Are There Good Ski Resorts in Oregon?
Absolutely! Oregon offers a variety of ski resorts that cater to both beginners and experienced skiers and snowboarders. With its scenic landscapes and a range of slopes, the state is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll explore some of Oregon’s top ski resorts, take a look at the ski season and typical weather conditions, and delve into the history of skiing in the region. Whether you’re planning a family trip or looking for challenging runs, Oregon’s ski resorts provide an enjoyable experience for everyone.
Quick Links:
- Interactive Ski Resort Map and Listings
- Largest Ski Resort
- Oldest Ski Resort
- Ski Season
- Ski Season Temperatures
- History of Skiing
- Annual Ski and Snowboarding Events
Interactive Map and Listings of Oregon Ski Resorts:
Map of Pennsylvania Ski Resorts:
Pennsylvania Ski Resort Summary Listing:
| Resort Name | City/Town | Base Elevation | Summit Elevation | Vertical Drop | Trails | Lifts | Lodges |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Timberline Lodge Ski Area | Timberline Lodge | 4850' | 8540' | 3690' | 41 | 8 | 1 |
| Mount Bachelor Ski Area | Bend | 5700' | 9065' | 3365' | 101 | 15 | 2 |
| Mount Hood Meadows Ski Resort | Mt Hood Parkdale | 4523' | 7300' | 2777' | 85 | 12 | 2 |
| Willamette Pass Ski Resort | Crescent | 5120' | 6683' | 1563' | 29 | 5 | 1 |
| Mount Hood Skibowl Ski Resort | Government Camp | 3566' | 5066' | 1500' | 65 | 8 | 1 |
| Mt. Ashland Ski Area | Ashland | 6383' | 7533' | 1150' | 44 | 5 | 1 |
| Hoodoo Ski Resort | Sisters | 4668' | 5703' | 1035' | 34 | 5 | 1 |
| Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort Ski Area | North Powder | 7100' | 8000' | 900' | 21 | 3 | 1 |
| Warner Canyon Ski Hill | Lakeview | 5700' | 6480' | 780' | 21 | 1 | 1 |
| Ferguson Ridge Ski Area | Joseph | 5200' | 5840' | 640' | 14 | 2 | 1 |
| Spout Springs Ski Area | Weston | 4920' | 5450' | 530' | 13 | 3 | 1 |
| Cooper Spur Mountain Resort Ski Area | Mount Hood Parkdale | 4000' | 4350' | 350' | 10 | 2 | 1 |
| Summit Ski Area | Government Camp | 4000' | 4306' | 306' | 8 | 1 | 1 |
| Resort Name | Vertical Drop | Trails | Lifts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Timberline Lodge Ski Area | 3690' | 41 | 8 |
| Mount Bachelor Ski Area | 3365' | 101 | 15 |
| Mount Hood Meadows Ski Resort | 2777' | 85 | 12 |
| Willamette Pass Ski Resort | 1563' | 29 | 5 |
| Mount Hood Skibowl Ski Resort | 1500' | 65 | 8 |
| Mt. Ashland Ski Area | 1150' | 44 | 5 |
| Hoodoo Ski Resort | 1035' | 34 | 5 |
| Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort Ski Area | 900' | 21 | 3 |
| Warner Canyon Ski Hill | 780' | 21 | 1 |
| Ferguson Ridge Ski Area | 640' | 14 | 2 |
| Spout Springs Ski Area | 530' | 13 | 3 |
| Cooper Spur Mountain Resort Ski Area | 350' | 10 | 2 |
| Summit Ski Area | 306' | 8 | 1 |
Pennsylvania Ski Resort Detailed Listing:
Timberline Lodge, Oregon
Summit Elevation: 8540'
Vertical Drop: 3690'
Skiable Acres: 1415
Trails: 41
Lifts: 8
Lodges: 1
Bend, Oregon
Summit Elevation: 9065'
Vertical Drop: 3365'
Skiable Acres: 4300
Trails: 101
Lifts: 15
Lodges: 2
Mt Hood Parkdale, Oregon
Summit Elevation: 7300'
Vertical Drop: 2777'
Skiable Acres: 2150
Trails: 85
Lifts: 12
Lodges: 2
Crescent, Oregon
Summit Elevation: 6683'
Vertical Drop: 1563'
Skiable Acres: 555
Trails: 29
Lifts: 5
Lodges: 1
Government Camp, Oregon
Summit Elevation: 5066'
Vertical Drop: 1500'
Skiable Acres: 960
Trails: 65
Lifts: 8
Lodges: 1
Ashland, Oregon
Summit Elevation: 7533'
Vertical Drop: 1150'
Skiable Acres: 240
Trails: 44
Lifts: 5
Lodges: 1
Sisters, Oregon
Summit Elevation: 5703'
Vertical Drop: 1035'
Skiable Acres: 800
Trails: 34
Lifts: 5
Lodges: 1
North Powder, Oregon
Summit Elevation: 8000'
Vertical Drop: 900'
Skiable Acres: 1100
Trails: 21
Lifts: 3
Lodges: 1
Lakeview, Oregon
Summit Elevation: 6480'
Vertical Drop: 780'
Skiable Acres: N/A
Trails: 21
Lifts: 1
Lodges: 1
Joseph, Oregon
Summit Elevation: 5840'
Vertical Drop: 640'
Skiable Acres: N/A
Trails: 14
Lifts: 2
Lodges: 1
Weston, Oregon
Summit Elevation: 5450'
Vertical Drop: 530'
Skiable Acres: 250
Trails: 13
Lifts: 3
Lodges: 1
Mount Hood Parkdale, Oregon
Summit Elevation: 4350'
Vertical Drop: 350'
Skiable Acres: 50
Trails: 10
Lifts: 2
Lodges: 1
Government Camp, Oregon
Summit Elevation: 4306'
Vertical Drop: 306'
Skiable Acres: N/A
Trails: 8
Lifts: 1
Lodges: 1
Oregon’s Largest Ski Resort
The largest ski area in Oregon is Mt. Bachelor Ski Area. It is located in the Cascade Mountains near Bend, Oregon. It offers skiers and snowboarders of all abilities over 4,300 skiable acres. It is known for its excellent snow conditions, a wide range of terrain, and its proximity to Bend. The resort offers a variety of terrain, including groomed runs, steeps, moguls, and backcountry terrain, making it suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. It also offers night skiing and other activities, making it a great destination for a ski trip.
Oregon’s Oldest Ski Resort
The oldest ski area in Oregon is Hoodoo Ski Area. It was established in the late 1930s, making it one of the oldest ski resorts in Oregon. Hoodoo Ski Area is located in the Santiam Pass near Sisters, Oregon. It offers skiers and snowboarders of all abilities over 800 skiable acres. It is known for its excellent snow conditions, night skiing, and family-friendly atmosphere. The resort offers a variety of terrain, including groomed runs, steeps, moguls, and terrain parks, making it suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. It also offers night skiing and other activities, making it a great destination for a ski trip. Hoodoo Ski Area is one of the most popular ski resorts in the area and is known for its great snow conditions, excellent facilities, and beautiful scenery.
Oregon’s Ski Season
The ski season in Oregon typically runs from late November to early April, depending on the snowfall and weather conditions. However, the exact dates can vary year to year, so it’s best to check with the individual ski resorts for the most up-to-date information on their opening and closing dates. Some ski resorts in Oregon may open as early as November, while others may stay open until May if the snow conditions permit it.
Average Ski Season Temperatures
The average temperature during ski season in Oregon can vary depending on the location and the time of year. In general, temperatures at the higher elevations of the Cascade Mountains, where most ski resorts are located, tend to be colder than the rest of the state. The average high temperature during the winter months (December – February) at ski resort elevations can range from the low 20s to the low 30s Fahrenheit (-6 to 1 degree Celsius), while the average low temperature can range from the single digits to the low 20s Fahrenheit (-12 to -6 degree Celsius). However, temperatures can drop below zero degrees Fahrenheit (-18 degrees Celsius), and wind chill can make it feel even colder. As with most mountain regions, weather conditions can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast and dress warmly if you plan to go skiing or snowboarding in Oregon.
History of Skiing in Oregon
Skiing in Oregon traces its origins back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, largely influenced by Norwegian immigrants who brought their skiing traditions to the state. Initially, skiing was more a practical means of transportation during the harsh winter months than a recreational activity. However, the 1920s and 1930s marked a shift as skiing began to gain popularity as a sport, leading to the development of the first ski areas. Mt. Hood, known for its year-round snow, emerged as a central hub for skiing in Oregon, with Timberline Lodge, built in the 1930s, becoming a particularly iconic destination.
The post-World War II era saw a significant surge in the popularity of skiing, partly fueled by veterans skilled in mountain sports. This period witnessed the expansion and modernization of ski resorts, including the establishment of Mt. Bachelor in 1958, which grew to be one of Oregon’s most renowned ski destinations. Over the decades, Oregon’s ski areas have continued to evolve, incorporating advancements in lift technology, snowmaking, and grooming while also expanding their offerings to include snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
Today, skiing is deeply embedded in Oregon’s cultural and recreational identity, supported by a vibrant community of skiing enthusiasts and a plethora of clubs and organizations. The state has produced numerous notable skiers and Olympic athletes, and its resorts, especially Mt. Hood, are renowned for summer ski camps and training programs.
Annual Skiing and Snowboarding Events
There are several annual ski and snowboarding events in Oregon. Some popular events include:
USASA Snowboard and Freeskiing Regional Championships: This annual event is held at various ski resorts in Oregon and features snowboarding and freeskiing competitions for youth and adult riders.
The Bend Brewfest: This annual event at Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort features beer tastings, live music, and skiing/snowboarding.
Northwest Winter Fest: This annual event is held at various ski resorts in Oregon and features skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports events.
These are just a few examples of Oregon’s annual skiing and snowboarding events. There are many more events and competitions that take place throughout the ski season, such as local ski races, terrain park competitions, and other special events. It’s best to check with the individual ski resorts or local ski clubs for information on upcoming events or competitions.
Looking for a winter adventure?
Oregon’s ski resorts have something for everyone, from beginners to experts. Plan your next ski or snowboarding trip in Oregon and enjoy a fun-filled winter getaway!
Compare Oregon’s resorts side-by-side
Explore all of the great skiing around the U.S.
Find your SNOW and enjoy! The Myskisearch team
