Mt. Hood Meadows Ends Summer Operations In Wake of Grasshopper Fire

The Grasshopper fire continues to burn more than 80,000 acres on the eastern side of Mt. Hood, Oregon, and has now caused significant impacts on the area’s ski resorts.

Mt. Hood Meadows, which sits on the eastern slope of Mt. Hood, has been particularly affected by smoke and evacuation orders.

On August 12, Mt. Hood Meadows, which has remained largely closed due to the fire since earlier in the month, announced that it would remain closed for the remainder of the summer. Mt. Hood Meadows was placed under Level 3 evacuation orders eight days ago, and the USFS has expanded closures within Mt. Hood National Forest as of Tuesday, August 11.

As a result of the closure, Mt Hood Meadows has canceled all remaining summer events, but still hopes to operate for scheduled private events as conditions allow.

Strong winds along the northeastern and eastern perimeter of the fire contributed to active fire behavior and growth, according to fire updates on Wednesday, August 12th.

Luckily, on its western border, the Grasshopper Fire has begun to move away from Highway 35, and the roadway has reopened during evening hours. Meadows still recommends taking alternate routes to allow fire crews to work alongside the road. As of August 12th, the fire is at 20% containment.

Meadows noted in its post that the decision to close was not taken lightly, given the impacts on their guests and team. “Thank you everyone for your well wishes, positive vibes, and understanding. This is not how we wanted our summer to go, but if there is one thing we are really good at, it is making the best out of a tough situation. Winter is right around the corner, and we are stoked to welcome everyone back up here once the snow falls!” read the social post.

Timberline Lodge also closed briefly earlier this month, due to smoke from the fire, but has since reopened.

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