Winter sport fanatics already know Timberline Ski Resort is one of Oregon’s greatest spots to ski and snowboard — especially if the craving hits outside of the traditional winter season.
But it’s not just Oregonians who have fallen for the Mount Hood resort. In a recent article, National Geographic shared seven of the country’s best late-season ski destinations, and Timberline received a well-earned shoutout.
Springtime, according to National Geographic, is skiing’s best-kept secret.
“With fewer crowds, soft snow, and long après-ski afternoons spent in the sunshine, this is the best time of year to be on the mountain,” the article reads.
U.S. Freeski Team athlete Colby Stevenson practices on Mount Hood at Timberline Lodge on Thursday, July 15, 2021.The Oregonian
The list includes resorts in California, Alaska, Colorado, Michigan, Maine and Utah — most which are open through May or even mid-summer. Timberline takes it one step further, with a ski season that regularly stretches from November to August.
It’s the only ski area in the United States open 10 months out of the year, according to the Timberline website. The resort averages up to 600 inches of annual snowfall.
Timberline’s winter season runs through the end of May. During the subsequent spring and summer months, skiing is limited to the Palmer Express chairlift.
“Olympic athletes, professional racers, and dedicated snow lovers travel here all summer for a second season,” the National Geographic article continues. “But it’s not just for the professionals — long cruising runs, soft spring snow, and unpredictable Pacific Northwest weather make every day here fun and exciting for visitors.”
Timberline Lodge, at the base of Mt. Hood offers skiing, snowboarding, dining and lodging.Stephanie Yao Long/The Oregonian
And don’t forget the resort’s iconic Timberline Lodge, known in part for its eerie role in horror movie “The Shining.”
Need advice on hitting the slopes? Listen to The Oregonian/Oregon Live’s Peak Northwest podcast episode on skiing and snowboarding on Mount Hood.
— Veronica Nocera covers life and culture. You can reach her at vnocera@oregonian.com, 503-221-8111 or @vernocera