Mt Bachelor, Oregon, (FSC) Ski Trip ~ February 24th -  March 2nd, 2024

The Mt Bachelor ski trip did not disappoint in the snow department. For those that got to ski on the day of our arrival, Saturday was the only day of sunshine all day. We did get a morning of sun on Wednesday and late afternoon on Friday, our last ski day. The rest of the time it was snowing on the mountain. Most groomers had at least a couple of inches and for those seeking powder, this trip was a dream. The interesting thing about this trip with our accommodations in Bend, Oregon, the weather conditions often differed between the mountain and the town, changing usually about halfway between. It was like we were in different worlds.

On Sunday we held our first club dinner at the Deschutes Brewery Public House in downtown Bend. The second floor was reserved for our club and gave us a great opportunity to mingle while playing darts and video games, enjoy drinks and a sitting down to a wonderful meal.

Monday was the FSC welcome party held at the convention center at our Riverhouse location. It was nice to be able walk over instead of waiting on buses. Our hotel chef did a fantastic job with the buffet dinner and our hotel sponsored free beer and wine for the party. A local band got everyone up and dancing.

Tuesday as a bit of a change for usual FSC ski trip activities. Instead of ski races, we participated in a scavenger hunt and poker run visiting multiple brew houses in downtown Bend. And a bit of axe throwing. Many took the opportunity to try out one of the many excellent restaurants for dinner before, during, or after the poker run. When Alison pulled a hand with four queens, we were sure she won the evening’s contest.

On Wednesday several took the opportunity to go on the optional side trip to Crater Lake instead of skiing. Not surprising a bit of hiking was required due to all the snow closing the last bit of road to the lake. Everyone still got their exercise in for the day!

The Thursday FSC theme party and dinner at the 10 Barrel brew house was another success. With the theme of Git Lit and Glow (Mt Bachelor is actually an active volcano and there are steam vents marked on the ski trials, so you don’t fall in), guests showed up with lots of glow sticks and lights. And Alison ended up being the overall FSC best hand winner for the poker run.

Friday, we had a second club dinner at the Deschutes Junction Pizza Grill Taphouse across the street from the Riverhouse. It was a nice evening to catch up with all the stories from the week.

On Saturday morning, Bend was again getting snow which led to a departure delay due to aircraft engines needing to be de-iced. The group missed our connection in Phoenix but the waitlist for the next flight to Orlando came through and we were all in Orlando by 11 pm with our luggage. Great end to a great ski week.

Brice Crossley, Trip Leader