The mountains around Portland were slow to don their snowy mantles this year, but slope sports are now in full swing and there’s no better time to indulge in some wintry fun. We’ve rounded up popular places to ski, snowboard, and sled within a 2-hour drive of Portland.
Before you head to higher ground, it’s always a good idea to check road conditions on Trip Check.
Skiing + snowboarding
World-class downhill slopes skirt Oregon’s tallest peak, Mount Hood, with options for every skill level. Weekend and holiday traffic can make reaching them a pain, so plenty of planning — and equal measures of patience and humor — can go a long way in making the journey a fun one.
Skiers and snowboarders with lift tickets or season passes are shuttled to Timberline’s summit run via the Palmer Snowcat.
Photo by @alex_zimm
Mt. Hood Skibowl, 87000 US-26, Government Camp
Bring your own gear or rent some at the lodge, then enjoy 960+ acres of skiable terrain with 69 runs, 36 of which are open for night skiing. Three lifts are illuminated after the sun goes down, making for “the biggest night skiing acreage in America.” Stop by the lodge to warm up with hot food or a stiff drink by the fire.
Timberline Lodge, 27500 E. Timberline Rd., Government Camp
Billed as having “the longest ski season in North America” — and the longest vertical (4,540 ft) — Timberline is a magical place for newbies and seasoned skiers and snowboarders alike. Eight chairlifts, a surface lift, and two snowcats give visitors access to a whopping 1,685 skiable acres, including green, blue, and black diamond runs. Multiple terrain parks for all levels are also available, with rails, halfpipes, and jumps for thrill seekers.
Mt. Hood Meadows, 14040 OR-35, Mt. Hood
Stretching across the southeast flank of Mount Hood, Meadows is home to double black diamond runs, forested trails, and nearly 4,500 vertical feet. Beginners can take private or group lessons, while those looking for something a bit slower-paced can explore snowshoeing and cross-country trails. Sahale Lodge serves some of the best grub on the mountain along with local microbrews.
Cooper Spur Mountain Resort, 11000 Cloud Cap Rd., Mt. Hood
Open only on weekends (and Friday nights), Cooper Spur has one lift, a rope tow, and nine runs for beginners and intermediates, including one black diamond hill. If you’re looking for a smaller resort with a relaxed atmosphere and cheaper prices compared to others, this is an ideal option.
Sledding + tubing
Visiting a designated sno-park requires a permit, which ranges from a one-day ($4) or three-day pass ($9) to an annual pass ($25). You can purchase these online or at local resorts, sporting goods stores, and other retail outlets. To make sure you’re getting the most out of the slopes, Next Adventure stocks a variety of sleds, tubes, and other toys. Just be careful you don’t go full Griswold.
Little John Sno-Park is another great (but farther) option.
Photo by @benmcbeephoto
Mt. Hood Skibowl East, 31315 E. Multorpor Rd., Government Camp
You won’t have to waste energy traipsing back uphill at the area’s only conveyor-assisted tubing hill. Stick around after sundown for what’s said to be the only cosmic tubing in the world, featuring laser shows, black lights, 600,000 LEDs, and more. Tickets range from $37 to $39.
Trillium Sno-Park, 90312 Mt. Hood Hwy., Government Camp
This alpine destination is a popular spot for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding to boot. Plus, it’s hard to find a more beautiful view than Mount Hood looming over a frozen Trillium Lake.
Gabriel Park, Southwest 45th Avenue and Vermont Street, Portland
On the rare occasion that snow falls at city level, grab your saucer and head to this 89-acre park in Southwest Portland. There are plenty of gentle slopes that are perfect for young kids to join in the fun.
