The recent snowstorm that covered the Willamette Valley and even many coastal beaches can be a nuisance and a blessing.
Holiday travel was definitely hindered. It was good news, however, that the number of travelers reported has been light, as many folks wisely stayed home. ODOT crews kept highway 58 as safe as possible with constant plowing as the snow piled up. A light fluffy snow in many places covers a dangerous layer of ice, making good, all-weather, traction tires and chains a must for travel over Willamette Pass and elsewhere.
Currently, the snow gauge at Crescent Lake shows up to 156% of normal snowfall at Crescent Lake with 39″. Summit Lake SNOTEL reports 64 inches. Cascade Summit reports 76 inches and Willamette Pass reports 74 inches. All stations are reporting around 150% of normal snowfall for this time of year. Although most of the recent snow has been light without a heavy water content, this still bodes well for drought relief. Another 6-7″ is forecast for the Willamette Pass area this week, as well as a couple inches in the lower elevations.
Elsewhere, reported snow levels are breaking records. Lake Tahoe region has broken a December record set in 1970 of 170”. Currently, snowfall totals at Lake Tahoe measure 193 inches! Interstate 80 from the Sacramento area over Donner Pass has been closed for several days due to blowing snow, whiteout conditions and avalanches.
As we dig out, and perhaps grumble about the snow, we can be thankful after a record hot and dry summer that saw much of the West dealing with catastrophic wildfires. The deep snows should provide a glimmer of hope to our drought parched Western States.
Freezing temperatures are predicted and will assure that the snow is not going to disappear anytime soon. Think safety first when driving and walking; no one wants to be involved in a fender- bender or be injured with a slip and fall accident.
Skiers and snowmobilers and the Cascade Resort operators are all smiling with this recent storm bringing so much powder. Conditions will improve for all winter enthusiasts as the deep powder firms up from the current bottomless powder conditions.
We are very fortunate to have Willamette Pass Ski Resort, the Gold Lake Snow Park and the Ski Patrol located on Highway 58. For the downhill skiers, Willamette Pass is a hidden gem. “The Pass” is treasured by all who ski in our area. The network of cross-country trails, shelters, and the offer of solitude in the Gold Lake country is top notch, as well.
A few short miles further east on Highway 58 we have miles upon miles of groomed snowmobile trails that can be accessed from two snow parks, both located near Crescent Lake Junction. One is near the Crescent Lake Airstrip and the other is located at the former town of Crescent Lake, just past the railroad crossing.
We have several months to enjoy the snow; so, stay safe, warm and enjoy a real winter season. Cheers!
George Custer lives in Oakridge with his wife Sayre. George is a former smokejumper from his hometown of Cave Junction, a former captain in the U.S. Marine Corps. and ran a construction company in Southern California. George assumed the volunteer duties as the Editor of the Highway 58 Herald in 2022. He loves riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, building all things wood, and playing drums on the weekends in his office.
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