Skiing in Bend Oregon is as accessible as it is rewarding. There is a reason why so many people love skiing near Bend Oregon each year.
Central Oregon is a premier destination for downhill skiing and other winter activities. The Cascade Mountain range combined with a harsh high desert climate produces just the right amount of frigid winter storms and plenty of stunning bluebird powder days at Bend Oregon ski areas.
At the same time, consider the short travel times to skiing, incredible natural scenery, and a vibrant après-ski scene and it is easy to see why you need to experience skiing in Bend!
In this article, let us be your local guide as we traverse the adventures that skiing Bend Oregon has to offer. From Nordic to downhill to backcountry, we’ll give you the information you need to know to plan a successful adventure skiing in Bend. Let’s hit the slopes!
Skiing Bend Oregon Overview
There are all types of skiing near Bend. In fact, there are three ski resorts near Bend that offer thousands of acres of skiing.
In addition, there are over a dozen snow parks near Bend that have groomed and ungroomed cross-country ski trails.
Of course, the trifecta wouldn’t be complete without tons of backcountry options that are both highway accessible and far from the main path.
Skiing Bend Oregon Map
Use the interactive map below to see the downhill ski resorts and cross-country ski areas mentioned in this article. You can also expand the map to view it in a new window.
Downhill Ski or Snowboard Near Bend
There are three ski resorts near Bend. These Bend Oregon ski areas offer a range of terrain for all skill levels and pursuits.
- Mountain Bachelor Ski Resort
- Hoodoo Ski Area
- Willamette Pass Ski Resort
Now, let’s compare each of these Central Oregon ski resorts in more detail in the sections below.
Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort
Located just 22 miles southwest of Bend, Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort is one of the most popular ski destinations in the Pacific Northwest. With over 4,300 skiable acres, 101 runs, and 11 lifts, there’s something for everyone at Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort.
Mt. Bachelor boasts an average snowfall of 462 inches per year, which means plenty of fresh powder to enjoy throughout the winter season. Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort also offers a variety of amenities including multiple dining options, rental equipment, snowshoe tours, Nordic trails, and lessons.
Mt. Bachelor is the largest ski resort near Bend (which means it’s also the most popular and expensive). Traffic can be bad between 7:30 to 9:30 am and 3:00 – 4:30 pm on busy weekends, which are typically those after a good snowstorm or on holiday weekends.
Unfortunately, this traffic usually continues to the lift lines on busy days. Therefore, the best bet is to ski on a weekday if possible. That said, there still lots of fun to be had on the weekends.
Another tip: book your lift tickets online in advance to save a few bucks. There are some deals you can score if you book early in the season. The spring skiing pass is also a good deal. Check out our full article about Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort for more information.
Hoodoo Ski Resort
Hoodoo Ski Resort is another popular ski resort near Bend, located about 45 miles west of the city. Hoodoo offers 34 runs across 800 skiable acres, with a variety of terrain for all skill levels. There are 30% beginner runs, 30% intermediate, and 40% expert.
Hoodoo also offers night skiing on certain days of the week, making it a great option for those who want to hit the slopes after work. Hoodoo also has a full-service ski shop, rental equipment, and dining options. Don’t overlook their reasonable rates.
Overall, Hoodoo is a great option for skiing near Bend that is more budget friendly and less crowded than Mt. Bachelor. The vibe at Hoodoo feels more relaxed and low-key than Mt. Bachelor, which can be welcoming for many skiers. Hoodoo also has a tubing area as well as Nordic trails.
Willamette Pass Ski Resort
As a final option, Willamette Pass Ski Resort is located about 70 miles southwest of Bend and offers 555 skiable acres and 29 runs. The resort has a summit elevation of about 6,600 feet and boasts an average annual snowfall of 430 inches.
Willamette Pass Ski Resort also features lessons, rental equipment, and dining options. Their rates are super affordable (were talking several times cheaper than Mt. Bachelor).
Willamette Pass is the smallest ski resort near Bend and also the furthest drive, which makes it the least popular option for Bend skiers and snowboarders. That said, it has a nice small resort feel and is rarely crowded.
Comparing Ski Resorts Near Bend – In Detail
| Ski Resort | Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort | Hoodoo Ski Resort | Willamette Pass Ski Resort |
| Distance From Bend | 22 miles | 44 miles | 70 miles |
| Highest Point Elevation (ft) | 9,065 | 5,703 | 6,683 |
| Vertical Drop (ft) | 3,365 | 1,035 | 1,563 |
| Base Elevation (ft) | 5,700 | 4,668 | 5,100 |
| Average Annual Snowfall (in) | 462 | 450 | 400 |
| Skiable Area (acres) | 4,323 | 800 | 555 |
| Number of Runs | 101 | 34 | 29 |
| Lifts | 12 | 5 | 6 |
| Terrain Parks | 4 | 1 | 2 |
| Night Skiing | No | Yes | No |
| Cross-Country Skiing | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Snow Tubing | Depends on the year (check the website) | Yes | No |
| Rates | Most Expensive See Prices | Middle See Prices | Least Expensive See Prices |
While each of these ski resorts offer unique features and experiences, Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort stands out as the largest and most well-rounded Bend ski resort, with a wider range of terrain and activities for skiers and non-skiers alike. It is also the closest to Bend.
Willamette Pass Ski Resort and Hoodoo Ski Resort are both smaller resorts that offer a more intimate (and affordable) experience. While they are not as large as Mt. Bachelor, they are a great bang for your buck as far as skiing goes.
Cross-Country Skiing Bend Oregon
If downhill skiing isn’t quite your style, fear not! There are plenty of options for cross-country skiing near Bend as well.
In fact, cross-country skiing is quite popular in Central Oregon. The frequently alternating snowstorms and sunny weather are ideal for cross country skiing in Central Oregon.
Cross-Country Skiing at Snow Parks Near Bend
The most accessible and affordable way to cross country ski near Bend is to utilize one of the many snow parks near Bend. In fact, there are over a dozen snow parks near Bend.
A few Bend sno-parks have large networks of groomed skate trails and classic tracks, while most have ungroomed but marked classic trails.
The sno-parks near Bend with groomed ski trials are Virginia Meissner, Wanoga, and Swampy Lakes.
Be aware there is a parking permit for the sno-parks. Learn more in our guide to snow parks near Bend. We also have a full article on cross-country skiing near Bend.
Snow Parks Near Bend Map
Use the map below to see the snow parks near Bend. Be aware that not all of them have cross country skiing trails.
Virginia Meissner Sno-Park
The first sno-park you’ll see on the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is Virginia Meisser Sno-Park, about 14 miles from Bend. This well-maintained park has 29 miles (47 km) of groomed and ungroomed ski trails suitable for all abilities and styles. The trails are primarily forested but there are opportunities for landscape views.
There are four warming huts (shelters) that you can ski to, which often have wood stoves or other skiers warming up around a fire. This is a great place to chat or break out that warm beverage you brought in your backpack.
Virginia Meissner Trail Map
Note that Meissner is probably the most popular place for cross country skiing near Bend and the parking lot does fill up. Try to arrive before 9 am or after 2 pm on sunny weekends for the easiest time parking.
Overall, Meissner is a great place for everyone (except dogs which are not allowed) and even has snow-shoeing trails.
Local tip: Ski traffic to Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort is bad on weekends when the stoke is high. That is, when the conditions are good on the mountain, and people are itching to ski or snowboard, expect significant traffic along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Highway before 10 am and after 2 pm on weekends.
This also applies to other sno-parks along this route: Wanoga, Swampy, Dutchman, Vista Butte, Edison, Kapka.
Virginia Meissner Sno Park Information
| Distance From Bend | 14 miles |
| Groomed Ski Trails (Marked) | Yes |
| Ungroomed Ski Trails (Marked) | Yes |
| Snowshoe Trails (Marked) | Yes |
| Snowmobiling Launch | No |
| Warming Shelter(s) | Yes |
| Sledding Hill | No |
| Elevation | 5,395 ft |
| Dogs Permitted Nov 1 – May 1 | No |
Wanoga Snow Play Area
Just a bit further up the highway is Wanoga Snow Play Area, another great place to cross-country ski near Bend, although it is relatively small. There are a few miles of groomed trails for both classic and skate skiers.
There is also an awesome sledding hill which can be fun for the whole family. One parent wants to sled with the kids and the other can ski with the dog! Talk about efficiency. There is also access to snowmobile trails and fat bike trails.
Wanoga Sno Park Trail Map
Although the network of ski trails at Wanoga is relatively small, the advantages are clear: dog friendly, sledding hill, warming shelter (right next to sledding hill and parking lot), and diversity of activities.
Wanoga Sno Park and Snow Play Area Information
| Distance From Bend | 14 miles |
| Groomed Ski Trails (Marked) | Yes |
| Ungroomed Ski Trails (Marked) | No |
| Snowshoe Trails (Marked) | Yes |
| Snowmobiling Launch | Yes |
| Warming Shelter(s) | Yes |
| Sledding Hill | Yes |
| Elevation | 5,395 ft |
| Dogs Permitted Nov 1 – May 1 | Yes |
Swampy Lakes Sno-Park
Swampy Lakes Sno-Park has a number of ungroomed trails and groomed trails that connect to the Virginia Meissner network.
Ungroomed trails are more challenging than groomed, so we recommend Swampy Lakes (and other ungroomed trail networks) for intermediate to advanced Nordic skiers.
Swampy also has access to four warming shelters, although two are more on the “swampy side” as opposed to the Meissner side.
Swampy is generally less crowded than Virginia Meissner and Wanoga, though the parking lot can get croweded.
Swampy Lakes Sno-Park Trail Map
Swampy Lakes Sno Park Information
| Distance From Bend | 16 miles |
| Groomed Ski Trails (Marked) | Yes |
| Ungroomed Ski Trails (Marked) | Yes |
| Snowshoe Trails (Marked) | Yes |
| Snowmobiling Launch | No |
| Warming Shelter(s) | Yes, several |
| Sledding Hill | No |
| Elevation | 5,800 ft |
| Dogs Permitted Nov 1 – May 1 | No |
Learn more about Swampy Lakes Sno Park.
Other Sno Parks with Cross Country Skiing Near Bend
There are lots of other snow parks that have ungroomed but marked Nordic ski trails near Bend. These include Vista Butte, Kapka, Dutchman, Edison Butte, Three Creek, Six Mile, and Ten Mile.
Learn about these awesome snow parks in our full guide to snow parks near Bend.
Cross Country Skiing at Ski Resorts
You can also cross-country ski at Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort, Hoodoo Ski Area, and Willamette Pass.
These resorts typically have rentals on-site, which is more convenient than renting in town (more on that below). Also, the higher elevations tend to offer more expansive landscape views compared to the snow parks.
Ski Rentals Bend Oregon
There are several reputable options for Bend ski rentals. These Bend ski shops have served residents and visitors for a long time and have built up a reputation for great service. You can’t go wrong with any of the three options for Bend ski rentals below.
Powder House Ski & Snowboard: As one of the long-standing Bend local shops, Powder House is a go-to for ski rentals. They offer a wide selection of skis, snowboards, boots, and other equipment, as well as rental packages for all skill levels. Rent your downhill skis or snowboard from here to save some money if you’re going to Mt. Bachelor.
Mountain Supply: Mountain Supply has been a fixture in Bend for over 40 years, and offer touring/Nordic skis and snowshoe gear, as well as technical services.
Pine Mountain Sports: Pine Mountain Sports rents touring/Nordic skis and snowshoe gear.
Backcountry Skiing Near Bend
For those looking for a more adventurous skiing experience, backcountry skiing near Bend is a must-try. Here are a few great spots to explore:
Tumalo Mountain: Located just 20 minutes west of Bend, Tumalo Mountain is one of the most accessible backcountry options near Bend. Tumalo is steep and offers a challenging backcountry ski experience with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Broken Top: With its jagged peaks and sweeping glaciers, Broken Top is a popular destination for experienced backcountry skiers. The trailhead is located about 22 miles west of Bend.
Three Sisters: The Three Sisters, a trio of volcanic peaks in the Cascade Range, offer some of the best backcountry skiing in the area. The terrain is challenging and best suited for experienced skiers.
Admittedly, we at Rooted and Roaming are no backcountry experts. Learn more about backcountry skiing near Bend.
As with any backcountry skiing, it’s important to be well-prepared and have the necessary safety equipment and knowledge. Always check the current avalanche conditions and be aware of potential hazards before venturing out.
Bend Apres-Ski Scene: Beer, Food, Yay!
After a day on the slopes, there’s nothing better than relaxing with a hot meal and a cold drink. Here are a few of the best apres-ski options in Bend:
Sunriver Brewing: This popular brewery and pub is located on Galveston Street and offers a variety of craft beers and tasty bites. The outside area is heated in the winter and the food is delicious.
Parilla: This Bend staple is a wrap joint with an all-around good vibe. If you are hungry on your way down the mountain and looking for something fun. We suggest you stop for a Fish Burrito or the Enter the Dragon wrap with peanut sauce. Don’t expect a classic Mexican joint. It’s not just anywhere that you can get fettuccine alfredo in a burrito…
The Podski: Our favorite food cart lot in Bend, the Podski has something for everyone. From vegan crunchwraps, to sushi, to cheesecake the podski is the perfect place to nosh with your group after a day on the mountain.
With some indoor seating and an outdoor firepit, there is plenty of space for everyone. Check out this article for more information on the Podski and the best food cart lots in Bend.
The Lot was the first food cart lot in Bend (now one of many amazing food truck areas in Bend) and is a cozy and comfortable space that has an amazing indoor/outdoor seating area. In the winter, they enclose the seating area. Gas fireplaces and heated benches ensure maximum coziness! And of course, there is a taphouse too because, Bend!
There are so many other great options to enjoy Bend’s diverse culinary and brewing scene and fuel up after a long day of skiing. Check out our recommendations for the best restaurants and breweries in Bend. Of course, the next morning you’ll need to grab some coffee from one of the top cafes and coffee in Bend.
Where to Stay for a Ski Trip to Bend
After a long day on the slopes, it’s essential to have a comfortable place to rest and recharge. Here are some great options for where to stay during your ski trip to Bend:
Seventh Mountain Resort: This resort offers a range of accommodations, from hotel rooms to condos and vacation homes. It also has an on-site restaurant, spa, and fitness center. This is the closest resort to Mt. Bachelor.
Sunriver Resort: Located about 20 miles south of Bend, Sunriver Resort offers a range of lodging options, from traditional hotel rooms to spacious vacation homes. Sunriver Resort is a full-scale resort offering everything from an aquatic center to a spa. They even have a shuttle to the mountain.
LOGE Bend: This adventure hotel is the closest in-town property to Mt. Bachelor and offers a variety of outdoor equipment rentals, including bikes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. The hotel also features a café and bar, serving locally sourced food and craft beer and hosting events year-round. They also have a hot tub and some rooms even have hammocks.
Mt. Bachelor Village Resort: This resort offers a range of accommodation options, from cozy studio condos to spacious townhomes. Just 3 miles from downtown, the resort offers easy access to hiking and biking trails, golf courses, fishing spots, and ski slopes. In addition, the resort provides a shuttle service to Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort during the winter months, allowing guests to easily hit the slopes.
The Riverhouse Hotel: Located on the banks of the Deschutes River, the Riverhouse Hotel offers cozy rooms and suites, as well as a restaurant and bar. We love their happy hour and hot tub.
No matter where you choose to stay, be sure to book in advance during the busy winter season, especially over the holidays. Learn more about the best Bend resorts and other places to stay in Bend.
Planning for Winter Travel Conditions near Bend
Winter driving in Central Oregon can be challenging, with snow and ice on the roads. Here are a few tips for planning your travel:
- Check the forecast: Be sure to check the weather forecast and road conditions before you head out. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) website provides up-to-date information on road closures and conditions.
- Carry chains: Chains or other traction devices are required on some roads in the winter and can be a lifesaver if you encounter treacherous conditions.
- Allow extra time: Give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination, and drive slowly and cautiously on snowy or icy roads.
- Be aware of ski traffic: Ski traffic to and from Mt. Bachelor on Century Drive can be brutally slow on weekends with good conditions. We get it! Everyone wants to get their turns in. Just expect traffic before 10 am and after 3 pm if the sun is out on the weekends, especially after a big storm!
Other Things to Do in Bend in the Winter
If skiing or snowboarding isn’t your thing, don’t worry – there are so many fun things to do during winter in Bend. Here are some other things you can do in Bend during the winter months:
Snowshoeing: Snowshoeing near Bend is a great way to explore the winter wonderland of Central Oregon. There are many trails that are perfect for snowshoeing, including the Deschutes River Trail, Virginia Meisner, and the Tumalo Falls Trail.
Ice Skating: The Pavilion in Bend offers public ice-skating sessions, as well as figure skating and hockey lessons. It’s a fun activity for all ages and skill levels. Seventh Mountain Resort also has an ice rink open to the public.
Sledding: Grab the kids and dog and head to Wanoga Sno Park where a sledding hill, warming shelter, and other winter activities await!
Snowmobiling: Rent a snowmobile and explore hundreds of miles of trails. Better yet, take a snowmobiling tour to a lakeside lodge for lunch! Interested, learn more in our full guide to snowmobiling near Bend.
Winter Festivals: Bend hosts several winter festivals throughout the season, including the Subaru WinterFest and the Oregon WinterFest. These festivals feature live music, food, and winter activities like snowboarding competitions and ice sculpting.
Indoor Activities: If the weather outside is too cold, cozy up in one of the many restaurants and breweries in Bend. Visit the High Desert Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region or check out the Bend Rock Gym for some indoor rock climbing. Don’t overlook the Sunriver Nature Center and Observatory for some epic stargazing.
No matter what your interests are, there’s plenty to do in Bend during the winter months. But don’t let the cold weather keep you inside! Get out and explore all this beautiful area offers.
Conclusion
We hope you found this article helpful when learning about skiing in Bend Oregon. Bend Bend Oregon truly is accessible and rewarding, regardless of your skill level or style.
We have a ton of other articles about activities during Winter in Bend, including guides to snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling at all of the snow parks near Bend.
We also have a lot of other articles about Central Oregon. If you are visiting, welcome! We hope you enjoy your time here.
