With over 300 days of sunshine and some of the best powder in the country, it’s no wonder Central Oregon attracts thousands of avid snowboarders each winter. Riders of all levels can try their skills on the slopes and terrain parks of three different ski resorts near Bend. In this guide, I outline three epic places for skiing near Bend, Oregon, as well as the best gear rental spots, and fun places to apres ski.
Winter is pure magic in Central Oregon, and you owe yourself the breathless pleasure of snowboarding or skiing in Bend. You’ll find ample options for surfing down powder-coated slopes whether you prefer snow play with two sticks on your feet or one.
Standing proud among the spectacular Cascade Range of Oregon, Mt. Bachelor is a premier destination for skiers and snowboarders in one of the snowiest regions on earth. Consistently excellent snow conditions, pristine alpine views, and accessibility to the bustling mountain town of Bend make this resort a true gem.
Mt. Bachelor from Pilot Butte
Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort
Mt. Bachelor - Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort is one of the best places for snowboarding in the Pacific Northwest. Only 21 miles west of Bend, riders have access to 70 runs throughout the resort’s 3,600 skiable acres. Four terrain parks offer varying degrees of difficulty, and give riders of all levels ample “air-time”. Mt. Bachelor snowboard enthusiasts will especially enjoy the 18-foot walls of the Superpipe, designed by Pat Malendoski.
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Although it may not be the tallest mountain in the region, Mt. Bachelor has some serious bragging rights. It’s the 6th largest ski resort in North America by skiable acreage at 4,323 acres. Bachelor also boasts the highest lift-accessible skiing in the region at 9,065 feet and 360-degree access from the Summit Express chairlift.
At the same time, the mountain’s superbly progressive pitches, great alpine amenities, and proximity to Bend make it an outstanding option for families and people of all skill levels. No matter what you’re looking for with a day of resort skiing/riding, you’ll find it at Mt. Whether you’re in the mood for immaculately groomed corduroy, powderhounding in the tall trees, or an extensive network of top-tier terrain parks across the mountain, you’ll find plentiful options.
One of the most unique features of Mt. Bachelor is the ski-in backcountry terrain. You can access it via the Northwest Express, Cloudchaser, or Summit Express lifts. Mt. Bachelor’s average annual snowfall of 462” puts it among rare company with some of the snowiest resorts in the Northwest, among which the competition is no slouch.
For reference, the record for the highest snowpack total for any resort across the entire globe is Mt. Baker, WA. Bachelor’s consistent, abundant snowfall makes for a reliably enjoyable winter destination.
Family-Friendly Features
For those with little ones, Bachelor offers a wonderful experience for the entire family. Daycare is available on the ground level of the West Village Lodge for ages six weeks to 10 years. The Daycare Center even offers an add-on package for those 30 months and above to get out in the snow with a supervised group of kids who aren’t quite ready for traditional lessons.
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Mt. Bachelor Mountain Rippers offers 2 ½ hour lessons as early as 3 ½ years. If the kids are joining you on the slopes, look to the Early Riser lift from Sunrise Lodge. It offers just 70 feet of vertical to cater to those who are just starting out. Or the Little Pine lift from the West Village Lodge, offering 257 feet for those who are a bit further along the progression curve.
If your terrain hunt progresses to an interest in more built-up urban park features, there are plenty of options across the resort. In the past decade, Mt. Bachelor has significantly improved its terrain parks, now offering 13 distinct zones with diverse styles and difficulty levels.
Lodges and Dining
Everyone loves a good lodge for warming up with a hot beverage and fueling up between runs. Three lodges (West Village, Sunrise, and Pine Marten) provide shelter, restrooms, and dining options. Everything from white-tablecloth gourmet to food trucks in the snow bank is available. Don’t say we didn’t warn you about the chili cheese fries! They’re available at any of the three main cafeterias and will surely put a smile on even the grumpiest little (or big!) skier.
Finish off a great day on the hill with the classic après scene at the Clearing Rock Bar at West Village Lodge. Just make sure you have a designated driver in mind. Overnight stays at the mountain are limited to whatever you bring, with parking stalls available for nightly use. Check out one of Bend’s many fine hotels within a 25-35 minute drive of the mountain. And keep the party going when you get safely back to town.
Parking at the Sunrise Lodge or West Village Lodge is plentiful, though either can fill up on the busiest days. Parking is free of charge and available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you arrive late on a busy weekend or holiday, expect to walk a good distance across the expansive lot before you reach the lodge or chairlifts.
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Lift Tickets and Passes
Buying your lift tickets for Mt. The pricing for Mt. Bachelor lift tickets depends on how long you plan to ski, and when. Lift tickets can range from $94 - $200+.
Mt. Bachelor is now under the Ikon Pass. If you live or ski in an Ikon-owned area, it may be worth purchasing an Ikon Pass. Ikon pass holders get five days of access to Mt. Get access to Mt. Bachelor any time of the year, with no restrictions for $499. That breaks down to $125 a ticket.
For $449, the Ride and 5 grants pass holders five days of lessons at Mt. This is easily one of the best deals at Mt. Bachelor and is perfect for those looking to learn while enjoying all the mountain has to offer.
This ticket offers access to Little Pine Chair (near West ViIllage Lodge) and Alpenglow Chair (near Sunrise Lodge) for $49.
You read that right! Kids 6-12 years old ski free with any adult who purchases a “Kids Ski Free” 3-of-3-day Adult Lift Ticket. Make sure to purchase your ticket at least 7 days in advance to receive this awesome deal.
Did you miss out on buying a season pass? Well consider a spring pass. The pass is good for all of April and May, until the mountain shuts down for summer operations. For $319, the pass pays for itself in 4 visits to Mt. For multi-day passes and deals, purchases need to be made in the earlier parts of the season. Specials deals include Buddy Passes and Four Pack Tickets.
Lodging Near Mt. Bachelor
If you are looking for places to stay near the mountain, your best options will be in the Bend or Sunriver area. However, if you have an RV you can reserve a spot in the resort lot with a powered hook-up. Spots are $65/night Sunday-Thursday, and $75 a night Friday through Saturday. If you just want to sleep in your van, car, or camper without an electric hookup, it is $45 a night to park Sunday-Thursday and $55 Friday-Saturday.
- Campfire Hotel - Located less than a mile from Bend city center and just 30 minutes’ drive from Mt.
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson - The hotel is located on the east side of the city. It is located within walking distance of several medical offices and facilities, including the St.
- Waypoint Hotel - Waypoint Hotel is a boutique hotel, just off Highway 97 in Bend’s Mid-Town. This hotel includes a spacious lobby featuring 8 local brews and ciders on tap, outdoor fire pits, and an on-site food truck serving comfort food.
- Pine Ridge Inn - Located 2 miles from downtown Bend, Pine Ridge Inn is just 1 mile away from the Old Mill District.
- Tetherow Hotel - Featuring two on-site restaurants, this Bend resort is located on an 18-hole semi-private golf course.
Hoodoo Ski Area
For riders eager to avoid the lift lines and get in as many runs as possible, Hoodoo Ski Area 40 miles northwest of Bend is the perfect place. Night skiing is also available at Hoodoo.
Hoodoo is located in the stunning Cascade Mountain Range near Sisters, Oregon, about 44 miles northwest of Bend. It offers a unique and intimate winter experience, including Oregon’s only night skiing from 4-9 pm every Wednesday through Saturday. With a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, Hoodoo is a beloved winter gem.
The ski area features a variety of runs catering to all abilities, from gentle slopes for beginners taking their first ski lesson to challenging terrain for the more adventurous. Hoodoo’s laid-back vibe and budget-friendly prices make it an excellent option for a fun day on the slopes for the whole family.
Hoodoo Ski Area opens and closes its season based on snowfall, usually welcoming skiers and snowboarders by December. Lift tickets and lessons can be purchased at the mountain.
Steeper, Deeper, Cheaper is the motto at Hoodoo Ski Resort. Hoodoo sits between Bend, Oregon, and the Willamette Valley on Santiam Pass and is another great option for skiing near Bend. Hoodoo is touted as Oregon’s original ski area having been founded in 1938. Unlike Mt. Bachelor, Hoodoo offers all-day skiing and riding.
While Hoodoo isn’t as big or well-rounded of a mountain as Mt. Hoodoo Ski Resort is 22 miles west of Sisters, 44 miles west of Bend, 85 miles east of Eugene, and 130 miles Southeast of Portland. If you plan to spend multiple days at Hoodoo Ski Resort, it is definitely worth looking for a place to stay in the beautiful town of Sisters, Oregon.
Deals and Specials
Something unique about Hoodoo Ski Resort is the daily ticket specials. On Thursdays, Hoodoo offers Thrifty Thursday: any ticket for all-day access is only $29 until March 16th. You read that right, $29. You absolutely cannot beat that price when skiing near Bend.
On Wednesdays, current military members and veterans receive a buy-one-get-one discount on all lift tickets. That means, two people can all day for only $69. Military Wednesday begins on January 4th and requires a valid ID. Make sure to double-check black-out dates to ensure you can maximize your savings on the mountain.
Hoodoo Ski Resort also offers a variety of lessons for kids to adults and night ski-specific options. Check out the Anycard, which offers five full days of skiing or riding for $329 - with no blackout dates. Anycards must be purchased in advance, either online or from Berg’s Ski Shop in Eugene or Peak Sports in Corvallis. Most importantly, kids 7 and under can always ski-free at Hoodoo Ski Resort. Just head to the ticket window and request a free lift ticket.
Something that Hoodoo Ski Resort can offer that Mt. Bachelor doesn’t is night skiing.
RV Parking
Hoodoo Ski Resort, like Mt. Bachelor Resort, offers RV parking options so you can ski right out of and into your rig. Rates mirror those of Mt. Bachelor with $65 for hook-up sites and $45 for a non-hookup.
Hoodoo Ski Area
Willamette Pass Ski Area
Willamette Pass offers two terrain parks and a variety of challenging runs.
Willamette Pass Ski Area is located just over 70 miles southwest of Bend in the Deschutes National Forest. Two terrain parks, over 550 skiable acres, and a 1,500-foot vertical drop challenge avid riders of all levels. Spectacular mountain views and over 430 inches of fresh, fluffy powder make this ski resort one of Central Oregon’s best kept secrets.
Willamette Pass Resort is the third and last option for skiing near Bend, Oregon. The mountain opened in 1941 and offers 555 acres of terrain over 29 trails. The ski area is serviced by four chairs and one express “magic carpet”, which is touted as the fastest lift in the state. Willamette Pass averages 430 inches of snowfall annually which tops Mt. Bachelor’s average.
Willamette Pass ski area is one of the smallest ski resorts in the state, second only to Mt. Ashland in Southern Oregon. The ski area offers beautiful views of nearby Odell Lake.
Willamette Pass Resort is located off Highway 58, 70 miles from Bend and Eugene, and 60 miles from Sunriver.
Passes and Tickets
The Power Pass offers many other benefits at a price of $999 for ages 37-64 and $799 for ages 30-36. Regular lift tickets vary by time of year and day of the week at Willamette. Notably, most mid-week days are only $19. Beginning in late March, all ticket prices drop to just $19 per day.
RV Parking
You can hook up your RV to electric for nearly $50 cheaper than Hoodoo or Mt. Bachelor. If you can go without electricity, the price is even lower at just $10/night. RV parking and hook-ups are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Head to the lodge to purchase your overnight pass.
Backcountry Snowboarding at Mt. Bailey
Experienced riders can also explore over 6,000 acres of pristine backcountry snow via a guided cat skiing tour at Mt. Bailey.
For a truly spectacular snowboarding experience, book a guided cat skiing / riding trip at Mt. Bailey. Located 98 miles southwest of Bend, experienced boarders have access to several thousand acres of backcountry powder deep in the Umpqua National Forest. Trips include 15,000 to 18,000 vertical feet per day of steep chutes, open bowls, and forested runs. In the high Oregon desert, the views can span for miles across the central Cascade Mountain Range.
Gear Rentals
If you don’t have your own gear to use while skiing in Bend, renting is a great and available option. Each of the ski resorts outlined above offers rentals for the day or season, with differing levels from beginner to expert demos.
If you want to be able to pick something up before arriving at the mountain or want a rental that you can use for multiple days on multiple ski hills then check out these local ski shops in Bend and Sisters. They also provide premium rental packages of Blizzard or Volkl skis. But, if you really want to try something different while skiing in Bend, give a demo package a try. Demo ski packages are $62/day and $55 for each additional day. A classic package including all the gear you need to send it while skiing in Bend runs $45/day.
If you are looking to test out some demo skis while skiing in or near Bend, rates are $70/day or $65 for a multi-day rental. Mountain Supply rents touring and split board set-ups for those looking to venture outside of the boundaries of the resorts. A full-day package, including beacon, probe, shovel, skis/board, and boots costs $70/day or you can go with a three-day rental for $180.
Hoodoo Ski Resort runs Hillside Ski and Sport. Therefore, pricing at the shop or at the mountain is the same. Hillside and Hoodoo offer day or season-long rentals to fit whatever amount of skiing you are hoping to get in. Daily rentals are $39 or $50 for a demo. If you are looking to rent for the entire season it is $299 for a standard rental package or $479 for a demo package.
One last thing to consider when coming to ski in Bend is that Oregon is tax-free.
Après Ski in Bend
Après ski is a big deal in Bend. Après ski is the act of post-mountain day drinks and food. If you want to avoid the hefty bar prices at the mountain, consider hitting up one of the many great places to après in Bend.
Bend’s west-side 10 Barrell is the spot. The brewery’s motto is Drink Beer Outside, enough said. We love stopping in at 10 Barrell after a day of skiing in Bend for the vibes, the beer, and the food. With aptly named beers, Pray for Pow, All Ways Down, and Cloud Mentality, it’s the perfect place to après.
The Lot in Bend is a perfect place to stop for a beer and a snack after a long day skiing in Bend. This local spot offers several beers on tap, wine, gluten-free, and NA options. They have five food truck carts with options ranging from poke bowls to fried chicken. The seating is open and warm under the heating units, or you can spend more time outside around the fire pit.
tags: #bend #oregon #snowboarding