Your Ultimate Guide to Skiing at Mt. Hood: Where Adventure Awaits

At 11,245 feet, Mt. Hood stands tall as the highest point in Oregon, offering a haven for outdoor enthusiasts year-round. With its perpetually snowy peaks adorned by 12 glaciers and an impressive annual snowfall, ranging from 430 to 550 inches at area resorts, Mt. Hood beckons skiers from near and far to experience its thrilling slopes.

ski lift

Skiing Destinations on Mt. Hood

Mt. Hood Meadows

Mt. Hood Meadows is a sprawling ski area, encompassing over 2,150 acres of varied terrain. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, Meadows has something for everyone. From steep frontside bowls to gentle groomed runs, and from award-winning terrain parks to breathtaking double-black diamond trails like Heather Canyon and Clark Canyon, there’s no shortage of excitement here.

Why It’s Different: Mt. Hood Meadows stands out for its diverse terrain, offering everything from family-friendly slopes to challenging backcountry terrain. The resort also hosts events throughout the winter, including ski and snowboard competitions and tasting dinners.

Where to Rent Skis: Mt Hood Meadows offers rentals and lessons right at their lift. Check it out here!

Timberline Lodge & Ski Area

With the longest ski season in North America, Timberline Lodge & Ski Area is a true gem for winter sports enthusiasts. Situated at an elevation of 6,000 feet, just below the summit of Mt. Hood, Timberline boasts 1,685 acres of skiable terrain, including groomed runs, tree skiing, and high-alpine glacier skiing.

Why It’s Different: Timberline’s historic lodge, built in 1936, exudes charm and offers ski-in, ski-out accommodations. Night skiing adds an extra element of magic to the experience, and non-skiers can enjoy snowshoeing on scenic trails.

Where to Rent Skis: Visit the Timberline Lodge Rental Shop for top-notch ski rentals and equipment tuning services.

Mt. Hood Skibowl

Mt. Hood Skibowl is renowned for its extensive night skiing offerings, boasting America’s largest night skiing terrain. During the day, skiers can explore 65 designated runs accessed by four chairlifts, ranging from gentle groomers to challenging black diamond runs.

Why It’s Different: In addition to skiing, Mt. Hood Skibowl offers cosmic snow tubing under the stars, complete with LED lights and laser shows. The resort’s on-mountain dining options, including the lively beer stube, add to the overall experience.

Where to Rent Skis: Gear up for your adventure at Mt. Hood Adventure Park at Skibowl, where you’ll find quality ski rentals for all ages and abilities.

Cooper Spur Ski Area

Cooper Spur Ski Area offers a family-friendly atmosphere with 10 ski runs catering primarily to beginners and intermediates. Nestled on Mt. Hood’s north face, the resort provides a quaint alpine lodge and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Why It’s Different: Cooper Spur’s focus on affordability and accessibility makes it an ideal destination for families and beginners. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also available at the adjacent Nordic center.

Where to Rent Skis: Equipment rentals can be found at nearby rental shops, ensuring you have everything you need for a day on the slopes.

Plan Your Skiing Adventure at Mt. Hood

Located just 50 miles east of Portland, Mt. Hood is easily accessible by car or various transportation options. While weekends are popular, mid-week visits offer fewer crowds and excellent deals on lodging, dining, and lift tickets. Consider staying in the quaint village of Government Camp or exploring lodging options along Highway 26 for easy access to the slopes such as Rhododendron or Welches. 

Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding thrills on challenging terrain or a leisurely day of family fun on gentle slopes, Mt. Hood has it all. Book your cabin with Cascadia Getawaysand embark on an unforgettable skiing adventure at Oregon’s iconic mountain. With our cozy accommodations and proximity to top ski destinations, your winter getaway is sure to be one for the books. Start planning your trip today and get ready to hit the slopes at Mt. Hood!

Getting Around 

Looking to save on gas, don’t have a car or just want to be more eco-friendly? There are great shuttle options to make it up to the mountain without a car. 

Mt Hood Express is a public/private partnership offering a great low cost option to move about the mountain running from Sandy to Timberline Lodge and overlapping bus stops offering mountain access all the way to Canby and Willsonville. Click here for more details on theMt Hood Express

Hoodland Shuttle Cois a private or scheduled service making runs from Sandy to Timberline and also can be hired to make airport runs!Click here for more information! 

Driving yourself?Make sure to check Sno-Pass requirements and local chain restrictions.It is always a good idea to carry a set of chains if you are heading to Mt Hood! 

Book your getaway today!