MEADOWS BLOG

will there be a intermediate/beginner park on cascade cause im 13 and superpark is too big for me

-thanks

Matt's reply:

Cole: There are two features in the Cascade Park - they are not as big as last year. We advise that all of our guests first inspect the park before hitting it - it's one of the tennants of the Smart Style freestyle terrain code.

--Matt

What a waste of such good snowfall. With so much of it you won't be able to cut back staff b/c there will be a bunch of us up there hiking and building kickers through June who you'll need to chase off b/c Meadows is against having fun.  The May "Pollution Challenge" is on!

Jimmy T

Matt's reply:

Jimmy: This is a good time to remind folks that "closed" means the entire permit area.  We will likely be conducting maintenance and construction throughout the remaining spring and summer months, including having equipment on the hill. Those we encounter on the permit area will be asked to leave. I appreciate you giving us the heads up.

--Matt

My guess this April has been off is because spring hasn't arrived yet.

You only mention 3 chairs operating next weekend!!??

No Heather or SS?? It will be tough to draw the numbers needed if you only run BC, MHE and Cascade.

Matt's reply:

Mike: Spring arrived fully Saturday, however, we didn't fill the upper lot. It surprised me because it was such a gorgeous day. And what a shame - the conditions were ideal spring corn and we had a terrific event with the Pond Skim - it was sensational. Those who come up thoroughly enjoyed the day.

Regarding lifts, I'd prefer to undersell and overdeliver. As we get close to the weekend we'll be able to determine what additional chairs and terrain will be operating.

--Matt

Matt,

Does this mean you're sticking to only the three lifts mentioned...PERIOD?  No Heather chair?  No Shooting Star?  Please, please, PLEASE say it ain't so!!!  The Canyon done for the season and only two lifts to disburse the crowd is not good news.  There should be ample coverage on the upper mountain well into June so please at least add Shooting Star into the mix to help with the lift lines (and yes, I expect the response to the May Challenge to be strong enough to generate some lengthy lines!!)

Matt's reply:

Beachbum: We'll determine what terrain and lifts will be operating as we get closer to the weekend - I just don't want to over commit at this time. We are hoping that we have a great turn out for the May Challenge May 3 and 4, although as I expressed to Ex Lift Op Mike, I was somewhat disappointed in Saturday's turn out. I really thought we'd have more people up on the picture perfect spring day.

--Matt

Hey Matt,

I hope the May challenge keeps the mountain open for a while.  However, there is so much snow up there.  Why close?  (I know it's based on keeping enough staff on hand for operations and safety).  But why only a few lifts?  Why not Vista, Heather, etc based on weather and conditions?

Matt's reply:

Jon: Thanks for the post. We'll make a decision about what additional lifts and terrain will be open as we get closer to the weekend.

--Matt

Considering the amazing year Meadows has had, both with snowfall and with revenue, it would have been a great gesture to your loyal skiiers/boarders to extend the season permenantly through May....midweek and weekends. I am sure it could have been afforded. Please don't try to convince us that Meadows had trouble making a very nice profit this year.

Doing away with a "challenge" during May due to the unique "epic" conditions this year would have gone a long way towards building up momentum for next year. It could have been marketed as a "thank you" to everyone for such a great year. Oh well, I guess bean counter mentality always seems to win out these days... no matter how much profit is made.  

Nonetheless... a big thanks to all for a great year. Thanks

Matt's reply:

Jake: Thanks for the post. Committing to operate the entire month of May without regard to the weather, quality snow conditions, guest preferences, business levels and such pesky economic issues like fuel prices would be reckless from guest experience and business management perspectives.  This is our 40th season of continuous and successful operations.  We have grown consistently by making good decisions on behalf of our guests.  We don’t operate under a “bean counter mentality”.  We listen to our guests, watch their preference and use patterns carefully, and adjust our operations accordingly.  Finally, as with any single season alpine recreation business,  maintaining appropriate fiscal responsibility now will allow this company to invest more into the guest experience in the future.

I appreciate your comment on the year - it has been great, and hopefully, will continue to be great!

--Matt

All I can say is you have done nothing but a horrible job keeping people happy this year! SERIOUSLY, you are ruining meadows. Just mine and everyone else's opinion I know. 3 Lifts, roping off natural, safe terrain, horrible park all year, never posting the comments that really concern the clientele, GET REAL.

Matt's reply:

Daniel: I think you need to get to know more people. SERIOUSLY. Chill a little dude! - come up and have some fun. That's what we're all about and have been for 40 years. We don't rope off terrain that is safe - there's no need to.  The significant snow cycles this winter affected our parks all season-long but that still didn't prevent our grooming and parks crews from working incredibly hard to present the best parks possible. And we do post comments that are on topic - as this post demonstrates.

Keepn’ it Real.

 --Matt

hey its good to here that you are staying open for the may challenge. other than that i wonder if this snow will ever melt!? you never know when, but that would be sweet if there was still a nice base next fall for an early opening =)... is that even possible?

Matt's reply:

aaron: There is always more interest in opening at the beginning of the season than there is at the end of the season. This year we opened with less than a 2 foot base just after Thanksgiving. The first weekend of December we had three lifts operating and less than a 30 inch base and had almost as many skier visits as we did this past weekend. We traditionally set the Friday before Thanksgiving as our tentative opening date, but we will open as soon as the conditions allow.

--Matt

If Heather is not opening, I am not coming. Sorry to be so blunt but if their is no plan to open the canyon what's the point?  200"  on the ground, its not your fault people are so fickle.  I guess 5 months is about all people can take and then they are off to do something else.  I guess its time to hang up the resort boards and just commit to the Rando gear, I will be up this weekend but I think I will be OB if heather is closed. Oh well, best of luck with the May challenge and   see you next season.

Mark

Matt's reply:

Mark: Thanks for the post. Keep an eye on the web site or listen in to the snow report. We'll be updating the lift schedule as we get closer to the weekend.

--Matt

thats  retarded why would you close with so much snow

Matt's reply:

ski: The reality is that ski areas close due to lack of demand, not lack of snow. That's what the challenge is all about - allowing our guests to keep the season going by turning out each weekend.

--Matt

Didn't fill upper lot? What are you talking about? i was there on saturday and sunday and both days upper lot was filled or nearly filled and HRM had 10 or so rows filled.

Whats going on with Cascade? if your not going to build superpark fine, but at least build an entire line. I WANT DAVE BACK!!!!!! Paradise parks are horrible this year.

If it stays this way im buying a fusion pass next season!!!

Matt's reply:

Toby: I stand corrected. Saturday the upper lot did fill late (I had received an earlier report). It didn't fill Sunday.

There are two features built on Cascade - we're considering building more for the weekend.

In all of Dave Riley's years at Meadows, he never experienced the kind of snow year we had this season. The constant heavy snow accumulation affected the park building schedule. We have the same experienced, talented and dedicated crew working Paradise Parks this season as last, and they made the most of what the weather provided. I'm proud of their continuing efforts.

--Matt

3lifts?  Wow. Without Heather I certainly won't be bothering.  I'm certainly not alone in that thought either.  Was looking forward to climbing into Super Bowl and having an exit. How may times did that alleged cat run this year?  

This is akin to a shop owner not having any product then complaining when no one comes in to buy anything.  With 3 lifts the May challenge will be nice and short.  

Matt's reply:

Charlie: We'll update the lifts that we expect to run as we get closer to the weekend. Thanks for the post.

--Matt

Matt,  

Based on the comments, it sounds like your hardcore followers are calling out, will you meet their service request?  I know you may not fill the lot, but the number one rule to good customer service is to provide service to those who are there, not those who aren't!  Just my opinion though.

Ohlaph

Matt's reply:

Ohlaph: Thanks for the post. As we get closer to the weekend we'll be in a much better position to determine which lifts will be running.

--Matt

Curious as to what factors into your decision on if to open SS & Heather May 3 and 4. Certainly not FS permits, you're all good with that till June.  Weather excluded is there anything else aside from lack of help and/or desire not to loose $?  Most folks understand that Meadows is a for profit business.  Can't you just once call a spade a spade?

Your attitude as of late is becoming very CA :) - WTF

Matt's reply:

WTF: There are many factors in determining which lifts will operate. Primarily it is snow conditions - spring weather can be volatile. Heather Canyon is usually closed by this time of the season due to snow melt and the streams opening up. We're waiting to see what happens this week with the weather before making commitments to specific lifts.

--Matt

we have almost 200 inches of snow and we are having a may challenge?

there probably wasnt that many people up on saturday cause your parks are half as good as last year. all of them are. and the sno kona pond skim was for 21 years and older... i bet you would of had way more people come if it was 18 like last year.

meadows just got soo much footage in skiing and snowboarding videos and magazines because of the best superpark in the northwest. people were coming from all over to hit that and now you have one jump and a hip...wow...

and there isnt another park on cascade with smaller jumps and rails for more beginners.

theres no superpipe with 22 foot walls like last year when the US snowboard team came to train on.

everyone is getting packed to rose city park.

its lame.

any other resort with 200 inches of snow in may wouldnt close.

stay open and build good parks

Matt's reply:

what: Thanks for your suggestions. We'll be open May 3 and 4. We'll have good parks for you. While we don't have the 22 foot superpipe, we do have our 18 foot superpipe and it has been in excellent condition. Hope to see you up this weekend!

--Matt

Why are you closing at all?  I was at Meadows last Thursday and the place was packed.  TIMBERLINE is open everyday until May 26 I encourage everyone to boycott the greedy corporate Meadows.  It is too bad there is not a better mountain closer so we could all boycott you guys all season.  The May challenge what a joke!!  Most of lifts aren't even open and your closing at 3.

Matt's reply:

Guest: Sorry you are so unhappy. Let me first address the facts: Thursday was not "packed", in fact far from it.  We typically experience a dramatic reduction in mid-week guest participation at this time of year, pretty much regardless of the conditions at MHM.  Our region is blessed with many incredible outdoor recreation opportunities during the spring and summer, meanwhile folks only have so much time to recreate.  This of course, impacts our midweek and weekend visitation numbers at this time of year.  This has been an epic year!  Including this past weekend, we have operated 157 consecutive days this season.  Hopefully we get more weekend days in May, but that will obviously depend on the weather and guest participation. 

As we do every year, we adjust our lift operations to terrain conditions and guest visitation.  For example, there is no need to run Stadium or Daisy at this time of year.  Terrain by or under those lifts can be easily accessed from other lifts that are running.  Quality snow conditions at the bottom of HRM are very tough to maintain at this time of year.  As in prior years, daily snow surface conditions at this time of year typically begin to deteriorate in the afternoon.  During this time of year, for as long as I can remember, guests prefer to get their turns in the morning, have a late lunch outside in the sun, chill for a while, then leave the resort around 3:00 PM.  So we have learned to tailor our operating schedule around the needs and schedule of our guests.

Having said that, we are studying the operational requirements and feasibility of opening select lifts earlier on the weekends and holidays next season.  More on that topic later this summer.

We realize and respect that our guests have many other resort opportunities in the Pacific NW,and we are very grateful for the loyal customers that we had the opportunity to serve again this season. 

Apparently, our operating schedule doesn’t jive with your schedule expectations,  and for that I am sorry.

--Matt

Announcing 3 lifts and then saying you'll consider more later is just plain poor business. I have run a sports related business myself (for 5 years). What works is announcing well in advance and sticking to it. Having a reliable and dependable schedule is absolutely key to building business. There is NO WAY I will consider coming back for the May challenge unless Heather, Shooting Star and Cascade chairs are running. Skiing corn down A Zone or at least down O Ring is the real pleasure of spring skiing. Here's hoping the new manager you hired has a better concept of how to build the business.

Matt's reply:

steve: As we get closer to the weekend we'll be in a better position to determine what lifts will be operating. I would rather approach the weekend this way, than to announce a schedule only to have conditions change and not be able to deliver. Underselling and overdelivering is also a good way to build business.

I agree skiing corn down A Zone and O Ring is a real spring skiing pleasure - and I'm hoping the conditions will allow that this next weekend.

--Matt

The problem with underpromising is that it reduces the chance that people will bother to come up, thereby reducing the chance of meeting the Challenge.  For some of us it's a long drive, and gas is pushing $4 a gallon.  If you're going to represent that you're open, please really be open.

That said, thanks for a great season.  The people that didn't bother to come up last week missed some of the best skiing of the season.

Matt's reply:

Connor: Very good point. We intend to update the lift schedule as we get closer to the weekend. Thanks for your comment - it has been a great season and this last weekend was sensational.

--Matt

can we talk about this 45 ft. jump limit?  personally i feel its ridiculous and unfair to the locals that expect something large in the spring.  eliminating large jumps will affect my season pass choice decision as well as that of the progressive generations of the sport.  no commitment to parks equals less attendance.  please dont make the mistake you are about to make.  freestyle is a strong movement and limiting jump sizes is no the way to embrace it

Matt's reply:

brian: Thank you for the post. We remain committed to building and maintaining fun parks for our varied public. We have and continue to embrace the freestyle movement and expect that more and more of our guests will be able to enjoy our parks in the future.

--Matt

as far as committing to a closing day goes, why not forecast a few weeks in advance?  if you get a sub par number of skiers one weekend why not open the next weekend as long as there is enough snow?  there are many winter days where meadows is making a lot of profit so why not stay open a couple extra days when you are not making profit?  money isn't evreything, so why not give somethig back to the dedicated skiers that give you that profit in the winter

Matt's reply:

Brian: The announced closing date for Meadows was April 27. We have decided to extend the season through this May Challenge, thereby allowing our guests to demonstrate that they still want to make some turns. If the demand isn't there then we'll call it a season and save our resources for next year when there is a greater demand. Hopefully, we'll have a great turn out this weekend and the season will continue.

--Matt

Matt,

I'm kinda confused with this whole year. I see a few jumps pushed getting ready for the Cascade Superpark, but last year there was like at least two parks (a smaller one and a huge one) and a pipe up there opened at this time. I was stoked with all the snow this year cause i thought I'd be boarding almost until school is out (im 14) but at the end of may, will you close for sure or could the challenge go into june? Is it because not as many pros are coming up this year or something? Because it seems like with so much snow, you guys would be hoping to be open well into June with really nice parks and stuff. Are there just not enough people that want to keep working up there that late into the season or what? Thanks in advance for reading my very long message and answering all of my questions.

Matt's reply:

Cameron: Thanks for your post and your interest in how we're approaching the season. You've asked some great questions. The main issue for ski areas at this time of year is the drop off of demand for the sport - we run out of riders before we run out of snow. We've secured a work force to continue operations on a weekend to weekend basis, although that becomes increasingly difficult as many of our seasonal staff need to move on to their summer jobs. The decision doesn't have anything to do with visiting pros. Two seasons ago we operated past Memorial Day to the first Saturday in June - but we gave our guests three "mulligans" as three of those weekends we didn't actually meet the numbers. Hopefully there will be demand each weekend this season.

See you on this weekend!

--Matt

I wonder if part of the slow weekend sales is due to Ski Bowl being open and in such great shape?  That is unusual.  Will Ski Bowl stay open longer than Meadows this year?  

As a customer your "We'll open what lifts we want to open based on how many cars are coming into the lot in the morning" is really bad business.  I understand the theory behind what you are doing but the method/message doesn't smell good, especially after a fantastic season like this with many many weekends of jammed parking lots.  Better build up some good will now because next year may not be so fresh with La Nina turned off and gas up over $4/gallon.

Matt's reply:

Kevin: Thanks for the post. I can't comment on Ski Bowl's season - but if they're open it could affect turn out at Meadows.

Regarding our lift announcement, we don't wait until we see the turnout to determine the lifts. We just want to wait until we closer to the weekend before making any announcement of additional lifts we intend to run based on conditions. We want people to know what to expect before they leave for the mountain.

--Matt

Matt- I understand that this time of year, business up there slows down and the people that are on the slopes are predominantly season pass holders. However, I would have thought that since it's April 27th, and there is still 200 inches plus on the mountain, that they would have stayed open during the weekdays for a bit longer than normal. I understand it's expensive when there isn't as many weekend warriors buying tickets, but COME ON! 200 plus inches!!! This season has been epic but I can't help but feel shorted. Is it really about the money or is that just when the lease runs out and you have to do it week by week? Call me greedy, but I can't wait a week.

Matt's reply:

Eric: Thanks for the post. The issue is that there isn't enough midweek business to sustain midweek operations. Ski areas lose money at this time of year. The May Challenge format provides a win-win for both our guests and the ski area, by extending the season on a weekend to weekend basis. We choose the weekends since those are the days that the greatest amount of people can hit the slopes. Without this format Meadows would join the other ski areas and call it quits in April.

--Matt

Thanks for great parks this year, I know there have been alot of complaints but I thought they were well maintained and really enjoyed them.

The superpipe now probably wont be around much longer from the looks of it, just wondering if there will be another one cut up on cascade like there was last year?

Matt's reply:

L: Thank you for your comments. Our parks and grooming crews are very talented and committed to building fun park experiences and they deserve the praise. The superpipe has been riding well - it was fresh cut for today - and we expect that it will continue to in good shape for next weekend. We don't have plans to build another pipe higher up.

--Matt

what are you doing with your parks. i've written you several times before, so its not even to the point of constructive crticism. you have told us all year that if we didn't feel the parks have been big enough we can just wait for cascade. i can remember several times where you used that as an excuse. there are alot of us who have been waiting all season for some good sized features, and nothing. last i checked most of your good rails were still sitting by one of the poles for the easy rider chair. are you kidding me, you're talking about how long the resort is planning on staying open and this and that, but fact of the matter is, you could close any weekend so we may never get a legitimate cascade "superpark". note the "super" in superpark. that's what we've been waiting for and if you decide to close early or simply not build up decent sized features on cascade, i guess one could say that you've been lying to us all season long. comeon matt. don't do this to your locals

Matt's reply:

Danny: We originally planned to begin construction of the Cascade Park in early March. What we didn't plan on was the 22 feet of snow we received since the second week of March (compared to 4 feet last year and 5 1/2 feet the year before). The storms were relentless and did not allow us to construct the park. We're looking at adding another feature. The lack of building time has affected to number and variety of the jumps that we would have constructed. The size of the features on Cascade are larger than what we have been constructing this season in our other parks. They aren't as big as they have been in the past, however.

I do appreciate the constructive criticism. I have been doing my best to address your concerns and keep you informed about our plans. This season it has been the weather which has impacted our park building more than any other factor.

--Matt

Matt,

I'm concerned about the lack of lifts planned for next weekend, too.  Hopefully you will overdeliver and open HRM or Heather so folks can get back from Heather Canyon.  If not, will the bus be running to shuttle people back up to the Main Base?  If you do open only those 3 lifts I think it will have a significant impact on the turnout.

Also, you mentioned that the upper lot did not even fill up on Saturday.  I'm pretty sure it did, because I parked near the back at 10:00am and when I returned to my car @ 3:00 p.m. there were cars parked all the way back to the farthest reaches of the upper lot.  I also shuttled some friends back to their car, which was parked at HRM and that lot looked like it was pretty full, too, judged from how far out their car was parked there.

Thanks for a great pond skim event yesterday.  I'll be up there on the weekends until you close.  

Cheers!

Matt's reply:

Spring Fever: Saturday the main lot did fill - I received an early report. I may have been allowing my disappointment on Saturday's turn out affect me a little too much. We had more people up the previous Sunday, and when I saw the great weather and with the pond skim, I really felt that we would have more of a turnout. I was concerned that perhaps the change in weather to spring made people hang up their equipment to pursue other interests.

Thank you for reminding me that we have a lot of guests who look forward to spring conditions, and will be supporting us each weekend during the challenge. And also thanks for mentioning the pond skim - I'm very proud of our crew for working together to present such a fun event.

--Matt

Are you trying to make the May challange fail this year? The park jumps that you have are all right but there is just no good line with more than three jumps. Then you are shutting down all the people that love to go in heather. What's next are you going to shut down groomers and make us ride the slush on the sides of the runs? seems like you aren't even giving it a fair shot at getting the amount of people up there we need to make this season last through may and maybe even into june.

Matt's reply:

Why: Thanks for the post. The whole concept of the May Challenge is to extend the season, not to end it. This wintry weather with all the snow has affected our park building schedule - we're hoping to add at least one feature to Cascade Park by the weekend if the weather allows. And we haven't ruled out Heather - we just want to be certain of the conditions before we commit to it.

I appreciate the post - check back later in the week and we'll have more info on the lifts that will be operating.

--Matt

matt,

add my voice to the others who have expressed some strong feelings about not having heather and shooting star open. i would prefer that you state they will be open weather and conditions permitting. especially ss - that lift is open even in the harshest conditions - why would you not include it on your standing list? my initial impression on reading your post is that you do not intend to have heather and ss lifts open so that people (like me) will not come. then you would be able to day, 'well, we stayed open the extra weekend, but not enough people showed'. for me (like others), if it is just MHX and Cascade, it is not worth the drive. sorry for being critical but that is the way this reads to me.

one other thought. many people stop in the late morning due to the 'sticking' conditions. it would be a great if you would open at 8 or even 8:30 so we could get in more runs before the sticking starts occuring. yesterday, my wife wanted to just leave about 12:30 - if we had started earlier we would have stopped for a burger and a beer at 11. lost revenue for meadows and, judging by the number of empty slots in the lot when we left, it was not just us.

as said in earlier posts, thanks for a great season. i really, really hope it is not over.

Matt's reply:

Steelhead: Thank you for the post - it was very well stated. We'll update the status of the lifts as we get closer to the weekend. We can't commit to an earlier opening time. We do hope that those coming up spend some time on the deck (if the weather is nice), have some BBQ and soak up the sunshine. And let's not forget that there are some incredible deals (up to 70% off) in the sports shop - and our ski and snowboard new and demo equipment is HALF PRICE! All good reasons to stop in this weekend at Meadows!

--Matt

Great year except for the lack of opening Heather Canyon on powder days during the season; once again I know "It could Avalanche".  It's been an amazing powder skiing year and hopefully next year will bring more of the same.  Good luck with the May Challenge but this coming weekend isn't looking good....the "R" word is in the forecast.

By the way, Thank You to all of the employees at Mt. Hood Meadows for making this year great; I only leave out the paranoid ski patrol which doesn't include the few ski patrol that also wondered why the canyon couldn't be opened on certain days.....Sorry but I can't give praise to the undeserving.

Matt's reply:

Hound: Good to see you posting again. It has been a great season. Sorry you feel we're too restrictive when it comes to safety. All of our patrollers are deserving of praise, particularly in a year which required an incredible amount of control work. I'm proud of their efforts and they are deserving of your respect, if not your gratitude. I do appreciate your post - it does drive us to review how we approach this work and make improvements for both our guests and our staff.

--Matt

Matt... you have this huge resource at your fingertips, in business it's probably what the people want that is the hardest part to figure out, all these responses are telling you! Take it into consideration. The parks suck, you can't argue that (no one will listen). planning three lifts right now when the public is trying to keep you open till june,  3 lifts, "2000" people a day. would only work if people took varied lines to the lift. Ironically enough lots of people like the same runs.

    You do have the call on the lift count, unfortunately, but your not driving the cat! let that guy get some inspiration and go at it! find the one who's going to be conservative yet thought filled and get that main spring feature built... the super park! you've got the snow, and right now you've got the weather, use it while you can and get your act together, because you're going to have a lot of ticked off people on this. Don't fight it Matt, the public wants it we are telling you.

Matt's reply:

Kris: Thank you for your post. Again - we'll announce our lift schedule as we get closer to the weekend. I understand that you'd like us to make improvements to our parks. We continue to construct and maintain features in preparation for this weekend, and we're committed to offering a fun freestyle experience for the greatest variety of park using guests. We're not fighting the public, but please understand that we serve a very wide spectrum of skiers and snowboarders, each has their idea (and expectation) of what the ideal experience is.

--Matt

Matt - I can't believe the number of riders who think Heather Canyon is "the lift" to ride, as if there was not plenty of other good spring terrain all over the place! I think they miss the mark as to what spring riding is all aboout. Will you open the following Saturday after whatever weekend ends up being the last? I'll be there when the lifts are turning, but it would alos be great to be able to plan the very last day.

Matt's reply:

Dan: Thanks for the post. We do have great spring terrain in addition to Heather. The decision to extend the challenge beyond a weekend that falls short of the mark will be made following that weekend. So there's no guarantee of a warning - although we really do want the season to continue. There are other factors involved, including what the weather leading into the weekend looks like. The challenge is designed to drive as many visits to this weekend, so we can commit to continue the season.

See you on the mountain!

--Matt

Just a comment on everyone's comments with the lifts available.  I think in general it can be a good strategy to set low expectations with the plan to exceed them.

My concern though is that in this case, the expectations are being set so low folks simply won't show up.  I advise raising expectations ASAP before potential visitors change their mind this weekend due to lack of lifts that are open.

As a side note, last Friday I noticed that there was a path snowplowed to prevent chairs from hitting the ground.  It would be sad to see that much base go to waste.

Matt's reply:

Sam: Thanks for the post. As you pointed out we have a great resource - no need to waste it. We'll get the lift schedule updated as soon as we can.

--Matt

The lot was full on Saturday and I, like others, parked at HRM.  I had a great time Saturday and had planned to ride until June.  But the lack of commitment, the half-shuttered approach you take to running the resort, is the reason why people stop coming.

As far as parks, we are tired of the excuses.  I had the pleasure of visiting Brighton a few times this year.  Over 600+ inches for them as well and their parks rocked all year long.

Plan for success.

Matt's reply:

Paul: You are correct - the lot did fill up on Saturday, I had received an earlier report and I have clarified that in subsequent postings. There is no lack of commitment to running the resort. We are fully committed to providing our guests a great experience, and that includes this weekend. I appreciate your comments on Brighton - we'll check into it. I did notice that they closed April 20 with 118" of snow.

--Matt

I'm really disappointed in the park planning this year.  Yes we have had some great snow and some limiting weather conditions but now when meadows is only open on the weekends why not build the same parks we had last year on cascade.  At least a superpark and another line.  Thats the best part of the whole season and you even told us to wait till spring for the amazing parks but yet spring is here and there is nothing up on cascade except two hits.  That to me isn't worth riding meadows which I am totally loyal to and have bought season passes from for years.  Sorry to say it but meadows is taking a turn for the worst it looks like.

Matt's reply:

nick: I am sorry you are disappointed with the parks this year. As I have mentioned this year's winter storms affected our park plans and abilities to construct and maintain features, particularly on Cascade. I appreciate your loyalty in the past and hope you'll continue to purchase passes at Meadows.

--Matt

I'm a season pass holder and I wanted to know if my season pass is still good during the May Challenge. Is it? Or do I have to buy a $40.00 lift ticket.

If no, then that's just wonderful.

If yes, then could you explain why I need to pay if I had already paid for a seson pass.

Thanks

Meadows is my home away from home :)

Matt's reply:

Slavik: Those who have unlimited season passes may continue to use them until we close for the season - there's no additional charge. Thanks for the question and we'll see you this weekend!

--Matt

Original was never responded to so again...  I think you have missed an great opportunity here with this truly epic snowfall and PROFITABLE season.  It is amazing to see that even with the epic snow pack and equally epic $$$ brought in this year, there has really been no effort to extend out any kind of big "end of season big snow year thank you" to your loyal customer base. You yourself have mentioned that you'd like to avoid a "petering out" at the end of year.  Well that's exactly what you’re going to get if you keep minimal terrain open only part of the week with this much snow.  

I guess a lot of us see it like this... the resort had a great $$ year and got what they wanted from us… our business.  Now since there is little left of our business to reap at the end of the year, you are trying to get out as quickly and quietly as possible. This simply leaves a bad taste in many of your most loyal customer’s mouths on what again could have been such a great end to a wonderful year. Yes, by staying open all week through May you may have indeed lost a small amount of that hefty profit made from us. But the long-term momentum it could have built for the start of next year alone would have far outweighed this short-term minimal loss.  

Bean counter mentality prevails again.  

Matt's reply:

Jake: I replied to your earlier post - you can refer to it. The May Challenge is our end of the year celebration for pass holders. We could have called it quits but are willing to continue the season. If we had a bean counter mentality we wouldn't even consider the extension - it's a lot easier (and perhaps more fiscally responsible) to just throw in the towel and call it a season. My suggestion - lighten up a little bit. Come on up this weekend and take some turns. Enjoy the mountain - have some fun. The skiing and riding should be great!

--Matt

Any reason I can't skin up the trails and earn some turns during the week while you are closed?

Matt's reply:

Dave: When we close the lift that means the entire permit area is closed. We may still have equipment on the hill performing grooming and maintenance. Those we encounter on the slopes will be asked to leave the permit area. I appreciate the question - it really is an issue of safety.

--Matt

Ok Matt, playing the conservative card are we? Thats fine. I know last year I was dodging rocks on the Heather runout prior to the lift trail. What an exilerating day that was! Who cares about Shooting Star....you can get to everything heather has to offer from cascade, Via MEX from the Heather chair. Save the crew on SS and spend it on Heather. Less grooming to do as well?! MEX, Cascade, Heather is all i ask. Butternut...ok fine.

Matt's reply:

Nof: Thanks for the post. Everyone has their favorite niche, and then there are those that just want more. We understand that. I appreciate your approach to this. We'll be announcing the lift schedule as we get closer to the weekend.

--Matt

You have been leaching money from locals for far too long to justify not throwing your loyal patrons a bone and making a firm projection of the lifts that will be open.  That's what seperates you from a sound and successful bussinessman and manager, not wanting to make a decisive and ballsy bussiness decision with the promise of it paying off big if you have a better product (# of lifts open) for this next weekend then timberline and skibowl. Might as well stay home and drink a beer then wait in line at the bottom of daisy to get a chance to ride cascade because the line of people waiting for mt hood express extends past the far reaches of the upper parking lot.

Matt's reply:

Matt: There's nothing ballsy about making an announcement prematurely that could raise expectations unrealistically. We'll make a decision about what lifts and what terrain we'll be offering as we get closer to the weekend when we have the information we need to make it. We'll have more terrain and a greater variety of terrain open this weekend than any other Mt. Hood ski area. And based on May visitation in the past, we shouldn't have an issue with lift lines. So come on up to the mountain - get some runs in, then kick back in the sunshine on the Paradise Sundeck and enjoy a brew. It will be much more satisfying and the view is more spectacular than staying at home.

--Matt

This may be a little bit off topic but I have to ask.  Any chance the resort could open for a powder day on Wednesday?  Thanks.

Matt's reply:

Kevin: Thanks for the post. At this point we'll be open only on weekends - on a weekend-to-weekend basis, so no to the question about Wednesday. I appreciate the question though.

--Matt

2 years ago, we had plenty of snow and pushed the may challenge back about 2 weeks, i boarded my last day june 6th. I saw the amount of people there this year and know for a fact that you guys made A LOT of money.  So why not extend the season?  I know that people start coming less, but why so cheap on such a great snow season.  When did Meadows turn in to the Bush admin???????  Spend some flow and let us hardcore riders keep riding.

Matt's reply:

jack: Thanks for the post - I'm not quite understanding the Bush admin analogy - seems this administration has been overspending. We are extending the season on a weekend to weekend basis - the same as we did two seasons ago the first year of the May Challenge. So plan on riding at Meadows this weekend - let's keep the season going.

--Matt

Hey Matt-

Hopefully I'll be able to make it up there this weekend and help out with the May challenge (opening of Heather and Shooting Star really impact that decision).  It would be a shame for all this snow to go to waste. I'm a first year pass holder and I'll definetly be back again next year.  Say the demand is not fully met this weekend.  Are people allowed to hike up and ski down terrain inside Meadows boundaries even if lifts are closed?

Matt's reply:

BigBen: Thanks for the post. First, let's stay positive about this first weekend. I think we'll get a great turn out and we'll be able to continue the season to the next weekend.

Regarding hiking and skiing within the ski area boundaries - no, that's something we don't allow. We may still be performing maintenance and construction on the hill - so when the area is closed it includes the entire permit area.

See you this weekend!

--Matt

Any reason why you're shutting the lifts down at 3? Seems unnecessarily early, especially with longer daylight hours. I know I would be more inclined to drive up if I felt like I could get a full day in.

Matt's reply:

Rob: Normally in the spring the surface conditions become pretty slushy and/or sticky later in the day. Most people are off the slopes by 3 PM. However, with our high speed quads, you can get a couple of dozen runs in from 9 AM - 3 PM - making it a very full day!

--Matt

I was going to ask about the reasoning for not considering opening at 8:00 to say 1:00-2:00,

The window for beter snow would be longer.

Steelhead asked the same question in a previous post above but you did not answer (unless I missed it?)

I have really enjoyed this year, you guys did a great job this year. I think everyone will remember this one for a long time!!! Future years will be measured against 2007-2008.

Thanks

Matt's reply:

Chris: Thanks for the post and the question about 9 - 3 operations. Traditionally these hours have provided for the best access for our guests. A relatively small percentage would like to start at 8 AM. A relatively small percentage want the lifts to go until 4 PM. We've found the 9 - 3 schedule accommodates the greatest amount of our guests.

I agree with you - we'll be talking about 2007-2008 for years to come! Thanks for your kind words - we'll see you this weekend.

--Matt

In response to Dave's question about skinning during mid-week when closed, I'm absolutely flabbergasted that Meadows handle the so called permit area like it's private property. This kind of attitude is just not present anywhere else that I've skied which includes Jackson, Whistler, Alta, Brighton, Snowbasin, Snowbird, Crystal, Alpental and the list goes on. Closer to home, nobody will stop you when skinning over at Timberline. We skin up through the ski area to Hogsback and carry skis to the summit without being questioned. If you think the stretch through the ski area is boring and too long of an approach, rent a snow cat for the team and ride it to the top of Palmer. What a novel idea and additional revenue generation for Timberline.

Seriously Matt, many of us that love to skin and explore new terrain in the backcountry are absolutely blown away by the rules and regulation Meadows has managed to acquire and govern by. Maybe you need to add that Dave should be very careful going out in traffic since you seem to imply that he's incapable staying clear of a snow cat or snow mobile that he might encounter on the hill while the ski area is closed. What about the operator of the equipment?

As far as the May Challenge, I'm with Steve that it makes zero sense to announce that Heather may not be open. It seems to me that you are trying to defeat the challenge by putting doubt in customers mind. Why would you announce that your product might be less than satisfying to the customer? Then again, without the people and therefore shut down the following weekend will open the door for people to enjoy skinning up without being questioned and turned back while traveling on public land.

Matt's reply:

Stunned: Sorry for the delay in this post.

The issue here is that we continue to do maintenance work with snowcats and snowmobiles throughout the permit area. We also may have areas in construction, or be working in parks disrupting the snow in areas. We want to make everyone aware that we continue to do this work, and really don't want traffic in these areas while this work is ongoing. We are closed and there is equipment on the mountain either for operations or maintenance. You should not be on the mountain and you are responsible for your safety.

There is also the issue of snow safety - we may not be performing A/C work in between weekends - or maybe we will be performing A/C work. Either way someone skiinning up Heather could be going into a dangerous area. We're not trying to deny access to those hiking, snow shoeing, or skiing through the area. We're just trying to make people aware of our issues and concerns. If we encounter people who are in areas that we have these concerns, we will alert them about the dangers and ask that they leave the area - for their own safety.

Thanks for understanding and your cooperation in this matter.

And one more thing - Dave should be careful when he goes out into traffic.

--Matt

Why not try a mid-week challenge.  Open the best day (weather wise) or wednesday.  If 1/2 the people who come  M-F show up it might be worth it?

BTW I was in the lower lot Saturday around 10:30am, I could not believe all the cars.  When I got back, there were quite a few rows behind where the Heather skiout comes into the parking lot.

I guess I understand the under sell idea, but if Cascade is open why wouldn't Heather (assuming no avalanche problem).

I did not post in your challenge idea forum.   I am surprised you can get people to stay for weekend only work, regardless of the uncertainty of it.   I like to ski mid-week, less crowds, can pick weather etc.  So if you need more people, and less lifts, and less terrain to stay open it doesn't interest me that much, don't want to get run into, and I can just hit the backcountry. Why can you stay open mid winter with less people? I was up there a couple of Friday's ago, and stopped at the mid-mountain brew place.  Everyone was saying how sticky it was.  It had been since we got there (10:30?) except the upper half of Cascade.  So even with lots of snow, and sunny weather it might not be worth it.  I wouldn't object to a weekly challenge, instead of a weekend challenge, if that was what you were hinting at.  OR perhaps a challenge based on snow pack and/or weather.  

Matt's reply:

Larry: Thanks for the post. We need to reach certain threshholds of business in order to continue to operate. Through the May Challenge we are extending the season. Daily operation through the midweek time frame just does not generate enough skier visits. There are more people available on the weekend - so those are the days we focus on. And the past two May's show that overcrowding really isn't a problem - it it were we probably would be expanding to midweek days. Hope to see you this weekend!

--Matt

well it's definitely plain to see that either there are entirely too many responses to get to mine, or I have made you retract words and start to think in a fresh new light, let me know. The People are Demanding, and you can give it to them without loss of Margin Percent. Be optimistic, put yourself in our shoes. We go to the mountian, ski 9-2 and drink after that! if anything discount your food! we'll eat more for the love, figure it out!

Matt's reply:

Kris: Thank you for your refreshing taste of reality. I did get to your earlier post, sorry for the delay. I am an optimist - that's the only way you can be in this business. And I think it is absolutely terrific that there are so many people passionate about skiing and snowboarding in May! 

I do put myself in your "boots" - I too love to ride this mountain, take a break for some great food, and kick back with a brewski at the end of the day. I'm with you all the way!

--Matt

Setting expectations low is one thing, but I agree with the poster above who suggests "conditions permitting" as a better way to go on lift status.  This year, Meadows faces a real challenge from Skibowl, as you noted.  For those of us trying to make the call, Meadows needs to roll out the red carpet a little.  HRM, SS, Heather - these are some of the biggest reasons to visit Meadows - please give us more than just a hope that they will be open.

On top of that, I agree with the others who noted the need for more varied parks.  If you want skiers to impress with numbers, you need to make Meadows worth the expensive drive.

I see the May challenge as a challenge to Meadows - can MHM keep us coming to the mountain longer than Skibowl can?  With T-line open all month long, that Fusion pass is looking pretty nice.

Don't get me wrong, Matt - I love what Meadows has to offer, but the attitude reflected in this blog seems to be putting people off.  It's not even what you're saying - it's how you choose to say it.  We want you to be our advocate, making the resort work for us - not making us work for the resort.

I'm optimistic that Meadows will see the wisdom of catering to the hardcore, and keep the lifts turning throughout the month.  I'll be on the slopes either way - hope to see you there.

Matt's reply:

David: Thanks for the post - very well thought out and stated. I really didn't mean to set low expectations - we're just won't be ready to announce the lifts until we get closer to the weekend.

Didn't mean to put off people with any attitude here - I'm just trying to communicate clearly so our guests know what to expect. I thank you for pointing that out though - no need for me to get all serious about something that is so much fun!

--Matt

yikes.  no heather = no people.  has superbowl even been open?  one of my favorite memories from last season was being one of the first people up superbowl. i may be incorrect, but i thought it was in may.  so sad...  guess i'll make other plans for the weekend.

Matt's reply:

Kevin: We'll make an announcement about the lifts that will be open - as we get close to the weekend. Superbowl has been open - and I also have some great memories hiking up for some turns. Don't make other plans just yet.

--Matt

Matt,

We plan on bein' there for the May Challenge both days this weekend as long as there's no R-word; hope you got one of those "mulligans" on stand-by. If the weather is a go, we'll be campin' out with the grill fired, so swing by the mini-bus on your way out of the lot Saturday and we'll have a coldie waitin' fer ya.

Also, I hate to give you any more grief as you've already received your fair share for this blog posting, but...  I just can't buy your excuse for the park situation being due to the weather. Timberline managed to get some decent parks built with some big hits and quite a few features. They got the same weather as Meadows...

See you this weekend.

Matt's reply:

M-dawg and T-Hizzle: Thanks for the support - I just caught Matt Zaffino's forecast and the weekend is looking good. You should stop by the Paradise Sundeck before heading to the parking lot - we'll have some colies for you! I appreciate the comment on the parks but we've also spoken to Timberline and know that this year's snow created challenges for all the ski resorts. No more - it just sounds like I'm making excuses (or getting defensive). Right now I'm just looking forward to the weekend!

--Matt

Okay Matt I agree......Thank you to ALL of the Mt. Hood Meadows Employees, even the paranoid few ski patrol.  I certainly don't want to end up under a 25' wall of snow at the bottom of HC but this year the head of ski patrol has been a little to conservative on opening at least the lower canyon.  I still vote for gates to keep the weak riders out when the risk is high.

Keep the faith folks and once again may next year bring more of the same snow conditions!!!  Bring on the sunshine..................

Matt's reply:

Hound: I appreciate all of your posts - and your passion for HC! We do hear you and it does drive us to make improvements. Getting snow like this next year would be incredible - but for now I'm looking forward to the weekend (I see sunshine in the forecast)!

--Matt

Maybe next year make everyone buy a spring pass or lift ticket or reduced add on price to season pass, then stay open full time as conditions permit.

The following year you would know if it is profitable or not.

Matt's reply:

Larry: Thanks for the suggestion. The thought of charging pass holders for the extended season did cross our mind, but we feel that the pass holders will come up and bring others with them. We'll see how it works.

--Matt

Your parks have been nothing like last year. Many other resorts in other states are able to build consistant parks even during large snow events. You have constantly blamed snowfall as the reason for subpar parks this year and asked us to wait for the superpark on cascade. There still isn't much good going on and the pipe was much better last year in it's current location. No 22 ft. pipe this year on cascade is due to Meadows unwillingness to work with the U.S. Snowboard team and they are somewhere else this year. Meadows used to be a front runner in the parks department, but that time looks to be over. I will most likely not be buying a Meadows pass next year. I will take friends, family, and everyone else I can with me. This year's lack of commitment to parks has been too frustrating.

Matt's reply:

chris: I'm sorry you are disappointed with the parks. I have to clarify that it isn't just the total snowfall, but the lengthy duration of the snow storms we received this year which prevented construction and even maintenance for days and somtimes weeks on end. We still plan on building parks that are exceptional in fun, variety and consistency.

We realize and respect that our guests have many other resort opportunities to chose from. We are grateful for the loyal customers that we've had the opportunity to serve this season.

--Matt

It's been said, but I am definitely NOT coming without a guarantee of Heather being open.  At what point did it become more about your bottom line than about the love of the sport?  I am this close (holding thumb and forefinger very close) to boycotting Meadows forever, or at least until they get decent management.

Matt's reply:

Max: Sorry you're not happy with our management. But can we put it into perspective? We've operated for 157 days so far this season - it's been a great season and we've satisfied more guests to date than in any other season. Are you really basing your decision on where you will (or won't) take turns for the rest of your life on whether we announce that Heather will be open today, rather than tomorrow or the next day? I'll support your decision, however you want to make it. But if you opt to go elsewhere and find that you miss us, we'll still be here for you.

--Matt

build a line of jumps with rails and a pipe at the end. maybe people will come up...

you are a bad manager. i want dave back

Matt's reply:

parks: Dave's not here. He's at Telluride - which closed April 6 with an 84 inch snow pack.

--Matt

Give me a break.. thats gonna be easy! :)  Hearing that hood is getting more snow today and tomorrow. Should help the spring season a lot :) What  strange year for weather.

Matt's reply:

T: It is a one-of-a-kind season - setting a new record for snow accumulation at over 750 inches. And it's not over yet! I agree - the new snow should make for a good turnout this weekend. Bring it on!

-Matt

Epic snow? then why end so soon? heck lets ride until july. we've got the snow and people, lets keep enjoying the sun and snow. why stop so soon? (hows a june challenge sound?)

-Alek

Matt's reply:

Alek: So now we have the "Alek" challenge - he's throwing down and challenging you to come to get up to the mountain. Are you up for it? Thanks Alek for revving us up.

--Matt

Matt:

Question on permit area closing to public.  How is that possible given that it is National Forest land?  What is difference between hiking Timberline trail vs. skinning when closed?  I understand percentages are higher risk in winter vs. operating equipment around Timberline trail in summer but does your permit give you the right to choose when you allow people in your boundary?  Lastly, where can I find this language as it relates to your permit?  Not trying to be a jerk, but I have issues when one is told they are not allowed on National Forest land when it is as big as Meadows permit area.  

Great season, thanks for all your efforts and upfront communicative style.  

Matt's reply:

I got behind on these posts so I'm posting the same response to everyone inquiring about accessing the permit area when our lifts aren't operating.

The issue here is that we continue to do maintenance work with snowcats and snowmobiles throughout the permit area. We also may have areas in construction, or be working in parks disrupting the snow in areas. We want to make everyone aware that we continue to do this work, and really don't want traffic in these areas while this work is ongoing. We are closed and there is equipment on the mountain either for operations or maintenance. You should not be on the mountain and you are responsible for your safety.

There is also the issue of snow safety - we may not be performing A/C work in between weekends - or maybe we will be performing A/C work. Either way someone skiinning up Heather could be going into a dangerous area. We're not trying to deny access to those hiking, snow shoeing, or skiing through the area. We're just trying to make people aware of our issues and concerns. If we encounter people who are in areas that we have these concerns, we will alert them about the dangers and ask that they leave the area - for their own safety.

Thanks for understanding and your cooperation in this matter.

--Matt

Matt,

Great season, amazing that people are finding so much to complain about. Sure, the lack of Heather turns on an epic year is disappointing but  with the Howlitzer addition in the works I hope that won't ever be the case again. Please announce your lift schedule ASAP. You can count me as another who will not come up if only MHE, BC and Cascade are running. One of the pleasures of Spring riding is the general lack of crowds but this lift schedule is pretty much funneling everyone onto one side of the mountain only.

Only 1 time this year (I believe it was about 3 weeks ago) was I able to enter Heather from Cascade! Yep, I know, it's dissappointing - no need to apologize, it was the snow's fault. You could however insure that upper Heather will be open for this weekend. What about Superbowl? I'm begining to think Superbowl is about as real as Superman. Somebody asked above how many time Superdissappointingbowl has been open but I don't see an aswer to the inquiry. Can you share with us how many times this year the terrain accessed by hiking above Cascade has been opened and for how long on those days?

Again, what a great season. I think yourself and the entire staff ran a great resort this season. Looking forward to hearing about Superbowl and some notice as to how much effort will be put into opening it this weekend if Heather is a go.

Matt's reply:

Chill in your Spine: Thanks for the post. We'll announce the lift schedule for the weekend as early as we can, and count on you coming up if we're able to say the magic words. I don't have the numbers for Superbowl access readily available but I'm looking into it.

Thanks for the recognition of our staff. It's been a great season and they deserve it.

--Matt

Dude, your getting ripped by your customer base.  You sure you really want a blog?  This can't feel good.

A. It is possible to keep access to Heather Canyon with only closing Shooting Star.  Open the upper bowls, and close the lower bowls so that there is no access... leave Heather chair open.  Creeks forming with 200" of snow?  I highly doubt it... I was just in there on sunday, and it's snowing this week.  

B. Honestly, your pond skim costing money to enter?  A nice for profit scheme... but lame... You would have actually had more people show up that day if it was free... and you would have probably earned more because of increased alcohol sales.  We all know how much beer costs up there.  My friends, and I decided not to show after we heard that it cost money to enter, and decided it was a glorified raffle... not the organic experience it could be.