US SKI RESORT SET TO OPEN IF RESTRICTIONS ARE LIFTED
7th May 2020
Last modified on May 8th, 2021
Timberline Ski Area in Oregon says it will open if an executive order from the governor, Kate Brown, allows.
Ski resorts will likely be allowed to open, but there is no timing on the executive order.
“As we begin to slowly open up recreation sites, state parks, and ski areas opportunities, it is critical we ensure the health and safety of staff, volunteers, and the public,” said Governor Brown.
“And that begins with each of us taking personal responsibility to be good stewards of our parks, and each other.”
Timberline Ski Lodge on Mt Hood reacted swiftly.
“We are thrilled with the Governor’s news eventually re-opening the ski area,” said the lodge on its web site.
“We are still waiting on an Executive Order for more clarification. Regardless of what comes down, Timberline will do so with a very deliberate strategy, limited operations and a responsible plan to keep employees and customers as safe as possible.
“The ski area and parking lots are currently closed. Uphill traffic is still not permitted.
“Please stay tuned for updates.”
The ski area has had a dusting of snow in the past 24-hours and claims a base of more than 3m.
A spokesman for the ski area, John Burton, said to local medial it could be up and running by the end of next week — provided the executive order is announced soon.
“It’s going to be a good experience, but it’s definitely going to be different,” Burton said.
Reservations will need to be made online within 24-hours of a visit.
People will need to pre-purchased a lift ticket or have a winter season pass.
The ski area capacity will be limited.
There will be social distancing in car parks.
The numbers on lifts will be limited with social distancing in queues.
It is likely there will only be tale-away food.
Anyone not observing the rules will be asked to leave.
Colorado has just extended its ban on resorts opening as we reported earlier:
Colorado extends ban on skiing in ski resorts
Mt Baldy in California re-opened at the end of last month:
As with other resorts that have re-opened, or said they will do so if able, it is likely to produced mixed reaction with some welcoming the chance to make some final turns.
Others though will point to the fact that socila disatncing cannot by 100% gauranteed all the time and it will mean people are travelling
Here at PlanetSKI we will keep you updated on the situation on Oregon.
No other resort in Oregon except for Timberline has plans to reopen.
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OUTDOOR GUIDELINES IN OREGON
Guidelines for responsible outdoor recreation include:
Prepare before you go:
-Limit your recreation activities, and recreate only with people in your own household.
-Check what’s open before leaving home. Your favorite trail or camp site may remain closed, or need to be closed on a temporary basis, to prevent crowding and protect public health.
-Plan ahead and come prepared as service levels may be different than you are accustomed to.
-Visitors may find limited restroom services available. Plan to bring your own soap, water, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper.
-Bring a mask to cover your nose and mouth. Visit less crowded areas, visit during off-peak times, and have a back-up plan.
-Not feeling well? Don’t go. If you have symptoms of a fever, cough, or shortness of breath, stay home.
Take care when you get there:
– Be safe and responsible by choosing activities within your comfort zone.
– Leave no trace, and pack out what you pack in.
– Maintain your own personal hygiene like washing your hands often, bringing your own water, hand sanitizer, soap, and toilet paper.
– Avoid crowds. Be prepared for last minute changes to ensure the safety and health of others.
– All of the standard ways to protect public health apply in the outdoors too, like maintaining physical distance.
– Keep at least 6 feet between you and other Oregonians enjoying the outdoors. Launch one boat at time to ensure other Oregonians have enough space to launch safely and securely.
– Leave at least one parking space between your vehicle and the vehicle next to you.
– It is wildfire season. Please remain safe and vigilant to ensure forest health and safety. – Do not start fires in undesignated areas. Check if your campground or park allows outdoor fires before you strike a match. If permitted, make sure you are building a campfire properly and that you have water or an extinguisher on hand. Before you leave, ensure the campfire is out. If it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave.
