Mount Ashland will officially open for the winter season on Monday, December 29, marking the return of skiing and snowboarding to Southern Oregon despite snowfall totals running well below normal for this time of year. Resort officials confirmed the opening will feature limited terrain and operations as crews work around early-season conditions and reduced snowpack.
Snowfall at the mountain currently sits at approximately 70 percent below the historical seasonal average, a factor that has required staff to take a measured and creative approach to opening day preparations. While conditions are not yet sufficient to support full operations, the resort has prioritized providing access where possible while maintaining safety for guests and staff.
Opening day operations will run from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with Sonnet and Lithia Chairlifts in service alongside the First Act Learning Carpet. These lifts will support beginner, novice, and advanced riders in designated areas. Sonnet will serve beginner and novice skiers and snowboarders, while Poma and Lupine terrain will be available exclusively for expert riders due to thinner snow coverage and variable surface conditions. Other major lifts including Comer, Windsor, and Ariel will remain closed until snowfall levels improve enough to safely open additional terrain.
Bumblebee run will stay closed with plans for a later grand opening once conditions allow, while the status of Blossom will be determined closer to future operating dates. Resort crews are also working toward constructing a smaller terrain park on Lupine as a way to kick off the season for freestyle riders, though this will depend on ongoing weather and snow conditions.
Lift tickets for opening day will be priced at $18, offering access to the available lifts and learning areas for a limited time. Resort officials emphasized that conditions remain firmly in the early-season category, with thin and limited snow coverage. Guests are advised that any activity beyond groomed runs should be considered expert only, given the potential for exposed obstacles and variable snow depth.
Core guest services will be available in varying capacities beginning Monday. Ski and snowboard lessons, equipment rentals, and the Siskiyou Mountain retail shop will be fully open to the public. Food and beverage options will be limited, with the T-Bar Lounge and Gemütlichkeit Grill operating on reduced menus, while Bold Line Bistro will remain closed for now.
Uphill travel will be closed through December 28, with the winter season uphill travel policy taking effect on opening day. Resort management also reiterated that sledding is not permitted at the ski area at any time, citing safety and operational concerns.
While the opening does not reflect a typical mid-winter experience, resort staff expressed appreciation for community patience and support as the season begins. Officials noted that incremental openings are expected as weather patterns improve and additional snowfall arrives. For those eager to make their first turns of the season, the mountain will welcome guests back on Monday, marking the start of what staff hope will be a steadily improving winter ahead.