Pacific Index

Head out to the slopes this winter! Learn about the multiple ski resorts near campus and what they have to offer

There’s nothing quite like the fresh, crisp breeze that the winter season brings. It’s that magical time of year again where the mountains come alive and the excitement of the season begins. With a range of impressive peaks and immaculate slopes just waiting to be explored, Pacific University’s location is perfect for heading out to some of the best ski resorts in the area. Whether you are a skilled skier or simply looking to enjoy the wonders of the beautiful snow, the mountains are calling—and it’s time to answer.

   Dating back to 1928, Mt. Hood Skibowl is one of the oldest ski resorts remaining in the country. Located just under a two hour drive from Pacific in Government Camp, Ore., the ski lodge contains many different winter activities to experience. The ski resort not only offers thrilling ski runs, but also snow tubing, snowmobile tours, and snowshoe tours. Well known for its quality ski runs, the resort contains 71 day and 37 night runs that are open daily. The Skibowl’s exciting night skiing is known as one of the best in the area because of the three ski lifts that are open throughout the night. The terrain offers runs for all ability levels, whether you are just starting out or are an experienced rider. 

   Also nestled on Mt. Hood is Timberline Summit Pass, formerly known as Summit Ski Area, located in the adorable town of Government Camp, Ore. This exciting ski resort has a vertical drop of 4,540 feet, and provides skiers with challenging and rewarding runs. Riders with a lift ticket or season pass can take advantage of the Timberline Resort Shuttle from Summit Pass in Government Camp up to Timberline to experience the high elevation runs. This resort also offers snow tubing and snowshoeing if you aren’t much of a skier or snowboarder. 

   Mt. Hood Meadows is another impressive resort that is unsurprisingly located in Mt. Hood, Ore., just 30 minutes away from Government Camp, Ore., and two hours from Pacific University’s Forest Grove campus. This resort offers a variety of different passes, each providing different levels of access based on skill level. The mountain is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm Night skiing opens on Dec. 13, with the same hours, extending until 9 pm.    

   Just under three hours south of Portland, Hoodoo Ski Area near Sisters, Oregon, offers a perfect winter getaway from Pacific University. This charming resort features a variety of ski runs for all levels, as well as exciting tubing for those looking to add some extra fun into their day. Hoodoo also hosts special “Featured Days,” like “Onesie Wednesday,” where lift tickets are only $35, making it affordable and fun for all. The lifts run daily at 9 am to 4 pm and the night skiing extends the hours to 9 pm. 

   Willamette Pass is another beloved resort renowned for its exciting runs, and perhaps even more so, its unbeatable deals on lift passes. With prices on a day pass as low as $19, this might be the mountain for you to visit. This resort offers 29 diverse trails and receives an average annual snowfall of 430 inches to supply the mountain. Willamette Pass is located in Crescent Lake, Ore., and is three hours away from Pacific University. 

   For all listed mountains, daily and season passes are available, along with gear rentals. Prices can be found on each resort’s website. If you have never skied before that’s fine! Lessons are also available at each resort, with pricing details available online. 

   No matter what resort you choose, you’re guaranteed to have a blast out on the slopes. If you’re without a car, public transportation can easily get you to the mountains, or you can take advantage of Pacific University’s Outdoor Pursuits program, which has designated days to help boxer students make it up to the resorts. Whether you are skiing, snowboarding, or simply enjoying winter wonderland, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season’s adventures.