First run of the season at Willamette Pass
WILLAMETTE PASS, Ore. - This week's storms dumped plenty of snow on Willamette Pass Ski Area, giving skiers and snow boarders their first run of the season.
If you're gutsy enough to trudge through the treacherous roads to get there, chances are you'll be able to swallow your pride and take a refresher course before gliding down the mountain.
"Saw the semi down there. That was it. Scary when we came around the corner," said Eugene resident Dave Diens.
Friday afternoon, three lifts were open, giving snow bunnies access to only the lower mountain.
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"We always have quite a few snafus when we have three to four feet of snow in 24 hours. Just getting here and digging out the slopes is a big job," said Tim Wiper, Willamette Pass owner.
Come this weekend, visitors should get a fully operational resort, with lift hours limited from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., but night skiing could be available as soon as next week.
"It's amazing, powder's fresh. Carves hard," said snowboarder Tanner Layton.
"The conditions, the powder, have just been unbelievable. It was a little scary getting here," said snowboarder Amanda Pence.
Keep in mind Oregon law requires skiers and snow boarders to follow some rules while carving down a mountain.
