Mt. Bachelor delays next week’s planned season opening due to too little snow; new date not yet set
Barney Lerten
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A week before it was planning and hoping to open, Mt. Bachelor announced Friday that a lack of adequate early snowfall will delay its opening date for the season. No new date has been announced.
“After careful consideration assessing the snowpack and studying the latest weather forecasts, we have made the decision to postpone our scheduled November 28th opening day,” the resort posted on its website and told season pass-holders by email.
“We are committed to opening as soon as conditions allow, which typically requires about a 24” base,” the resort said.
“Keep doing your snow dances and checking the webcams, and we’ll post updates on a new timeline for Opening Day as soon as we can,” Mt. Bachelor said.
In the email to pass-holders, Bachelor President and General Manager John Merriman said, “As you know, early-season conditions at Mt. Bachelor vary greatly from year to year. Given the terrain here, we need to see about a 24” base in order to open and stay open. “
“Our team continues to take advantage of every snowmaking opportunity, and it’s great to see snow and cold temps in the forecast,” he continued. “We are fortunate to average over 400” of snow annually, so we know the snow will come. Once the snow arrives, we’ll be ready to kick off one of the longest seasons in North America. Our teams are prepped, our plans are in place, and the energy across the resort is inspiring, as always.”
Despite the delay, Mt. Bachelor still planned to have its Friday night Winter Kickoff Party at the Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room from 5-7 p.m., with music by DJ The Cosmic, balloon art, games, prizes, and free beer for the first 100 pass-holders.
The resort also said that “guests will automatically receive a refund for products purchased prior to opening. Refund process will take 7-10 days.”
The resort also said the Mt. Bachelor Sports Pro Shop at Mountain Gateway will be open Saturday and Sunday this week with what it called “the largest selection of ski and snowboard gear in the PNW, plus season-Long rentals at the best value in town, available every weekend, at Mt. Bachelor or in Bend. Fall shopping perks include 10% retail discounts for pass-holders when you flash your pass, and non-passholders who spend $300 or more. And, enjoy a free gift with every purchase over $150, while supplies last.”