Mt Bachelor Trip Reports

Mt. Bachelor Trip Report

The 10 of us arrived at the Mt. Bachelor log home at varying times during the Friday evening. While it is a long drive, it is very scenic and you pass many unique landscapes and fascinating geologic land forms. The forecast was a bit bleak, with high winds and snow in the forecast for the next two days. Unfortunately, the meteorologists were correct this time. But, the Bachelor Blizzard provided bountiful bottomless powder for the boys.

The visibility up top was poor, and the upper mountain was closed due to wind. We were joined on the slopes by 5 other ski buddies members who met us up slope. Due to poor visibility the best skiing lied in the trees and off piste. There we found acres of fresh fluffy fun. I’m thrilled to report that this was several of our members first time off piste and in the trees, and after a little coaching they became tree hounds, finding their own lines and ripping up the mountain. What a treat it was to lead people away from the groomed boredom and into the realm of true powder skiing. In the trees the visibility was much better and the snow was fabulous. Several of us queens were singing our hearts out the entire afternoon as peals of laughter and glee erupted.

That night I hosted a diner for everyone including salad, stew, and stuffed pasta shells. There was much socializing and much merriment as we caught up with old friends from Portland and other guests. However, after a long hard day of skiing we all went to bed early, knowing that more snow and trees awaited us in the morning.

I awoke with a song in my heart and our fellow guests were blessed (okay more likely cursed) with my rendition of Laura Branigan’s “Gloria” (I think you’ve got the number….) And of course when skiing on beautiful terrain how can you not break into Louie Armstrong’s “Wonderful world?” The snow the second day was equally deep, but the visibility had dropped even lower. We did however get to explore Devil’s Backbone and some other steep tree runs that my new found tree lovers enjoyed beyond belief.

That night we had several problems with our accommodations including; ticks, clogged sinks, stove problems, and much more. As a result, I was able to get a partial refund. In spite of adversity everyone enjoyed themselves, helped me out around the house, and contributed to a smashing good time. The Bachelor trip proved once again that you can have a great time while on a budget.

Next years trip will have more room for additional guests and will be scaled up a bit more. Here’s to Bachelor 2009.
Shane