WENATCHEE - The 2023/24 winter season at Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort is gearing up for an exciting start on Saturday, November 25th. This Thanksgiving weekend opening, a tradition for the resort, marks its 11th early opening in the past 12 years. Mission Ridge stands out as potentially the first ski area to open this season in both Washington and Oregon.
The resort's exceptional snowmaking system and its dedicated crew have made this early opening possible. The initial days of the season will see Chair 1 and The Wenatchee Express (Chair 2) in operation from 9 am to 4 pm. Enthusiasts can enjoy the Sunspot and Tumwater runs via the Wenatchee Express chair, and the Mimi run from Chair 1.
“We couldn’t be more excited to get things rolling for the 2023/24 winter season,” Mission Ridge’s Chief Marketing Officer Tony Hickok stated. “We’re looking forward to building off of the great season we had last year while staying focused on providing a quality experience for all of our guests. The opportunity to ski and snowboard on Thanksgiving weekend isn’t something to be taken for granted here in the Northwest, and we are thrilled to be able to provide that opportunity for our community once again.”
Chief Mountain Officer Brad Whiting also commented on the team's effort, saying, “Even though conditions and temperatures have been less than ideal in November, our teams pulled together, as they always do, to make it happen and get the resort open by Thanksgiving weekend. We are extremely proud of our snowmaking capabilities and team here at Mission Ridge. They really set us apart in the Northwest. That being said, it takes a tremendous effort from all of our crews across the mountain to prepare for the winter season. We are excited to open and welcome our community back up to The Ridge.”
The resort will have limited terrain and ski runs during the opening weekend, expanding as conditions improve. All services, including the Chair 5 Pub and Ka Wham Cafe, will be available with early-season menus.
The weather forecast for Saturday suggests ideal conditions, with sunny skies and a high near 28 degrees.
Discounted lift tickets are available, reflecting the limited opening, with prices ranging from $9 for ages 7 & under to $79 for ages 25-69. These discounts apply to advance online purchases.
In a special gesture, Mission Ridge is offering free skiing and riding to Firefighters, EMTs, and Law Enforcement professionals from opening day until the third weekend in December, a tribute to both active duty and 2023 summer seasonal emergency responders.
About Mission Ridge:
Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort, located 12 miles south of Wenatchee in North Central Washington, is known for its high base area elevation of 4,570 feet. The resort covers 2,000 acres and offers 2,250 vertical feet of terrain. It operates under special use permits from the U.S. Forest Service and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. More information can be found at www.missionridge.com.