About Me
Welcome-Nestled in the heart of the Oregon Cascades (elev. 5120 ft) Willamette Pass has some of the most varied terrain and best skiing in Oregon. Within an hour and a half from Eugene and a little more than 2 hours from Corvallis, Willamette Pass has something to offer to people of all abilities. From the official speed skiing course RTS (average angle 52 degrees) to the large amounts of Backcountry skiing and the amazing glades the advanced skier will never be bored. Yet beginners will not be disappointed either. With many gently sloping green runs and very friendly ski professionals eager to help people of all abilities reach their full skiing potential.--In Bounds--Within the official runs at Willamette pass, the terrain varies greatly. With nearly 45% of the cut terrain being intermediate trails and 35% being advanced trails the only thing getting tired will be your legs. The longest run on the mountain is a whopping 2.1 miles from top to bottom. RTS is the steepest run at the pass, as well as the steepest continuous run east of the Rockies. Many bump runs are also available for those looking for a challenge of non-regular moguls. For the best moguls check out Destiny or June's Run on the back side.For those not looking to push the limit, the front side offers many great beginner slopes. From the Magic Carpet to Sleepy Hollow and Duck Soup, beginners will find the progression to skiing Blue square runs very feasible. A newly built (2006) terrain park will challenge anyone featuring giant hips, boxes, spines, and table tops. Be prepared to go big. If necessary, the award winning Ski Patrol is willing and ready to help.--Mountain Facts--Average Annual Snow fall: 430 inches
Lift Capacity: 10,200 skiers per hour
555 acres skiable terrain
Longest run: Kaleidascope/perserverance (2.1 mi)
Steepest run: RTS 52 degrees
Vertical rise: 1563 feet
Firsts:
-First six person detachable lift in Oregon
-First Magic Carpet for beginners
-First Winch Cat in Oregon--Backcountry Skiing--If you only ski inbounds on the trails at Willamette Pass, you're missing most of what the mountain has to offer. Inside the boundaries of the resort you will find more than 4 large cliffs of varying heights, seemingly endless glades and snow that always offers first tracks and face shots, even on the busiest of days (not very common). Accessible from the backside Locals favorites Dragon's Back, STN, S&S and the gorge offer steep, treed terrain that is not for the weak of heart. The best way to find these is to ask a local. Try asking around in the terrain park for hints on how to get to these undiscovered treasures.If your legs aren’t tired yet, some of the best skiing is found just a short hike away, on West peak. This peak which is slated to be inbounds and lift accessible in the near future offers glades, and over 1000 vertical feet of pristine snow. If you plan your journey right, either direction you embark from will lead you to a lift making the only hiking to the top. Just be sure to cut that way towards the bottom. Getting lost from this area is not easy or common, as a cat access trail runs all the way around West peak and cross country trails (all leading back to the lodge) criss cross through the area.--Summer Activities--Summer is a great time to visit the pass. The six pack chairs are removed from the Eagle Peak Accelerator lift and swapped for Gondolas which allow for bikes, dogs, and children all to experience the pass. Biking has become a main staple of the summer feeling. Many biking trails, jumps, bridges, and events are available all summer long. For more information on events contact Oregon Adventures. Summer also is a favorite time at the pass for disc golfers who enjoy an 18-hole disc golf course that makes its way down from the summit. Hikers, birders, nature enthusiasts and families will all find something unique at Willamette Pass in the Summer.--How to get there--Willamette Pass is located at mile post 62 of Hwy 58. Mapquest it
http://www.mapquest.com/mq/1-UoMLSources and infromationwww.willamettepass.com
