Snow-covered peaks, finally
The Mt. Waterman ski lifts near La Cañada Flintridge will open for the first time since 2010-11 season.
For the first time since the 2010-11 season, the Mt. Waterman Ski Lifts near La Cañada Flintridge will open later this month thanks to the recent El Niño storms.
As of Thursday morning, there was more than 2 feet of snow on the hill, according to the facility’s website, with more snow expected through Saturday.
Brien Metcalf, co-owner of Mt. Waterman, said it is expected to be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. all three days of the upcoming holiday weekend, Jan. 16-18.
Metcalf’s brother, Rick, also a co-owner, is working with Caltrans officials to open the stretch of Angeles Crest Highway past Newcomb’s Ranch that was closed this week.
The recent snowfall has been a welcome addition for the Metcalfs because Mt. Waterman doesn’t produce its own snow.
“Our snow comes from heaven, not the hoses,” Brien Metcalf said.
The Metcalfs and three other investors — all La Cañada High School graduates — bought Mt. Waterman in 2006, and it’s become a family-operated business.
“It’s a local hill and run by family,” said Brien Metcalf, who manages employees and runs the mechanical side, including the chair lifts.
Rick Metcalf deals with the overall operation, including legal issues and permitting, and their sister, Beth, manages the website and sells tickets, Brien Metcalf said.
Another uunusual aspect about Mt. Waterman is that it’s “self-contained,” he said, adding that everything is run by generators, including the kitchen, which is midway up the hill.
For updates about the snow status at Mt. Waterman, visit mtwaterman.org or call (818) 790-2002.