Spring Break revitalizes Sisters economy after slow winter season

SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Spring break is breathing new life into the local economy in Sisters, as families and travelers flock to Central Oregon following a slower-than-usual winter season. 

Across the state, many schools are out for Spring Break, and the influx of visitors is already making an impact—especially for small businesses that rely on seasonal tourism. 

“We've definitely seen a big uptick in business,” said General Manager Macon Luhning. “A lot of people are in town traveling. The weather's been great, so it's been really great for business.” 

The popular bakery, known for drawing long lines year-round, is now serving a steady stream of Spring Break visitors alongside its loyal local customers. Luhning says the seasonal boost comes at the perfect time, as businesses typically experience a dip after the holidays. 

“We stay pretty busy,” Luhning explained. “After the holidays, we have a little bit of a dip. But, you know, we still have people come in. This community is great. We have a lot of locals that frequent the bakery."

While businesses in town are seeing a surge, the broader winter season told a different story—particularly for Central Oregon’s ski and snowboard industry. 

At Hoodoo Ski Area, a lack of snow made for a difficult and unpredictable season. 

“The season was terrible. It was like a rollercoaster. We were open, we were closed. We were open, we were closed,” said General Manager Matthew McFarland. “We only managed to be open for 34 days, and not in a row. Normally we operate for 100 days.” 

Despite the challenges, McFarland noted that when the resort was open, conditions were lively and guests made the most of it.

“The days we were open, it was fantastic. Everybody was there, having a great time,” he said. 

Still, the inconsistent snowfall reflects a larger regional issue. Oregon is experiencing near-record low snowpack levels, part of a broader trend affecting ski resorts across the Pacific Northwest. 

“This isn’t just Central Oregon,” McFarland said. “The whole Pacific Northwest has been having this, you know, same problem. Lack of snow, ski areas everywhere, suffering and closing. And, you know, it's a bummer, but, hey, we're all in it with you. And, like I said, we did what we could this year."

The disappointing season has also raised concerns beyond tourism, including the potential for a more severe wildfire season due to reduced snowmelt.

Even so, optimism remains for the future. 

“Hopefully it’ll snow early,” McFarland said. “If it's anything like they've been forecasting, you know, the very long-range forecast for the Pacific Northwest, are for the ‘Super El Nino’, they're calling it. So we should have lots and lots of snow. Next year, hopefully we'll be open 120 days. We're just looking for another great ski season. And we're thankful for everybody that showed up."

Back in town, businesses are focused on the present—and the opportunity Spring Break brings to recover and prepare for the busy summer months ahead. 

“People still travel into Sisters during the winter because this is such a great community. Everybody welcomes everybody," Macon Luhning said. "We're really happy about it. And we're staying busy. Keep coming to Sisters Bakery. Come check out our 'Spring in Europe' menu. We have a lot of new, fun things to try."

As spring visitors continue to arrive, local business owners say community support—both from tourists and residents—remains key to keeping Sisters thriving year-round.