PORTLAND, Ore. -- Ski resorts around Oregon are gearing up for another big season, with hopes of big snow to boot. Mt. Hood Meadows, the closest full-service resort to Portland, hopes to lure locals toward slopes closer to home with a down economy putting the dampers on ski vacations further away.

Mt. Hood Meadows. (Spirit One)

Hood Meadows is once again offering its discount season pass deals and those interested in the steep discounts have little time to act.

Plans purchased online in groups of four or 10 provide increasing discounts to early bird adult skiers and snowboarders. The 4x4 pass is $444 each when purchased in groups of four, a discount of more than 50 percent off the regular season pass price of $900.

The 10 Time Pass allows a group of 10 or more to purchase the pass for $330 each, saving at minimum $69 off the regular price of $399. New this year, the 10 Time Pass will also allow passholders to head directly to the lifts instead of having to stop at the ticket window each day, as in years past.

Many enjoy the pass in particular because it offers a way to "hedge bets" on a full season pass in the event of a bad snow season or other unforeseen circumstances that prevent a long season. And those buying the 10 Time Pass are offered a $99 unlimited spring pass in March once they've used up their tickets.

Another pre-season pass deal aimed at young snow enthusiasts offers unlimited access for ages 15-22 for $333 when three kids sign up. It’s known as the Meadows 3x3 pass.

These deals are available through Wednesday, Nov. 19, at the Mt. Hood Meadows website.

Don’t know three other coworkers, friends or family members who ski or board? Check out Craigslist or do a Google search online; there are myriad groups forming to take advantage of the deals.

Regular lift ticket prices to Mount Hood Meadows vary this year, from $54 during midweek skiing to $69 for weekends and holidays, opening weekend through early March.

Mount Hood Meadows also has announced a flurry of renovations, including brighter, energy-efficient slope lights for night skiing and increased lighting around the lodge.

Bathrooms have been remodeled, communications and lift scanning technology has been upgraded, and a new medical clinic and ski patrol headquarters offers better medical capabilities on the mountain, marketing director Dave Tragethon said.

Mount Hood Meadows management hopes to open the resort around Nov. 21 but says it all depends on snow accumulation.