Meadows Blog

81 Comments

1. CJ

   August 31, 2011

   What about the 4 by 4? Will it be offered?
   
   Meadows: We no longer offer the 4x4 - instead each person can receive this price directly, no need to put together a group. Thanks for the question.

2. Jibslider

   August 31, 2011

   $500?! That's $100 more than just 2 years ago! Lame.
   
   Meadows: The 4x4 price two seasons ago was $449. However, we had run an early buy special the previous spring, where you could purchase your 2009/10 season pass for $399 if you purchased by the end of the previous ski season. Those that made the early commitment received an exceptional price for sure. But the $499 price for a pass that offers 150+ scheduled days is still a great value.

3. Anonymous

   August 31, 2011

   yeeeeeeaaaaaaahhhhhhhh!!
   
   Meadows: Sounds like first run off the Stadium Express!

4. melissa pishion

   September 1, 2011

   well considering we have a new high speed quad to get over the other side of the mountain ....pretty good deal!
   
   
   

5. Skier Scott

   September 1, 2011

   $499 is still a great deal...Don't like it, go pay $829 for Bachelor's early season "Deal"...
   
   Bring on the SNOW!!!

6. dissed

   September 1, 2011

   No discount on mid-week passes?
   
   Meadows: The midweek pass is $429 - there isn't an early season discount, but it doesn't increase after 11.6.11 either. We thought it best to let everyone know upfront what that price is, rather than waiting until after the cut off date as we've done in the past.

7. Midwest Skiier

   September 1, 2011

   Last year I paid $500 and dont think I got my $'s worth. This year your raising the price to $999 and trying to convince people that they are getting a deal buying in advance. Good luck this season Meadows. You have conviced me to go to other mountains.
   
   Meadows: Last season was epic - 600 inches of snow, opened November 20 and ran every day through May 1 + added in two more weekends. The value is definitely there for those that choose to use the pass. We also have other options - like the 10 Time Pass for $379. You only need to come up once every other week to use up all 10 days, but you're paying about half the price of a daily lift ticket. There's still a few months before the deadline - enough time to give it more thought and perhaps change your mind?

8. Don

   September 1, 2011

   Will the 6 and under pass be free with the purchase of an adult season pass?
   
   Meadows: The 6 and under pass is $20 this season. It can be purchased online along with the other passes for the family. The 6 and under daily lift ticket is $10 - so if you're coming up more than twice this season it's a great deal.

9. Eric

   September 1, 2011

   Somebody's gotta pay for that new lift, I suppose ; ) Better then having to pay $74 each time, wow. I might have to take up cross-country skiing! Nah, riding at Meadows is too sweet, better start saving.
   
   Meadows: You can have both! Add on a Nordic season pass for $45 (normally $80) and it's good at both Meadows and Cooper Spur Nordic Centers.

10. Jon

    September 1, 2011

    My dauughter turns 15 on September 20th. If I buy her pass before her 15th birthday do I get the 7 to 14 price?
    
    Meadows: The price of the pass is determined by the date of purchase. So make sure you purchase before September 20th and she'll get the 7 to 14 year old pass price.

11. Chris

    September 1, 2011

    Do you have a deal for a 10 time pass with lessons for a kid? I wanted to get my kid a package deal with lessons this year instead of just buying her a season pass that she could barely use.
    
    Meadows: How old is your daughter? Perhaps our multi-week sessions may be a better alternative, which packages lift ticket, lessons, rentals if needed and even transportation from different neighborhoods throughout the Portland metro area. Keep in mind that season passholders receive a 10% discount off ski school lessons.

12. Snowed

    September 1, 2011

    I'm left wondering how pricing is set. If last year I could buy a pass for $449, and this year the same pass is $499, that's more than 11% increase in pricing. The rate of inflation has been 3.6% this year, so that means, assuming Meadows was making a comfortable profit in 2010, instead of a pass price of $465 we need to include an additional $34.
    
    What do I get for that additional $34 that I didn't get last year? More days? Guaranteed snow? Cheaper beer? Happier employees? Tank of gas?
    
    New lifts are nice, but they are planned for years in advance, so setting aside money for maintenance/improvements would have been already occurring before last year. Besides, any suggestion that the $34 is going to pay for the new lift would imply that once a lift was paid for, the price would go down. We too take a risk, you get our money today even if the season sucks.
    
    Lately we have been seeing far too many companies increasing prices and hording the profits. All without returning any value. What about your loyal customers?
    
    Meadows: Thanks for the post. In addition to the Stadium Express we've purchased four new Prinoth snow cats, including the top of the line "Bison-X" to bolster our state-of-the-art fleet of groomers, to assure that no matter what the weather throws at us, the surface conditions will be optimal. We've experienced increases in costs - particularly fuel and insurance (who hasn't) which is affecting the prices we charge. Last season you saw both more days and lower food and beer prices - we're committed to add value to the experience again this season. But it comes down to this - we believe $499 is an exceptional value for the 150+ days of scheduled days of operation (plus any bonus days) this season. We're committed to providing the best alpine recreation experience possible, and we sincerely hope you'll join us.
    
    

13. Trent

    September 1, 2011

    $500?! That AT equipment is looking a lot cheaper...

14. passing gas

    September 1, 2011

    $500 isn't bad compared to what I paid for passes growing up in the midwest.
    
    Everyone complaining about the prices:
    
    PLEASE, I BEG YOU, DON'T GET ONE, GO SOMEWHERE ELSE!!!!
    
    LEAVE MORE SNOW FOR ME!
    
    "to ski powder is to waste powder"

15. Frank

    September 1, 2011

    500?! I remember paying 400 a few years back. It looks like Meadows is contributing to keeping skiing/snowboarding a privileged rich boy sport. :(
    
    Meadows: The price has increased, but so have our expenses required to improve the quality of the experience. Frankly, if our goal was to create exclusivity for the privileged, our pass prices would be much higher. The pass increase over the past few seasons reflect our increase in costs, as well as our desire to improve the experience and sustain it into the future. At $499 the pass still represents a tremendous value. We sincerely hope you'll join us as a passholder at Meadows this season.

16. dan

    September 2, 2011

    Seriously, for those complaining about the pricing, you must not remember before Meadows rolled out the 4 x 4, when season passes were $799 pre-season, and more after the season began. $500 is still a bargain. However, I have to admit I feel all the high-speed quads have resulted in more uphill capacity than the terrain can support -- weekends are CROWDED!
    
    Meadows: Thanks Dan - great points. Vista demonstrated how the correct placement of a HSQ could better utilize existing terrain. We believe there will be similar improvements to traffic patterns with Stadium, giving the crowd dispersing from the ski area and alternative. That should reduce some of the congestion in high traffic areas. We're excited about finding the sweet spot - that is, traffic patterns reaching equilibrium creating optimal flow to the fresh snow. Can't wait to test out the theory on a powder day!

17. buster

    September 2, 2011

    Pay more, pay more, pay more. Last year passes for my family of 5 cost me $1690 before I even made a turn. This year will be $1895, $205 more. Gotta pay for the new quad, more tracked out snow and the weekend frenzy. See ya in line :(
    
    Meadows: We understand it is a major investment for you and your family. But it is also the investment in time that you are choosing to spend with your family together on the mountain, traveling back and forth, exploring terrain, sharing chairlift rides - and doing it as a family. This is a great sport - which you can enjoy in incredibly wonderful and beautiful locations. The days on the mountain build memories and strengthen relationships. Hopefully this is an activity you can continue to share with your family after they have grown and have kids of their own. We appreciate you choosing Mt. Hood Meadows to recreate, and thank you and all the other parents out there who choose to spend time with their families on the mountain.

18. Heather

    September 2, 2011

    No chance of a local Portland spot to buy passes in person w/ cash? I don't like using my credit card...
    
    Meadows: You can stop by our Clackamas office at 8800 SE Sunnyside Road Suite 112N (it's in the Clackamas Promenade - the red building next to Olive Garden), Monday - Friday during business hours. Or you can stop by any of the REI picture taking sessions in October and purchase their directly.

19. buster

    September 2, 2011

    Now that I got my rant out of the way I feel better. But the bottom line is we will continue to be season pass holders at mhm.
    
    Meadows: Thank you Buster.

20. mike

    September 2, 2011

    i heard there is\was a student discount? (is that true?)
    
    Meadows: We don't have a student season pass (although we do have an age-based discount for ages 15 - 22). We have a student discount card which costs $10 but saves you $10 off a peak-day (weekend and holiday time frame) ticket, $10 off a night ticket, and $20 off a Monday-Friday, non-holiday time frame ticket.

21. James

    September 3, 2011

    $500 is a great deal. Stop all your whining about the price--it's a miracle that Meadows can invest in a new lift in this crappy economy, rising energy prices, and recreational competition that is making it hard for any resort to survive, let alone thrive. If you're able to write a blog entry here complaining about the price, then you're able to Google other resorts around the country and see some of the outrageous seasons pass fees THEY charge. Get over it, or just don't get one. More powder for the rest of us, who will gladly go without the daily latte for a few weeks to cover the price increase.
    
    Meadows: Thanks for the post. The increase does reflect our commitment to improve services, infrastructure and the overall experience for this season and into the future.

22. whaaaan-bu-lance

    September 3, 2011

    For all the people crying about prices how do you see the economy around you? Last time i checked everything I spend money on has gone up except for houses.... how did you expect meadows to be some miraculously invincible of the cost of expenses...naive.....
    LOVE MEADOWS
    
    ps. you guys should make the first five or so rows of parking reserved for people willing to pay more? meh maybe a bad idea
    
    Meadows: Thanks for the post. Regarding parking we'll continue to urge everyone to car pool or shuttle when possible, to reduce the amount of spaces needed. The most certain way to get first five rows is early arrival (or if possible, come on off-peak or midweek times).

23. single

    September 3, 2011

    The 'new' quad will put more people on the mountain on weekends. More uphill capacity with no new terrain means more people on the mountain. Right? Why is this worth paying more? More crowded slopes, more accidents. More congestion on race days. And it wasn't just some trivial price increase, it was 12.5%. Couldn't you have gone $20 or something!? This might be the move that sends me to another mountain.
    
    Meadows: The new lift will redirect traffic from a high traffic corridor by providing alternative, if not preferred direct access to the North side. Based on average pass holder use the increase will be $3 / day over last year's price. In addition to the new lift we've added four new Prinoth snow cats to our grooming fleet so we can present the best surface conditions possible. We are investing in improving the Meadows experience four our guests.

24. Chris Strizver

    September 4, 2011

    A few observations (yes, criticisms):
    1. There is no mid-week youth ticket. If I plan on skiing midweek, my kids will be skiing midweek.
    2. Please remove the Dec. 26-30 restriction for mid-week passes! Midweek is midweek and this restriction is very lame, especially since the midweek pass offered only at a $50 discount!!!!
    3. I have two youths (7-14)....some sort of package deal for families would be nice. Yes, I know prices are already discounted, but I'm looking at $950 and I can't even take them up during Christmas break due to #2, or over $1,000 if I spring for the full season pass.
    
    Meadows: Thank you for the feedback. It will be discussed at our next pricing session.

25. Daniel

    September 4, 2011

    First, the pass increase should have been expected and is still a good deal. Vista is a useless lift unless you are a family or a boarder that is into the pipe. It has spread out some of the traffic though. Hopefully the new lift will do the same.
    
    Second, has there been any further discussion on widening the blast zone with the forest service to trigger man made avalanches in the Heather area? I understand that last year was a strange year for weather in terms of the avalanche danger on Meadows, but it does seem that an increased blast zone could alleviate some of the danger in Heather Canyon and the amount of time it stays closed. Has there been any further discussion with the forest service about this? With that said I appreciate everything you guys do in terms of safety and maintaining that specific area and had some excellent early winter days in Upper Heather last year.
    
    Thanks,
    
    Daniel
    
    Meadows: Thank you for your post. We are allowed to conduct avalanche reduction efforts only within the limits of our permit area.

26. Erik

    September 5, 2011

    Any value add bonus similar to what was offered last year going to be available?
    
    Meadows: There isn't a bonus being offered this year on adding value to your pass. We are offering those who complete their pass purchase early 20% OFF your total purchase of $200 or more in Outer Limits Sports or the High Performance Center during the month of October. Discounts apply to ’11-’12 Meadows Pass Holders with Meadows Season Pass or proof of purchase in-hand. Offer good October 4 - October 29, 2011. Shop hours: Tuesdays-Saturdays 9am-3pm. Boot Fitting and Personal shopping also available by appointment.

27. Steep and deep

    September 5, 2011

    I will have to see how stadium works out. I reckon this will mean more on the slopes quicker. The major, I may say only.., way to improve the customer experience is to increase your acreage/ski area footprint. What is the status/likelihood, of this happening? When? Where to?
    
    What are the next steps? I have asked this a few years now, and you have said you would write on this, perhaps I missed it?
    
    Meadows: For the next few seasons our plans focus on improvements within the current skiable acreage. It's premature at this point to discuss potential extension of current skiable terrain.

28. Jon

    September 5, 2011

    I miss the old meadows!!! You guys use to have the best parks and every year it seems to get worse while t-line and skibowl only get better. It's hard to beat the fusion pass for park riders, but we love your natural terrain to much to leave. Please add a rope tow or something to attract us to still hang around.
    
    Thanks
    
    Meadows: Thank you for your comment. We do have challenges in terms of flow - Forest Park is our most popular terrain park primarily because of its length and sustained pitch. Meadows undulating terrain doesn't accommodate the sustained free flowing terrain that is ideal for parks. Terrain off of Cascade also provides good flow, but the past two springs we've experienced severe winter weather preventing us from being able to build the Cascade Park. We'll see what the weather brings this year. We are committed to fun parks and progression, which the variety of parks we offer provide.

29. k2skier

    September 6, 2011

    WOW! Some of you just dont get it...ever been to MHM on a stromy peak season weekend? Ever stand in line for over half an hour when Vista and Cascade are down, (and it gets worse when SS is down)?! Having another HSQ out of the base area is critical, kudos and way to go MHM!!! My only gripe is that the whole Staium trail pod doesn't need to be shut down on race training days, please keep Rams Head open on trianing days.
    
    PS, V.I., the Stadium HSQ will have just as much effect on Heather as HRM does, maybe you should see where the unload point is before you comment.
    
    PSS, please, please go back to the original pass pricing structure, these cheap passes have caused too high of slope density IMO. I would love to pay $799 to have less crowding!
    
    Meadows: Thanks K2. Always a pleasure hearing from you.

30. Lisa

    September 6, 2011

    I would like to know if I had a full season pass last year and plan on purchasing a mid-week pass this year will I still be able to reuse my pass from last year ? Also, I was really looking forward to last year's deal for the mid-week pass, but I do appreciate the deals Meadows offers so thank you, see you on the mountain!
    
    Meadows: If you're switching the kind of pass you're purchasing, then you won't be able to "ReUse" last season's pass. You should just purchase a new midweek pass and a new pass will be issued to you. The midweek pass is $429 - a savings of $70 off the full season pass rate. Enjoy!

31. Loving the Hood

    September 6, 2011

    You guys should get a rewards program going for purchases made in the restaurants with your season pass. For example for every $20-$40 dollar purchase, you get a free fry, free hot chocolate/coffee, or a discount after a set purchase price . I know you guys have that thing where you load $100 you get $10 or something like that. You guys need better incentive.
    
    Meadows: Thank you for the suggestion. Here's a reminder that passholders receive the following discounts in our restaurants: All Alpenstube food purchases are 10% off (except for 12-1:30 PM on weekends). $2.50 lattes at Higher Grounds Coffee Cart. Buy one sandwich, get second sandwich for $5 at the Renaissance Cafe. All Vertical food purchases are 10% off (except for 12-1:30 PM on weekends).

32. Chris

    September 7, 2011

    In the past the stadium lift was mostly used for racers , will the average skier be able to use this lift everyday, weather permitting?
    Also will the racers have the ability to have access over the lift on race days, or first come first serve?
    Thank You.
    
    Meadows: The Stadium Express will be used by all of our guests, not exclusively for racers. There may be some exceptions on evenings when racers are training and the only terrain open is the Stadium race hill. We believe the increased capacity of the Stadium Express and reduced ride time will not require any special cutting privileges for racers, although during certain large events we may consider it in order to finish the race. Great question!

33. John

    September 7, 2011

    As I consider buying 3 passes for my family this year, I think back to last year and a perfect powder day. Heather did not open due to slide concerns. When I asked the ski patroler why they were not controlling the area, I was told the area of concern was outside the permitted area.This was before the large slide. Is there any change to the area that can be controlled?
    
    Meadows: Last season Heather was affected by the snow accumulation deposited above Super Bowl - above our permit area. There were two major releases from that area that entered our permit area, ran down Clark Canyon and deposited at the base of the Heather Chairlift. While not unprecedented, these events are infrequent. But we still have to manage and make decisions regarding the canyon based on that potential risk. The howitzer has improved our avalanche reduction operations within the permit area, allowing earlier and more consistent operations in Heather Canyon. However, we are not permitted to conduct avalanche reduction operations outside of our permit area, so that aspect hasn't changed from last year. Thanks for the question.

34. Couftney

    September 9, 2011

    Does meadows have college deals?
    
    People that are complaining about the price increase:
    All I have to say is get over it. I'm from hood but have spent the last 4 years In big mountain Montana. The season pass deal there is $560 ages 19-65, higher in price then meadows and the dead line is sept. 30, it goes up to $845 until nov 15, then up to $1085 after that. feel lucky that meadows offers such a great deal of $499 until 3 weeks before the season starts then only goes up to $999. MT gets 150 less inches of snow anually then hood and has a worse pre season deal. Stop complaining about the price increase. At least your still getting amazing snow with no major resort prices. If you want
    to complain, then fine but do your research before you do. Hell
    don't buy, means less crowds for me.
    
    Meadows: We have the age-based discount for 15-22 years old @ $379 (through November 6, 2011) and we have a student discount card for ages 15 and up with current student I.D. for $10 - it gives you $10 off a weekend or holiday time frame ticket, $20 off midweek non-holiday ticket and $10 off night tickets. You can purchase at the ski area at pass holder services. See you on the mountain!

35. Mike

    September 10, 2011

    Love Meadows terrain, but it would be a dealbreaker for me if you guys don't open up the shipyard ropetow to the public and if you guys don't step up the parks from design to construction. Hope to see you guys this Winter!
    
    Meadows: Thanks Mike. Last season we experimented with the freestyle coaching park which was serviced by the rope tow. We're moving our beginner level coaching for freestyle over to The Zoo, so that park and the rope tow have been decommissioned for this season. We're looking at different alignments on Rose City, and are committed again to Shipyard, Rose City, The Zoo, Park Place and Forest Park. We hope to see you in the parks this winter!

36. troublemaker

    September 12, 2011

    What would the price be for child care for two kids (three and a two year old) per day, if we purchased two ten day passes?
    
    Meadows: Great question. The discounts only apply to season pass holders so 10 Time passes don't apply. However, you can purchase season passes for the kids at $20 each and they can save 10% off on weekends and holiday time frames, and 25% off midweek non-holidays! Day Care full day is $100 per child.

37. Allen

    September 13, 2011

    Will there be buses running up there this winter from the Portland Metro area? If so, where would they run from, on what days and what would a ride cost? Thanks!!
    
    Meadows: We do have many buses coming to the mountain through our weekend and midweek multi-week bus programs. We'll be adding those schedules to the pages when multi-week program products go on sale later this month. You can call our Clackamas office to find a specific neighborhood program near you. Additionally we have our Park & Ride program running weekends and holidays with pick up locations near the Tualatin Park & Ride lot and the Sunset and Gateway transit centers. A round trip ride costs $30, $89 includes the lift ticket. You can also check with Sea to Summit shuttles and the Grease Bus for other daily shuttle services to Mt. Hood Meadows.

38. Jeff

    September 13, 2011

    Hi, are you offering the platinum pass this year?
    
    Meadows: Yes - we'll be announcing the platinum pass information next week. Thanks!

39. Skunky ape smoke

    September 14, 2011

    Some people may not like it but $ 500 for meadows is not bad, specially for guys like me that put it to use, I only hope to see Heather Canyon open at least half of the time I'm up on our public land.
    
    Meadows: Well said - see you in the Canyon!

40. kulu

    September 16, 2011

    do you get a discount for having last years season pass?
    
    Meadows: The pass price is the same whether you are purchasing a new pass or if you are reusing last year's pass.

41. Dan T

    September 17, 2011

    what about the season night passes from last season. Are you guys still selling those?
    
    Meadows: We do have the night pass on sale - the price is $129.

42. karrieann

    September 18, 2011

    what is the difference between the full season pass and the mid-week season pass, other than not being valid on saturdays and sundays? do mid-week pass holders get the discounts on MHM services? if the season is extended, will mid-week passes still be valid? what about if there are 'weekends only' openings at the end of the season?
    
    being a mid-week only kind of skier, that pass is ideal for me. i just wanted to be clear on what the exact differences are between the two different passes besides the obvious.
    
    one last thing, mid-season pass is good on friday nights too?
    
    see you on the slopes!! :)
    
    Meadows: Good questions! The midweek pass is valid Monday - Friday (including evenings), except for Christmas week. So if you want to use it any Saturday or Sunday you should consider the regular season pass. Midweek pass holders receive the same benefits and discounts.

43. Cindy

    September 18, 2011

    If I got the 10 day pass could I use 1 of the days to bring a friend?
    
    Meadows: The 10 Time Pass is an individual picture pass - which allows you to go direct to the lift without stopping by to pick up a ticket. It is not transferable or shareable.

44. Mike

    September 18, 2011

    Will stadium still be open for night skiing ?
    
    Meadows: Yes. The lift is scheduled daily, and for night skiing too.

45. Asaiah Storm

    September 18, 2011

    Mt. Hood Meadows will you be running the unlimited night pass. If so for the same price as last year($99)?
    
    Meadows: We have the night pass, but this season it is $129 - a great price for the entire night riding season.

46. Tim

    September 20, 2011

    First priority for the parks NEEDS to be a rope tow for a rail line such as the shipyard. This is vital! People have been asking for this for years and you go ahead and put a rope tow in the learning park!? We all saw how much that thing got used in comparison to the shipyard park. Come on Meadows.
    
    Meadows: Thanks for the post. The freestyle coaching park was not successful last season and it won't be offered this next year. We won't be using the rope tow, as Shipyard is serviced by Buttercup. The cost of staffing and operating a rope tow for use in Shipyard is prohibitive. We'll focus our lower level freestyle coaching in the Zoo on Mitchell Creek, where the small features accommodate those new to freestyling.

47. Amber

    September 23, 2011

    We are a family of 4 and paid over $1,200 last year for early season tickets. This year will be even more because the kids are getting older. Myself and the kids use the buttercup only. After buying all of the equipment and tickets it was a huge cost. I would love to see a buttercup only pass at a better price. This year we are only getting my husband the night pass due to the huge costs for our family :(.
    
    Meadows: A season pass is the best buy for those that are going to ski often this season. But if the price is out of reach, there are many other affordable options to consider. The night pass is a great value at $129. You could also take advantage of our Twilight Kids Club offered weekends and holiday time frames. It runs from 3 - 7 PM, and includes a lift ticket, 2 hour lesson and dinner for the kids ($75 for ages 7 - 12 or $80 for ages 4 - 6 who are placed in a group of no more than 3 kids) + one free evening ticket for Mom or Dad. We also offer a family day pass - 2 adult lift tickets and 2 junior (14 or under) tickets for $199. You might also consider the 3 time learn to ski or snowboard package - which includes equipment rentals, a 2 hour lesson and Buttercup lift tickets the first two times, and an all mountain ticket on day three for $149 (ages 13 and older). We'll be updating and announcing different specials on our deals page as we get into the season.

48. Jeff

    September 27, 2011

    Are the platinum passes only being offered with the cooper spur and nordic options included? I am looking for last year's offering of a unlimited pass, a locker, and a parking spot.
    
    Cooper Spur has only one chairlift, if there's snow, and I don't cross country. Is the $2500 option the only option?
    
    Meadows: There is only one Platinum Pass - and it includes your Meadows season pass, season locker, ski check, Sno-Park permit, designated parking, reservation privileges in the Alpenstube, Nordic track acces to both Meadows and Cooper Spur Nordic Centers and a lift and tubing pass to Cooper Spur. The price is $2500 - but there are very limited quantities available.

49. mascott

    September 27, 2011

    Last year I paid 99 dollars for the season night pass. I am wondering what is the reason for the $30 price increase? Also will there be any discounts on the night season pass at the ski and snowboard expo show like there was last year?
    
    Meadows: That was an extraordinary deal last year. The night pass is $129 this season which is still and extraordinary deal, considering we'll have two night operating high speed quads. We thought about waiting until the ski show to offer this best price, but we opted to announce it now with our other pass prices to let everyone know what the best deal is going into the season.

50. Passing Gas

    September 28, 2011

    RE: Meadows After Dark
    
    Have you guys ever considered re-grooming some of the night terrain (say between 4 and 5 pm) to offer a better night experiance?
    
    Also, when do you expect to have dates for season pass picture taking, specifically in Hood River?
    
    Thanks!
    
    Meadows: We're exploring regrooming for nights at least on the weekends. The main issue is putting groomers on the hill with skier traffic, which requires closing down trails during the regroom. But it may be worth it for more enjoyable night riding!
    
    We'll be in Hood River on October 30 at the Hood River Inn. The hours haven't been set yet, but we're usually ready to go by 11 AM and shoot into the afternoon. We're also taking pictures at the ski area Tuesday - Saturday from 9 AM - 3 PM October 4 - 29.

51. Dr. Schuss

    October 3, 2011

    Passing Gas, I have seen North Canyon regroomed at night. Everyone was complaining that it was closed, but those of us that politely asked patrol waited 5 mins and ripped fresh cords! It does happen, but not regularly.
    
    Meadows: It has been a few seasons. Thanks for the post.

52. Har Rai

    October 8, 2011

    Just to clarify, the midweek pass price will remain the same all season? Are we going to see another vitamin water night-pass deal?
    
    Any chance of bringing back the superbowl cat for the spring?
    
    Meadows: Yes the midweek pass price remains at $429 - it doesn't increase after November 6 like the other passes. The night pass is $129 - that's the best price for a night pass. Regarding the Superbowl snowcat - it's unlikely. Even in the spring the conditions are unpredictable with winter like storms. By the time we get the road cut in the weather is likely to change. We found that we were disappointing more people with the inconsistent operation. So for now it's hiking and earning turns in Superbowl. Thanks for the questions!

53. Jerome

    October 11, 2011

    Bought $99.00 night ski pass last year. 18 nights of skiing wow. $129.00 is still great deal. Less poeple, work all day ski all night. Thanks Meadows. See you again this year. I will be trying to beat last years ski days.
    
    Meadows: We're pulling for you - hopefully another early opening and long season for night riders!

54. Katie G

    October 12, 2011

    The 10x pass doesn't offer any of the discounts the season passes do, correct?
    
    Meadows: Good question. We're now offering the passholder discounts and benefits to 10 Time Pass holders as well. Thanks for committing to Mt. Hood Meadows!

55. Mickey

    October 18, 2011

    I don't understand the price increase starting at age 23. A lot of people including me are just finishing college at 22-23 years old and are looking for jobs as well as having to pay back loans. It seems an age appropriate for an increased price would be 25. That is more of an age when people have a steady job and have bills more on track. It's hard for all the fresh out of college kids to fork over 500 bucks compared to like 350 only a year before. That 150 bucks is a whole student loan payment. I just feel the price change for season passes should be at 25 instead. but I know timberline has theirs at 500 at 23 also. So business is business. But if timberlines stayed at 23 and Meadows went to 25 I bet they would grab a lot of their customers.
    
    Meadows: Thanks for the suggestion. No matter where we set the break, there will be those that would want it to include another year or two. But we are looking at recent economic trends and impacts on different age groups. We'll be studying it more this season and as we prepare for next.

56. Jacob

    October 27, 2011

    Hello,my girlfriend and I are debating buying a fusion pass, or a 10 time pass at Meadows. If I buy a 10 time pass, am I the only one allowed to use it? My girlfriend and I want to share a 10 time pass, where we would both ski together on 5 differnent days. Can we both use tickets from the 10 time pass, or is the 10 time pass exclusive to just one person?
    
    Meadows: The 10 Time Pass is for the individual it is purchased for - it has your picture on it and it is a direct to lift pass, so it isn't transferable. So you should both purchase 10 Time Passes instead of trying to split one, which means you'll have 10 days of blissfully enjoying the mountain together!

57. snowface

    October 30, 2011

    If you can keep the early season pass at $499 for the next 5 years, you would make so many people happy.
    
    Just don't get into the habit of increasing it by $50 each season as you have been doing over the last 2 years. That's a bad habit!
    
    ;-)
    
    Meadows: Thanks for the advice - we need to balance our desire and passion to improve the Meadows experience for our guests with the very real expense of creating and maintaining that experience. While there have been increases the past three years, taking the price of the pass from $400 (requiring a group purchase) to $499, remember that the pass price was stable at $400 for five years. These adjustments in pricing reflect the adjustments that needed to be made in order to provide a premier quality mountain recreation experience. Thanks for the post!

58. Zach

    October 30, 2011

    So if I get a group of 4 together can we get $400 passes? If the answer is no, why not? no one asked me if I wanted a new racer lift put in...
    
    Meadows: The last year of the 4 by 4 was two seasons ago. We no longer require the groups to be formed because that added additional hassle to the renewal process. We implemented the online ReUse this season which provides a very easy and convenient way to reuse last year's pass. Or you can purchase a new pass for the same price. The Stadium Express is much more than a racer lift as we have detailed in the information on this blog. All of our guests will benefit from the new lift through more efficient line management and traffic flow on the mountain. It's a great improvement - we can't wait for the season to begin to prove it!

59. Chris

    October 30, 2011

    I'm slated to go onto active duty military in the very near future. I don't know the exact date, waiting for my branch manager to contact me. I will be located in another state and won't be coming back to Oregon for a very long time.
    
    If I buy a pass, would I be able to get some type of refund (prorated or not) based on the numbers of days I was able to use the pass?
    
    Example: I buy the pass now to get the discount, I then get orders putting me on active duty in Texas by mid December or early January.
    
    Would I be able to get any type of refund?
    
    Peace
    
    Meadows: Thank you Chris - for your service to our country. In this case we would prorate a refund based on the number of days of operation (not the number of days you used the pass). Relocation, medical condition or injury are all exceptions to our no-refund policy, and your situation certainly would qualify.

60. Juan

    October 31, 2011

    $500 for a pass is a big increase. Arguably you can try to justify that, albeit that's not my main concern. My biggest concern is that you are charging $74 for a day ticket. That is just absurdly expensive(and telling me how much they charge more in Aspen doesn't make you right). Seems like bad business and will discourage new people from trying the sport. It also makes me more likely to go to Skibowl on the 3 -5 days a year when I'm going to go skiing.
    Someone's getting rich here.
    J
    
    Meadows: Thanks for the post. There are other options to the $74 lift ticket. Costco has discount tickets - so does REI for members. You'll be able to purchase lift tickets on our web site for $69 - and if you come midweek that includes a $10 food voucher. Night skiing is more affordable than day lift tickets. There's all kinds of great deals - just keep watching our web site.

61. jim

    November 1, 2011

    I was holding off til this week because I wasn't sure I would get my season pass again this year - thought I was going to be laid off and still might by the end of this year - but I decided I'll just keep living like it's the 1980s and get the pass. But I missed the "re-use" your old pass and I can't find where pics are being taken off mountain. Got a link?
    
    BTW, I bought Alpine Meadows passes for years. $500 for a Hood pass is cake.
    
    -jim
    
    Meadows: Thanks Jim. If you have last year's pass, go ahead and hit this link: http://www.skihood.com/reuse

62. Elizabeth

    November 1, 2011

    Hi, I wanted to know if you have decided on the price of your spring pass. I just had a baby so its going to take some time to get back to the slopes. Will the pass be similar to last year or will it have increased significantly in price?
    
    Thanks
    
    Meadows: Congratulations on the new baby! We haven't determined pricing for the spring pass at this time. We usually announce pricing and time frames in February.

63. Sal

    November 1, 2011

    What are your Clackamas office business hours?
    
    Meadows: 8:30 - 5:00 through Friday. We're not taking pictures in our Clackamas office, as we're preparing for the move to the Ski Show this weekend. But we can still assist you by phone (503) 659.1256 or if you stop in.

64. Sal

    November 1, 2011

    I was also wondering:
    What is the name of your office in Clackamas called?
    Could we pay in checks for the season pass there?
    Can we take our pictures there?
    Thank you.
    
    Meadows: Our Clackamas office is located at 8800 SE Sunnyside Road, Suite #112-N in the Clackamas Promenade. We're in the same building as Pioneer Pacific College. You can pay with a check, but we're not taking pictures as we're preparing for the ski show this weekend.

65. Baker

    November 2, 2011

    Why is Meadows charging $20 for ages 6 and under if their parent is buying a seasons pass at $499? Timberline and Ski Bowl both let kids 6 and under ski free. Think about it, you get kids to ski for free until they're 6 then they're hooked and the parents pay for a pass from that point on forever. Not to mention is Meadows losing money on little rippers? When a family of four come up for the day, they spend money elsewhere to eat, drink and put the kids in lessons and enjoy. Seems overly greedy. Skiing use to be about family. $499 is a fair price for the pass, as are the other passes, but shafting the kids, what's your deal?Please, give me an explanation.
    
    Meadows: Thanks for the post. We feel that $20 is an exceptional price for a season pass for ages 6 and under. It isn't greed, and we're not shafting the kids - otherwise we'd be charging much more. There are real costs of processing and issuing passes for this age group. We also find a large percentage of our ridership on the Ballroom Carpet come from this age group, so the season pass fee helps offset some of that cost as well. While there are some examples of ski areas, entertainment and amusement parks offering free admission to the very young, there are many more examples of these companies charging much more than the $20 season pass we are offering. We feel it is a very good value for families, for everything we have to offer.

66. Ty

    November 3, 2011

    Last year we purchased 5 time night passes for $75/ea. This seemed to work well with our family with 4 kids, basketball, limited 'cold weather endurance' span of the youngest (now 3), and all the other activities of our active family. Will we see a similar offer this year? Thanks!
    
    Meadows: Yes - we'll be offering the 5 time night pass for $89 at the ski resort once night operations begin. You can purchase the first evening you come to Meadows.

67. Josh

    November 3, 2011

    Do the Costco tickets (2 for $123) mean that you get 2 separate tickets that can be used on 2 different days, if desired? Or 2 tickets must be used on the same day? Thanks
    
    Meadows: 2 separate tickets that could be used by 2 separate people on 2 separate days. Or you could bring a friend and use them both on the same day. Or you could use them by yourself on two different days. Total flexibility - great value!

68. Ted

    November 4, 2011

    Will Meadows be providing season pass photos at REI this year?
    
    Meadows: We were at the REI stores in October. At this point our plan is to take pictures and issue passes at the mountain, unless we see a forecast without snow in the near future, in which case we'll offer some additional picture taking days. Watch our blog and Facebook pages for details.

69. Elizabeth Nye

    November 4, 2011

    If I purchase a pass for my 6 year old and she turns 7 during the season, will the pass still be honored?
    
    Meadows: The price of the pass is determined by age at the time of purchase. So the 6 year old price will be honored all season long.

70. Jarred

    November 7, 2011

    Hey so I just got my pass and I had a quick question. Now I know you won't know for sure till closer to the end of November, but I am trying to get time off for work so I can hit that fresh powder!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! On opening day.
    
    Did you have an estimate time frame of days of when you will be opening?
    
    Meadows: It's entirely dependent on when we get the snow. Last year it was November 20. Two years ago November 11. We are motivated to get the lifts running as soon as the snow allows. We have a storm forecast for this weekend - and we need to see what's on the other side in terms of snow accumulation and cold weather. Hopefully soon!

71. Chris

    November 29, 2011

    I posted above on OCT 30 about going onto active duty and a possible seasons pass refund since I'm being moved out of the state. I got my orders today and have to leave by mid January.
    
    Am I able to still get a refund? If so, whom do I need to talk with?
    
    BTW I've already been up three times thus far. Opening day was awesome, best opening day snow I've ever seen at Meadows in 22 seasons.
    
    Meadows: Thank you for your service to our country. Relocation out of state is one of the exceptions to our no-refund policy. I'll send you the contact information. Enjoy the mountain and we look forward to your safe return.
    

72. Arthur

    November 30, 2011

    i have a night ski pass and i was wondering if i could go up for the day and will i have to buy a indivaul day pass to go up for the day
    
    Meadows: Night passes are valid beginning at 3 PM on the nights we operate. If you want to ride earlier you'll need to purchase a lift ticket.
    

73. jason

    January 18, 2012

    a few years ago i purchased an end of year, unlimited pass for $100 (march - close of the mountain). are you offering that again this year? if so, what are the details. if not, why?
    
    Meadows: We haven't determined a start date or pricing for our spring pass yet. Last year the price was $139 and it was valid from the middle of March through the end of the season. We'll announce this year's spring pass on our web site.

74. FredericD

    January 18, 2012

    When will spring passes become available and how much are they expected to cost?
    
    Meadows: Last year the spring pass was $139 and it went on sale in mid-March. We haven't determined pricing or time frames for this year's pass. But considering the storm we're receiving, you shouldn't wait for spring. Consider the 10 Time Pass or even a night pass. We also have a great deal on our midweek season pass.

75. A.ROSE

    January 20, 2012

    I was searching google for a vita water day at Meadows and this forum showed up, but I can't find the question/answer that appeared in my search so I decided to just re-ask the question. Is there going to be a vitamin water "ski-free" day in 2012, or a canned food day, or other deals like that?
    
    Meadows: Still working on the details - keep watching the vitaminwater® facebook page.

76. Newbie

    January 26, 2012

    Do you know of any shuttles or regular rides to Mt Hood for the Night Program (Wednes- Sun, 3-9pm)? Most shuttles are daytime only. :( Please and thank you :)
    
    Meadows: At this time we do not have evening shuttles.

77. Matt D.

    February 15, 2012

    Will my season pass work for night skiing also?
    
    Meadows: Unlimited passes are valid all nights. Midweek passes are valid Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights.

78. Cooper P.

    February 28, 2012

    Hey I have a Season pass for 7-14, does the season pass stop working after spring starts or is it valid till you guys close for the season?
    
    Meadows: The 7-14 (and all our other unlimited passes) are valid through the rest of the season, including any bonus days in May if we offer them.

79. GYPSTR

    August 30, 2012

    Alrightyyy then...Let's do this..
    
    Meadows: The candle is lit! Bring on the season!

80. Damon

    October 30, 2012

    Im not clear on what the difference is between the Mid Week $379 and $429 prices. What are the extras you get with the $429?
    Does one include nights and the other just days?
    And want to verify that there is no price increase on either of these if purchased after the 4th?
    
    Thanks
    
    Meadows: The only difference is the Midweek Plus pass is backed by a credit card, allowing you direct to lift access on peak days or weekends at discounted rates (auto-charged to your credit card). If you never come up on those days, then the passes are identical - offering free skiing the exact days (every Monday - Friday, except December 26 - 31). The prices do not change on November 4. Thanks for opportunity to clarify!

81. Cody

    December 4, 2012

    Is there any kind of 5 or 10 time pass that would get a discount overall?
    
    Meadows: We have a 5 Time Night Pass for $94 - or the night season pass for $129. Normal night pass price from 3 - 9 PM is $30.