Mt. Bachelor, Mt. Hood Meadows ski resorts announce opening dates

Published: Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at 12:52 am

Oregon Ski Resorts Announce Opening Dates After Slow Start to Season

After a delayed start to the winter season, several Oregon ski resorts are preparing to open their slopes. Mt. Bachelor and Mt. Hood Meadows have announced plans to open for the 2025-26 season on Tuesday, December 23, contingent on weather conditions. This follows a recent influx of snowfall, with Mt. Bachelor reporting approximately 19 inches at its base and Mt. Hood Meadows receiving about 5 inches.

The opening dates mark a contrast to the previous season, when both resorts opened in mid-November. This year's slow start has been attributed to a lack of snowfall, compounded by rising operational costs for the resorts.

Mt. Hood Meadows will operate from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with limited terrain, including the Ballroom Carpet, Buttercup, and Easy Rider lifts. Night skiing will not be available initially due to snow conditions, though Night Pass holders can ski from 1 to 4 p.m. Ticket prices have been reduced to $59 for adults and $39 for juniors and seniors for Tuesday and Wednesday. Daily lift tickets are sold out through Christmas Day.

Mt. Bachelor anticipates opening the Skyliner, Little Pine, Pine Marten, and Red Chair lifts on Tuesday. A small Woodward Mountain Park will also be available. Skiers are encouraged to arrive at the bottom of the Pine Marten lift by 8:45 a.m. for the traditional first-chair banner breakthrough.

Other resorts are also beginning to open. Timberline Lodge opened Brunos ski lift on Saturday, December 20, and Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort in eastern Oregon also opened on Saturday. Skibowl and Mt. Ashland Ski Area remain closed, with no opening dates announced.

Skiers and riders are advised to exercise caution, stick to open terrain, and be aware of early-season hazards.

BNN's Perspective:

While the delayed start to the ski season is disappointing, the recent snowfall and planned openings offer a welcome sign for winter sports enthusiasts. The resorts' efforts to manage expectations and offer reduced ticket prices are commendable. It's crucial for skiers and riders to prioritize safety and be patient as the season gets underway.

Keywords: Oregon ski resorts, Mt. Bachelor, Mt. Hood Meadows, opening dates, snowfall, ski season, lift tickets, Timberline Lodge, Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort, Skibowl, Mt. Ashland Ski Area, winter sports, conditions permitting, early season hazards

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