Weather at Mt. Bachelor has cycled from consistent snow to freezing rain, along with extreme winds, allowing riders to get a peek at this year’s powder season. The base depth of the snow was promising as it had accumulated to above 85 inches, however, occasional rain accompanied by freezing temperatures have been causing layers of ice to form.

“The freezing rain penetrated snow layers, and below freezing temps caused the snow to refreeze; which resulted in a thick layer [of ice] above the powdery snow below,” said Ethan Vaness, a snow-loving Summit sophomore.

There has also been a recent temperature inversion, with temperatures in Bend staying substantially colder than temperatures at Bachelor. Mountain temperatures are expected to remain at or below freezing, and snow as well as freezing rain are forecasted for the following weeks. As conditions cycle through snow and rain, skiers and snowboarders are on the edge of their seats waiting for sufficient powder.

“I’m hoping to see less of this temp inversion pattern so that the precipitation that drops is cold, light snow and less wet snow and freezing rain,” said Vaness. 

While there are mixed reviews and weather may not be ideal, some riders are willing to take their chances and hit the slopes!