How to Plan a Ski Trip to Mt. Hood Meadows
"This high-elevation ski area sits on an active volcano crowned with 12 glaciers and routinely sees prodigious snowfall (about 430 inches annually, rising to roughly 531 inches in La Niña years). It offers more than 85 runs across 2,150 skiable acres served by 11 lifts, with terrain geared mostly to intermediate and expert riders (roughly 15% beginner, 40% intermediate, 45% advanced/expert), plus several terrain parks including a superpipe and a banked slalom. Riders praise its wide groomers, steep pitches, gladed terrain and mogul runs, while experts seek out cliff drops and tight-tree lines along Heather Canyon, Clark Canyon, and the Private Reserve. The area also supports nordic skiing and snowshoeing with nearly 10 miles of groomed trails, and offers night skiing on select evenings in winter. Operations typically run late November through late April (with occasional “bonus” weekends afterward); the deepest conditions are often in December through February, and midweek visits avoid the biggest crowds. Lift tickets use dynamic pricing and the resort is independent of the major Ikon/Epic pass systems (consider an Indy Pass or buy single-day tickets in advance); rentals, lessons (PSIA-certified full and partial days, group and private options, family sessions, nighttime beginner lessons), and daycare are available but should be reserved ahead for best availability and pricing. Note that Oregon requires a Sno-Park parking permit for state-maintained lots between November 1 and April 30." - Evie Carrick Evie Carrick Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
