Snowcats is a day of discounted skiing or snowboarding at Mt. Hood, Ore., offered by Linfield University in late January. This year, the school charged $40 for a Lift Ticket, $20 to rent gear and $15 for a bus ride to and from the 3 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. event.

Wildcats in attendance had a blast and encouraged other students to give it a try. 30 students went up to Mt. Hood this year, a big number for Jan term in particular.

Snowcats is a great way to connect with friends, both old and new, over a shared interest in snow sports. Half of the participants took a largely silent van up to the event, yet they filled the vehicle with conversation and laughter the entire ride back.

“I think everybody who even has some sort of interest in the snow should get up there,” said junior biology and pre-med major Joshua Nighthawk.

There were runs aplenty for beginners and experts alike, and ski lessons were available for those new to the sport. Many people hit the snow for the first time, but were glad to learn they were not alone.

At night, the majestic Ski Bowl became peaceful with the departure of the crowds and any associated pressure. Students played games in the lodge as they became cold and tired.

The icy weather and severe lack of snow this winter made it harder to slow down on the slopes. Students could still go down some of the runs, though it often took a few attempts to discover the best route.

Learning the basics became difficult and time-consuming. Some people left early this year for other engagements, but those who remained still enjoyed the experience.

“When the sun went down, it just became an ice rink,” said junior environmental science major Charlotte Ingalls.

The weather on Mt. Hood may be unpredictable, but as long as there is snow, it is generally pleasant enough to go.

At ASLU, senior exercise science major and vice president of student events Sydney Downing handled most of the event planning and logistics, including writing waivers and reserving vans.

“It is so worth it to get to see all the students have fun,” said Downing.

Proposed changes included advertising Snowcats beyond email, where it can get buried, and running the event for an additional weekend.

Snowcats was just the solution for an empty evening in late January for those Linfield students interested in snowsports, and it could do the same for you.