Bend Update: Low Snowpack and Ski Area Impacts
The Big Meltdown?
Tracking the 2026 Snow Drought
Central Oregon is facing a record-low winter. From Mt. Bachelor’s base to the High Desert's water future, here is the breakdown of the 2026 snowpack crisis.
Quick Hits: The Situation
27% of Normal
Current snowpack levels in the Central Cascades.
Lift Closures
2 of 12 lifts at Mt. Bachelor remain shuttered due to thin coverage.
The Feb Save
A critical storm (Feb 8-9) is expected to drop 6–9 inches.
The Snow Gap: Mt. Bachelor Base
Early February Comparison (Inches)
Local Impacts
- ✔ Economy: Skiing generates $157M annually for Bend. Reduced traffic hits breweries and hotels.
- ✔ Recreation: Hoodoo and Wanoga Sno-Park are seeing limited accumulation and temporary closures.
- ✔ Water Security: Snowpack is our "natural reservoir." Low levels threaten summer river flows.
Climate Strategy
The City of Bend is actively pivoting via the Community Climate Action Plan:
- Aggressive water conservation.
- Renewable energy transitions.
- Wildfire prevention in the Deschutes National Forest.
February Vibe Check
Skiability
⭐️⭐️
Local Resilience
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hiking/Biking
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"While the lifts are light, the trails are tight. Bend residents are pivoting to gravel biking and lower-elevation hiking earlier than ever."
Stay Updated
The next few weeks are critical for our snowpack. Whether we break records or see a Valentine's Day miracle, Good Day Bend is your source for daily operational shifts and weather alerts.
Check the Good Day Bend Calendar & Daily UpdatesFor trail conditions and park updates, visit Bend Parks & Rec.
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