It is the question that is top of mind - when are we going to open? Unfortunately, due to the current weather pattern, we won’t be turning lifts this holiday weekend. We received 14 inches of light and fluffy Tuesday - but it is very airy. We didn’t have much base before this storm and the snowpack is fragile.
Here are views from our Vista base area and top of Heather mountain cams taken before and after Tuesday's storm. 
While we’ve been poking around a bit in the cat the worst thing we could do is churn up some dirt on the snowpack which would accelerate snow melt. So we will be keeping our cats off the snow for now. We have pushed the parking lot snow into piles to prepare for our snow harvesting operation next week.
The freezing levels rise up pretty high Thanksgiving Day - and then lower to the top of Cascade level Friday. There is some precipitation forecast but hopefully not enough to wash away the snowpack.
We also need to get by next Tuesday’s wild weather - lots of precipitation with a warm front. It’s really all a matter of timing - and we have our eyes on the 10 day forecast which shows some promise for snow next Thursday and Friday. The question is how much, and will it get here soon enough to give us a chance for limited operations the weekend of December 4th and 5th.
So when will we open? The answer is literally up in the air right now. We have limited snowmaking capabilities and we are making snow when the temperature allows. But we really need the weather to cooperate and give us enough natural snow to build up our base area lift ramps before we can open.
We are thankful for the snow harvesting equipment and expertise we have to make the most of whatever natural snow we receive. We are grateful to our team that is committed to enriching the lives of our guests and sharing inspiring mountain experiences. And we are truly blessed with pass holders and other mountain enthusiasts who along with us, await the arrival of snow and the opening of our 54th season.
Meanwhile we suggest putting this time to good use. Get the snow tires on and winterize your vehicle. Finish up all those household chores so when the mountain opens you’ll be ready! And most importantly, have a joyous Thanksgiving - we hope you can share the holiday with family and friends.
We will see you on the mountain soon!