Mount Hood, standing majestically about 50 miles east of Portland, Oregon, is not just a visual icon for the state but also a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts. With its perpetually snow-capped peak, Mount Hood invites skiers and snowboarders from all over to experience its diverse terrain and enjoy its winter offerings. Most accessible by southeast Portland, but easily navigatable by the entire city, it serves as an accessible escape for both day-trippers and vacationers looking to engage in winter sports and other recreational activities.

Timberline Lodge & Ski Area

• Location: 27500 E Timberline Road, Government Camp, OR 97028
• Contact: +1 503-272-3158
• Website: timberlinelodge.com

Timberline Lodge & Ski Area is often the first place that comes to mind when thinking about skiing on Mount Hood. Positioned about 6,000 feet up on the southern flank of Mount Hood, Timberline Lodge provides not just incredible slopes but also breathtaking panoramic views. Timberline boasts a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels and even offers the only year-round skiing and snowboarding in North America, thanks to the Palmer Snowfield.

Mount Hood Meadows

• Location: 14040 Oregon 35, Mt Hood, OR 97041
• Contact: +1 503-337-2222
• Website: skihood.com

Another popular destination is Mount Hood Meadows, which provides a broad range of trails for skiers and snowboarders, ensuring options for every skill level. From gentle, beginner-friendly slopes to challenging terrains for advanced enthusiasts, Mount Hood Meadows is particularly favored for its extensive and varied runs and modern facilities.

Mount Hood Skibowl

• Location: 87000 E Highway 26, Government Camp, OR 97028
• Contact: +1 503-272-3206
• Website: skibowl.com

Mount Hood Skibowl stands out for its vibrant night skiing offerings, being one of the largest night skiing areas in the entire United States. Conveniently located in Government Camp, it’s particularly accessible for those making the trip from Portland. Skibowl offers a blend of terrains suitable for novices through to expert skiers and snowboarders, and also hosts a variety of winter events and competitions.

Cooper Spur Mountain Resort

• Location: 10755 Cooper Spur Road, Mt Hood, OR 97041
• Contact: +1 541-352-6692
• Website: cooperspur.com

Cooper Spur Mountain Resort is nestled on the northeastern side of Mount Hood and offers a more intimate and family-friendly environment. With a focus on beginner and intermediate slopes, it’s a splendid spot for families and those newer to winter sports. Moreover, the resort offers a cozy, rustic experience with log cabins and homestyle dining.

Summit Ski Area

• Location: 90255 Government Camp Loop, Government Camp, OR 97028
• Contact: +1 503-272-0256
• Website: summitskiarea.com

Founded in 1927, Summit Ski Area is recognized as the second-oldest continuously operating ski area in the United States. Situated in Government Camp, it is notably family-friendly and offers a modest but entertaining range of slopes for skiing and snowboarding, making it a delightful spot for beginners and families with young children.

Teacup Lake Nordic

• Location: Mt Hood National Forest, 12725 Teacup Lake Rd, Mt Hood, OR 97041
• Contact: Not available
• Website: teacupnordic.org

For those who prefer Nordic skiing, Teacup Lake Nordic offers a well-maintained network of cross-country ski trails. Operated by a non-profit organization, the area provides a serene and picturesque environment for enjoying the snowy landscape of Mount Hood.

Apart from these key spots, Mount Hood National Forest encompasses numerous trails and areas conducive for backcountry skiing and snowboarding, for those seeking more solitude and an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Seasonal Skiing & Snowboarding

Generally, the prime season for skiing and snowboarding around the Portland area (more specifically, on Mount Hood) is during the winter months, although some opportunities can extend well into the spring and even early summer.

Winter Season

• Typical Duration: December to February
• Characteristics: This is the peak season for skiing and snowboarding, where you can expect a solid snowpack and frequent snowfall.
• Considerations: Expect colder temperatures and be prepared with suitable winter gear. The resorts might be more crowded during holidays and weekends.

Spring Season

• Typical Duration: March to May
• Characteristics: Skiing and snowboarding can usually still be enjoyed in the early to mid-spring due to retained snowpack, especially in higher elevation areas. The weather tends to be milder, and the days get longer.
• Considerations: Conditions can be more variable, with some resorts closing certain runs if snow has melted, but it can be a beautiful and less crowded time to enjoy the slopes.

Summer Season

• Typical Duration: June to August
• Characteristics: Summer skiing is limited and typically only available at a few spots, such as the Palmer Snowfield at Timberline Lodge.
• Considerations: Be prepared for slushier conditions and much more limited terrain. Sunscreen and lighter wear are essential.

Fall Season

• Typical Duration: September to November
• Characteristics: Skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the fall are scarce and typically nonexistent.
• Considerations: Most resorts use this time to prepare for the winter season, and there’s usually not enough snowpack for winter sports.