Skiing Bend Oregon is as accessible as it is rewarding. There is a reason why so many people love skiing near Bend Oregon each year.
The favorable combination of cold temperatures, big storms, and bluebird days makes central Oregon a premier destination for skiing.
Combined with tons of lodging options, short drive times to the slopes, incredible natural scenery, and a vibrant après-ski scene, it is easy to see why you should plan a ski trip to Bend!
In this article, let us be your local guide. We’ve gathered our local knowledge here from many years of skiing at Mt. Bachelor and other Bend Oregon ski areas.
From to downhill to cross-country, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan a successful and memorable Bend ski trip!
Skiing Bend Oregon: Overview
Between downhill, Nordic, and backcountry, there are all types of skiing near Bend.
Downhill Skiing at Bend Oregon Ski Areas
There are three ski resorts near Bend that offer thousands of acres of skiing.
Nordic and Cross-Country Skiing
There are over a dozen sno-parks near Bend that have groomed and ungroomed cross-country ski trails.
Backcountry Skiing
With tons of backcountry opportunities, it’s no wonder why locals and visitors alike take advantage of this more technical type of skiing.
Skiing Bend Oregon Map
Get your bearings with this 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.
Bend Oregon Ski Areas: Downhill Skiing Near Bend
There are three ski resorts near Bend. These Bend Oregon ski areas offer a variety of terrain suitable 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 most expensive).
Local tip: 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.
In addition, Hoodoo also has a full-service ski shop, rental equipment, and dining options. Don’t overlook their reasonable rates.
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.
Overall, Hoodoo is a great option for skiing near Bend that is more budget friendly and less crowded than Mt. Bachelor.
Willamette Pass Ski Area
As a final option, Willamette Pass Ski Area is located about 70 miles southwest of Bend and offers more than 550 skiable acres and 29 runs.
Willamette Pass 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, which combined with cheap lift tickets, makes it an attractive option for skiing near Bend.
Comparing Ski Resorts Near Bend – In Detail
The table below compares the three Bend Oregon ski areas in more detail.
| Ski Resort | Mt. Bachelor | Hoodoo | Willamette Pass |
| 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 |
Key takeaways for ski resorts near Bend:
- Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort has the most snow, most terrain, is the closest to Bend, and is the most expensive.
- Willamette Pass is the smallest resort, has least snowfall, is farthest from Bend, but is also the most affordable.
- Hoodoo falls in between Mt. Bachelor and Willamette Pass but also has night skiing and snow-tubing.
Cross-Country Skiing Bend Oregon
If downhill skiing isn’t quite your style, don’t worry! 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.
There are three ways to cross-country ski near Bend:
- At one of the 11 sno-parks near Bend
- At Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort or Hoodoo Ski Resort
- Everywhere else! For example, in town when it snows.
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 sno-parks near Bend.
A few Bend sno-parks have large networks of groomed ski trails (suitable for skate skiing) and classic tracks, while most have ungroomed but marked classic trails.
The sno-parks near Bend with groomed ski trails are Virginia Meissner, Wanoga, and Swampy Lakes.
Almost all of the other sno-parks have ungroomed ski trails varying in difficulty depending on snow conditions.
Sno-Parks Near Bend Map
Use the interactive map below to see the sno-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 (which is nice on a windy day) but there are still 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.
Local tip: Expect bad ski traffic to Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Highway before 10 am and after 3 pm on weekends with good snow. This also applies to Wanoga and Swampy Lakes.
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 a sledding hill which can be fun for the whole family. One parent can sled with the kids and the other can ski with the dog! There is also access to snowmobile trails and fat bike trails.
Swampy Lakes Sno-Park
Swampy Lakes Sno-Park has a number of ungroomed (more on the west side) and groomed (more on the east side) 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 crowded.
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 Creeks, 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 ski rentals below).
Also, the higher elevations tend to offer more expansive landscape views compared to the snow parks.
Ski Rentals Bend Oregon
When looking at the ski rentals Bend Oregon has to offer, you have two main options: rent at the ski resort or rent in town.
In general, renting in town is cheaper but less convenient. For renting in town, we recommend one of the following options:
- Powder House Ski & Snowboard: As one of the long-standing Bend local shops, Powder House is a go-to for ski rentals.
- 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 can be rewarding. 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 from people know are more knowledgably.
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: Undoubtedly one of the best food cart lots in Bend, the Podski has something for everyone. From vegan crunch wraps, to sushi, to cheesecake, The Podski is the perfect place to refuel and relax after a day on the mountain.
The Lot:
The first food cart lot in Bend offers a cozy and comfortable space. In the winter, they enclose and heat the seating area. Gas fireplaces and heated benches ensure maximum coziness! And of course, there have local beers on tap too.
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 – Closest to Mt. Bachelor
Seventh Mountain 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.
Families will love the outdoor heated pools, hot tub, and ice-skating rink! By the way, learn more about options for ice-skating in Bend.
Sunriver Resort – Best for Onsite Amenities
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.
McMenamins Hotel Bend – Best for Character and Ambiance
McMenamins Old St. Francis School is a hotel, restaurant, and brewery in a historic 1930s schoolhouse in downtown Bend. The quirky hotel features a variety of rooms with unique design elements.
The on-site restaurant and brewery offer pub-style food and handcrafted beers. There are actually several different restaurant/bar areas indoors and out, plus a secret bar.
No matter where you choose to stay, try 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) Trip Check 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.
Local tip: Ski traffic to and from Mt. Bachelor on Century Drive can be brutally slow on weekends with good conditions. 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.
Snowshoeing:
Snowshoeing near Bend is a great way to explore the winter wonderland of Central Oregon.
Ice Skating:
Ice-skating in Bend is fun for the whole family. The Pavilion and Seventh Mountain Resort are our two favorite rinks.
Sledding:
Grab the kids and dog and head to Wanoga Sno Park where a sledding hill and warming shelter 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.
No matter what your interests are, there’s plenty of winter activities in Bend. 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.
