This winter season continues to be a bit "different than normal," but some research and preparation will put you in the best position to enjoy a responsible and fun visit to Mt. Hood.
In order to open their lifts to you this season, ski resorts are following Oregon Health Authority guidelines and operational policies in partnership with the National Ski Area Association's Ski Well, Be Well Program. For complete information, visit Travel Oregon's page What to Expect at Oregon Ski Areas During COVID-19. And to become an expert in current sno-park fun and conditions, read Travel Oregon's How to Play at Mt. Hood Sno-Parks.
Another pro tip: Visit midweek to avoid sitting in traffic. This year, weekend traffic on Highway 26 has been worse than ever. Plus, there will be fewer people on the mountain for even better social distancing.
Keep reading to learn about current ski and snow area offerings, operations and socially distanced guided excursions on Mt. Hood!
Mt. Hood Skibowl is the closest ski resort to Portland and has 69 day runs. It's also America's largest night ski area with 36 lit runs and the most lit black diamond runs in Oregon. Contactless ticket purchases may be made at any of their outdoor kiosks on their West side. Don't forget that The Hurricane Racing Ski Shop is open for you to get a fresh wax and tune up before you hit the slopes.
Skibowl has been an iconic place to learn to ski or snowboard for over 80 years. Under the direction of the former Olympian, Petr Kakes, the Olympic Ski and Snowboard School is ready to get you going on your journey. Online reservations are required ahead of time.
Before planning any trip to Skibowl, please read their Know Before You Go updates.
Mt. Hood Skibowl is doing everything they can to offer a healthy and fun experience at their tubing area. That's why they have developed the world's first automated snow tube UV-C sterilizing system (patent pending) to sterilize tubes between each session.
For a truly unique and amazing time, check out Cosmic Tubing, where kids and adults can rock out while racing down a hill lit up by more than 600,000 colored LED lights.
All tubing tickets must be purchased online in advance. Capacity during each session has been reduced to allow for greater social distancing. Please carefully read current guidelines all are required to follow.
Timberline Lodge and Ski Area has the longest ski season in North America with over 1,000 acres of terrain and is the only ski-in, ski-out lodge in Oregon. They are running night operations Fri-Sun into March for more socially distanced ski options and less traffic.
If you're interested in lessons, check out their Facebook video describing how they're handling them during the pandemic.
Please prepare for your trip by reading Timberline's operations updates and guidelines.
Located in Government Camp, Summit Ski Area is the second oldest continually operating ski area in the United States. Since 1927 they've operated family friendly winter recreation options. In addition to being the first ski area established on Mt. Hood, they now also offer snow tubing.
Since they are owned by Timberline Lodge & Ski Area, please refer to Timberline's updated guidelines and regulations before visiting, so you're prepared to have fun!
Summit Ski Area also operates Snow Bunny Sliding Area Sno-Park. There, you may bring personal sledding devices, such as toboggans, sleds and tubes.
A fan favorite way to experience winter fun on Mt. Hood is with Mt. Hood Outfitters in Government Camp (or Govy). Their staff of dedicated outdoor guides can craft a perfect trip filled with socially distanced excitement.
Snowmobiling excursions are one of the most popular offerings, and Mt. Hood Outfitters is the only licensed outfitter for snowmobiles in the Mt. Hood National Forest.
If you prefer to get around under your own power, check out their various snowshoeing tours. They offer treks that cover basic snowshoeing techniques for the newbies. The Moonlight Snowshoe Tour and Crosstown Tour are great options for the more experienced snowshoeing enthusiast looking for a unique trip into the great white wilderness. Another awesome way to get out and explore is cross-country skiing with one of their guides. You can also rent their equipment if you want to go it alone.
All reservations must be completed online in advance. And to ensure a great experience, please read Mt. Hood Outfitters' operating updates and guidelines before heading up to Mt. Hood.