Mt. Hood features some of the best snow in the Pacific Northwest and has the closest ski resorts to Portland. Here's more information on the Mt. Hood ski resorts and why this area should be at the top of your list for winter adventures in Oregon.
Mt. Hood features some of the best snow in the Pacific Northwest and has the closest ski resorts to Portland. Here's more information on the Mt. Hood ski resorts and why this area should be at the top of your list for winter adventures in Oregon.
Mt. Hood Skibowl, the largest night ski area in the United States, offers a thrilling winter experience with 36 fully lit runs for night skiing and a total of 69 runs, including Oregon’s highest concentration of black diamond slopes. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Skibowl is also home to the world’s first Cosmic Tubing®, where families can enjoy an unforgettable tubing experience with over 600,000 LED lights and lively music. For thrill-seekers, the Snow Tube and Adventure Park features the Extreme Tube Hill with steeper runs, while families with young children can enjoy indoor activities like the Super Play Zone, or outdoor activities such as the Kids Tubing Carousel and Frosty’s Playland. With activities for all ages, Mt. Hood Skibowl stands out as a top winter destination near Portland. Fun fact: Skibowl was established in 1937 by a group of Norwegian ski jumpers.
Timberline Lodge & Ski Area offers an unparalleled skiing experience in the Pacific Northwest, with the largest vertical terrain at 4,540 vertical feet following its recent merger with Summit Ski Area in Government Camp. Known for its breathtaking scenery and expansive runs, Timberline is a premier destination for skiing in Oregon. As the only ski-in, ski-out lodging in the state, Timberline Lodge combines rustic charm with modern comfort, providing uniquely designed rooms and stunning views from its 6,000-foot elevation. Guests enjoy first-class dining and a wide range of amenities, all within a landmark hotel rich in history. Built in 1937 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977, Timberline Lodge appeals to history buffs and winter sports enthusiasts alike, making it a one-of-a-kind destination on Mt. Hood. Fun fact: Timberline Lodge was featured in the 1980 movie "The Shining” as the exterior of the lodge was used as the exterior of the Overlook Hotel.
Mt. Hood Meadows offers some of the most stunning skiing and snowboarding in the Pacific Northwest, with wide-open terrain accessed via the Cascade Express Lift providing breathtaking panoramic views across Oregon. Advanced skiers and snowboarders will love the steep powder pitches of Heather Canyon, and for an added thrill, a hike up to Super Bowl reveals an additional 1,700 vertical feet and challenging double black diamond runs. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, Mt. Hood Meadows also operates Cooper Spur Mountain Resort, which features beginner and intermediate terrain ideal for skiing and snowboarding, plus options for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and tubing. Together, these options make Mt. Hood Meadows a versatile winter destination for all skill levels and adventure types. Fun fact: Meadows had the first enclosed on-the-snow conveyer lift in the Northwest – the “Ballroom Carpet” – named after longtime instructor, the late Don Ball.