A winter wonderland is just over an hour from downtown Portland, making skiing and snowboarding near Portland a favorite pastime for locals, newcomers, and visitors. With breathtaking mountain landscapes, world-class resorts, and an abundance of fresh powder, Oregon offers some of the best winter sports experiences in the Pacific Northwest. For those moving to Portland or newcomers looking to embrace the outdoor lifestyle, hitting the slopes on Mt. Hood or Mt. Bachelor is an unbeatable way to enjoy the season.
Skiing and Snowboarding on Mt. Hood
About 50 miles from Portland and visible from up to 100 miles away, Mt. Hood is the highest peak in Oregon and the fourth highest in the Oregon Cascade Range. A part of the Mt. Hood National Forest, this towering volcano is home to some of the best skiing and snowboarding near Portland. The iconic Timberline Lodge, a National Historic Landmark, is known for having the longest ski season in North America. It also gained fame when its exterior was featured as the Overlook Hotel in Stanley Kubrick’s film The Shining.
Mt. Hood offers four main ski areas:
- Timberline Lodge – Famous for year-round skiing and snowboarding near Portland with stunning views and a historic lodge experience.
- Mt. Hood Meadows – The largest ski resort on Mt. Hood, offering over 2,150 acres of terrain with extensive backcountry skiing in Heather Canyon.
- Mt. Hood Skibowl – Known as America’s largest night ski area, this resort provides a full range of runs and a Snow Tube & Adventure Park.
- Cooper Spur & Summit Ski Area – Ideal for families and beginners looking for a more relaxed skiing environment.
While winter is the main attraction, the resorts on Mt. Hood also provide a variety of activities during the summer months. With scenic hiking trails, alpine slides, and mountain biking routes, it’s a year-round destination for adventure seekers.
Skiing and Snowboarding at Mt. Bachelor
For those looking to venture beyond Mt. Hood, Mt. Bachelor, located 22 miles west of Bend, offers an exceptional skiing experience. At an elevation of 9,068 feet, it boasts nearly 3,700 acres of lift-accessible terrain, making it the highest skiable elevation in both Oregon and Washington. The dry, powdery snow in Central Oregon makes for fantastic skiing conditions throughout the season.
With 88 runs, 11 lifts, and 360-degree skiing from the summit, Mt. Bachelor caters to all levels of skiers and snowboarders. It’s also known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with plenty of terrain parks and beginner-friendly runs. Those planning a long weekend can stay in nearby Sunriver or Bend, both of which offer excellent lodging and après-ski options.
Resort Information and Contact Details
Mt. Hood Meadows
14040 Hwy 35
Mt. Hood, OR 97041
503-227-SNOW
www.skihood.com
With over 2,150 acres of terrain and 12 total chairlifts (including five high-speed quads), Mt. Hood Meadows is a paradise for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. The resort also features eight terrain parks for riders of all abilities, many of which are lit for night skiing. The resort’s mountain lifestyle store in NW Portland allows guests to shop and unwind with a glass of wine or microbrew while sharing stories from the slopes.
Mt. Hood Skibowl
87000 Highway 26
Government Camp, OR 97028
www.skibowl.com/winter
As the closest ski area to Portland, Skibowl is just one hour from downtown. It features a full range of runs, an expansive outback area, and two terrain parks. Skibowl is especially known for night skiing and its Snow Tube & Adventure Park is perfect for those looking for snow-filled fun without hitting the slopes.
Timberline Lodge
27500 E Timberline Road
Timberline Lodge, OR 97028
503-272-3311
www.timberlinelodge.com
Offering the longest ski season in North America, Timberline Lodge combines a storied history with modern skiing amenities. The WPA-era lodge was built in the late 1930s and dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Skiers and snowboarders enjoy a total vertical drop of 3,690 feet, the most in the Pacific Northwest. With seven lifts servicing 41 runs and multiple terrain parks, Timberline is a must-visit destination for winter sports lovers.
Mt. Bachelor
13000 SW Century Drive
Bend, OR 97702
800-829-2442
www.mtbachelor.com
A premier destination resort for Portlanders looking for a long weekend getaway, Mt. Bachelor boasts some of the driest and lightest snow in the Pacific Northwest. With an average snowfall of 500 inches per season, it offers some of the best powder skiing in the region. The resort’s 11 lifts take riders to 88 runs, including 360-degree skiing from the summit at 9,065 feet.
Why Skiing and Snowboarding Near Portland is a Must-Do
For newcomers to Oregon, skiing and snowboarding offer an incredible way to embrace the state’s outdoor lifestyle. The combination of world-class resorts, stunning scenery, and excellent snow conditions make Mt. Hood and Mt. Bachelor top destinations for winter sports. Whether you’re looking for challenging backcountry terrain, night skiing, or family-friendly slopes, there’s a resort that fits every skill level.
For those moving to Portland, having access to such renowned skiing and snowboarding destinations just a short drive away is a major perk. With easy access to high-quality resorts and a vibrant après-ski scene, it’s no wonder that winter sports are such a beloved pastime in the region. Grab your gear and head to the mountains—Oregon’s ski season is waiting for you!
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