Sunshine and powder snow are a magic combination for skiers and a common occurrence at Anthony Lakes resort in Oregon’s northeast corner.  Winter arrived early here, enabling a mid-November opening at a playground dubbed “most loveable ski area in America” in a 1969 issue of Life magazine.  Located 19 miles west of Interstate 84, Anthony Lakes is a venue for all forms of snow play, offering 21 lift-serviced downhill runs, 40 kilometers of groomed Nordic trails, open terrain for snowmobiling and some 2,000 acres of outback steeps, bowls and glades accessed by snowcat tours from the base lodge.

The base elevation of 7,100 ft. makes this the loftiest ski development in Oregon.  A high speed triple chair lift rises to 8,000 ft. behind the lodge and services a selection of expert and intermediate class runs.  The price is right to ride the lifts…$28 for an all-day ticket on the triple chair, $19 after 1 pm.  Seniors ride all day for $22, and if you’re athletically inclined at age 70 or beyond, the ride is free.  A Handletow serving a beginners’ area next to the lodge is a $10 fee.  The snowcat outback tours are $75 for a half day sojourn.

These attractions are a 6 hour drive from Portland, 35 miles north of Baker City, 45 miles south of La Grande.  The village of North Powder is the turnoff from the Interstate and home of the Powder Valley 2003 state class 1A prep football champions.  Local ranching families raise a tough breed!

Anthony Lakes visitors will find lodging choices in both La Grande and Baker City, with the latter metropolis the site of the restored, historic Geiser Grand hotel…an incongruous high rise above the valley floor that tempts skiers with a lift ticket included in the room price.

Visit the internet at www.anthonylakes.com for a detailed profile of recreational facilities and an events calendar.

© 2003 Oregon Magazine