Anthony Lakes Ski Area anchors Union County winter recreation economy

Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort, located 19 miles west of I-84 between La Grande and Baker City, functions as the high-elevation winter recreation hub for Union County and neighboring communities. The nonprofit, community-oriented area operates a chairlift called the Rock Garden Triple, surface tows and an extensive network of groomed Nordic trails, and it hosts ski-race and youth programs that draw families and competitive skiers alike.

Operations are typically concentrated on Thursday through Sunday, though hours and open days vary season-to-season. The resort offers lift tickets, a day lodge with food service, a rental shop and programming for both alpine and Nordic skiing. Locals and visitors prize Anthony Lakes for reliable powder and access to nearby backcountry terrain, but officials and staff urge people to check the resort website or call ahead for current operating days, road and snow conditions, and staffing or closure notices. The resort’s web address is anthonylakes.com.

For Union County residents the resort’s seasonal rhythm has multiple effects. Weekend and holiday traffic to Anthony Lakes increases demand for fuel, groceries and short-term lodging in La Grande and surrounding towns, and day visitors support local restaurants and outfitters. The nonprofit model maintains community programming such as youth ski initiatives and race teams that otherwise may be difficult to sustain in a sparsely populated region, preserving recreational opportunities that contribute to quality of life and retain young families.

There are also public-safety and infrastructure implications. High-elevation access means county road maintenance and timely snow-plowing practices play a direct role in keeping the resort reachable. Backcountry access and variable winter weather underscore the importance of avalanche awareness, search-and-rescue preparedness and coordination between the resort and county emergency services. Seasonal staffing levels at the resort can influence the availability of services such as rentals and food service, which in turn affect the economic spillover to nearby towns.

Looking ahead, Anthony Lakes’ combination of lift-served terrain, groomed Nordic trails and community programs positions it as a durable local asset as interest in outdoor recreation remains strong. For residents planning trips, the practical takeaways are clear: confirm open days and road conditions before you drive, factor in variable operational hours, and remember the resort’s nonprofit, community-oriented mission when considering support or participation.

As winter continues, Anthony Lakes will remain a focal point for recreation and local spending in Union County, with its schedule and conditions setting the pace for weekend travel, small-business traffic and community programs that benefit area residents.