Mount Hood Ski Area

About Mount Hood Area

Mount Hood is one of the most popular ski areas in the Northwest, with the Timberline Lodge and Mt. Hood Meadows ski resorts. Both resorts offer expansive terrain and close proximity to Portland. Taking a trip to the Mount Hood area when skiing in Oregon is a great way to get double the terrain and twice as much fun compared to if you were just choosing to ski one resort. Both Timberline Lodge and Mt. Hood Meadows have staff committed to providing guests with a truly memorable experience, making it a must-visit destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

How to get to Mount Hood

Mt. Hood Oregon is a scenic one-hour drive from Portland International Airport (41 miles) via Highway 26, nestled in Welches, Oregon. The best way to get to Mt. Hood is by renting a car at Portland International Airport.

Lyft and Uber are somewhat present in the area, but not plentiful. Plan on posting up at your cozy cabin in the woods instead of heading to a big après-ski scene.

Skiing in Mount Hood

Timberline Lodge: This ski-in, ski-out gem is perfect for everyone, from first-timers to seasoned pros. Beginners will love the mellow slopes, while adrenaline junkies can dive into advanced terrain and hit up the freestyle park. What sets Timberline Lodge apart? Its high elevation ensures that, while lower resorts may contend with Pacific Northwest rain, Timberline enjoys a fresh layer of snow. This results in optimal powder conditions on its longest slope, stretching from Palmer Glacier down to Still Creek Basin.

Mt. Hood Meadows: Mt. Hood Meadows is where you’ll find some of the best skiing in the Pacific Northwest. Nestled on the southeast flank of Mt. Hood, this resort offers a little something for everyone—from beginners to experts. With over 2,150 acres of diverse terrain and a 2,777-foot vertical drop, it’s no wonder this spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. For beginners, the gentle slopes of the Buttercup and Daisy lifts provide the perfect place to learn the ropes. But if you’re looking to challenge yourself, head over to the legendary Heather Canyon, where steep chutes and deep powder stashes await. The variety doesn’t stop at the terrain. Mt. Hood Meadows is also known for its incredible snowfall, averaging over 430 inches per season.

Mt. Hood Ski Bowl: With 960 acres of diverse terrain, this spot has something for everyone, whether you’re carving turns, snow tubing with the family, or exploring on snowshoes. One of the best-kept secrets? The low crowds and no lines, so you can spend more time on the mountain and less time waiting around. Ski Bowl is home to a massive amount of night skiing—36 runs lit up for those who want to keep the fun going after dark. Whether you’re searching for secret powder stashes or cruising under the stars, Ski Bowl delivers.

Family vacations in Mount Hood

All of the resorts in the Mt. Hood region are great family-friendly destinations, offering a wide range of on- and off-mountain activities. WWith comfortable accommodations and ski schools available at every site, it offers an ideal setting for family ski trips. Here, guests of all skill levels can improve their skiing in a nurturing atmosphere, thanks to terrain parks designed for progressive learning. The resort guarantees a memorable experience for children with exciting ski programs and activities, allowing parents to unwind and savor their time on the slopes.

Beyond skiing, the resort boasts numerous amenities and activities for families. The Spa at Mt. Hood provides a serene retreat where guests can indulge in massages, facials, and other treatments set against the lush backdrop of Mt. Hood National Forest. Families can also enjoy the various dining options, shopping, and the wide range of recreational activities available.