Storms bring welcome snowfall to Angeles National Forest, nearby Mt. Waterman

For the first time since the 2010-11 ski season, Mt. Waterman Ski Lifts will open later this month following a series of El Niño storms this week, with more forecast this weekend.

As of Thursday morning, there was more than 2 feet of snow on the hill, according to the ski facility’s website, with more snow expected tonight and Saturday.

Brien Metcalf, co-owner Mt. Waterman, said the ski facility is expected to be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. all three days of the upcoming holiday weekend, Jan. 16 through 18.

Metcalf’s brother, Rick, who is also a co-owner, is working with Caltrans officials to open the stretch of Angeles Crest Highway past Newcomb’s Ranch that was closed on Thursday.

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, who are all La Cañada High 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 of the facility, including the chair lifts.

While Rick Metcalf deals with the overall operation, including legal issues and permitting, their sister, Beth, manages the website and sells tickets, Brien Metcalf said.

Another aspect that’s unique about Mt. Waterman is that it’s “self-contained,” he said, adding that everything is run by generators, including the kitchen, which is located midway up the hill.

For updates about the snow status at Mt. Waterman, visit mtwaterman.org or call (818) 790-2002.