February 21, 2008 Anthony Lakes, OR

It’s about 380 miles to the Anthony Lakes ski area from Seattle.  From the North Powder exit off I-84 at around 3100’, it’s 19 miles to the ski area at 7100’.  The ski area is closed Monday thru Wednesday, and we were hoping some powder remained from the last snowfall.  We arrived just before sunset and parked about 20 yards from their only lift which is a triple.  We plugged the RV into one of the numerous free electrical outlets at the ski area base.  It was a cold and clear evening which was ideal for viewing the lunar eclipse.

Unfortunately they’ve had the same high pressure system we’ve experienced during the last week. Thursdays are half price so lift tickets were $17.50 each.  Also Fridays are Shell 2 for 1 day. With a base of 7100’ and a top elevation of 8000’, the snow was dry but a crust covered any sun exposed slopes.  We thought about touring, but after testing some nearby slopes and talking to a few locals it was obvious the conditions weren’t tour friendly.  We cruised for a couple hours on the groomers.  Anthony Lakes reminds me of Whitewater, BC in many ways. From the southern ski area boundary, it is an easy tour towards Lookout, Lee and Angels Peak.  The snowcat skiing access road provides an easy track to start a tour.  Anthony Lakes is inexpensive, with friendly locals and great terrain within easy access of the ski area.  Snowcat skiing is also available for $190 day.

Just received a Powder Alert email from Perlin in Hawaii about a storm cycle heading for the Wasatch.  This requires the snowsluts to change plans.