Skyliner Sno Park, also called Skyliners Sno Park, is a winter wonderland for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking.
In fact, we might go so far as to say Skyliner Snow Park is our favorite snow park near Bend!
Skyliner Sno Park is one of about a dozen sno-parks near Bend and is known for the stunning Tumalo Falls Nordic Loop, which offers stunning views of icy Tumalo Falls.
In this guide, we’ll give you our local tips to help you make the most of Skyliner Sno Park near Bend. So, pack your sense of adventure and let’s explore Skyliner Sno Park.
Skyliner Sno Park: Must Know Information
Before embarking on your winter adventure, here are some key details you need to know:
- Location and Accessibility: Skyliner Sno Park is easy to access from Bend. Just a 15 minute drive, and right off the main road, Skyliner Sno Park is easy to reach in all but the worst of winter conditions. Of course, you should have snow-worthy tires. The roads and parking lot can be icy and snowy.
- Parking Permit: You do not need a Sno-Park Parking Permit to park at Skyliner Sno Park. The permit is required at most of the sno-parks near Bend, but not Skyliner.
- Dogs are permitted: You can bring your dog to Skyliner Sno Park. They are allowed on all trails. Just keep them under control at all times.
Winter Activities at Skyliner Sno Park
When you arrive at Skyliner Sno Park, you’ll be greeted by a variety of fun winter activities. Here’s what you can expect:
- Cross-Country Skiing: Skyliner Sno Park also has groomed cross-country skiing trails. There are a few small loops suitable for both classic and skate skiers. Also, the trails are open to dogs!
- Snowshoeing: If snowshoeing is more your style, you can snowshoe along the ski trails. Of course, you can also go off-trail.
- Winter Hiking: This area is known for beautiful and accessible winter hiking. Of course, being at an elevation of 4,800, you can expect snow during much of the winter. However, the popularity of this area often results in a well-tracked trail.
- Tumalo Falls: Tumalo Falls is as impressive in the winter as other times of the year. There are often large build-ups of ice around the waterfall. You’ll have to earn those views though: Tumalo Falls is about 3 miles from the winter parking area.
Overall, Skyliner Sno Park is a great spot near Bend for ungroomed Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking.
Skyliner Sno Park Trail Map
When you arrive at Skyliner Sno Park, you can choose to take the trail (Tumalo Creek Nordic Loop) or the road (Tumalo Falls Nordic Road).
The road easier for cross-country skiing and is more open (good for a sunny day). Alternatively, the trail has a better view of the creek! Both ways lead to Tumalo Falls, as you can see in the map above.
Parking and Facilities at Skyliner Sno Park
- Parking: The parking lot can get crowded, especially on weekends. Be aware that the parking lot for the trail is slightly different than the one for the road.
- Arrive before 9:00 am or after 2:00 pm for the best chance to secure a spot. If the lot and surrounding parking areas are full, here is a backup plan: check out one of other sno-parks near Bend.
- Restrooms: Primitive restroom facilities are available and are typically well-maintained for visitor convenience.
Other Highlights of Skyliner Sno Park
There are many ways to enjoy Skyliner Sno Park, including these you may not have thought of.
- Night Skiing: Consider packing your headlamp (and some batteries or a second light source) and take to the trails at night for a unique experience. We recommend bringing a buddy.
- Stargazing: Another benefit of going at night is the potential for excellent stargazing. Of course, try to pick a clear night.
- Sunrise and Sunset: Sunrise and sunset are a great time to explore. Just be sure to bring a light source if you stick around after sunset.
Family-Friendly and Welcoming Community:
Skyliner Sno Park welcomes visitors of all ages and skill levels. The people in Bend and within the skiing community are typically friendly and welcoming.
Families will find the park to be a great choice. In fact, the road trail is suitable for kids, and the friendly community atmosphere ensures a welcoming environment for young adventurers.
Where to Rent Cross-country Skis and Snowshoes in Bend
For those without their own equipment, renting cross-country skis and snowshoes is a breeze. Check out the following places to rent gear in Bend:
- Powder House Ski & Snowboard: As one of the long-standing Bend local shops, Powder House is a go-to for winter gear rentals.
- Mountain Supply: Mountain Supply has been a fixture in the Bend ski and snowboard scene for over 40 years and offers a wide selection of winter gear rentals.
- Pine Mountain Sports: Another great option for renting winter gear in Bend.
Weather Forecasts and Other Resources
Use the table below to see the most up-to-date NOAA weather forecast for the corresponding sno-park. You can also find some road cameras and road conditions on TripCheck.
Up-to-date weather forecast for Skyliner Sno Park: NOAA weather forecast
Other Places to Snowshoe and Cross Country Ski Near Bend
Whether you’re skiing or snowshoeing, these sno-parks are sure to keep you busy for a while! However, there are other options for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing near Bend.
Don’t pass up other snow parks near Bend. There are 11 sno-parks within 35 miles of Bend and most have cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Learn more in our full guide to sno-parks near Bend.
Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort has an expansive network of nordic trails that range in difficulty. They also have a variety of snowshoe trails. These trails are maintained to the highest quality and, as a result, require a nordic ski pass to use. You can also rent equipment at the Mt. Bachelor Nordic Center.
Hoodoo Ski Area also has a variety of nordic trails. They groom during the weekends and charge a fee. However, when they don’t groom the trails are free.
Winter Tours and Lessons in Bend
Tours and lessons are a great way to get into the winter activities near Bend.
Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoe Tours and Lessons
Wanderlust Tours hosts a variety of tours year-round. Their winter tours include daytime and nighttime snowshoeing options.
Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort offers cross-country skiing lessons. This is probably the most flexible option for one-time cross-country skiing lessons near Bend. They also offer free snowshoe tours on the weekend.
The Bend Endurance Academy offers nordic skiing lessons for all ages. These lessons are hosted weekly as part of an 8-week program. This option is great for locals who are able to attend one session each week.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Skyliner Sno Park offers excellent nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking as well as a stunning waterfall.
We hope this guide helps you plan your visit, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable winter adventure. Learn more about Skyliner Sno Park on the USFS webpage.
If you are interested, learn more about other places to cross-country ski near Bend or check out our full guide to skiing near Bend.
We also have a lot of other articles about Central Oregon. If you are in Bend in the winter, learn more fun things to do in Bend in the winter.
