Warner Canyon, an enduring ski resort nestled in Lakeview, Oregon, is embracing an innovative transformation, pivoting from its traditional winter sports focus to become a vibrant mountain biking hub. Confronted with a series of snow-deficient winters, the resort is embarking on an ambitious project to construct 12 miles of new mountain bike trails. This strategic shift not only revitalizes the 85-year-old establishment but also positions it as a potential year-round destination, with discussions underway for continuous chairlift service. This endeavor is largely driven by the tireless efforts of local cycling enthusiasts, Shelley and Thom Batty, whose vision and advocacy are reshaping Lakeview's recreational landscape.
Pioneering Mountain Biking in Lakeview
Lakeview, Oregon, a region characterized by its expansive natural beauty, is on the cusp of becoming a significant destination for mountain biking, thanks to the visionary efforts of local cycling advocates Shelley and Thom Batty. Their deep commitment to promoting outdoor sports, particularly off-road cycling, has been instrumental in this transformation. The Battys, who previously managed a bike touring business and a local bike shop, have dedicated nearly a decade to enhancing the cycling infrastructure in Lake County. Their work has laid the groundwork for the development of extensive trail networks, attracting cyclists to the area's diverse terrain and vast open spaces. This passion for cycling, coupled with strategic collaborations, has garnered considerable support for their initiatives, setting the stage for Lakeview's emergence as a premier mountain biking location.
The journey to establish Lakeview as a mountain biking hotspot has been a testament to the Battys' relentless advocacy and community engagement. Upon their relocation to Lakeview, they immediately immersed themselves in promoting cycling, both as a recreational activity and as a catalyst for local economic growth. Thom's involvement with the Oregon Timber Trail and Shelley's leadership at the Lake County Chamber of Commerce highlights their multifaceted approach. Their early successes included efforts to designate a vast area of Lake County as a dark sky sanctuary, demonstrating their ability to forge meaningful partnerships with organizations like Travel Oregon and various land management agencies. These relationships proved crucial when proposing the trail developments at Warner Canyon, allowing them to secure vital support and funding. Their proactive engagement and strategic alliances have been pivotal in transforming their vision into a tangible reality, with a focus on sustainable and community-driven development.
Warner Canyon's Reimagined Future
Warner Canyon, an historic ski area operating since 1938, is undergoing a significant metamorphosis, shifting its operational focus from an 85-year legacy of winter sports to an exciting new chapter centered on mountain biking. This transformation is largely a response to the challenges posed by increasingly frequent snow-deficient winters that have impacted ski seasons. The resort, known for its community-centric and local ambiance, recognized the opportunity to adapt its infrastructure for year-round recreation. This pivot began informally with events like "Summer Fest" held prior to the pandemic, where improvised methods were used to transport bikes up the ski lift, revealing a strong demand for lift-assisted mountain biking. The overwhelming success of these early events provided compelling evidence for the feasibility and popularity of converting the ski hill into a bike park, ultimately solidifying the decision to invest in extensive trail development.
The pivotal moment for Warner Canyon's transformation came in 2024, following another season marked by an extreme lack of snow. Thom Batty, drawing on the strong relationships he and Shelley had cultivated through years of advocacy, seized this opportunity to propose a comprehensive mountain biking initiative. His prompt outreach to Travel Oregon led to an immediate response, with discussions swiftly moving forward due to a joint grant opportunity between Travel Oregon and Travel Southern Oregon. This rapid progression underscored the viability and community support for the project. Within 24 hours, the development of new trails at Warner Canyon was officially underway. Construction for the initial phase was completed the previous year, and the first 3.5 miles of beginner- and intermediate-friendly trails are now awaiting optimal ground conditions for opening. These trails, designed to be adaptive-friendly, mark the beginning of a multi-phase plan to establish Warner Canyon as a premier mountain biking destination, complete with the potential for year-round chairlift service.