Mount Bailey Cat Skiing

Located 80 miles east of Roseburg [1] off Route 138 in the central Cascades is Mount Bailey. The experienced skiers at Cat Ski Mt. Bailey (800/733-7593, www.catskimtbailey.com [2], $350 per day) know where the best runs are to be had.

Snowcats transport no more than 12 skiers up the mountain from Diamond Lake Resort to the summit of this 8,363-foot peak. Experienced guides then lead small groups down routes that best suit the abilities of each group.

The skiing is challenging and should be attempted only by advanced skiers. Open bowls, steep chutes, and tree-lined glaciers are some of the types of terrain encountered during the 3,000-foot drop in elevation back to the resort.

The rates are worth it given the pristine beauty of the area, the dearth of crowds, and the superlative skiing. Attractive packages include overnight lodging in fireside cabins at Diamond Lake Resort [3] as well as an “alpine lunch” of meats, cheeses, vegetables, homemade pie, and coffee served up on the mountain. Only a limited number of skiers can book, so be sure to call ahead for reservations.