Your all-in-one guide to exploring Mt. Hood. Discover the best ski resorts, local dining gems, outdoor adventures, shopping essentials, and insider tips to make the most of your mountain getaway.
The Ultimate Mt. Hood
Travel Guide
Ski Resorts
One of the most iconic ski resorts in the Pacific Northwest, Timberline offers year-round skiing and stunning mountain views. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there are runs for all skill levels and excellent ski school programs. Don’t miss the historic lodge itself, a great spot to warm up with a hot drink and take in the alpine charm.
A favorite for locals and visitors alike, Mt. Hood Meadows offers expansive terrain with runs for every skill level, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging expert trails. The resort features modern lifts, great dining options, and a lively après-ski scene. It’s perfect for families, groups, and solo adventurers looking to enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding. If you enjoy backcountry riding, this place is GOLD.
Skibowl is Oregon’s largest night ski area, popular for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in winter. It’s a lively spot perfect for families and groups looking for fun evening activities. In summer, Skibowl transforms with hiking trails, mountain biking, and the Skibowl Adventure Park offering zip lines and climbing walls, great for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
Food & Drink Spots
A beloved local gem, Al Forno serves up delicious, authentic wood-fired pizzas with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The warm, rustic atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to unwind after a day on the mountain or exploring Mt. Hood. Pair your pizza with a selection from their craft beer and wine list for a truly satisfying meal.
Skyway Bar & Grill is a casual, welcoming spot known for hearty American fare, great burgers, and a full bar featuring local beers and classic cocktails. It’s a favorite hangout for locals and visitors alike, offering a relaxed vibe perfect for post-adventure meals and socializing. With a cozy fireplace and friendly service, it’s a great place to unwind after a day on Mt. Hood.
Thai on the Mountain offers authentic and flavorful Thai cuisine in a cozy, laid-back setting. From spicy curries to savory noodle dishes, their menu is perfect for warming up after a day of outdoor adventures. Friendly service and generous portions make it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors craving something a little different on Mt. Hood.
Located in Welches, Koya Kitchen offers fresh, locally sourced dishes with a focus on Pacific Northwest flavors. This cozy eatery serves up authentic Japanese lunch and dinner options, including creative sandwiches, hearty bowls, and house-made pastries. It’s a perfect spot for fueling up before a day of exploring Mt. Hood or relaxing with a great cup of coffee.
A staple in Government Camp, Mt. Hood Brewing Co. offers a fantastic selection of craft beers brewed on-site, ranging from hoppy IPAs to smooth lagers. Their menu features hearty pub fare like burgers, sandwiches, and comfort classics. Perfect after a day of skiing or hiking. The relaxed, rustic atmosphere makes it a great spot to gather with friends or family. Try their seasonal brews to sample a variety of flavors, and check their event calendar for live music and special nights.
A cozy and popular spot in Sandy, Breakfast in the Hood serves up hearty, classic breakfast dishes with a friendly, welcoming vibe. From fluffy biscuits and gravy to breakfast burritos and skillets, it’s the perfect place to fuel up before hitting the slopes or trails. The generous portions and great coffee make it a local favorite for a satisfying start to the day. Arrive early on weekends to avoid the rush and enjoy a relaxed breakfast experience.
A beloved spot in Welches for authentic Mexican cuisine, Taqueria El Jaliscience serves up flavorful tacos, burritos, and other traditional dishes made with fresh ingredients. Known for generous portions and friendly service, it’s a great casual dining option for guests craving a taste of Mexico after a day on Mt. Hood. Their hours vary greatly so when you can catch them open, it's a great pick! For more consistent hours, try their Sandy location.
Outdoor Activities
Located on the west side of Mt. Hood, Ramona Falls is a stunning 120-foot waterfall that’s a must-see for nature lovers. The hike to the falls is about 7 miles round-trip, mostly easy to moderate, making it accessible for families and casual hikers. Along the way, you’ll enjoy lush forests, scenic views, and a beautiful cascade that spreads wide over a lava rock face. It’s a perfect day trip for those wanting to experience Mt. Hood’s natural beauty. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. The trail can be muddy after rain, so plan accordingly. Parking can fill up on weekends so arrive early to secure a spot
Trillium Lake is a picturesque spot located just south of Mt. Hood, famous for its stunning reflections of the mountain on calm days. It’s perfect for picnics, kayaking, fishing, and photography. The lake offers easy walking paths around the shore, making it accessible for all ages. During winter, the area is popular for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Arrive early in the summer months to find parking, and bring a camera, you won’t want to miss the sunrise over the lake!
This moderately challenging hike offers some of the best panoramic views of Mt. Hood and the surrounding valleys. The trail is about 5 miles round-trip and gains roughly 1,100 feet in elevation, making it perfect for hikers looking for a rewarding workout. At the summit, you’ll find sweeping vistas that are especially stunning on clear days — a great spot for photos or a peaceful break before heading back. Wear good hiking boots and bring water and snacks. The trailhead can be busy on weekends, so consider visiting early in the day to enjoy a quieter hike.
Tamanawas Falls is a beautiful 100-foot waterfall nestled in the Mt. Hood National Forest. The trail to the falls is a moderate 3.5-mile round-trip hike through lush forest and along Cold Spring Creek, making it perfect for families and hikers of all skill levels. The falls themselves cascade gracefully into a serene pool, offering a peaceful spot to rest and enjoy nature’s beauty. The trail can be muddy after rain, so wear waterproof footwear. Early arrival is recommended on weekends to secure parking at the trailhead.
The Old Salmon River Trail offers a serene and less crowded hiking experience near Mt. Hood. This moderately easy trail follows the Salmon River through lush forest, with peaceful spots perfect for picnics, birdwatching, and nature photography. It’s a great choice for visitors looking to enjoy tranquil river views and explore Oregon’s natural beauty away from the busier trails. The trail can be muddy after rain, so wear appropriate footwear. Early arrival is recommended to find parking during peak seasons.
Just a short drive from Mt. Hood, Wildwood Recreation Site is a scenic park featuring easy hiking trails, beautiful waterfalls, and peaceful picnic areas. It’s an ideal spot for families and visitors looking to enjoy nature without a strenuous trek. The paved trails make it accessible for all ages and abilities, and the river views offer a relaxing atmosphere for a day outdoors. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy one of the covered picnic shelters, perfect for a break between hikes or on a rainy day.
Shopping Essentials
Located just a short drive from Mt. Hood, Fred Meyer in Sandy is your go-to spot for groceries, outdoor gear, household essentials, and more. Whether you need to stock up for your cabin stay or grab last-minute supplies, this full-service store has you covered with a wide selection and convenient hours. It’s a great place to pick up winter gear or snacks before heading back up the mountain.
Goodwynn's is a premier outdoor gear store located in Welches, Oregon, offering a wide range of products for skiing, snowboarding, biking, fishing, and hiking. They carry top brands and have a variety of equipment and apparel for all outdoor enthusiasts. With a focus on quality and convenience, Goodwynn's provides services such as rentals, tuning, and snow reports, ensuring customers have everything they need for their outdoor adventures. Whether you're hitting the slopes or exploring the trails, Goodwynn's has you covered with their extensive selection of gear and accessories.
Located along U.S. Highway 26 in Welches, Hoodland Shopping Center is a convenient hub for both locals and visitors to the Mt. Hood area. Anchored by Hoodland Thriftway, a well-stocked grocery store offering fresh produce, meats, deli items, and a selection of craft beers and wines, it's an ideal spot to pick up essentials or local specialties. The center also features a variety of other businesses, including dining options, fitness centers, and specialty shops, making it a one-stop destination for shopping and services. The center is open daily from 7:00 AM to 12:00 AM, making it convenient for early morning or late-night visits. It's a great place to stock up on supplies before heading into the mountains.
Traveler advice
Winter Driving: Roads can be icy and snowy, AWD or 4WD vehicles are highly recommended from late fall through early spring.
Road Conditions: Check the Oregon Department of Transportation’s website or apps like TripCheck for road and weather updates.
Public Transit: The Mt. Hood Express bus runs seasonally and connects Government Camp to Sandy and surrounding areas.
Emergency Contacts: Dial 911 for emergencies. Nearby medical facilities include Sandy Valley Hospital and urgent care centers in Sandy.
Power Outages: Occasional in storms; bring extra flashlights and be prepared ahead of time.