MEADOWS BLOG

hey matt when are trail maps going to come out and are there any new runs?

Matt's reply:

Ethan:  Thanks for the question. The trail maps will come out in late October. No new runs this season - but hopefully a lot of powder to go with the great runs we already have!  Additionally, Trail Crew has been working on re-vegetation, erosion control and winter storm damage clean-up prjects for a good portion of the summer. Existing runs will be in great shape when the snow flies!

--M

I'm going to miss those Yellow chairs, it's one of those nostalgic things from growing up on this mountain I think.  BTW, I heard they were selling the old chairs, if this is true what is the cost and who do I get a hold of to buy one?  One last thing, are you planning on creating some benches or out of the way seating areas near the new ski patrol hut?  That particular spot is one of the worst choke points on the mountain during crowded days and I couldn't help but cringe a little bit when I saw where it was built.  Other than that things are looking great and I can't wait for the start of the 07/08 season, thanks Matt!

Matt's reply:

Kevin: We've renamed the lift "Stadium" in honor of all the events - particularly race events - which have been and will continue to be staged there. The smoother ride, easier loading and unloading and more comfortable chairs will help us transition from the memory of Old Yeller. We will be selling the old Yellow chairs, We won't sell any until we know for sure that all the new chairs are installed. Tom Scully is keeping a waiting list of interested buyers of the old Yellow chairs - you can email him at tscully@skihood.com.

Good point on the benches heading into Ridge Run.  As we button up that project this fall, we will be laying out new seating / buckle up areas that will help mitigate congestion in this area.

--M

Whew!  I am glad to hear the ventilation systems are being replaced in the North Lodge bathrooms. Last season, they always had a bit of a 'funk' to them, combination of smells, none very pleasant.

Can't wait for the season to start!

Matt's reply:

DCLynn: Hence my comment about a more pleasant "multi-sensory" experience. I also am jazzed for the season! Did you see George Taylor's comment in the Oregonian about the "La Nina" - a colder wetter winter? YEAH! 

Thanks for your post, 

--M

I'm glad to see the continous improvements at Meadows...I can't wait until I get up there. Congrats on the new patrol tower thing. I'll feel a lot more safe while skiing knowing that you are working hard to keep things running smoothly! Oh, and a late welcome to Meadows!

Matt's reply:

Katy: Thanks for the welcome! I am excited about the patrol head quarters project - it reinforces our strong committment to promoting responsible skiing and snowboarding on the slopes. I have high regard for the professionals who wear the white cross of our pro-patrol. Our safety awareness program developed by Patrol Director Melissa Toney received national recognition last year. We are stepping it up and involving all our staff members this season to make our guests more aware on the mountain.

Know the code.  Live the code.

--M

Matt,  I'm very happy to hear of the improvements up at Meadows.  I'm very happy with the changes to yellow, snowboarders do have a tough time on that lift with the shape of the chairs, smart move.  

I actually work at PDX and I sit in a flight booth waiting for a few Cessna planes to arrive and I just stair at the mountain wishing winter was here already and to hear you mention the evening air cooling each day is just a sign that it's time to start praying for snow...

Matt's reply:

Ohlaph: Did you see the recent story in the Oregonian where State Climatologist George Taylor is forecasting a strong La Nina (meaning colder, wetter winter)? Here's a link to the story: http://www.oregonlive.com/oregonian/stories/index.ssf?/base/news/1187321109227550.xml&coll=7&thispage=2

Now, I'm no climatologist, but you have got to admit that this forecast has possibilities. 

 Thanks for the post,

--M.

Great to hear Meadows is continuing to improve and grow, meaning good things for the upcoming winter.  I have to ask though....Why have only two Oregon resorts (Ski Bowl and Willamette Pass) embraced mountain bike operations in the summer.  

Looking at the successes of resorts like Mount Washington, Silver Star, Fernie, and of course Whistler in Canada, and Tamarack and Mammoth here in the States, there is substantial proof that summer mountain bike operations are both highly profitable and sustainable.  The ODF is fully behind trail advocacy groups and the development of freeriding trails across the state, and it's high time a local resort stepped up and followed suit.

Just my two cents...

Matt's reply:

Robholio: Great question. Currently summer mountain biking is not addressed in our master plan and it would take considerable effort. There are also the cental issues of enviornmental compatibility, safety and econimic viability.   MHM has many enviornmentally sensative areas, challenging summer terrain conditions, and mountain bike parks produce more revenue in destination settings and are used as an attraction for summer occupancies.

I often wonder what could be done at Cooper Spur Mountain Resort.

--M

Hey I just moved here like, a month ago from Alaska and I've heard a lot about Mt.Hood and I was wondering when the snow starts spilling over here and when does the mountain usually open?

Thanks

 Matt's reply:

M.White: Our tentative opening date is the Friday before Thanksgiving, but we will open as soon as the snow allows. It is fairly common for us to be open by mid-November. Internally we are prepared to open by the third week of October should winter come early. It all depends on when we get the snow -- and the conditions under which receive it.  Stay tuned and pray for early snow -- I will be right there with you!

--M

Woo! you should get sum o dat telescoping camera stuff up in the hut. that way you can scope out all them pesky kids knockin over dem signs.

+ more ski patrol!

+ more ski patrol!

+ more ski patrol!

+ more ski patrol!

Matt's reply:

Matt: I hear ya, I hear ya I hear ya. The new PHQ will allow us to accommodate more patrol staff. We want to attract the best professionals. But remember - even with all the preventative measures our patrol takes, a big part of what they do is to respond to those who need assistance. There will never be enough patrollers to police the entire mountain. That is why we promote our "Are You Aware" safety message to all of our staff members and guests. It really is up to each individual to ski and snowboard responsibly and to be aware of their surroundings. Thank you for helping to spread this message.

--M

Whatever you do, don't get rid of that stink just outside the stube, it's a landmark now.  I know I'm just steps away from a pitcher of Ice Axe, even during a whiteout, when that funk hits me in the face like a wet diaper.

Matt's reply:

Brian:  First of all, thanks for your post.  Second, let me congratulate you on your keen sensory observation. Impressive. Kent Fellows, our supremely awesome Facilities Maintenance Manager and leading forensic diagnostician of all that is not 100% right on the money with our physical plant is -- all over this matter.  Check it out this coming season -- I think you will be impressed!

Thanks again for your observation -- and keep them coming in!

--  M.

Hey Matt, thanks for the improvements!  Last year was my first year at Meadows.  One thing I'd really like to see is more modifications to the awesome parks you guys build.

The jumps are always awesome, but the rails kind of get stale after a while.  It would be super cool if you guys could just mix it up a bit, change the height and approaches of the rails every few weeks.  That'd convince me to buy Meadows passes again this year rather than heading elsewhere.

Matt's reply:

Forrest: Thanks for the heads up. I am sending your post directly to Sam Cordell and his crew. This feedback is very helpful. As you know weather, in particular the amount of snow we receive, will affect the rail set up. If we have an average winter you'll see things change as we adjust to the snow depths. And we also have a very talented, creative and motivated crew which will also provide regular revisions in the parks. They realize how important it is to change things up, particularly for our pass holders who hit the parks frequently.

--M

im pissed you named yellow "stadium chair" yellow was so original. stadium chair reminds me of some metal structure put in a big city for drunk people to yell at athletes.

Matt's reply:

Not Stoked:  Thanks for your inciteful post. The "Stadium" lift services the run called Stadium which has hosted (and will continue to host) ski racing and snowboarding events, some fairly significant. We wanted to pay tribute to those athletes past, present and future, who will be competing on this site. The lift not only provides service to those competing but to spectators as well.

I do appreciate your passion for tradition - but we really needed to move forward and change the name since the new chairs will not be Yellow. Stadium was a hugely popular suggestion in the contest. Be prepared for more changes as we continue to innovate and improve.

--M

Improvements I'd like to see:

Honor Meadows pass at Cooper.

Better safety control at beginner areas at Meadows.

Main road access for locker holders even when lots are full.

I have 2 kids, ages 4 & 7.  We spent a lot of time at Cooper last year, less at Meadows.  I was quoted $200 at Meadows for a Cooper add-on to my Meadows pass; heard of people paying $99; and was able to get it for $125 at Cooper.  How about just honoring our Meadows passes?

Skiing with the kids at Meadows was occasionally nerve-wracking.  Please step up the safety patrols at choke points and slow skiing areas.  And do we really need to take up half of a run like North Canyon for yet another terrain park?

Finally, I pay for a locker for convenience.  That convenience factor is reduced substantially when I can't drive up the main access road to drop off my family because the lot is full.  If I park illegally once I'm up there tow me, but let me drive up and drop off rather than having to shuttle the whole caboodle up from HRM.

Thanks.

Matt's reply:

Bill: Thanks for your post. I appreciate your insight and suggestions. Let me address them:

Honor Meadows pass at Cooper.
Cooper Spur could become overwhelmed if we offered it for free to our Meadows season pass holders. We do offer a family add-on price of $200 total for all of your immediate family that also has a Meadows pass.

Better safety control at beginner areas at Meadows.
We are elevating the "Are You Aware" safety program at Meadows, engaging our guests even before they get to the lifts with responsibility code information. This program addresses being aware of your surroundings, including your speed in high traffic and comfort zone areas. We will continue to pull lift tickets and season passes of those who disregard the Code -- these warnings. Last season Meadows held a Safety Fair in January and we received a safety program award from the National Ski Areas Association. This year we want to extend the Safety Fair from one weekend to the entire season. 2007-2008 is Safety Awareness Season at Mt. Hood Meadows.

Main road access for locker holders even when lots are full.
We'll address this with our director of guest services Paul Jones who will be overseeing the parking lot staff. And here's the shameless plug - we are selling Platinum Passes which includes close in reserved parking (as well as an unlimited season pass, season ski check and a season locker). There are only 50 available and they're already selling on our web site. This is one way to guarantee not only upper lot access, but also a reserved space near the lodge.

And do we really need to take up half of a run like North Canyon for yet another terrain park?
We hear you loud and clear on this one.  We're currently evaluating our parks locations for 2007-2008.  Look for a blog on this topic later this season.

Finally, a note about skiing with your family:  We are working hard at improving the family experience at MHM.  We welcome your observations and comments as we focus on this important effort.

Thanks again for your comments, 

--M

Nice hut!!

Matt's reply:

James: Thanks!   We are mindful that this is a high traffic - and we are mindful of the uniqueness of the Mt. Hood Meadows permit area. We worked hard to make this this building aesthetically pleasing, environmentally responsible and highly functional. We harbor great respect for the skill and dedication of our pro-patrollers and wanted to provide them a PHQ that will optimize their efforts to continually improve safety at MHM.

Thanks for your post,

--M

Can you comment on your plans for the base lodges in the short and long term. As crowds increase, it seems that the Hood River express chair lodge area should be enlarged (a la Bachelor) to alleviate crowds at the base, open up more storage, food, places to hang, etc.

And speaking of the base lodge, it may possibly be the most depressing mountain lodge in NA and I've been to quite a few in my day. Given the improvements to base lodges at Crystal, Baker, Whistler, etc, over the years in our region alone, our beloved mountain's base lodge has the combined charm, flow, and interior design of a Stalinist era bunker redecorated in mid 90's mcmansion colors. It is but ugly, crowded, funky, and regardless of the improvements over the years, not a pleasant place to hang. The parking lot, berm and building do not fit in or compliment one of the most beautiful mountains in the world, in fact it totally trashes it.

Blow it up and start over, improve the entrance (kill the berm), design and built a Cascade style lodge that  a great hill (rumor has it there are a few great examples nearby) like Meadows deserves. You'll get it back in new customers, increased food and booze sales, image, etc.

A few other observations:

- Start renting tele gear.

- Create more glade skiing - start with thinning out the  woods around Heather Canyon

- Expand on-mountain snack hut and deck. Put out a grill, pipe in the Reggae. Nothing beats taking a break on a sunny day for an on mountain beverage and burger. The single wide just ain't enough space. Build something that matches the new Patrol building.

- Go local, seasonal, organic with food. Make a commitment as many Portland and area restaurants, hell even Burgerville have to sourcing local food and ramping up the quality. Another opportunity to distinguish Meadows against competition and to connect to the region's growing awareness about sustainability.

- Move to china from paper and plastic plates. Bachelor is making the move, so shouldn't Meadows.

- Redesign the website. Cheesy and difficult to navigate. See Bachelor's new website as an example

Keep up the good work

Matt's reply:

rob:  Thanks for your input and suggestions.  You covered several important issues, so let me respond:

Base Area Lodges:  We are continually remodeling, updating and optimizing the space in the existing buildings in order to mitigate crowding and improve service.  In addition to those improvements mentioned in the blog, you will notice a renewed focus on outdoor seating on fair weather days both at the Main Lodge and at the HRM Lodge. Be sure to check out the new grill and "outdoor living room" area on the South Deck this season. We are also working on an exciting plan for next year that will address a significant updating and reconfiguration of the third floor of the North Lodge.  This project will improve seating, food service, and create another comfortable place to hang and relax. We are also studying options to improve the exterior of both the South and North Lodges to provide a stronger and more aesthetically pleasing sense of arrival -- while addressing the "Stalinist era bunker" concept you identified.  While creative, blowing up these buildings is not a practical, sustainable or safe option.  We can work with what we have and make these buildings look and function better.  This will likely happen in phases and over multiple years.

Renting Tele-Gear:  I will pass this suggestion on to our Rental Department to study again.  We tried this sometime ago and experienced limited demand.

Glade Skiing:  As mentioned in other blog responses, we plan to continue to study possible options to achieve this.

 Local, seasonal organic food:  Check out our menus -- I think you may be surprised to find that many of our menu items are local, sustainable and organic. Better yet, chat with our Food and Beverage Director Mark Fellows regarding this topic (one of his favorite) this season.  Mark is always near one of our many food outlets throughout the day (except his days off!).  Also, you may want to engage Mark in a discussion regarding the sustainable aspects of china versus completely post consumer recycled and recyclable plates and cups.  Prepare yourself.

Website: You have lost me here. I believe that we have one of the most informative, current, and user friendly websites in our industry. If you are having difficulty navigating our website, just let me know.

Thanks again for your post,

--M.

Looks like it's going to be another good year at Meadows. So then, who won the contest for naming the chair?

Matt's reply:

Tim: Stadium was a very popular name, but Violet Anderson was the first to suggest it and she won the 10 Time Pass. In all we had more than 500 suggestions from 250 people. Here's a link to more on the lift:

http://www.skihood.com/Mountain/WhatsNew/Default.aspx#22

Most importantly, congratulations and a big  THANK YOU to Violet!

--M

All of the new additions look really great for this year. MHM's rails are really lacking and need some new purchases, if you look at a mammoth or even timberline they are constantly updating their rails, MHM really needs to buy a street rail set up and some new boxes.

Meadows looked really great in "Yeah Dude" and with some new advanced rail set ups, could become the next really famous freestyle resort.

Why was MHM (or even oregon) not mentioned on back cover of "Yeah Dude". I think next year MHM needs to be sure to sponsor ski movies (schwietzer was in way less than Meadows but shelled out way more money to be seen on the cover, but they will also get more recongnition)

Matt's reply:

jack: I appreciate your enthusiasm. We made a considerable investment in the picnic table, the wall and other rails last year, and will spend many dollars on some new hardware and maintenance this year. Meadows will be featured in several movies this year which is a tribute to our terrain, our abundant snow and most importantly, our talented and professional grooming staff and parks crew which worked with the film crews. We plan on doing more of this shooting this season. We'll need to talk to PoorBoyz about giving us some love on the cover - but I'm sure Meadows will look good in the movie!

--M

The only improvement that I would like to see is OPENING HEATHER CANYON MORE.  It is the best thing about this resort, and it is rarely open.  If your goal is truly to make Meadows "The best in the west", this is a necessity.  Jackson Hole, Snowbird, and Whistler didn't become world renowned resorts because they gave their chairlifts good names or built nice patrol buildings.  They are well known because they get a lot of snow and have great terrain.  Meadows gets more than enough snow, and it has really good terrain, it is just never open. These other improvements are fine, but what will truly move Meadows toward being one of the best in the west is opening Heather Canyon regularly.  I don't care how you do it.  If you want to require transceivers, that's fine.  If you need to buy some big artillery, more explosives, hire more patrollers,  or get the patrol staff more specialized avalanche control training, just do whatever it takes.  This change in management could be the perfect time to take action and really make Meadows a great ski resort.  Thanks for your time.    

Matt's reply:

Eli: I appreciate your passion and enthusiasm for Heather - it does truly distinguish Meadows from the rest of the west. Many of your suggestions are under evaluation.  Please understand that safety will always determine when we open the Canyon - and that there are unique and specific conditions both terrain and weather that require us to manage Heather Canyon differently than the other resorts you have mentioned. But being able to offer Heather Canyon once cleared on a more frequent basis is a worthy goal that will help us on our journey to become "The Best in the West."

--M

so there has been alot of improvements how about the terrain park is that gonna be off this year or what?

Matt's reply:

tyler: Thanks for the post. We made a major investment in rails and features last season - this year we're adding a little more hardware and performing a lot of maintenance on our rails. We purchased three new Prinoth 350 snow cats all with terrain master tillers and blades. We've also made significant changes in our slope maintenance and grooming departments over the summer.  The emphasis of this talented and dedicated department will be on variety, safety and fun for all levels. Enjoy our parks and always follow the Smart Style - Look before you leap, Easy style it, and Respect Begets Respect (you've got to give it to get it).  Most importantly -- know and live the Code! Be safe and have fun in Paradise Parks at Meadows this season.

--M

Cooper Spur could become overwhelmed if we offered it for free to our Meadows season pass holders. We do offer a family add-on price of $200 total for all of your immediate family that also has a Meadows pass.

Yes, I'm sure the Meadows hard core will be lining up in droves to drive down 1,000 feet in elevation and ride the creaky old two place chair, which accesses not one but several intermediate pitch runs.  

Seriously, Cooper is a great place for kids the ages of mine.  From a marketing standpoint, I would think you would want to do everything possible to set the hook to make kids skiers for life.  Every bone you can throw cash-strapped parents helps.

Matt's reply: Point well taken Bill -- and we are working on it. If weather and snow conditions permit, this should be a great season at Cooper Spur.

Thank you for your comments and suggestions, and keep them coming!

--M

Matt - Thanks for keeping the blog up to date and most importantly honest!!

Some things I am hoping you can comment on.

1 – Tree thinning aka-glade construction.  With a permanent boundary you can easily increase 'skiable' acres by removing trees and branches.  It gets very thick in the trees when you add 10+ feet of snow.  Start between Stadium and MH Express.

2 – Replacing Daisy with a high speed quad.  On busy weekends it would be nice to have more than 1 high speed quad out of the base.  I hate taking the bunny chair to Vista.

3 – Larger lodge at HRM.  I know, this is a tough call for poor snow seasons.  At the very least how about a few more lift tickets booths.  The wait in line can be painfully slow.

4 – Improved lift lines.  Take a page from Whistler / Vail and go with the ‘cone’ line.  It is a natural funnel and eliminates the need for an extra lift attendants.  You ever been at HRM or Star and waited in line for 45 minutes because of the cluster, umm, mess!!!  If you don’t get pushy you don’t get on the chair.

The countdown has begun….only 68 days to go!!!

Matt's reply:

ACP: I'll address these individually:

Tree thinning - this summer and fall we continue to look at areas of opportunity to maximize the experience within our permit area.

Daisy High Speed Quad / HRM Lodge - Both of these are important future projects.  Their priority and timing is evaluated on an on-going basis along with many other higher priority projects at MHM.

Lift Line Management - I'll pass your suggestion on to our Lift Operations department -- I know they have studied this and its potential application at certain lifts at MHM. We have tried different kinds of alignments in the past to get to the way we manage lines at each lift currently. This is a line management issue - having the right staff with the right training, engaged with our guests to manage the line in the most efficient and effective manner possible.

Thanks for the questions - see you on the slopes SOON!

M.

Too bad about the move of the "Portland" Sales office out to Clackamas.  Are we still going to be able to get season passes in Portland or is that going to necessitate a trip out to the new office or to Mt. Hood to get a season's pass?

What about making new season passes available to people who had passes last year via mail?  I know most resorts do it this way.  Do we really need to mess with a new picture each year?  

Thanks in advance, Ben

Matt's reply:

Ben:  Thanks for your comments and questions.  While you can go to the new Clackamas Sales Office or Mt. Hood Meadows to have your photo taken and pick up your pass, there will be several opportunities for you to do this at several other locations this fall.  In addition to the Ski Show, we will be announcing several other "remote" locations where you can get your picture taken and pick up your pass. Hopefully, one of these locations will be convenient for you. Stay tuned to <skihood.com> for more details on this in the near future.

For now, you will need to have a new photo taken and a new release signed each year.  Our new Sales and Marketing Office has improved capacity to embrace and implement new systems and technologies.  Accordingly, we are researching new technologies that will allow us to further streamline this process in the future.

Thanks again for your post,

-- M.

I hope Meadows doesn't start to downplay the importance of parks because some beginner and intermediate riders don't enjoy them.  There are plenty of places for these people and their kids to ride, and it is not necessary to dedicate less space to parks in order to accommodate them.  

Good park riding brings professional riders to the mountain, which in turn brings film producers and photographers, which in turn brings good publicity and money for the resort.  

I am sure Timberline is more than happy to take any extra pro riders, photographers, Filmer's, and national recognition should Meadows decide they no longer see park features as a priority.  With the great terrain Meadows has to offer, it would be a shame to see it turn into a beginners' mountain.

Matt's reply:

Snowgirl:  Thanks for your post.  Not to worry, Meadows will continue to focus on providing high quality, unique and safe terrain parks for ALL levels of riders.

As the season gets underway, let us know how we are doing.

 Thanks,

-- M. 

I see at least one person is as disgusted with MHM lack of respect for history as I am (renaming Yellow chair). When are you going to rename Blue and really slap tradition in the face? Ya,ya stadium, racing history on the lift...I've been a USSA member for over 10 years, racing is important to me, BUT lose track of who you were and you become homogenized.

Snowgirl, MHM will never be a beginners' mountain. If all the parks, pipes and rails were torn down, it would only become a SKIERS mountain!

BTW, I bought my son and myself a board, soon to be a knuckle dragger!!!

Matt, a safe table top (or gap jump) is an oxymoron. If MHM is really concerned about safety, the jumps wouldn't exceed more than 10-15 feet of air. How is it that flying 20-30 (or more) feet through the air today is so much safer than it was 20-25 years ago?!? If I built a jump off to the side of 3 bowl, or between A and B zone, the Patrol would tear it down. Now ski area managers are encouraging people to huck. Ya, ya , know your abilities, stay within your limits, YA RIGHT!!! Everyone does that. I would like to see some type of license or test on one's abilities. You would have to show a card to be allowed in certain parks, you couldnt go over your ability with retesting.

At least the terrain features are on green or blue slopes so the GOOD stuff isn't effected. I do like the fact that Vista has a lot of features over there, kind of like you intended to separate the one and two plankers. And it spreads out the crowds more. I still have issues on how far up that lift goes, if it was lower it would run more often.

Meadows die hard since 1979!

Matt's reply:

Mike: I got 11 years on ya as I've been here from the beginning. I do have a sense of history but couldn't see continuing to call a green and galvanized color chair "Yellow", although I'm sure the name will remain with certain guests and staff members (and that's right on by my).

Congrats on trying new things - I bet you and your son will enjoy learning to ride together.

Regarding parks, we will build on our reputation for offering quality park experiences for all levels this season. We have a very talented crew which can compliment the natural playground that is Mt. Hood Meadows with man made features as well. We want to emphasize safety AND fun - that's why we named our parks Paradise Parks. For some hitting a bigger jump is more fun - for others smaller jumps or lower rails are more to their liking. We want to offer variety so different ability levels can enjoy our parks. This sport is all about freedom - that's the number one adjective used to describe the sensation of skiing or snowboarding. With that freedom comes personal responsibility and we urge everyone going into a terrain park to "Easy Style it" (see response to Tyler above). Since you have been involved for so long, you know the Responsibility Code inside and out, and I know we can count on you to help mentor folks with less experience than you on the Code and the importance of consistently living it!

Thanks again for your post,

--M  -- Meadows die hard since 1968!

With regard to ACP's comments, while we definitely are each entitled to our own thoughts, in my opinion what makes tree skiing great is the trees.  We definitely do not have tight trees here, and I think anyone who has skied East would agree with that.  The reason the trees (Jacks Woods especially) are so enjoyable is because they are tight enough to be fun and hold snow, but offer plenty of room for good safe turns.  Removal of more trees should be done carefully, to a limited extent (if at all) and only after much thought and deliberation, but I have not heard anything to make me think that would not be the case.

Thanks for listening, Alembical

Matt's reply:

Alembical:  Thanks for your comments.  They are right on the money.  Tell us some of the other areas within our permit boundary that you feel may benefit from some select thinning or pruning.

--  M.

Those new improvements all sound really good, even the name change is alright I guess. I'll probably still call it yellow, even if it is gray. I really like the location of the new Patrol shack, especially if it helps cut down some of that wind that comes whipping up that hill where all the boarders have to strap in. I also really like the feedback from all these blogs. It really keeps us customers on the same page.

I do have a couple comments/requests...

-- A lot of times for me the most dangerous part of the drive is the parking lot. It seems to be way more slick than Hwy 35, especially down by the maintenance building. Can anything be done?

-- How about cutting small trails, nothing major, out to Clark Canyon from the bottom of Upper Heather, and also from HRM through the woods to the top of God's Wall. Just a flat spot through the rocks and a ten foot wide track through the trees would be awesome!!

-- Is there anywhere to see the "master plan" so we know what other improvements are coming the near and distant future??

Thanks for all the input and keep up the good work. I'm looking forward to the season.

Matt's reply:

Mike:  Thanks for your support, comments and questions.  Let me respond to each:

We just had the first of a few pre-season meetings with the talented and dedicated professionals with ODOT who are responsible for clearing the portions of Hwy. 35 (and portions of 26) closest to MHM.  This team is also responsible for snow clearing in our parking lots under the SnoPark Program.  We discussed the icing problem in our parking lots, which is actually brought about by warm engines melting snow and ice which, in turn, re-freezes as temperatures drop, wind picks up and car motors shut down, or car leave. To help mitigate this challenging (but fairly infrequent) problem, our Parking Department is refining initiatives that they have used in the past. Look for lots of management attention in the parking lots this season!

Thanks for the suggestion regarding cutting small access trails in Heather Canyon -- we will take a look at that possibility once we get enough snow to really assess what can be done and what may be involved.

Regarding our master plan, we are working on several initiatives with our partners in the environmental community and the USFS.  Once the needs of our partners have been satisfied, then we will be pleased to discuss those future projects.  Probably even dedicate an entire blog to this issue when the time comes.

Thanks again for your post,

See you at MHM this season!

--  M.

ok well where are the parks gonna be located did you change that? and did you get any new rails? i kno about the smart style so i dont need to hear that again. i would just like to kno what your ideas are for the park set up this year becuase you guys dont have a real good rep

Matt's reply:

Garrett: Our Parks Department is in the planning process right now - we'll be updating you on our freestyle page.  This summer we have been working on maintaining our existing rails, and have purchased several new rails.  More importantly - we have an incredibly talented crew that will be setting our parks up. I'm confident that Paradise Parks will provide a great freestyle experience this season.  Let us know what you think of it by posting another blog comment directly from our Lodge Computer Terminals for guests ("Lodge 'terms").

Fianlly, I am glad that you know about Smart Style.  Do you know The Code?

--M

On the subject of thinning and glade skiing, Private Reserve would benefit from a little judicious thinning.  I have mixed feelings about the gate being hidden in the middle of yet another terrain park -- it's kind of funky dropping in through there, but it probably keeps the crowds down.  I don't recall seeing an open/closed sign for PR at the top of the main lifts last year, but I may have missed it.  If there wasn't one, it would be nice to know the status before irrevocably committing to a HRM run.

Finally, how about a legal drop into Heather at the base of Shooting Star, just down from Jack's?  It's not a bad hike up that little access hill under the Heather lift, and it is in bounds under the chair there.  

Matt's reply:

Bill: Thanks for the comments and observations. I'll address them with our patrol staff. This kind of communication flowing between guests and staff is exactly what we need to make this experience even better. See you in the Reserve!

--M

I found this on a Willamette Pass trail map, I went there for the first time in 2006-2007. I posted it last year, I recommended to Dave for MHM to put this on the trail map and removing all (well most of) the clutter (ie advertisements) on the maps. This and the code need to be more prominent on the map.

DUTIES OF SKIERS UNDER OREGON LAW- I agree to abide by the duties of skiers under Oregon law,

ORS 30.985, which include, but are not limited to, the following:

A. Skiers who ski in any area not designed for skiing within the permit area assume inherent risks therof.

B. Skiers shall be the sloe judge of the limits of their ability to meet and overvome the inherent risks of skiing and shall maintain reasonable control of speed and course.

C. Skiers shall abide by the directions and instructions of the ski operator.

D. Skiers shall familiarize themselves with posted information on location and degree of dificulty of trails and slopes to the extent reasonably possible before skiing on any slope or trail.

E. Skiers shall not cross the uphill track of any surface lift except at points clearly designated by the ski area operator.

F. Skiers shall not overtake any other skier except in such a manner as to avoid contact and shall grant the right of way to the overtaken skier.

G. Skiers shall yield to other skiers when entering a trail or starting downhill.

H. Skiers must wear retention straps or other devices to prevent run away skis.

I. Skiers shall not board rope tows, wire rope tows, j-bars, t-bars, lifts or other smilar devices unless they have sufficient ability to use the devices, and skiers shall follow any written or verbal instructions that are given regarding the devices.

J. Skiers, when involved in a skiing accident, shall not depart from the ski area without leaving their names and addresses if reasonably possible.

K. A skier who is injured should, if reasonably possible, give notice of the injury to the ski area operator before leaving the ski area.

L. Skiers shall not embark or disembark from a ski lift except at designated area or by the authority of the ski area operator.

Pay close attention to J. and K.

Here is a link to the law, scroll way down to see it.

www.leg.state.or.us/.../030.html

Matt's reply:

Mike: Thank you for keeping safety in the forefront!. We will be including this (as well as the Hood River County Ordinance) in our trail map this year. We'll be addressing safety in an upcoming blog. As always be aware and know the Code!

--M

Oh yeah, on the lift line thing.  When it's crowded and the lifties are calling out sides at the bottom of the chair, why don't you have them call out 2 singles from each side to make 4 every time a side comes out?  A lot of times singles have to wait due to people making 4's as they wait in line, or sometimes someone timid will be in the front and not go when there are only 3 people.  Just a thought....

Matt's reply:

Corey:  Thanks for the suggestion.  Lift Ops is in the process of ramping up for the season, and I know that they are working on several operational improvements for our 40th Anniversary season.  I will make sure they cover your suggestion.

-- M.

Welcome Matt - I appreciate your enthusiasm and am also eagerly awaiting this year's season.  I am curious what your take is on the lift lines at Meadows.  It has been my experience that the weekends are getting more and more obscene - to the point that it's almost not even worth going some days.  One tactic that I have seen work well is to raise ticket prices (admittedly unpopular, but a necessary evil) to keep revenue constant while easing some of the crowds.  Any thoughts?

Again, welcome to Hood - I'm sure you'll enjoy it!

Matt's reply:

Spencer: I am not all that new to the area - I've been involved with Meadows since the opening day 40 years ago. Waxing nostalgiac here for a moment, I recall 45 minute "annoconda" lift lines on the peak weekends - that was before high speed quad technology. Even on our busiest days Meadows lift lines rarely exceed 15 minutes and most of the time it is less than a 5 minute wait. Knowing where and when to go to certain lifts can also reduce lift line wait time. We have established a peak day price structure. It is interesting to note that our largest increase in skier visits since we started selling our group season passes, has been midweek, not weekend. I hope that's a trend that continues. Also, I think you will notice another waive of improvement in our Lift Ops Department this season.  See you on the slopes!

--M

Was anything done to improve/expand the restrooms up at the ski area at Cooper Spur this summer?  These are in dire need of remodeling!  The outhouses in the parking lot are not a good long term solution.

Matt's reply:

Dan: For this winter season no. We will be including this as part of our improvement projects next summer. We will continue to use the porta-potties which are ADA accessible and also provide "relief" for guests on busier days. See you at Cooper Spur!

--M

The new patrol shack looks fantastic!  I do, however, want to mention, that the always-diligent MHM Pro Patrol is assisted on weekends by the volunteer (and equally well-trained) Mt. Hood Ski Patrol.  Don't forget to give them their due!

Matt's reply:

eski:  You are quite right!  Volunteer Patrollers play an important role in our overall patrol and safety efforts at MHM.  We are very grateful for their efforts and salute their dedication!

--  M.

Open the Mt. Hood Express Chair at 8AM seven days a week.

Matt's reply:

Howard:  Thanks for your suggestion.  I need to tell you straight out, however, that is not going to happen.  There are many important reasons for this, but the primary reason is safety for our guests and staff.  We will continue to load first chairs at 9:00AM.

--  M. 

A real or semi-real place to relieve one's self at Mazot?  The trees are nice, but a real place to park the buns would be better!

Me and my pass holding family appreciate all MHM's hard work this summer!

Matt's reply:

RickyL:  You must have been chatting with my wife regarding this issue.  Well at the risk of getting smacked upside the head again, a restroom at the Mazot is unlikely to be in our future. A mid-mountain restroom at another facility is approved in our master plan, and is likely future project -- just not at the Mazot.  Know this, I have a keen understanding of how important it is to achieve this project one day.  In the meantime, "elimination management" is key to an enjoyable day.

Thanks for your comment,

--  M.

Hi Matt,

   One thing I would like to see is the Forums on this website organized.  I think it could be very beneficial if layed out well.  For example Forums discussing: Equipment (what the locals use/recommend), hooking up carpools/trips, organizing 4x4s...etc.  Something for the local community.  

Thanks,

Alan

Matt's reply:

Alan: Thanks for the suggestion. We'll discuss it in our I.T. task force. We are exploring ways to add more community features (beyond the Blog). Regarding car pooling - we are hooked up with Carpool Match NW, which you can access from our transportation page: http://www.skihood.com/GetHereStayHere/Transportation/CarPools/default.aspx

Thanks again for your excellent suggestions. 

--M.

The day after Christmas 1969, I took my first run on the rope tow at MHM.  The chairs were red, blue and yellow or 1,2,3. The T-bar was a big challenge for awhile.  

Winter '75-'76, working nights on Yellow, we listened to Fleetwood Mac's Landslide and other songs of the times over the area PA before "Walkmans".  I was hooked and bought the third Subaru 4WD on the mountain for $4,245.

Working nights allowed for a lot of time to train for Ski Patrol the next year.  We sat on our fanny pack over a plastic bucket on the floor of a 8'x 8' plywood lift shack and heated our sandwiches or soup on the catalytic heaters.

Grooming was packing or rolling.  The new "wing style" packers were a big leap from the rollers that left divots and chuckholes.  Someone discovered stretching a chain across the back made a nice texture.

We climbed Wyeast on Super Bowl Sunday and the name stuck. Powder runs in Heather were few by today's standards and could take hours getting back. Getting caught would cost you a bottle of Jack Daniels.

Yellow chair, patrol huts, groomers and boundaries.  This years improvements may seem modest but they show how that no matter the mountain evolves, our passion remains.

Thank you Matt, and your Father, for the great ride.  If you can't find someone like Dave right away, I know you you will stay on track and be making fresh ones!

Matt's reply:

Dale: Your comments are both inspiring and humbling. I took the liberty of posting it in our 40th Anniversary Blog "Memories of Meadows" which can be viewed here. We've dedicated that blog to collecting the experiences of our guests and staff who have enjoyed Meadows over the years.

At the end of the day, I loved to tuck down old T-Bar hill with my older sister and cousins in order to get speed up to ski to the car! 

By the way, the guy that invented the roller (corrugated drain pipe with the ends welded shut and filled with anti-freeze and water) followed by recycled loader chains was John West, our first Director of Mountain Operations.  One of the most resourceful and technically competent innovators in our industry, to this day John is one of the finest and funniest individuals around.  Love you John!

--M

Thankyou ever so much for the new patrol shack.  I sure a comfortable atmosphere for the ski patrol will translate directly to the atmosphere on the slopes during guest education in our Are You Aware program.   I'm really glad to see improvements each year, from facilities to chairlifts to policies.  

on a side note, the thinning of branches may be easier if done in the spring when there is some snow to stand and ski around on.  

Matt's reply:

Paul: "Continual Improvement" has been our mantra from day one.  We have come along way since day one, but we still have a long way to go.  Quite a journey actually.  Sometimes improvements are easier to see when you're adding new lifts and expanding lodges. But the same principle applies with improving our infrastructure and the training and motivating of our staff to provide an improved experience for our guests. I appreciate you noticing our efforts. Here's to some spring-time (and mid-winter) exploration of what trees need to be selectively pruned to improve safety and forest health!

--M

I'm with Corey, last year I noticed that, although a good thing, people are getting organised into fours in lines, and the singles get left out sometimes.  At least one chair of singles every rotation would be cool.

How does MHM feel about some snowmaking equipment to add some fresh in the early and late season to the lower areas?

And I know you are getting tired of hearing this, but how about a dog run below Buttercup for those lonely hounds I see people leave in their cars all day?  Would it be cost effective for $20 or so?

Is opening weekend still tentatively the 16th?

~Brian

Matt's reply:

Brian: Most of the time the lift lines are somewhat self-regulating, if the singles line isn't moving it gets long and people tend to double, triple and quadruple up naturally. We encourage people to hook up for the ride up - it's can be the most intriguing part of the day! It's not our intent to penalize those in the single's line by making them wait excessively, so we'll have Monte and Ellisa from the lifts department take a look at this and address it in training so we can keep it fair for everyone.

We do currently have limited snowmaking capabilities, which is used primarily early season in problem areas where snowpack can be easily skied off. Additional snowmaking is in our master plan and hopefully in the near future (not this season however).  We are working on this issue with our partners in the environmental community and the USFS. 

Regarding dogs - we'd prefer that pets be kept at home since we do not have accommodations for them at Mt. Hood Meadows. Pets locked in or tied to cars (with such extremely variable conditions) borders on abuse. As you have probably seen, a dog romping on a ski run can be quite dangerous (both for the animal and for skiers and snowboarders). If you are visiting MHM, best to leave Fido at home, dropped off with a friend or board him in town.  If you are staying at Cooper Spur Mountain Resort, be sure to inquire about our pet friendly accomodations.

Thanks for your post,

--M

what are the odds of park crew getting the old ski patrol hole?

Matt's reply:

Optimistic:  Thanks for your suggestion.  That space is in the process of being converted to much needed support storage for Patrol and our on-hill safety program.

--  M.

Matt...

First of all my family and I would like to thank you for picking this up where Dave left off.  Now here is our 2 cents worth of suggestions...some already addressed some not.

Matt's reply:

Brady Family:  Check my responses in italics to each of your comments below:

1.  Move the buses.  There is nothing like sucking down a diesel bomb walking to the lodge.

Last season we developed a bus idling plan with our transportation partners which significantly reduced the amount of time that buses needed to idle. We'll continue to work with the bus companies and their professional drivers to further reduce idling in the parking lots. We're proud of our bus program and we reward those who ride this transportation with up front close in parking.

2.  Don't mess with the nacho's!!!!
 

MHM Food and Beverage Department:  Hear that?!?

3.  Give the guys and gals at ski check a raise.  They are the best.
 

Agree -- they are fast and efficient and do their job with a smile!

4.  Terrian Parks.  I ski...so does my 7 year old son.  He loves the parks but last year they were way too big.  He would like to see a few parks geared towards smaller/beginner freestylers other than Shipyard off of Buttercup.  You used to have some smaller features 2 years ago on Daisy but last year they were the big features too.  And north canyon...big mistake.

Our Grooming and Parks Crews are tuned into this blog. They are developing a parks plan with features for a variety of skill levels right now.  Look for more information about our parks and their specific locations for the 2007-2008 season on the Snow Phone, website, and at the Concierge Desk at MHM.

5.  How about some nice big speakers on the side of the cool new patrol hut??
 

I suppose there is a possibility that the patrollers would enjoy getting their groove on  -- Tough spot for speakers from a technical perspective, and not the greatest spot from guest safety and service perspectives.

Having said that, however, our plan has been to provide music in areas where guests are naturally cueing up or hanging out.

6.  Improve the consistentcy of the kid ski program.  I could go on about this forever but I won't this time.
 

Bill:  Please send me your email so I can connect you with Chris Kastner and Lisa Cusick. They would welcome your observations and suggestions to improve the Children's Learning Center.

7.  How about a grooming report sign outside so we don't have to go inside.
 

Great comment!  We are investigating how we can communicate that information to our guests accurately and consistently. Eventually it will be addressed with technology. For now we want to post this where we can make sure we can keep it updated consistently and accurately.

8.  Keep up the cookies and hot cocoa!!!
 

It's our 40th Anniversary season. You're going to see lots of cookies and other tastey treats as we celebrate 40 Years of Making Winter Fun! 

9.  More ski patrol presence on Ridge Run.  We have had more problems there with erratic and dangerous skier and snowboarders than anyplace else.
 

Our guests need to abide by the Responsibility Code. It really is an awareness issue and we will be more actively promoting the "Are You Aware" program this season.

10.  Keep up the excellent training you do with the staff.  They have always been upbeat and very helpful.
 

Thank you, I will be sure to pass on your observation. Also, we are continuing to broaden our training efforts this coming season and beyond.

11.  How about some calf pads on Daisy.  That lift has always slammed us for years and years. I'm getting too old for it now.
 

Another great comment!  I'll have to look into this one. Perhaps our lifties can assist a little more as well to slow down that impact.

12.  My 7 year old son would like to know if Apollo is a blue square or a black diamond.  There is a conflict between singage on the slope and the maps.  Also, be nice to have a master map with all the trail runs names.  Sometimes references are made to a run that I can't find anywhere and I've skied meadows since the 70's.

Apollo is a terrific run and portions of it are steep enought to warrant a black diamond designation.  -- we will be making any necessary corrections so that this identification / signage is consistent throughout. Thanks to your son for catching this!  Our 2007-2008 Trail Map will have the lift and trail names printed on it, as well as run degree of difficulty identification and legend for your reference by you and your son.

One other question.  I had some money left on my pass at the end of last year.  How do I go about transfering that to my new pass????

No worries on this.  We will transfer your balance frrom last season directly on to your new pass when you pick it up.

Again, thanks  for giving us such a great skiing value and place.

Bill Lora and Brady

Thank you for comments and loyalty to Mt. Hood Meadows.  I look forward to seeing you and your family on the mountain this season!

--  Matt

Hey Matt,

I'm looking forward to see how you/new GM manage the place.  I won't be around this next season, I'll be working at Park City, but Meadows will always be my local resort.  

I was looking at other resorts web pages, and some of them have some interactive web cams with pan, tilt, and quite a bit of zoom.

I think it would be a small investment that would be pretty sweet. But it's just a suggestion.

Good luck this season.

Matt's reply:

Austin: Thanks for the suggestion - we have looked into it and have a concern about the streaming video cutting into our internet access to the resort. The camera is very popular and the more people that it serves simultaneously the slower our internet gets which we use for conducting business. But we're always interested in improving our technologies particularly as they provide better information and service to our guests. Enjoy Park City - I might see you there this winter.

--M

Yay I am so excited about all the new changes! This will be such a great upgrade for Meadows!!!

I am glad to see some snow starting to fall up there!!!!!!!!!!!! looks like a good winter ahead!!!!

**Karissa

Matt's reply:

Karissa: The snowfall adds a sense of urgency. Our earliest opening was October 20 - that's just three weeks away! We're excited - have you gotten your season pass yet?

--M

A little bit of snow last night... I'm stoked

Matt's reply:

Shredtastic:  It looks like a potential for more snow in the immediate forecast.  Got your pass dialed in?  Prepare for an awesome 40th anniversary season at Meadows!

--  M.