How to Ski All Summer at Mt. Hood

While it’s always possible to access snow via your own human-powered endeavors, two resorts on Mt. Hood offer lift-accessed turns for the majority of the year: Timberline Lodge and Mt. Hood Meadows.

Situated on the south side of Mt. Hood, Timberline Lodge is operational 10 months out of the year, providing the longest ski season in the country and only closing in late September/early October. That extended season is due to two lifts, the Magic Mile and Palmer Express, a high-speed quad named after the Palmer Glacier to which it provides access. Once on the glacier, skiers have 1,685 acres of skiable terrain to play on—not bad for the “off season.”

As far as accommodations go, the Timberline Lodge is also the name of the on-site lodge, which originally opened in 1937 and is now a National Historic Landmark. The lodge provides some rustic cozy rooms, a heated outdoor pool, and a few dining options. Fun fact: if the Timberline Lodge looks familiar, the exterior footage of the lodge was used in filming The Shining.

About 65 miles from Portland sits Mt. Hood Meadows, another summer ski option that offers lift-accessed rising from July 5 through early September for their 2024 season. Meadows is known for their sprawling acreage that boasts a broader range of terrain to suit skill levels from beginners to advanced riders. Mt. Hood Meadows also offers summer camps and clinics for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities.

While skiing is the main attraction for most traveling to Mt. Hood, there’s plenty of additional draw to the area. 

Timberline Lodge hosts a Bike Park and mountain biking trails that stretch through the Mt. Hood National Forest, and Mt. Hood Meadow is home to hiking trails and snowshoeing trails to take in the surrounding scenery at a slower pace. 

Nearby at Skibowl, located near Government Camp, Oregon, take part in any of the Mt. Hood Adventure Park offerings, including go-carts, alpine slides, disc golf, and their scenic sky chair—in addition to the bike park, mountain biking and hiking trails that stretch throughout the resort's boundaries. (While Skibowl’s lifts stop running in the spring, they do have the largest night skiing terrain in the country.)

Additional activities expand far beyond resorts, too, including golf courses—the Mt. Hood Oregon Resort is the state’s first golf course and was established in 1928—and the Mt. Hood Railroad gives participants the opportunity to ride a scenic train or bike, e-bike, or catch an orchard or factory tour. 

To make the most of summer skiing, consider traveling to Mt. Hood in late June to early August—it’s within the typical window of when chairlifts will be running, and July usually offers the best glacier skiing. The snowpack will still be substantial, and the weather is generally consistent, making it easy to both plan and enjoy your trip.

It’s important to note that while there will still be snow on the ground, temperatures and associated conditions will vary from the winter months. A typical day will start with cooler mornings and firm snow, and as the day progresses and temperatures rise, snow can become softer and more challenging to ski on—it’s called mashed potatoes for a reason. An early start to the day can help avoid the slog of too-warm snow.

Along with staying tuned in to the weather forecast comes packing appropriately. Clothing should include light, breathable layers so you can adjust on the go as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day. Leave the heavy down jackets and insulated ski pants at home, and instead opt for a windbreaker, lighter mid layers, and moisture-wicking baselayers (wool works great here). 

Sun protection is a must—sun reflecting off snow can result in a sunburn worse than anything picked up at the beach. It’s crucial to pack a high SPF sunscreen and regularly apply throughout the day, especially when things get sweaty. A wide-brimmed hat or helmet with a visor or cap underneath and UV-protection sunglasses and goggles are non-negotiables as well. Consider them your true season’s pass.

Once your outfits are dialed in, it’s time to think about snacks and hydration: being at altitude and under the hot sun while physically exerting yourself is a recipe for dehydration. A hydration pack and/or water bottle are more crucial than ever, and be sure to pack a few energy-boosting snacks like granola bars, nuts, and fruit to be able to ski all day.

It’s also important to note that when skiing in the summer, safety precautions remain an important part of a successful day outdoors. Mountain weather can change quickly, and skiers should be prepared for shifts in conditions including fog, wind, and thunderstorms. Check the weather forecast before heading out and be aware of your surroundings. Always ski with a buddy and establish a plan for meeting up if you get separated. If you’re skiing in more remote areas, let someone know your plans and estimated return time. Familiarize yourself with trail maps and pay attention to markers and signs, and be sure to stay on designated trails to avoid hazards and respect any closures or warnings. With melting snow comes changing landscapes, and trails that are normally accessible in the winter can look very different come summer. This could include exposed cliffs and rocks, rivers and streams, and additional obstacles typically hidden under feet of snow. In the case something does go sideways, always bring a first aid kit and brush up on the locations of any on-mountain medical facilities or ski patrol stations.

Follow these tips and you’ll be on your way to soaking up the endeavor of glacier and summer skiing at Mt. Hood. From the thrill of warm-weather turns to the stunning Cascade views, your adventure will be one to repeat year after year.

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