POWDR Corp., the current owner of Mt. Bachelor, announced on April 4 that it will keep the resort. The decision comes after the company announced in August that it would sell four of its resorts, including Mt. Bachelor.
“There are numerous factors involved in evaluating a sale. After considering all facts and circumstances, POWDR has decided to retain ownership of Mt. Bachelor, indefinitely. We’re excited to continue our stewardship of the resort and serve the Central Oregon community with truly one-of-a-kind skiing,” read a statement from POWDR Corp. on Friday.
In its announcement to keep Mt. Bachelor, the corporation said it’s working on several improvements at the resort, which includes offering a new program, “Kids Ski Free,” for any dependent child 12 years or younger, which can be added onto any adult unlimited or Outplay winter season pass.
The resort is also working on updating power capability to the resort, including finalizing an Advanced Wood Energy facility. According to a Mt. Bachelor press release from September, the wood-burning energy facility is set to be operational by fall of 2025.
Following the initial announcement of Mt. Bachelor’s sale, a local group launched an effort to bring Mt. Bachelor into the hands of the Bend community. Its mission was to own and manage Mt. Bachelor, focusing on environmental care, supporting mountain enthusiasts and reinvesting profits to boost the local economy.
While the effort amassed significant support from the community through donations, the group, Mt. Bachelor Community Inc., announced on March 10 that it was unable to submit a bid due to timing constraints.
“Any potential buyer would be wise to recognize the depth of community support behind this initiative. Our model presents a win-win solution — one that secures the capital necessary to maintain and improve the resort while incorporating the insights and passion of the community,” the group stated in a March press release.
“By partnering with future ownership, we can ensure that Mt. Bachelor operates at the highest level, remains financially sound and reflects the values of those who cherish it most.”
The group did not respond to a request for comment by press time.
Mt. Bachelor’s general manager and president, John Merriman, expressed his excitement about the latest announcement.
“This is positive news for Mt. Bachelor and we’re looking forward to our continued journey with POWDR at the helm. I want to extend a thank you to the amazing team at Mt. Bachelor for their patience, positive attitude and commitment to making this one of the best seasons yet,” said Merriman in an email.
This article appears in The Source Weekly April 3, 2025.
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There is a reason for this left hand turn. What that reason is, time will tell. I’d venture to guess they were granted permits behind closed doors for the development they seek.
When prospective buyers are stranded on a broken chair lift during a “test drive”, they might conclude that the asking price is somewhat inflated.