
Best Ski Resorts for Every Level in Portland, Oregon, United States
1. Mt. Hood Meadows
A popular resort for intermediate and advanced skiers, offering a variety of challenging trails and spectacular views of Mt. Hood.
- Diverse Terrain: Provides a mix of groomed runs, tree skiing, and expert terrain parks.
- Close to Portland: Just a 1.5-hour drive from downtown Portland.
- Lift Accessibility: Offers high-capacity lifts for quick access to the slopes.
2. Timberline Lodge
Known for being America's oldest ski area, offering a unique blend of historic charm and great skiing for all levels.
- Historical Significance: Incorporates the famous Timberline Lodge, built during the Great Depression.
- Year-round Skiing: Offers skiing from mid-May to November due to its paltry location on Mt. Hood.
- Learner-friendly Slopes: Features designated areas for beginners and a learning center with professional instructors.
3. Mt. Bachelor
One of the largest ski areas in the United States, offering expansive terrain suitable for all skill levels.
- Size: Spans over 3,683 acres and boasts an average annual snowfall of 462 inches.
- Advanced Terrain Parks: Offers advanced terrain parks for freestyle skiers and snowboarders.
- Scenic Lift Rides: Enjoy scenic lift rides with panoramic views of the surrounding Cascade Mountains.
4. Skibowl East
A family-friendly resort offering a wide range of beginner and intermediate runs, as well as night skiing.
- Night Skiing: One of the few resorts in the area that offers night skiing, making it a unique choice for evening activities.
- Family-Oriented: Features a tube park and snow play area for children.
- Easy Access: Located just 45 minutes from Portland, offering convenient accessibility.
5. Willamette Pass Ski Area
A lesser-known gem for experienced skiers seeking powder-filled runs and a quieter atmosphere.
- Powder Runs: Features numerous off-piste powder runs for expert skiers.
- Quiet Atmosphere: Less crowded than other resorts, providing a peaceful skiing experience.
- Affordable Lift Tickets: Offers more affordable lift tickets compared to larger resorts.
6. Crystal Mountain
A versatile resort offering a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced terrain with stunning views.
- Variety of Terrain: Features a range of groomed runs, steeps, and tree skiing for skiers of all abilities.
- Scenic Chairlifts: Offers scenic chairlift rides with breathtaking views of Mt. Rainier.
- Easy Access from Portland: Just a 2-hour drive from downtown Portland via I-5 and SR-167.
7. Bachelor Butler Heli-Skiing
For the ultimate skiing adventure, Bachelor Butler offers heli-skiing in pristine backcountry terrain.
- Backcountry Terrain: Accesses remote and untouched backcountry runs.
- Small Groups: Limited to small groups for a more personalized experience.
- Expert Guides: Provides experienced guides who know the best backcountry runs and safety protocols.
8. Silver Star Mountain Resort
A hidden gem for cross-country skiing with over 200 kilometers of well-groomed trails.
- Cross-Country Skiing: Features a vast network of cross-country trails suitable for all skill levels.
- Scenic Trails: Offers scenic trail options with views of Mt. Hood and the surrounding countryside.
- Quiet Atmosphere: A quieter resort, providing a peaceful skiing experience.
9. Mt. Ashland Ski Area
A small, community-run resort ideal for beginners and families seeking an intimate, friendly atmosphere.
- Intimate Setting: A smaller resort with a close-knit, family-friendly vibe.
- Learner-focused: Offers dedicated beginner slopes and lessons for new skiers.
- Affordable Lift Tickets: Competitively priced lift tickets, making it a cost-effective option.
10. SkiBowl West
A beginner-friendly resort offering gentle slopes, night skiing, and snow tubing for families.
- Beginner Terrain: Features plenty of gentle slopes suitable for beginners.
- Night Skiing: Offers night skiing opportunities, making it a great choice for evening activities.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Features a snow tubing park and other family-friendly activities.
11. Anthony Lakes Ski Area
A small, laidback resort with excellent powder runs for intermediate and advanced skiers.
- Powder Runs: Features numerous off-piste powder runs suitable for intermediates and advanced skiers.
- Relaxed Atmosphere: A small, laidback resort with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
- Affordable Lift Tickets: Offers more affordable lift tickets compared to larger resorts.
12. Hoodoo Ski Area
A family-friendly resort offering a mix of beginner and intermediate runs, as well as night skiing.
- Family-Friendly: Features a tubing hill and snow play area for children.
- Night Skiing: Offers night skiing opportunities, making it a great choice for evening activities.
- Easy Access: Just a 2-hour drive from Portland via I-5 and OR-22.
13. SnowBall Northwest Snowplay Park
A snowplay park for families offering tubing, sledding, and snowshoeing in a fun environment.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Offers tubing, sledding, and snowshoeing for families to enjoy together.
- Convenient Location: Located just a 1-hour drive from downtown Portland.
- Affordable Activities: Offers affordable activities for families seeking an enjoyable, budget-friendly experience.
14. White Pass Ski Area
A resort offering a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced terrain with beautiful views.
- Variety of Terrain: Features a range of groomed runs, steeps, and tree skiing for skiers of all abilities.
- Scenic Chairlifts: Offers scenic chairlift rides with breathtaking views of Mt. Rainier.
- Easy Access from Portland: Just a 3-hour drive from downtown Portland via I-5 and SR-167.
15. Mount St. Helens Ski Area
A small resort at the base of Mount St. Helens offering beginner and intermediate runs.
- Volcanic Views: Offers breathtaking views of Mount St. Helens during your skiing experience.
- Beginner and Intermediate Terrain: Features plenty of gentle slopes suitable for beginners, as well as intermediate runs.
- Affordable Lift Tickets: Competitively priced lift tickets, making it a cost-effective option.