Snow Sports Rising 11,249 feet, Mt. Hood is Oregon’s highest peak and Hood River County’s winter playground. Snowfall at Mt. Hood Meadows averages 430 inches per season, and this full-service resort on Hood’s southeast flank makes the most of it. Alpine skiers enjoy more than 2,150 acres of downhill terrain serving various abilities. The Meadows Nordic Center grooms 15 kilometers of trails with spectacular views of Hood’s snowtopped summit. Marked snowshoe trails lead to waterfalls and more mountain views. Ski and snowshoe rentals are available on-site. With 50 acres of mellow slopes, easygoing ambiance and economical lift tickets, Cooper Spur Ski Area is perfect for little ones who want frequent cocoa breaks. More than 6 miles of Nordic trails connect the ski area with the Cooper Spur Mountain Resort, home to lodgestyle hotel rooms, condos, log cabins and a restaurant/bar perfect for après. Backcountry skiers can also depart from Cooper Spur for an ambitious trip up the Tilly Jane Trail to a 1930s warming shelter built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Skiers and snowshoers can also access trails at three Sno-Parks along OR-35: White River West, Bennett Pass and Pocket Creek. Skiers can also enjoy a fourth, Teacup Lake, with more than 12 miles of trails groomed for skate and classic skiing, training programs for youth and adults, and a variety of events. (No dogs are allowed at Teacup, and you’ll need to purchase a special pass before arriving.) Bennett Pass and Pocket Creek are best for backcountry touring. Farther south, family-friendly White River West Sno-Park provides access up the wide river valley for snowshoers, backcountry skiers and sledders. A fifth Sno-Park, Little John, is another spot for sledding. It has two open slopes, along with a warming hut and bathrooms. A valid Sno-Park permit is required at all Oregon Sno-Parks. Bennett Pass Sno-Park CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: PICKLES PHOTOGRAPHY; NICKIE BOURNIAS; RICHARD HALLMAN Mt. Hood Meadows Snow play 22 Visit Hood River Travel Guide
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