will be noticeable creating a marked improvement for guest access to and from the resort. Other projects such as the scanning system improvements are subtler and will have a great cumulative impact making the guest experience faster and smoother. All of the improvements will add up to Meadows guests being able to get better information on the resort and enjoy its quality skiing and snowboarding experience.
New SkiHood.com - Mt. Hood Meadows web site is already established as the most popular winter recreational site in Oregon serving more inquiries for snow conditions, mountain operations and ski and snowboard experiences than any other site. The site has a fresh new look and delivers content more efficiently to both PC and PDA platforms. The site also provides a new mixed (video and photo) media gallery, allowing guests to upload and share their experiences on the mountain with others. A new online store makes purchasing Meadows products and services faster and easier, particularly discount deals that bargain hunters will be looking for. Most importantly the site enables guests to subscribe to a variety of news feeds for weekly, daily snow condition or even minute-to-minute lift operational updates; and provide guests a direct line of feedback to Meadows management.
Telemetry / Communications - Meadows is enhancing its telemetry reporting capabilities allowing for real time reporting of weather conditions at its two weather stations (located at the bottom and top of the Mt. Hood Express). The improvements will allow for real time condition reporting through the resort web site (skihood.com) and to other snow / weather reporting services. An essential part of the improvement to the resort's web site this season will be reporting weather and lift operational information real time (minute to minute) as well as allowing guests to monitor through a variety of social networks this information on portable devices. The result will be improved communications with up-to-the-minute snow condition and operational information for guests and staff members to make for a better experience on the mountain.
Passholder Services Center - The old “desk” is being moved to the primary corridor in the South Lodge providing more convenient access for support services for pass holders - picture taking, reissuing, receiving pass holder benefits and information services regarding their pass.
Sunrise Parking Lot Paved - Paving the old “Annex” lot allows for a better parking experience, wetland restoration and improved storm drainage. It should also allow the grooming department to focus more resources on the mountain as in the past Meadows was responsible for plowing this lot. Now that it is paved ODOT will be plowing this lot.
New Snowcat - Meadows continues its commitment to providing the best surface conditions possible with the acquisition of another new Prinoth 350 snow cat with terrain master tillers and blades. Meadows already has the most advanced fleet of trail grooming and terrain park shaping equipment on Mt. Hood.
Scanning System Improvements - Last season Meadows moved to lift access control utilizing bar coded tickets and scanners at each lift. The system has been enhanced this year to achieve a faster, smoother and more efficient flow through to the lifts.
Night Lighting Improvements - The night lighting enhancement program continues this season, switching out older fixtures with more efficient bulbs which provide more uniform coverage with less electricity. The improvements will be especially appreciated on Stadium (where night ski race training is held) and on the trails serving the night lighted Rose City Slopestyle and Superpipe.
Ballroom Carpet - Last season Meadows installed an enclosed conveyer known as a “Wonder Carpet” in its beginner area. The “glass tunnel” is nearly as long as a football field, and mounted on a hydraulic system which allows the carpet to be raised and lowered with the snowpack. The lift was renamed “The Ballroom Carpet” last season and dedicated to long-time instructors Don Ball, Mignon and Ray Whitcher. This season the Ballroom Carpet and the other over the snow conveyer the Magic Carpet will be used to provide innovative, fun and progressive instruction to beginners of all ages learning to “dance” on the snow.
Additional Smart Carte Lockers - Based on the success of the installation of Smart Carte locker system two seasons ago, Meadows will add several more banks of smart lockers which allows repeat in and out convenience throughout the day with a keyless numeric combination.
Race Timing System - Meadows is investing in a new TAG Heuer FIS Certified timing system with wireless capability which will improve timing accuracy and reliability for race events even in the most extreme of weather conditions.
Sport Skis and Snowboards - The Equipment Rental Center is replacing its Sport Line of rentals skis, snowboards and boots offering better performing equipment for intermediate level riders looking to improve their technique.
HPC Direct Access - Pass holders and other guests can register for their demo equipment rental faster and more efficiently thanks to computer stations, which avoids having to hand fill out a form. A simple scan or swipe of the season pass will bring up the account and print out the rental form, expediting the process.