A major winter storm has delivered a pre-holiday gift to the mountains of Oregon. Long known for their deep snowpack and endless season, Oregon’s ski areas are among the leaders in North America with the deepest snow depth. Several resorts have begun lift operations, with more opening up this weekend, for powder-seeking adventurers and snow play experiences for fun-seeking families.
Ski Oregon president Dave Tragethon says this storm is typical of the abundant snowfall Oregon receives, declaring, “Northwest ski areas enjoy seasonal snowfall averaging more than twice that of other regions in the U.S. This storm signals the beginning of a great snow sport season in Oregon.”
The massive five-day storm that began Tuesday, Dec. 8, hit the entire state, dropping over four feet of snow in the higher elevations and turning Oregon mountains into a winter wonderland for the upcoming holiday season. According to the National Weather Service, Mother Nature is just getting started, with chances for more snow starting Wednesday and continuing into the weekend.
Snow enthusiasts enjoy Oregon’s outdoors in a variety of ways, from skiing or snowboarding down the side of a spectacular volcano to cross country skiing in a national forest. A dozen ski areas offer uphill lift or snowcat services for snow sliders and other activities from snowshoeing to dog sled rides to cosmic snow tubing.
The recent storm provides an economic boost to Oregon’s mountain communities and the state as a whole. According to an economic impact analysis conducted by ECONorthwest following the 2010-11 ski season, the total economic impacts associated with the state’s ski industry top $482 million. In addition to direct expenditures of $311 million at ski areas, the total includes indirect spending such as retail or equipment purchases. The industry provides an estimated 6,800 jobs in Oregon and generates nearly $200 million in personal income.
While activities offered up by the ski areas and mountain communities may be a big winter draw, Oregon is filled with wondrous adventures in every corner of the state. Check out Travel Oregon’s “Oregon Winter 101,” for more trip ideas and itineraries that explore the multitude of Oregon winter activities found throughout the state.
Travel Oregon CEO Todd Davidson says this is a uniquely Oregon approach to exploration. “We invite snow sports enthusiasts to recreate in the natural beauty of Oregon, and while here explore our historical, cultural and culinary offerings. Oregon’s winter offers much to enjoy and experience. Visitors to the state make a significant impact on the local economy. Travel and tourism is a $10.3 billion industry in Oregon and directly generates more than 101,000 jobs.”
For ski area information and snow conditions, visit SkiOregon.org.
For Oregon trip ideas and information, visit TravelOregon.com.
