The magic of family skiing creates lifelong memories with snow-capped peaks, laughter echoing through crisp mountain air, and the pure thrill of gliding down pristine slopes.
World-class resorts make Oregon a premier destination for family skiing adventures. Mt. Bachelor and the slopes of Bend welcome skiers of all abilities. The legendary runs at Timberline Lodge and beginner-friendly terrain at Mt. Hood Meadows combine perfect snow conditions with family-focused amenities.
This piece highlights seven outstanding Oregon ski destinations that promise adventure and learning opportunities. Your family will cherish quality time together on these spectacular slopes.
Timberline Lodge & Ski Area
Image Source: Timberline Lodge
Timberline Lodge sits majestically at 6,000 feet on Oregon’s Mt. Hood. The resort stands out with North America’s longest ski season. More than 2 million people visit this historic destination each year to experience its perfect blend of rich heritage and modern family amenities.
Timberline Lodge Family Amenities
The resort goes beyond skiing to give families plenty of fun activities. The lodge features:
- Year-round heated outdoor pool and sauna
- Family game room (The Barlow Room)
- Outdoor fire pit for s’mores
- Farm-to-table dining where kids eat free during dinner’s first hour
The Cascade Dining Room brings fresh Pacific Northwest flavors to your table with local ingredients. This makes family mealtimes special and easy.
Timberline Lodge Ski School Programs
Timberline’s detailed ski education programs work well for every age and skill level. Kids aged 4-12 learn in a supervised setting through the Kids Club program. The Mountain Masters program helps young skiers aged 7-12 advance their intermediate to advanced skills.
Program Highlights:
- Private Family Lessons for groups of 4-6 people
- Kids Club lessons from $115-125 based on age groups
- Multi-week programs at $575 help develop lasting skills
Timberline Lodge Accommodation Options
The lodge has rooms that fit every family’s needs. Kids 12 and under stay free with an adult, which helps keep costs down. Family corner suites and chalet rooms with bunk beds work great for groups of all sizes.
The Lodge at Government Camp serves families planning longer visits with condos that include:
- Kitchens
- Fireplaces
- Wireless internet
- Cable TV
Condo guests can use all lodge amenities like the heated pool and hot tub. They also get special discounts at shops and restaurants. Regular lodge rooms need just one night’s stay, but condos require at least two nights.
Mt. Hood Meadows
Image Source: Mt. Hood Meadows Ski and Summer Resort | Meadows
Mt. Hood Meadows stands out as Oregon’s most welcoming ski destination and has taught more Oregonians to ski and snowboard than any other resort in the state. This family-friendly resort pairs great learning programs with terrain options for everyone, making it perfect for multi-generational ski adventures.
Mt. Hood Meadows Kids’ Programs
The resort shows its dedication to family skiing through its detailed youth programs. The SnoBlasters program, designed for grades 1-5, has four full-day lessons that help kids build skills over consecutive weekends. Families looking for an intensive experience can choose the Three-Day Youth Camps during holiday breaks, which provide 4 hours of daily coaching.
The certified daycare center welcomes children from 6 weeks to 11 years old. Parent & Me lessons for ages 3-6 create a supportive space where parents and children learn together and build confidence through play-based instruction.
Mt. Hood Meadows Terrain Variety
Mt. Hood Meadows spreads across 2,150 acres of skiable terrain and serves as a playground for skiers of all abilities. The terrain breaks down into:
- 15% beginner-friendly slopes
- 50% intermediate runs
- 20% advanced terrain
- 15% expert-level challenges
Beginners love the separate “fun zone” with on-snow conveyors where they can practice their technique comfortably. The resort’s terrain layout combines alpine and below treeline areas, and its varied ridges create different experiences on each run.
Mt. Hood Meadows Dining Options
The resort’s dining spots spread across multiple buildings and cater to all tastes and schedules. Popular spots include:
Restaurant Specialty Features
Sahale Grill Quick-serve Brick oven specialties, South of the Border options
Alpenstube. Full-service. Regional ingredients, Northwest wines
Wildflowers Café. Grab-and-go. Coffee, deli sandwiches
The Mazot. Mountain café. Specialty sandwiches, views at 6,000 feet
Families can bring their own food and use designated brown bag lunch areas in the North Lodge. Parents will appreciate sophisticated options like local microbrews and regional wines while maintaining the family-friendly atmosphere.
Mt. Hood Meadows proves itself as a premier destination for family skiing adventures through its learning programs, varied terrain, and family-oriented amenities. The resort creates a space where families grow their skiing abilities together in comfortable facilities.
Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort
Image Source: Mt. Bachelor
Mt. Bachelor, North America’s sixth-largest ski resort, soars 9,065 feet high and spreads across 4,323 acres of skiable terrain. Skiers can reach this volcanic paradise with a quick 20-minute drive from Bend, making it a perfect spot for family ski trips.
Mt. Bachelor Family Activities
This mountain destination goes beyond regular skiing with activities the whole family will love. Families can join Forest Service naturalists on guided snowshoe tours that turn winter adventures into learning experiences. The Oregon Trail of Dreams lets visitors experience thrilling dog sled rides led by Rachael Scdoris, who competed in the Iditarod.
Winter breaks at Mt. Bachelor offer:
- Snowshoe tours with interpretive guides
- Dog sledding adventures through scenic trails
- Nordic skiing on America’s longest groomed season
- Special events and seasonal festivals throughout winter
Mt. Bachelor Ski Lessons
The resort’s detailed ski education programs fit every age group and skill level. New winter sports enthusiasts will love the “Ski or Board in 4” program. This well-laid-out learning package comes with equipment, lift tickets, and instruction.
Program Type Age Group. Features
Private Lessons. All Ages. Up to 5 group members
Group Lessons 6-12 years Full-day instruction with lunch
Mountain Rippers. 4-6 years Half or full-day options
Signature Start 3-6 years Includes daycare and lunch
Parents can hit the slopes worry-free thanks to the resort’s state-licensed daycare services. The facility welcomes children from six weeks to 10 years old.
Mt. Bachelor Facilities
Three strategically placed lodges – West Village, Sunrise, and Pine Marten – serve different needs of skiing families. Sunrise Lodge shines as the family-friendly center, with perfect access to beginner and intermediate terrain.
Mountain dining spots cater to all tastes and schedules. Pine Marten Lodge treats families to spectacular Cascade views during meals. Eight high-speed quads among eleven lifts keep wait times short for excited families.
Beginners will appreciate the improved learning area at Sunrise Lodge base, which now has a new chairlift and two covered conveyor carpets. The Woodward Terrain park’s different skill-level zones let families improve their skills together.
Hoodoo Ski Area
Image Source: Hoodoo Ski Area
Hoodoo Ski Area sits in the heart of the Cascade Range. It’s Central Oregon’s only spot where you can ski at night, with 23 well-lit runs that welcome families after dark. This budget-friendly resort blends winter activities that make it perfect for families who want to ski during day or evening hours.
Hoodoo Night Skiing Experience
The resort’s lighting system uses special filters and diodes that create perfect visibility for evening runs. You can ski Wednesday through Saturday from 4-9 pm during winter season, which lets families plan their ski trips with ease. The atmosphere really comes alive during Friday Night Lights events. Families can enjoy bonfires and live music while they glide down slopes under starlit skies.
Hoodoo Family Programs
The resort shows its family-first approach with several winter activities:
- The Autobahn Tubing Park features over a dozen 800-feet runs and 250+ tubes
- The Mountain Cub Program welcomes children ages 4-6 on holidays and weekends
- Oregon Adaptive Sports program supports families with disabilities
The Ski & Ride School starts at 8:15 am daily and provides complete instruction at every skill level. Weekend and holiday visitors should arrive 90 minutes before their scheduled lessons to have enough time for equipment fitting.
Hoodoo Pricing and Packages
The resort’s family-friendly prices and package options stand out:
Package Type Details Price
Thrifty Thursday All-day lift tickets $35.00
Kids (10 & under). Daily skiing. Free
AnyCards (5 tickets) Transferable, no blackout dates $345.00
Military Wednesdays 2-for-1 lift tickets. Available with ID
Special events add extra value throughout the season:
- Winter Carnival with free family activities
- New Year’s Eve celebration features fireworks and live music
- Viking Fest brings Nordic culture experiences and family activities
Season passes come with great perks:
- 10% discount at the repair shop and Powder Shoppe
- Free access to the Autobahn Tubing Park
- Reciprocal benefits at Mt. Ashland and Mt. Shasta Ski Park
The lodge ranks among Oregon’s finest, serving quality food in a comfortable setting that’s perfect for families between runs. Parents appreciate the area’s manageable size, which lets kids explore confidently while staying within sight.
Mt. Hood Skibowl
Mt. Hood Skibowl turns into a magical winter playground as darkness falls. The resort stands proud as America’s largest night skiing destination with 36 fully lit runs. You’ll find this family-friendly spot near Government Camp, where 960 acres of skiable terrain blend daytime adventures with nighttime fun.
Skibowl Cosmic Tubing Adventure
Cosmic Tubing®, the resort’s star attraction, gives visitors an exceptional evening experience. The slopes light up with over 600,000 LED lights, laser shows, and pumping music. Here’s what you’ll pay for the fun:
Session Time (Fri-Sun)
Price
5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
$39.00
7:15 PM – 8:45 PM
$39.00
9:00 PM – 10:30 PM
$39.00
Mt. Hood’s only dual conveyor lifts serve multiple lanes with single, double, and party tubes. Kids need to be taller than 36 inches and able to ride their own tube safely.
Skibowl Kids’ Learning Area
The Mogul Buster Children’s Ski and Snowboard School has taught young skiers since the 1950s. Kids aged 4 to 13 learn from expert instructors. The program shines with:
- Small class sizes for individual attention
- PSIA-certified instructors
- Skill development on terrain of all types
- Creative teaching methods that keep young learners engaged
Parents can ski alongside their kids through a special package deal when they sign up for the Mogul Busters program. Beginners will love the Learn to Ski and Snowboard Stations that let them progress at their own pace.
Skibowl Evening Activities
Skibowl really comes to life after dark as America’s biggest night skiing venue. Skiers can carve turns on 34 lit runs under starlit skies. The evening fun includes:
- Saturday Night Lights themed events
- New Year’s Eve fireworks celebrations
- The Ratskeller Pizzeria & Pub – Oregon’s best après-ski bar
- Eight restaurants with varied dining options
The Snow Tube & Adventure Park adds more evening options for families. Kids love Frosty’s Playland with its carousel, outdoor play area, and heated indoor two-story play space. Night skiing paired with family entertainment makes this spot perfect for families who want to squeeze every minute out of their winter adventure.
The Upper Bowl lift takes you to some of the country’s most challenging night runs. The Multorpor area’s narrower intermediate runs work great for family ski sessions. Skibowl’s terrain suits all skill levels, and its unique nighttime operations let families create flexible schedules – from early morning runs to evening adventures.
Willamette Pass Resort
Image Source: Willamette Pass
This 82-year old Willamette Pass Resort has become a beloved winter destination in the Cascade Mountains. The resort provides 555 acres of lift-served trails and gets an impressive 430 inches of snow annually. You can reach this historic resort with just an hour’s drive from Eugene, Oregon. The resort combines its rich heritage with modern family amenities across 1,563 feet of vertical terrain.
Willamette Pass Family Features
The resort makes skiing available to families through its Power Kids Pass program. Children 12 and under can ski completely free. The mountain features 29 trails of all types that help families improve their skills together.
Family-focused features include:
- Dedicated learning areas for building confidence
- Special seasonal events like Easter egg hunts with surprise guests
- Available terrain for all ability levels
- Sister resort privileges to discover new destinations
Willamette Pass Learning Programs
The resort provides complete learning programs that are tailored to different age groups and skill levels. The Kids Camp program helps children aged 4-12 learn skiing safely while having fun on the slopes.
Beginners aged 13 and above can take advantage of the Snow Experience program’s free two-hour first-time lesson. Each lesson includes:
- Professional instruction based on your skill level
- 2-hour sessions starting at 10 AM and 1 PM
- Small group sizes to ensure personal attention
Willamette Pass Amenities
The resort’s facilities make family outings comfortable with a full range of services. The rental shop operates daily from 8 AM to 4:30 PM and provides equipment for all ages.
Families can relax in the lodge’s slope-view lounge and cafeteria. Special spring pricing runs from March 15th to April 27th. During this time, lift tickets, rentals, and group lessons cost as little as $19.00.
The resort’s flexible booking policies include a 48-hour cancelation window with 100% refunds. Families can save $10.00 by booking online instead of making same-day purchases.
Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort
Image Source: Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort
Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort sits in Oregon’s pristine Elkhorn Mountains. The resort’s base elevation of 7,100 feet makes it Oregon’s highest. Families love this mountain gem that combines budget-friendly rates with exceptional snow conditions. The resort gets an impressive 300 inches of snow each year.
Anthony Lakes Kids’ Programs
The resort helps young skiers fall in love with the sport through several innovative programs. Their popular “5th & 6th Grade Sundays” program gives kids:
- Free lift tickets
- Free rental equipment
- Required skill-building lessons
- Special USD 25 lift tickets for parents
The Anthony Lakes Ski Racing Association (ALSRA) makes youth skiing exciting with complete programs starting at age 6. Certified instructors at the ski school match their teaching style to each student’s learning style.
Anthony Lakes Terrain Overview
The resort’s 1,100 acres of skiable terrain has something for everyone in the family:
Skill Level. Percentage of Runs
Beginner 20%
Intermediate 38%
Expert 42%
Skiers can enjoy 21 distinct runs, with the longest stretching 1.5 miles. The quickest way up the mountain includes:
- One triple chair
- Two surface lifts
- A specialized Caterpillar Conveyor in the learning area
Beginners will love “Alice’s Wonderland” learning area with its Mad Hatter Handle Tow and Rabbit Hole Terrain Park. Adventure-seeking families can try cat skiing with runs dropping 1,000 to 1,700 vertical feet through untouched powder.
Anthony Lakes Facilities
The resort’s unique lodging creates lasting family memories. Mountain accommodations include:
Mountain Yurts
- Just 1/4 mile from the main lodge
- Wood stoves and cooking facilities
- Free gear shuttle service
- 10% off lift tickets for guests
Historic Guard Station
- Room for 8 people
- Electricity and running water
- Gas stove and kitchen essentials
- Family-style meal options available
RV travelers can stay overnight with these amenities:
- 13 electric spots (8 30-amp and 5 15-amp outlets)
- USD 10-25 nightly rates
- Outhouse access
- First-come, first-served basis
The day lodge brings families together with wood-fired pizzas and local ingredients. Downstairs, the Starbottle Saloon welcomes families with regional dishes from local vendors like Hines Meat Co. and Hill’s.
Families can also explore 30 kilometers of groomed Nordic trails. The Nordic Outpost at Elkhorn Crest Trailhead serves as the perfect starting point for cross-country adventures.
The resort keeps skiing affordable with adult lift tickets at USD 50 and free skiing for kids 6 and under. Parents with toddlers can use the clever SOS (Save Our Sanity) pass. This USD 70 pass includes two tickets so parents can take turns skiing and watching their little ones.
Stepping off the slopes
Oregon’s ski destinations give families a unique experience during winter adventures. Each resort has its own charm. Timberline Lodge welcomes visitors with its historic atmosphere, Mt. Hood Skibowl features bright night runs, Mt. Bachelor spreads across vast terrain, and Anthony Lakes provides a cozy family setting.
These seven destinations highlight Oregon’s best winter activities with programs designed for children, slopes perfect for beginners, and family amenities. Many resorts let young children ski free and provide great deals on multi-day packages that parents love.
Families can enjoy cosmic tubing at Skibowl or explore peaceful Nordic trails at Anthony Lakes. Mt. Hood Meadows’ complete ski lessons are a great way to get skills and confidence. The mix of reliable snow, quality instruction, and friendly atmosphere makes these destinations ideal spots where families create lasting memories on the slopes.
