Mt. Bachelor Set to Open on November 15 – The Earliest in 26 Years!
Snow lovers, mark your calendars! Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort is gearing up for an unprecedented early start to the ski season, opening on Friday, November 15. This marks the mountain’s earliest opening day in 26 years, a thrilling milestone for both locals and visitors. With recent snowstorms blanketing the slopes and ideal conditions for snowmaking, Mt. Bachelor is ready to kick off the 2024-2025 season with a bang.
Why Mt. Bachelor’s Early Opening Is Big News
Mt. Bachelor is known for its long ski season, often running from November to May, thanks to its high elevation and central Oregon’s consistent snowfall. However, this November 15 opening is unusually early, last occurring in 1998. For the resort, early openings can be a game-changer, extending the season and allowing ski enthusiasts more opportunities to hit the slopes. This early opening signals not only a robust snowfall but also Mt. Bachelor’s commitment to providing the best skiing experience possible.
What to Expect on Opening Day
The mountain will initially open with limited terrain, prioritizing beginner and intermediate runs to allow for gradual acclimatization to the new season. Conditions permitting, more advanced terrain is expected to follow soon after.
Key highlights for opening day:
Lift Access: Skyliner, and Little Pine lifts to open initially, providing access to several of Mt. Bachelor’s popular runs.
Early Season Terrain: Mt. Bachelor’s famous groomed runs will be available, with snowmaking efforts focused on ensuring a solid base.
Celebration: Annual banner breakthrough celebration at Skyliner at 9:00 a.m. on Friday
New for the 2024-2025 Ski Season
This season, Mt. Bachelor has invested in some exciting upgrades and improvements:
Enhanced Snowmaking: Expanded snowmaking capabilities this year have played a huge role in enabling such an early opening. Snow guns are working overtime to ensure high-quality snow coverage across the mountain.
Expanded Terrain Park: The mountain’s terrain park has been revamped, offering new features for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy.
Sustainability Efforts: Mt. Bachelor continues to prioritize environmental stewardship, including sustainable energy practices and efforts to reduce waste around the mountain.
Tips for Opening Day Success
Whether you're a seasoned skier or a first-time visitor to Mt. Bachelor, these tips will help make the most of your day:
Arrive Early: With an early-season buzz, expect crowds and busy parking lots. Arriving early ensures a smoother start to your day.
Stay Informed: Keep up with Mt. Bachelor’s website and social media channels for updates on lift openings and weather conditions. Changes happen quickly on the mountain, and the latest information will help you plan accordingly.
Dress in Layers: Early season skiing in Oregon can mean varying temperatures. Layering ensures you stay comfortable as the day warms up or cools down.
Grab Your Lift Tickets in Advance: Purchase your lift tickets online to save time and guarantee access, as Mt. Bachelor expects high demand on opening weekend.
Warm-Up Areas: The Nordic Lodge and Sunrise Lodge will be open, providing places to warm up between runs and grab a bite to eat.
Après-Ski Options in Bend
After a day on the slopes, Bend offers plenty of cozy spots to relax and refuel. Try local favorites like Deschutes Brewery for a pint of their seasonal Jubelale, or 10 Barrel Brewing for hearty après-ski fare. If you’re looking to warm up, Thump Coffee in downtown Bend offers delicious hot chocolate and locally roasted coffee.
Looking Ahead: Mt. Bachelor’s Full Season
With this early start, Mt. Bachelor enthusiasts have even more time to explore the mountain’s 4,300 acres of skiable terrain. As the season progresses, skiers and snowboarders can look forward to Mt. Bachelor’s renowned powder, scenic tree runs, and long descents down the volcanic slopes.
Key dates to note this season include:
Spring Pass Sales: In early spring, discounted passes allow visitors to enjoy some of the season’s best conditions.
Pine Marten Sunset Dinners: These evening events combine dining and spectacular views of the Cascade Range.
Backcountry Tours: For those looking for a more adventurous experience, Mt. Bachelor offers guided backcountry tours throughout the season.
Join the Buzz of Mt. Bachelor’s Earliest Opening in 26 Years
With Mt. Bachelor’s earliest opening in over two decades, excitement is running high in Central Oregon. Whether you’re a local or planning a trip to Bend, this early-season start offers the perfect opportunity to make the most of winter.
Prepare for a fantastic season at Mt. Bachelor, filled with fresh snow, memorable runs, and a welcoming community of snow enthusiasts. The slopes are calling—let’s make the 2024-2025 season one to remember!
