Timberline Lodge, OR | What to Expect in Winter 20/21

Timberline Lodge, OR have updated their website with details on their operational plan for next season. Capacity management takes a front seat, with the resort admitting they will implement a reservation system when necessary, but that the majority of the time people should get to ski or ride most of the days they want.

• Related: All the Individual Ski Resort Winter 20/21 Policies in One Place

Timberline Lodge was one of a small number of resorts that reopened at the end of last season after the mass COVID-19 shutdown, and they operated right through until August 30th, giving them a look into the future of how winter 20/21 might look.

More details below:

As winter approaches, our heartfelt sympathies go out to everyone in the region impacted by the unprecedented forest fire conditions, the devastation of property, and loss of life. This, in combination with a global pandemic and general uncertainties, has proven to be an extremely difficult time for all. We look forward to ski season and the joy that it brings.

Timberline has been working hard on winter operation plans, building on what we learned from our spring and summer ski seasons while collaborating in an industry-wide safety and operational effort driven by the National Ski Areas Association’s Ski Well, Be Well Program. This winter, it is our goal to deliver quality customer service in a healthy environment. You will undoubtedly notice a change in our operations, these are necessary to move forward and offer everyone the opportunity to get back on Mt. Hood snow.

CAPACITY MANAGEMENT

Capacity management is complex at Timberline because of its public nature and its diversity of users beyond ski area guests.

It is important to keep in mind, if we have to manage capacity, it will most likely be for early season, peak holidays, and weekends. With some planning and flexibility, people should get to ski or ride most of the days they want. Based on historical visitation and the current Covid landscape, most days at Timberline will be available to ski if it matches with typical demand. We are not sure if we can predict all of the peak days in the current Covid environment, but we are prepared to learn and make adjustments if visitation patterns change. Capacity management is simply a tool that will have to be used to keep everyone healthy.

• • To avoid overcrowding and keep everyone healthy, we have a plan to manage resort capacity with an online registration process if necessary. The online registration process will include a mandatory Covid questionnaire.
  • All Timberline visitors who wish to ski or snowboard will potentially need to make an advanced online reservation.
  • Details on the online reservation process will be released at a later time.
  • Customers should expect capacity management, at the beginning of the season (possibly longer) and for peak holidays and weekends.
  • Timberline’s capacity will be managed according to what the current Health and Responsibility scenario requires. As such, capacity will be subject to increase and decrease at any time.
  • Reservation inventory will be divided between pass holders and day lift ticket purchases, with the goal of getting most of our customers on the hill most of the days desired.
  • Daily lift ticket reservation inventory and purchases will be managed through our online reservation system if necessary.

RESORT OPERATIONS

• • We are excited to commission our third generation Pucci chairlift this winter. It is a detachable quad that will mean the entire area will be served by fast four-place chairs. This will allow for a further balancing of skiers and riders on the hill.
  • In an effort to provide current information and help guests upon their arrival, we will manage a checkpoint on Timberline Road.
  • Timberline Ski and Ride School will be offering private lessons only. Click here for more details on private lesson products.
  • Timberline Kids Club will not operate this winter.
  • Ski and Snowboard rentals will require social distancing protocols. Details will be released at a later time.
  • All uphill traffic visitors will be required to park in the Salmon River lot. When the Salmon River lot is full, access will be closed until parking spaces become available.
  • The Timberline Resort Shuttle will not operate at the beginning of the season. We will reassess as we move through the winter. The Mt. Hood Express anticipates operating.
  • Expect modified Day Lodge, parking lot, and food & beverage operations.

HEALTH AND RESPONSIBILITY

Timberline looks forward to welcoming our guests back with the intention to responsibly offer much-needed relief through outdoor recreation. It is with an ethos of creation, healing, and purpose that we look forward to the winter season with the modified ski area and hotel operations. Please be mindful while visiting Timberline by adhering to the following guidelines:

• • Guests will be asked to self-group and visit Timberline with immediate household members, people in their traveling party, or individuals they are consistently exposed to or spending time with.
  • Complete a Covid questionnaire provided in the online registration process for skiers or at the front desk for hotel guests.
  • Wear a cloth face mask at all times indoors, in lift lines, on chairlifts, and when unable to maintain 6’ physical distancing outdoors.
  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water. Use hand sanitizer when you cannot wash your hands.
  • Report any confirmed COVID-19 exposure. Immediately notify Timberline Management if you begin to experience flu-like symptoms or test positive for COVID-19 after leaving our facility.
  • Voice concerns, ask questions and seek clarification when necessary.