Willamette Pass Resort, a longtime family‑owned ski destination near Crescent Lake, Oregon, has completed a major upgrade to its snowmaking system. The expansion triples the mountain’s overall snowmaking capacity and more than doubles the fleet of snow guns to 19, delivering top‑to‑bottom coverage across the resort.
Why the upgrade matters for local families
General manager Mindy Ingebretson‑Wolowicz emphasized that the project is about giving guests reliable skiing days. “Everything we do at Willamette Pass comes back to giving people the freedom to ski,” she said. “More reliable snow means more days on the mountain for our guests.” The new system will help ensure that families can count on a full season, even when natural snowfall varies.
Expanded coverage across popular trails
The upgraded snowmaking reaches several of the resort’s signature runs, including Kaleidoscope, Eagle’s Flight, Perseverance, By George, Rough Cut and Sleepy Hollow. By providing consistent snow on these trails, the resort aims to create a more predictable experience for both novice and seasoned skiers.
Part of a long‑term development plan
The expansion is the first phase of Willamette Pass’s Master Development Plan, a roadmap for future infrastructure investments. The plan builds on the mountain’s history of innovation; owner Tim Wiper installed Oregon’s first snowmaking system at the resort decades ago. In 2022, the resort entered a joint venture with Mountain Capital Partners, a Durango, Colorado‑based firm that operates 17 ski resorts and outdoor assets across the United States and Chile.
Opening date and community impact
The new snowmaking system is slated to debut when Willamette Pass opens for the 2026/2027 winter season on Dec. 11, weather permitting. Early season openings mean more days for local schools’ ski programs, youth camps and family outings, reinforcing the resort’s role as a community hub.
Economic boost for Central Oregon
By extending the operating season, the resort expects to attract additional visitors, supporting local hotels, restaurants and service businesses. The investment reflects confidence in Central Oregon’s tourism economy and underscores the importance of family‑friendly recreation in the region.
Willamette Pass’s commitment to reliable snow and a longer season aligns with the values of traditional families who cherish outdoor recreation and community heritage. The upgrade promises to keep the mountain a vibrant gathering place for generations to come.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
