Mt. Hood Territory Winter FAQ

Winter weather in Oregon varies depending on location. On Mount Hood, the weather is more severe than in Portland or the Willamette Valley. When it rains in the city, it usually snows on the mountain. However, seasonal storms can hit the city as well. If you're planning a winter visit to Oregon, be sure to pack warm clothes and be aware that chains may be required for driving over the mountain pass. For the latest information, visit the Oregon Department of Transportation Winter Travel Tips website.

Yes! Mt. Hood is home to three diverse ski resorts. Timberline Lodge & Ski Area is the only ski-in, ski-out lodge in the state, Mt. Hood Skibowl has the largest night skiing terrain in the United States and Mt. Hood Meadows offers the most skiable terrain on the mountain. Watch this video for more information about the Mt. Hood ski resorts.

Ski and snowboard rentals is available at a variety of shops along Mt. Hood.

Rentals near Government Camp:

• Mt. Hood Skibowl
• Mt. Hood Outfitters
• Timberline Lodge & Ski Area
• Valian's Sports
• Mt. Hood Meadows

Rentals in The Villages of Mt. Hood:

• Goodwynns

Rentals in Sandy:

• Meadowlark Ski and Snowboard
• Next Adventure

You can rent winter clothing at Mt. Hood Skibowl in Government Camp.

Mt. Hood Outfitters offers guided snowshoe, cross country ski and snowmobile tours for all experience levels. They will provide you with everything you need to have a fun and safe outing. Your guide will share their knowledge of the local flora and fauna, as well as the area's history and culture. Guided tours are a great way to meet new people and learn new skills.

No, you cannot rent snowmobiles on Mt. Hood. Although you can take a guided snowmobile tour with Mt. Hood Outfitters. Tours are suitable for all ages and experience levels.

Mt. Hood Territory offers hundreds of unique vacation rentals, including many that are perfect for large groups. Grab some friends and family and spend your evenings sharing stories about your adventures from that day. View our Places To Stay page to find the perfect location for every budget.

Winter driving on Mt. Hood can be challenging. Check the weather and road conditions before you go. The weather on Mt. Hood can change quickly, so it is important to be prepared for anything. For the most up-to-date information on winter driving, visit the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) Winter Travel Tips and visit ODOT TripCheck for the latest road conditions.

Yes! If hitting the slopes isn’t your idea of a great time then no worries; we have lots of ways to entertain and delight you. Find places to eat, things to do and places to shop in Government Camp or the Villages of Mt. Hood. Also, the rest of our region offers plenty of indoor activities to enjoy while staying out of the weather. Visit one of our interactive museums or follow our Tap Trail to taste amazing wine and beer crafted by our local experts. Walk our downtown communities for boutique shopping and dining options or catch a play at the local theater. Mt. Hood Territory offers many winter activities with no snow required.

There are a few locations on Mt. Hood where sledding and tubing is allowed. For more information about all available Oregon Sno-Parks visit the Mt. Hood National Forest ranger stations.

• Tubing:
  • Mt. Hood Skibowl
  • Summit Ski Area
• Sledding/Tubing:
  • Snow Bunny Sliding Area Sno-Park
  • White River Sno-Park

In designated winter recreation areas you must have a valid Sno-Park permit displayed in your vehicle windshield from November 1 through April 30. This is in addition to any other land use permits you might have. Oregon Sno-Park permits are available at DMV offices and other vendors.

You don’t have to drive in the snow on Mt. Hood. Ride the Mt. Hood Express from Sandy to Timberline, with stops at Skibowl and Government Camp. Buses operate seven times a day, seven days a week, with an additional late night bus December 1 through March 31. The buses are also equipped to handle all of your winter recreation gear.

You can also catch the Hoodland Shuttle. Serving from Sandy to Government Camp and PDX airport. Call or text a ride and be dropped off right at the ski slope. They offer room for all your gear.