The trail sign marking the start of Tesla snowshoe trail at Edison Butte Sno-Park outside Bend. 

That was quite the storm to round out the winter. It’s over … right, weather gods? Some — those craving spring — are probably angry with me now, but not all. The snowpack benefits more than just season passholders.

Conditions have improved at many local sno-parks. Deschutes National Forest trail crew supervisor Joe Welke said in this week’s report that Central Oregon sno-parks picked up 2 to 3 feet of snow from the most recent winter storm. As of Monday, all summer trails had at least some snow. If it hasn’t already, that snow will melt at lower elevations over the next week or so, causing some sloppy conditions. Trail users should seek out areas known for draining well east and north of Bend.

Forecasts are predicting overcast and rising temperatures over the weekend, with highs in the mid-40s and lows around freezing. Friday looks like the best day to get out. It should be clear and sunny with temperatures 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Below are some recommended spots for recreation this weekend.

Deep snow conditions exist

Mt. Bachelor

Mt. Bachelor had received close to 4 feet of snow in a week’s time, as of Thursday morning. The 45 inches raised the ski area’s base depth to 123 inches. While the large accumulation brings great skiing, it also creates deep snow conditions. Staff encourages skiers and riders to be aware of tree wells and to always ride with a buddy. The mountain had its fifth death due to tree well immersion since 2018 this week. To avoid such accidents altogether, stick to groomed runs.

According to the mid-mountain snow forecast, Bachelor should receive a couple of inches of snow over the weekend, with temperatures dropping into the 20s. Friday should be clear and hover around freezing.

Hoodoo Ski Area

Hoodoo was expecting new snow Friday evening after a week in which over a foot fell on the ski area. Staff warned skiers and boarders to watch out for ice in places, especially on the top of the mountain and during the beginning and end of the day. The ski area’s base depth was up to 81 inches as of Thursday.

The Autobahn lift is also back open for tubers looking to slide down the mountain.

Willamette Pass Resort

Willamette Pass Resort received a whopping 54 inches of snow over the past week, bringing its base depth up to 76 inches. Staff reminded people to respect area closures and be aware of deep snow immersion. They also said to enjoy the clear skies and great snow.

All 30 trails and five out of six lifts were open Thursday.

Plenty of snow in national forest

With a solid base and reported good conditions, Edison Sno-park has a variety of ski, snowshoe and snowmobile trails. At 5000 feet, the area’s snow base ranged from 36 to 66 inches. It also has a large parking lot with plenty of room for large groups, RVs and trailers. Unfortunately, the snow shelter on site has been closed, but there are other snow shelters in the area.

The parking area is four miles off of Cascade Lakes Highway on Forest Road 45.

Brood rainbow trout released at Haystack

Anglers have a rare opportunity to catch trophy-sized broodstock rainbow trout in Haystack Reservoir. According to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s website, an excess of trout from Wizard Falls Hatchery were released into the reservoir last month.

Haystack Reservoir is southeast of Culver, under an hour drive north on Route 97 from Bend. It is currently 76% full. The department of fish and wildlife warned that fishing can be slow on the reservoir following its draining for maintenance. Anglers should expect things to pick up as it is restocked and fish populations rebound.

Ride the snow at Horse Butte

According to recent reports on Bend Trails, Horse Butte Loop Trail is currently rideable snow. Fatbikes and regular mountain bikes can likely ride the 10-mile loop of packed snow.

As the snow melts, riders should allow the trails time to dry to avoid damaging them. These trails are also great for hikers and trail runners. And dried or icy ruts can roll an ankle and dampen a trail experience.

For a full list of conditions updated regularly, visit bendbulletin.com/explore/conditions.