With the forecast indicating freezing rain arriving early Friday morning, we will suspend operations for Friday, December 23. We will evaluate forecasts, weather and road conditions to determine operations for Saturday and announce any changes Friday afternoon.
Northwest Oregon is under a winter weather warning going into this holiday weekend for lowland snow, freezing rain, ice storms and high winds. On the mountain we’ll have strong winds, heavy snowfall transitioning to freezing rain Friday through Christmas Day, then some rain and eventually back to snow next week. Crazy weather for sure!
We’re still planning operations for Saturday from 9 AM - 4 PM (Christmas Eve) and Sunday from 9 AM - 9 PM (Christmas Day) but with this storm we could make operational adjustments for those days as well. Check our conditions page for operational updates.
This morning we have clear skies with upper mountain access on both Vista and Cascade Express lifts. It’s very cold with a windchill of -17 degrees so bundling up, making sure you have no exposed skin and frequent trips to the lodge to warm up is advised.
The ice storms in the Portland metropolitan area will make for some formidable driving conditions starting Thursday afternoon, especially in hilly neighborhoods and on I-84 through the Gorge. The freezing rain will be moving up in elevation and as you know - operating lifts in freezing rain is a challenge. Our lift operations crew runs lifts through freezing rain episodes round the clock to prevent icing up. They have a huge challenge ahead for the next few days.
We expect a major storm recovery effort will be required once we get back to “normal” weather. Our patrol will re-evaluate conditions in Heather and the PR next week after the next few days' freezing rain and liquid rain.
Here’s what you should do in preparation for a trip to the mountain the next few days:
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Check TripCheck.com for current road conditions including closures.
- Check our conditions page for the current operational schedule, as well as any warnings we may alert you to.
- Make sure your vehicle is prepared for winter driving conditions and you have emergency winter kits in the event you get stranded. Fill your tank before you head up the mountain.
- Get all your information in advance, be prepared and share your travel plans with others.
The Oregon Winter Driving Guide has a wealth of information to prepare you for your drive to the mountain. Thanks for staying informed - and being prepared. And we'll see you on the mountain soon!
