MEADOWS BLOG

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Meadows Season Passes Represent Best Value in Oregon

Hi Folks!

We’ve announced our season pass pricing for the 2008/09 season. And in response to your overwhelming request we’re pleased to tell you that we’re continuing the season pass and 10 Time Pass group offers again this season.  These offers make Meadows season passes not only the best value, but also the most affordable unlimited season pass price of any major resort in Oregon. Passes will go on sale on our web site September 1.

The 4buy4 (4 adults age 23 – 64) is $444 each; the 3x3 (3 between the ages of 15 – 22) is $333 each and the 2x2 (2 passes between the ages of 7 – 14) is $222. These deals represent a savings of more than 50% off the regular adult unlimited pass price, and nearly 50% off of the other age groups. It’s a substantial savings. You just need to get your groups together and complete your purchase online before the November 16 deadline.

The program essentially stays the same – organize your group, create a group online by inputting all the group members and then purchase at least one pass. That qualifies everyone to come back and receive the group deal on his or her pass. All group members must complete their pass purchase before any pictures can be taken or passes issued.

We are committed to the “form a group structure” – we believe it gets people talking and “stoked” about the upcoming winter. We also see people socializing more before, during and after the season.  Creating this kind of buzz on a skier to skier, snowboarder to snowboarder level is key to this program, which is why we’re dedicated to the group program.

We are also offering the group of 10 or more deal on the 10 Time Pass, which is greatly improved this year. It has a picture and you’ll be able to go direct to the lift, avoiding a stop at the ticket window. The normal price is $399, but in a group of 10 the price is just $330. Group organizers receive a free lift ticket for putting the group together, and for every 20 purchased in the group we issue a complimentary 10 Time Pass. There is one change this year – the 10 Time Pass will no longer be shareable at the end of the season as it has been in past years. But the direct to lift convenience should more than make up for that.

We’re also holding the price on our off-peak adult lift ticket at $54. Peak times (primarily weekends and holiday time frames through the first weekend of March) the shift ticket will be $69. So the group pass deals are a tremendous value, which we hope you’ll take advantage of. Season passes go on sale September 1 right here on our web site.

We’d like to hear back from you, particularly if you’re excited about the upcoming season. Is the fall weather that August has been bringing getting you in the mood for winter? Remember, you need to join the community in order to post a comment.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Onward! And see you soon - the snow will be here before we know it!

Meadows Team

Posted: Aug 27 2008, 05:29 PM by DaveTragethon | with 20 comment(s)

Comments

Boarder93 said:

YAH so wat happenedto the 3x3 for 300, 4x4 400 or the 2x2 200! thats an extra amount coming outta our pockets that could be used for gas or something...

Meadows reply:

Boarder93: We feel your pain - the increased cost for fuel, goods and supplies affects all of us. We held the price for these group products as low as we possibly could - remember that the 4buy4 was started six seasons ago at the introductory price of $400 - so it has increased just $44 since then. We're also proud to offer the lowest season pass price through these group deals of any major resorts in Oregon. We hope you'll take advantage of them and that we'll see you at the ski area a lot this season!

--Meadows Team

# August 28, 2008 6:13 PM

nicbot said:

To Boarder93:

Not that I don't agree that in this day and age I too would like an extra $44 in my pocket, but dude, really??  $444 is SUCH a killer deal and I will happily pay that.  It's not even 1 full priced lift ticket of an increase...and we all knew an increase was coming and well overdue.

On that note, I would like to say thank you to the Meadows team for keeping season pass prices reasonable in this hard economic time.

Meadows Reply:

Nicbot: Thanks for the post. See you on the mountain soon!

--Meadows Team

# August 29, 2008 9:39 AM

Boarder93 said:

hey nicbot, i still think its an amazing deal, and will still definetly purchase one . taking in  that peak prices are 69$.

Medows reply:

Boarder93: Thanks for the post. Season passes are now on sale - you can purchase your pass on line right now!

Returning passholders will need to look up and enter their Pass Verification Code - this will allow us to link this year's pass holder information with last year's making the online purchase process faster, and assuring we have your correct information.

We'll start taking pictures around October 1. The dates and locations are posted on this page.

Did you see the weather forecast? Snow possible at Meadows Saturday afternoon into Sunday. Crazy! But that ought to get everyone excited about the season.

--Meadows Team

# August 30, 2008 9:54 AM

steelhead said:

thanks to the meadows team for again offering the 4x deal. totally agree with Boarder93 - this is a smokin' deal. i fully expected the price to jump ALOT more than 44 bucks so was thinking hard about whether to do it again if the jump was big. so it was a surprise (at least to me) to see the new pricing and i'm definitely in for another year. getting stoked now.....

Meadows reply:

steelhead: Thanks! We wanted to keep the 4x4 reasonable and affordable. We appreciate the feedback. How coincidental (and perhaps a glimpse of good things to come?) to have snow down to 6,000 feet on the day season passes go on sale! See you on the mountain soon!

--Meadows Team

# September 2, 2008 8:06 AM

capt powder said:

Dave,

Wow,

I was expecting mo'money but hey I take it.

Have you guy thought about a shettle bus from Govy on the weekend? to cut back on the amount of cars.

Meadows reply:

Capt: First let me thank you for your patience in helping us trouble shoot a glitch we were having with confirmation emails. A security setting was preventing the email from being sent out, which then did not allow those wanting to comment to successfully join the community. We appreciate you assisting is in working through that issue.

We're very proud of what Meadows offers in terms of overall terrain, lift service, hospitality and the overall mountain recreational experience, and are even prouder that we've been able to keep our group season pass prices so affordable. We believe winter recreation is vital to those that choose to live here in NW Oregon and SW Washington and want to make the price reasonable and easily within reach. Thank you for renewing!

We have been and will continue to discuss shuttle services to Meadows. Public transportation requires a pretty big commitment financially and it will probably take many partners and stakeholders to provide a comprehensive system. Meanwhile - we urge our guests to carpool, travel the north route I-84 through Hood River and consider our Park and Ride shuttle from Portland, particularly on peak days.

Thanks for the post!

--Meadows Team

# September 26, 2008 12:13 PM

k2skier112 said:

Can't wait for the snow to fly!

What was last years record snow fall total?

Meadows reply:

k2: We're anxious as well! We've already had a dusting or two at the 6,000 foot level - one day it even snowed in the base area! Here's a glance back at last season's snowfall:

Before November 19  30"
November 19 - 30:  44"
December:  196.5"
January:  178.5"
February:  122"
March:  124"
April:  92"
Season Total:  787"

Average snowfall: 430"!

It was an amazing season - can't wait for this one to begin!

--Meadows Team

# September 26, 2008 5:09 PM

rando said:

Well, last year I put together 21 people for 10+ group passes, the year before I did 39.  This year, I am doing 0. Why?  You took away the best feature of the 10+ the share ability, and raised the price. So now the 4x440 is the best deal but there is no incentive for me to go and sell it.  I can join a group last minute and buy a 4x440 if I want to.  The 10+ is a waste of money.  I think I will spend most of my time earning my turns this year since I used my 10+ on weekdays anyway and there is no way I am going to drive all that way to fight crowds on a weekend.  Not knowing what the snow conditions will be and with gas at 3.60 a gallon right now, you lose.  Best of luck to you but I think sales will be low this year.

Meadows reply:

rando: First - thanks for putting together the groups in the past. We're still offering the group organizers a free lift ticket for putting together a group of 10, and then a free 10 Time Pass for every 20 purchased in the group. It's a great program and this year all the groups will be formed online for the ultimate in convenience.

The 10 Time Pass is changing this year - it will not be shareable in the late season (late March and April) as it has been in the past. It is now a picture pass which can only be used by the person whose picture is on the pass. The great advantage and convenience is you'll be able to go direct to the lift, and avoid the lift ticket window where you used to have to sign for the ticket each day.

The movement from 10 Time Passes to season passes is natural, particularly with the great group deals we offer. We've seen many former 10 Time Pass holders upgrade to season passes. But the 10 Time Pass is still a bargain at just $330 (through the group deal) for anyone who plans on coming to the mountain five or more times. It pays for itself in just five peak day visits, and the rest of your visits puts you ahead of the deal.

Thanks for the post!

--Meadows Team

# September 26, 2008 7:48 PM

Jon said:

All those group packages are great, How about those of us that don't have enough freinds that ski or snowboard. Meadows is a great place to ski but the price for an idivudale pass, should come with more incentives or a lower price.

Meadows reply:

Jon: Thanks for the post. The individual pass prices are a true reflection of what an entire season of riding at Meadows should be - and we do sell many of them. But the group prices are truly sensational - the main reason we discount them so greatly is to encourage people to talk it up and find others to form groups with. The good news is you have until Novemer 16 to organize or find a group. Just mention to people throughout your day - groups form naturally at work, at the club, at school - whereever you hang out.

We've made the process of organizing and joining a group very convenient, safe and secure. None of the group members have to share private or personal information with their organizer.

And you can always come out to the Portland Ski Fever and Snowboard Expo November 14 - 16. That's a great place to find others to form a group, which you can do right at our booth (we have computers for purchasing your pass) and when your group is complete you can get your picture taken and pass issued!

Here's a link to the Ski Show web site - you can get discount coupons to the show at this link: http://www.portlandskifever.com/index.php?CategoryID=8

Good luck and keep us posted!

--Meadows Team

# September 30, 2008 7:47 PM

Daniel1 said:

What is the news on the new avalanche control? Has Meadows implemented the artillery strategy. Excited as I am for the new season, all that new terrain that would regularly open would be most impressive!

Meadows reply:

Daneil1: We continue our efforts to acquire the Howitzer to assist in avalanche control work, which should allow us to open those areas more quickly after storms and more frequently.

This part is for experts only - we're opening up the S&R (Search&Rescue) Cliffs area through gated access. This is the advanced terrain skiers left of Private Reserve. It will be managed much the same way as Private Reserve through control gates. It is double black diamond - only expert skiers and snowboarders should access the area. We're also opening up the steep tree terrain skiers right of Tamarack near the bottom of Hood River Express. This is known as FRight Trees (Far Right Trees) which also describes the nature of steep pitches throughout - it's also double black diamond territory.

Thanks for the post.

--Meadows Team

# September 30, 2008 8:02 PM

dclynn77 said:

One of my skibuddies is considering getting the Mt. Hood Fusion pass for this coming ski season.  I am trying to prsuade this friend that this is not the best idea, and that the Meadows season or 10x Pass is the way to go.  Unfortunately, this friend seems unconvinced, they are wanting to have a change of Venue for this ski season.  I personally don't prefer the terrain (or lack thereof) at the two resorts that are serviced with the Fusion pass.  So, I was hoping to get some feedback from others in the community. Has anyone previously had the Mt. Hood Fusion pass, and do they have an opinion on it?  I'd love to hear some feedback.

Thanks!

Meadows reply:

dclynn77: We'll only speak to our passes here on this blog. Meadows offers more terrain, a greater variety of terrain and we feel a better overall experience. You are correct about Meadows terrain being the favorite - according to our guest surveys our terrain is what they like about Meadows the most, followed closely by the guest experience (friendly staff members) and our lift system. The numbers do speak for themselves. Also, the group season pass promotional rates of $444 for the 4x4, $333 for the 3x3 or $222 for the 2x2 are less than the comparable rates of the other pass. It's more than just more for less, we believe we offer a high quality mountain recreational experience at the best value. In essence - Pure, Mountain, Fun!

OK so there's the pitch! Now how about some snow?

--Meadows Team

# October 1, 2008 1:47 PM

Freshies Guy said:

You've got to be kidding me. A price increase after last year? It looks like I might be in the minority here but a price increase, no matter how little you profess its gone up, just isn't right. Am I the only one that feels this way??  Especially with the bitterness that surrounded the screwed up way you all closed up last year and the limited time Heather was open.  

I am sure Meadows must have lost so much money last year to justify these price increases. Oh wait... mother nature blessed you with nearly 800" of record snowfall which provided solid customer revenue throughout the season.  

So without beating around the bush... can you tell us straight up what Meadows made in profits last year? Curious to see if this will even be posted posts. Thank you for your time.

Meadows reply:

Freshies Guy: The 4buy4 was introduced six seasons ago at $400. The 3x3 and 2x2 were introduced four seasons ago at $300 and $200 respectively. The increase in prices on these products is just 11% over the time that we have offered it. They are tremendous values at the prices offered. They offer more terrain, more value and a bigger mountain experience than the other Mt. Hood pass, and it costs less.

Many of our pass holders have told us they expected a bigger increase in price on these passes. The increase does reflect our increased costs for operating the resort, which unfortunately, is a reality for everyone. But we are very comfortable and confident that the return on "Pure Mountain Fun" is well worth  the Meadows season pass investment.

--Meadows Team

# October 1, 2008 1:51 PM

Jon said:

Your pricing for the group passes looks great but what about thos of us that can't get enough people together to get the group rates.  We are SOL.

Meadows reply:

Jon: Worry not! Our surveys indicate that Meadows pass holders, and even those just considering the pass, are so super cool and fascinating that the mere mention of forming a group attracts people to them!

Ok, I'm kidding, sort of. The passes are very popular so just talk it up a little. You have until November 16th, and if you're still looking at that time just come ot the Portland Ski Show.

Thanks for the post.

--Meadows Team

# October 1, 2008 2:58 PM

Skippydog said:

Need 2 more to make the 4x4 deal.  What is the best way tp pick up another two?

Meadows reply:

Skippydog: Just talk it up - you're already half way there!

--Meadows Team

# October 1, 2008 10:31 PM

k2skier112 said:

A good place to hook up for a 4X4 group is mthoodlist.com

Meadows reply:

K2Skier: The whole intent of the groiup deals is to spread the word and introduce those to a season pass who may normally not consider it. There are many ways to viral market the group concept and mthoodlist.com is among them.

--Meadows Team

# October 4, 2008 5:50 AM

wtn4sno said:

Any chance you would let us know what the restrictions will be on the skifever 2-for-1 coupon?  If it is a really narrow window, I'll probably just go to the show by myself.  If it looks like I could actually use them for winter visitors and such, I'll probably bring some family and friends...

Thanks,

Tom

Meadows reply:

Tom: Thanks for the post. The offer on the 2for1 is good midweek (Monday through Friday) and can be used between December 1 and December 12. Make sure you bring the snow dough coupon book to our booth at the ski show so we can validate it, then bring it to the ski area for your 2for1.

See you at the ski show!

--Meadows Team

# October 4, 2008 8:05 PM

SJ-9000 said:

If I purchase a 4x4 pass, is it still possible to get the free season pass for a my child under the age of six?

Meadows reply:

SJ: Great question - and the answer is yes! The free 6 and under pass goes with any unlimited season pass purchased by a parent or a grand parent, and the 4x4 passes are unlimited. You'll need to purchase the pass while the child is still 6 or under, in other words, don't wait until his or her 7th birthday to purchase your pass. You can get the child pass issued at the same time you come in to sign your release and get your picture taken.

--Meadows Team

# October 7, 2008 9:08 PM

Skippydog said:

In the spirit of Ace Ventura "AllRightyThen!!"  I'm looking to either form a group OR join a group.  

Dear Fellow Snow Skiiers,

To take advantage of the season pass offerings in need to buddy up with others to make the numbers work. Listed below is the overall shopping list.

1. Need 2 more people for the 4x4 package.

2. Need 2 more for the 3x3 package

3. Need 1 more for the 2x2 package

As you may have guessed, have wife and 2 kids,(a family guy,no Stewie and Brian doesn't ski). I just need meet one target at a time, unless your in the same situation.  Contact me if interested.

Meadows Team, is this how you do it?

Meadows reply:

Skippydog: We normal wouldn't post requests to form or join groups on this blog, but we're making an exception because it illustrates how the group deals offer families huge savings! By purchasing season passes through the group method - Skippydog will receive save $1357 off of the normal season pass price - which equates to a savings of almost 50%! The total cost for all four unlimited season passes by purchasing through 4x4, 3x3 and 2x2 groups is $1443, or about $360 each. That is a tremendous value for unlimited access for a family activity which lasts an entire season. A family can easily spend that much money in a day while on vacation on entertainment or recreational activities.

Thanks for the post Skippydog - and thank you for sharing this great sport with your family and spreading it out to others. We're certain you'll find groups for everyone.

See you on the slopes!

--Meadows Team

# October 7, 2008 9:34 PM

old guy 47 said:

Ok, so how about us non-season pass skiers?  Or 10x pass skiers.  I'm really disappointed in Meadows price increase on the daily tickets...$15.00???  Are you kidding me?  $69 for a daily lift ticket that not even an all day all night pass?  What this communicates to the 2x a month skier is that Meadows doesn't want my business.  How are you justifying that increase?  Ski Bowl posted their daily price at $43 a day.  Bachelor has actually dropped their season ticket prices!  And they offer a 5x pass!  

What this price increase has done is two things:

1.) Made it so that any "marginal" day of skiing becomes a day of nope not going skiing at Meadows today.

2.)  Brought Timberline and/or Ski Bowl into play for a decision.

Lest the thought is that I'm a marginal skier and like the idea of wimpy runs...I'll ski the top gate into Heather any day of the week and challenge anyone out there to see who gets down first.

I guess Meadows has more customers than they know what to do with and this is a way to thin out the masses.  The ski folks I hang around with are of the same mind...I guess you don't want our money at the slopes or in the bar.

Meadows reply:

old guy 47: Thank you for the post - but I have to make some corrections. Meadows maintained the midweek (off-Peak) price at $54. We increased peak (weekend) pricing by $5 from $64 last year to $69 this season. This represents an excellent recreation and entertainment value.

However, for those looking for an even better deal, we will sell open / close tickets peak day tickets on our web site for $64 through our eTickets system. We will also have the three packs at Costco again this season, which provides three individual tickets at an even greater savings. We list all the deals we offer on the deals page of our web site.

We have a very diverse pricing structure to accommodate the needs and pocketbooks of a very diverse group of mountain enthusiasts. We hope you take advantage of the special packages, discounts and promotions that work best for you.

See you at the mountain!

--Meadows Team

# October 8, 2008 3:05 PM

BritDave said:

Opening up more double black off-piste areas is great news. (ref: your reply to Daniel1). Any chance you can update the trail map to show us the extent of the expansion?

We're all looking forward to another fantastic ski and boarding seaon with you guys.

Meadows reply:

BritDave: We've posted information on the gated access to S&R Cliffs and also FRight Trees on our blog. We'll be getting the trail map page updated shortly. Thanks for the post!

--Meadows Team

# October 9, 2008 4:16 PM

BCSki said:

I feel like I'm watching the political campaign with this spin machine!  

Fact Check:

Meadow's pass price has not been $400 for the last 6 seasons.  If I recall, Meadows raised the price a couple years back and it was quite a debacle (some mother nature's fault), which led them to re-lower it, thus leading to record high skier numbers and top flight guest relations.

Secondly, you mention out that the ability to bypass the ticket window more than makes up for the inability to share the 10 time pass.  Hmm, so then the price increase is just a kick in the shin?  I would say the price increase is worth the ability to not wait in the line - what is the reasoning for not letting people share their tickets if they go unused?  So much for the push of wanting to add new people to the sport.  

Although I do understand that prices must go up and I want Meadows to continue to be a profitable, happy resort, let's be honest.  Meadows chose to raise their prices, it's bad timing and people will decide with their dollars.  

I hope that last seasons stellar guest service, communication and rapport remains.  Last year I felt like a valued, local guest at meadows - I even broke my cardinal rule and ate in the cafeteria throughout the season - I felt good about supporting an organization that I knew supported me as the local skier.  However an 11% price increase in during an economic disaster are going to force me and my carpooling group to make much different decisions this year.

Meadows reply:

BCSki: Thanks for the post. The 4x4 did increase in price to $425. We dropped the price back down to $400 last season as part of our 40th Anniversary Celebration, and we announced at that time that prices would be going up. We feel the $444 price is a tremendous value for a season pass.

The 10 Time Pass is also a great value at the $399 price. We want people who believe they will get the full value of it to purchase it. We really didn't intend it to be transfered or used by others, although this new technology may allow us to offer an appropriately priced pass that could be shared in the future.

You commented on the high standard of guest service we have set at Meadows. We will take that as a challenge to exceed that level consistently this season.

--Meadows Team

# October 17, 2008 12:39 PM