I've skied and snowboarded Meadows for over 25 years and still discover new terrain and runs each year. It's got everything from gentle beginner slopes, which helped when teaching my 2 and 4 year old daughters, to wide open bowls and steep tree-ed double diamond terrain. Those who complain about the crowds likely have little experience at other ski areas... Meadows on it's most crowded day is less crowded than any New England or Utah ski area on a weekend. There are quite a few grumpy old outdoor dudes that complain about their terrain access being limited by avalanche control and if you ski on a powder day you'll have to listen to them grumble and make snarky comments to the ski patrollers and lift operators. Mt Hood is prone to getting lots of snow and can have dangerous conditions or need storm recovery. This may require extra time. If you can't appreciate your time here, stay home, we won't miss you! I've skied bigger and better mountains for sure but I'll buy a season pass at Meadows every year.