Avatar photoBrent Thomas

Skier, mountain biker, fitness enthusiast, native Oregonian, and SnowBrains staff writer. Father to three and husband to one.

Seattle Skier Dies in Tragic Tree Well Accident at Mt. Bachelor, OR

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A skier tragically lost his life at Mt. Bachelor on March 17, 2025, after falling into a tree well and becoming trapped in deep snow. The victim, identified as 34-year-old Benjamin Shelkey of Seattle, Washington, was found unresponsive by fellow skiers who worked desperately to free him before beginning CPR. The emergency unfolded at 3:04 p.m. when Deschutes County 911 received […]
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All the Latest Updates on Locals’ Plan to Purchase Mt. Bachelor, OR

[Updated March 10, 2025] On August 22, 2024, POWDR Corporation announced it was selling Killington Resort and Pico Mountain, Vermont, to local pass holders, as well as three other resorts, including Mt. Bachelor, Oregon, which it has owned since 2001 and is the largest ski resort in the Pacific Northwest. Shortly after the announcement, a local group, now called Mount Bachelor Community […]
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Reflecting on 5 Years Since COVID-19 Shut Down Ski Resorts and How it Has Shaped the Industry Today

Five years ago, the ski industry came to a screeching halt as the COVID-19 pandemic led to unprecedented shutdowns across North America. In mid-March 2020, just as ski resorts were gearing up for the busy spring break season, operations were abruptly halted due to government mandates and growing concerns over virus transmission. For some, this is a sensitive subject, as […]
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The 9 Sketchiest Ski Resort Access Roads in North America, According to SnowBrains Readers

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The drive to the mountain is an integral part of the ski day adventure, setting the tone for the excitement and anticipation that awaits on the slopes. However, reaching some of the best ski resorts often means navigating treacherous roads that can test even the most experienced drivers. From steep inclines and hairpin turns to icy surfaces and unexpected snowstorms, […]
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Expansion at Copper Mountain, CO, Will Create the State’s 2nd Largest Resort Featuring North America’s Highest Lift

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Copper Mountain, Colorado, has received approval from the White River National Forest (WRNF) to move forward with an ambitious expansion and upgrade plan to expand terrain and modernize its lift system. This master plan aims to improve mountain circulation, expand access to high-alpine terrain, and elevate the overall guest experience. Copper Mountain’s Bold Expansion Plan On February 27, WRNF officially […]
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