Fresh snow in the mountains of northeast Oregon has residents and visitors alike thinking of skiing, snowmobiles and other winter fun. A La Grande family made a trip to Anthony Lakes the first weekend of October, just to see the season's first snow. See the photos in the album.
Yes, it is a little early to wax the skiis, but ski fever is a strong virus. It isn't too early to begin planning a trip to the La Grande area for some snow play. The Anthony Lakes ski area, www.anthonylakes.com, sits at 7,100 feet in the heart of the Elkhorn Ridge of the Blue Mountains, just an hour southwest of La Grande and just 20 miles from North Powder. The Spout Springs ski area, www.skispoutsprings.com, is about the same distances northwest of La Grande and west of Elgin. Watch their Web sites to keep track of the snow depths and for news of season openings. Go to www.visitlagrande.com for lodging choices, events and other things to see and do.
Be sure to plan some time to experience the winter elk viewing excursions near North Powder. Ride on a horse-drawn wagon right into the midst of a herd of Rocky Mountain elk and learn all about the majestic animal and the spectacular setting. Go to www.tnthorsemanship.com/tours for a 2009-2010 schedule. See the photo album on this blog for pictures.
