Ski area parking lot available to watch eclipse

Mount Hood Meadows is renting 200 spots in its main parking lot for recreational and self-contained vehicles on Aug. 19 and 20 for visitors wanting to see the Aug. 21 solar eclipse.

The cost will be $50.

Vehicles must be self-contained as no services are available. Rest rooms will be open for overnight guests.

Dave Tragethon, vice president of communications, said Mount Hood Meadows is just outside the zone of totality. Officials estimate those viewing from Meadows will see a 97 percent eclipse.

Those who want to drive Monday to the zone of totality will need to travel only 19 minutes, he said.

The resort will run its Stadium chairlift from 9 a.m. to noon on Aug. 21 for high-elevation viewing. Chairlift rides will be $12, but free for 2017-18 season pass holders.

The resort also will present a Mountain Wine Festival from noon to 3 p.m. Aug. 19. The $15 entry fee includes five tastes.

At the ski area, the eclipse will begin at 9:07 a.m., reach 97 percent at 10:20 a.m. and end at 11:40 a.m.

To reserve a parking space, go online to www.mthoodmeadows.com/eclipse.