Photo courtesy of Mt. Ashland Ski Area (Website)
Winter is officially here! But just because the weather’s getting colder, that doesn’t mean there’s any less opportunity to get out and explore the natural beauty of Southern Oregon. The region offers a bunch of great winter activities, and hitting the slopes at Mt. Ashland Ski Resort is one of the most popular.
If you’re looking to book a trip up to Mt. Ashland Ski Resort, we’ll clue you in on a few things to keep in mind while planning your trip — including navigation, operating schedules, gear rentals, and more.
Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Mt. Ashland Ski Resort
When you’re planning new excursions in the winter, it’s always important to be fully prepared. Below, we’ve supplied an FAQ-style list of all the need-to-knows and nice-to-knows for your visit to Mt. Ashland Ski Resort.
Where Is Mt. Ashland Ski Resort, and How Do I Get There?
As its name suggests, Mt. Ashland Ski Resort is located in Ashland, OR. It’s just a few minutes from Exit 6 on I-5.
As you arrive, there is plenty of guest parking available. Day permits are $6, but if you plan on more frequent trips, you may choose to purchase an annual permit for $20.
We will caution you that as you approach the mountain, driving conditions can become more hazardous depending on the day’s forecast. For this reason, there’s always a shuttle service available to take, if you prefer. It starts down at Ashland Hills Hotel & Suites and leads up to the mountain
What Is Mt. Ashland Ski Resort’s Operating Schedule?
This year, Mt. Ashland Ski Resort’s four-month open season begins December 17, 2021, and ends April 17, 2022. Most weeks, the resort is open Thursday-Monday, but this can vary during the holidays.
Open hours also vary for weekdays, weekends, and holidays. In most cases, the resort is open from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, and from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays. Find the operating hours for the specific date you’re planning, by viewing this full 2021-2022 operating schedule.
Also, don’t miss out on an opportunity for some fun twilight skiing! On Thursday and Friday evenings from January 6 through March 11, 2022, Mt. Ashland lights up a few of their lifts for some afterdark ski adventures!
What Should I Wear to Mt. Ashland Ski Resort?
In regards to apparel, the most important thing to remember is to dress in layers. Get out some long underwear, a hoodie, and a pair of warm, synthetic socks for your first layer. Then, make sure you have all the winter and snow-sport accessories, including water-resistant coats, pants, boots, hats, gloves, and goggles.
Can I Rent Gear at Mt. Ashland Ski Resort?
Yes! If you don’t own all the equipment or apparel needed, the resort offers rentals for skis, snowboards, and other accessories like helmets and boots. Depending on your age and the time of day that you visit, rental prices vary. Check out their gear rental page to estimate pricing for the items you need.
What is Skiing Like at Mt. Ashland Ski Resort?
The resort features 44 ski runs along the mountain’s summit, which measures around 7,500 feet. The runs vary in experience and difficulty levels, so there are plenty of options for all adventurers to enjoy. The mountain’s accessibility and accommodation of every skier from beginner to advanced make Mt. Ashland an ideal destination for a family trip.
For those new to skiing, Mt. Ashland offers ample opportunity to get out and learn. The resort provides “Ski School” lesson programs for all ages, taught by certified instructors.
Or, if you’re looking to try something different than skiing, there are also plenty of beautiful trails for cross country skiers and snowshoers to explore. Snow tubing at Grouse Gap Sno-Park is a popular activity as well and is especially accommodating for people of varying ages and abilities.
How Much Does It Cost to Visit Mt. Ashland Ski Resort?
Lift ticket costs fall between $40-75, varying based on age, time of day, and holiday rates. Make sure to plan for parking fees separately. There are discounts available for some guests, including early ticket purchasers, young kids, seniors, and military personnel.
Does Mt. Ashland Ski Resort Offer Food and Drinks?
If you need a break from the chilly winter weather, Mt. Ashland Ski Resort has a lodge to shelter you from the cold. The lodge has a menu filled with family favorites, as well as an extensive list of local craft beverages to enjoy.
Looking for a winter getaway? There are a variety of ways to enjoy the beautiful Rogue Valley, no matter the season. From skiing in the mountains to snowshoeing by the lakes, to tasting seasonal selections at award-winning wineries, you can be close to all of them by living in the gated, The Vineyards at Stage Pass. Contact our team to learn more about our homesites and living amongst the natural beauty that is Southern Oregon.