- Recreation
Head to Mt. Hood Meadows
Today we’re heading to Mt. Hood Meadows, or known simply as ‘Meadows,’ to the locals. As the largest ski resort on Mt. Hood, you’ll have plenty to ski and ride so transportation, fuel (good hearty food), and hydration will be key to getting the most out of your day.
- Play
Getting There
For those who prefer public transit to the ski hill, the Columbia Area Transit (CAT) Gorge-to-Mountain Express offers convenient pick-up at various stops throughout the Hood River Valley, providing slopeside delivery to Mt. Hood Meadows’ main lodge and plenty of room for skis, boards, and gear. Check out the Gorge-to-Mountain Express page for up-to-date details on the schedule, route information, and pricing.
Or if driving in the snow excites you, load up the car and make a full day out of your up-and-back to the hill. Park in Mt. Hood Meadows’ main lot, but get there early! Don’t forget your OR Sno-Park permit, available in town or at the lot. Live like a local and park in the lower Hood River Meadows (HRM) lot, and access the ski hill from the Hood River Meadows lift. Don’t worry; it’s not too far to get to the main lodge, just a chair ride and a couple of cat tracks away.
- Dine
- Drink
First Tracks
The early bird gets the pow, so getting a head start from one of Hood River’s many lodging options, grab something quick or sit down for a southern-inspired breakfast at Baseline Biscuits in the community of Mt. Hood. Located halfway between Hood River and Mt. Hood Meadows, Baseline Biscuits is open Thursday-Monday starting at 7 am, just in time to greet Mt. Hood’s eager mountain goers.
- Dine
Refuel
After a morning exploring all Meadows has to offer, grab some grub at the main lodge or the new Sahale Lodge; both offer a variety of options, from grab-and-go to cafeteria style to sit-down dining. Enjoy fire pits and outdoor seating, along with a variety of local brews and wine. OR if you don’t want to click out, the on-hill Mazzo offers a variety of beverages, cold grab-and-go lunch options, and even a few hot items!
Pro Tip: Be sure to check out Meadows’ event calendar for celebrations, live music, and events throughout the winter!
- Stay
Head back to Hood River
Where to Stay
When you’ve had your fill, head back to the Hood River Hotel, where family, friends, or girl or guys getaways can bunk together in the Bunk House. Featuring a ten-room modern hostel-style bunk house with privacy bunks, ski and gear lockers, a dry sauna, and a shared kitchen and bathrooms, the bunk-house is a budget-friendly lodging alternative in the heart of downtown Hood River.
- Dine
Dinner
Once you’ve checked into your hotel, walk the downtown streets of Hood River and enjoy a variety of dining options, like family-friendly Trillium Cafe, or for Italian fare, dine among the twinkle lights at Romul’s. And don’t forget to imbibe! Hood River has a host of options for craft beer, cider, wine, and spirit drinkers! Stop at one of the many tasting rooms or tap rooms.