Anthony Lakes Announces Holiday Opening, Brings Winter Recreation to County

Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort announced on December 16 that it will open for the 2025 to 2026 winter season beginning Saturday, December 20. The resort will be open daily for the holidays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. through January 4, then transition to regular Thursday through Sunday operations starting January 8. A Ski with Santa event is planned on Christmas Eve around 1:00 p.m., and live music is scheduled on the December 20 opening day and on Saturday, December 27.

The announcement brings welcome news for businesses in Baker County that rely on winter visitors for income during a traditionally slow season. Lodging, restaurants, and retail operations may see increased bookings and sales, and seasonal employment opportunities often accompany an early season opening. For residents who work in tourism and service industries, the schedule provides clarity needed to plan staffing and supply needs through the holidays.

Public health and safety considerations are central as early season conditions can be unpredictable. The resort warned that early season terrain may be hazardous, and guests are urged to watch for unmarked obstacles, exercise extreme caution, and remain on groomed runs. Those cautions translate into real demands on local emergency services. Rural ambulance crews and the Baker County Hospital emergency department already face staffing and capacity challenges during peak periods, and an influx of weekend and holiday visitors can stretch response times and resources.

Equity concerns must also inform local planning. Not all residents can afford lift tickets, gear, or transportation to mountain recreation, and the economic benefits of tourism do not automatically reach the most vulnerable households. Strengthening mutual aid agreements, investing in emergency medical staffing and winter training, supporting community first aid programs, and considering low cost access options for local families could help distribute benefits and reduce harm.

Residents planning to visit Anthony Lakes this weekend should verify weather and road conditions, allow extra travel time, dress for cold and variable conditions, and heed resort guidance to stay on groomed runs. Thoughtful preparation and community planning can help Baker County make the most of the winter season while protecting health and safety.