In an unprecedented move for the ski industry, Mt. Hood Skibowl has announced a 72.5% discount on season passes for the upcoming year. According to reporting by SnowBrains, the decision follows a dismal 2025/2026 season where the resort was only able to operate for 22 days due to a severe regional snow drought.
The specific discount figure is rooted in data. Over the past decade, Skibowl has maintained an average of 97 operating days. Because this season fell 72.5% short of that benchmark, the resort opted to offer a discount equivalent to that mathematical gap. General Manager Mike Quinn noted to The Oregonian that the decision was driven by a desire to do the "right thing" for the loyal community that supported the resort despite the lack of terrain availability.
The Pacific Northwest faced a challenging winter, with even high-elevation resorts like Timberline Lodge reporting some of the lowest snowpack levels in 75 years. While neighboring resorts like Mt. Hood Meadows and Mt. Bachelor were able to remain open for over 100 days, the effort required significant operational investment. Skibowl, situated at a lower elevation on Highway 26, was hit harder by the warming conditions.
This move highlights a growing trend of resorts navigating how to manage pass-holder expectations during volatile winters. Other resorts have taken different approaches: Mt. Shasta Ski Park is offering an 8.33% discount for missing its 60-day guarantee, while Mt. Ashland is providing between 24% and 33% off for their 17-day operating season. Skibowl’s approach is widely considered one of the most generous in the region.
While the broader ski industry continues to grapple with rising operational costs and the unpredictability of climate patterns, Skibowl’s commitment to its customer base serves as a case study in crisis management. Having operated since 1928, the resort is looking to maintain its community foundation despite experiencing the lowest snowpack in its history.
