Timberline plans to open Palmer Snowfield again this coming Friday through Sunday, weather permitting.

Three feet of early season snow compelled Timberline to start the winter season early last weekend, and conditions were quite good, with a little fresh snow Saturday and sunshine all day Sunday. Youth racers were pounding the gates on the groomed slope and the kids from Windells Academy were ripping it through a small terrain park on the eastern slope that led down to a quarter-pipe.

There was enough snow last weekend to ski or snowboard the Magic Mile cat track back to Timberline Lodge, but with sunshine expected all week that snow will probably melt. Riding the lift back down the Mile will likely be your best move unless you want to risk gouging your board(s) on volcanic rock.

Timberline plans to run the Palmer Lift from 9 am to 3 pm Friday through Sunday, with mid-station loading up high where the snow is best. Tickets are selling at early-season rates of $54 for adults 18-64, $46 for teens 15-17 and $36 for juniors and seniors. 2013-14 Timberline season passes and Mt. Hood Fusion passes will be accepted.

The weather forecast for 6,337 feet on Mount Hood’s south side is calling for solid sunshine through the weekend, with freezing levels hovering around 12,000 feet and high temps in the 50s. The elevation at the top of the Palmer lift is 8470 feet.

Timberline will also be holding a job fair in Wy’East Lodge from 9 am to 4 pm on Saturday, in case anyone is interested in earning a season pass with a job on the mountain.

Here is a slideshow from last Sunday on Palmer Snowfield. If you recognize anyone from the photos, please identify them in the comments section and we will update our captions. And don’t forget to tag your favorite mountain pics #ShredHood to join our Instagallery.

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Last modified: October 15, 2013