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What's Happening After Skiing & Snowboarding

Looking for something fun to do after you get back from skiing and snowboarding? There are tons of fun things to do après ski throughout the Villages of Mt Hood.

SUNDAY

Hit up the Mallards Pub and Cafe for NFL Ticket Football all day long through Super Bowl Sunday.

Do you always know the question to the answer on Jeopardy? Then grab a beer and burger at Pub 26 for Trivia Night every Sunday at 7:30 PM.

MONDAY

Stop in at The Rendezvous Grill and Tap Room for Happy Hour: $2 off alcoholic drinks and small plates. 2 - 5 PM

Grab some local BBQ and a cocktail and listen to local musicians Fingers and Chilly at the Skyway Bar and Grill. 7 PM, all ages

TUESDAY

Stop in at The Rendezvous Grill and Tap Room for Happy Hour: $2 off alcoholic drinks and small plates. 2 - 5 PM.

Belt one out at Karaoke Night at Pub 26 serving cocktails and delicious pub food. Free darts and pool. 9 PM - Midnight

WEDNESDAY

"Wine Down Wednesday" at the Rendezvous Grill and Tap Room with $2 - $3 off glasses of wine. 5 PM - close

Stretch your muscles and relax your mind in a Vinyasa Flow Yoga class at the Mt Hood Cultural Center and Museum in Government Camp. 5:15 - 7:30 PM

THURSDAY

Show everyone else your hidden talents at Open Mic Night at the Skyway Bar and Grill. 9 PM - close; all ages until 10 PM, so bring the kids.

FRIDAY

Listen to Live Music and maybe shake your bootie, too at the Skyway Bar and Grill. Eclectic styles of music with someone new performing every night. 9 PM - Midnight; all ages until 10 PM, so bring the kids.

SATURDAY

Listen to Live Music and maybe shake your bootie, too at the Skyway Bar and Grill. Eclectic styles of music with someone new performing every night. 9 PM - Midnight; all ages until 10 PM, so bring the kids.

Watch the Saturday Night Lights Fireworks Show at Mt Hood Skibowl. Every 3rd Saturday; January 19, February 1, March 23. 8 - 11 PM

FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY

For some folks, snow tubing is their snow play for the day, however, if you want to hoot and hollar after skiing and riding, go Cosmic Tubing at Skibowl with lights, DJ, music, and drinks and food in the lodge. 5 PM - 11:30 PM

NIGHT-TIME SNOWSHOE TOURS

Unwind with a relaxing and quiet snowshoe throught the forest under the full moon or as the sun sets. There are several moonlight and sunset snowshoe tours to choose from. Full Moon Snowshoe Tours at Timberline are guided and leave from the lodge. January 21, February 19, March 19, April 18, 6:30 - 7:00 PM. Sunset Snowshoe Tour at Mt Hood Meadows are guided and start with a chairlift ride up giving you panoramic mountain views as you snowshoe down the hill. The evening ends at the lodge with a special dinner. March 9, March 16, March 23, March 30, April 13, 3 - 7 PM

80'S NIGHT AT SKIBOWL

When you are done skiing and riding, hang out at Skibowl's 10th Annual 80's Night in your best 80's garb, listening to and dancing to the best 80's music. Fashion Contest at 8 PM. February 15, 6 - 10 PM.

VALENTINE'S DAY AT MT HOOD

Bring your sweetheart to a romantic cabin in the woods for Valentine's Day and enjoy a special dinner at one of many awesome restaurants throughout the Villages. Celebrate your love with the best culinary experience in the area in the Cascade Dining Room at Timberline Lodge. Ski or ride all day at Mt Hood Meadows, then have dinner in your ski clothes (no need to dress up) in the Alpenstube Loft. One of the best restaurants in the lower villages is the Rendezvous Grill and Tap Room serving serious food in a not-so-serious place. If you can't make it midweek for the actual Valentine's Day, then visit us the weekend before and kick up your heels at the annual Valloween Costume Party at the Skyway Bar and Grill.

VACATION RENTALS

Weekends are the most popular at Mt Hood and they are filling up. If you can visit mid-week, you will save up to 20% off the nightly rate for cabins, lodges and chalets in Brightwood, Welches, Zigzag, Rhododendron and Government Camp. AND when you visit midweek, there is less traffic, shorter lift lines and fewer people. Contact our Vacation Planners Fay and Kayla at 888-424-9168 or vacationplanner@mthoodrentals.com to find the perfect Mt Hood Vacation Rental for your ski and snowboard trip this year or visit us online.

10 Ways to Have Fun in the Snow When You Visit Mt Hood

One of the reasons you are visiting Mt Hood during the winter months is to play in the snow.There are plenty of ways to have fun in the snow for hard-core athletes as well as those of us who would prefer to take it easy. Which one of these looks like your cup of cocoa?

Who doesn't love rolling balls of snow and building a snowman? Or snowwoman, or snowdog? Anyone can do it and have fun in the snow. Plus the moving around will help keep you warm, too. You can build a snowman just outside the front door of many Mt Hood Vacation Rentals. The higher elevation at Government Camp Vacation Rentals is your best bet for having snow all around you. If the snow hasn't reached your elevation, you will be a short drive to one of many Sno-Parks and snow play areas throughout the Mt Hood National Forest.

With three major ski areas and two intimate ski hills for beginners, there is plenty of opportunity to get out and shred on a snowboard or skis. Mt Hood Meadows is the largest ski area with the most varied terrain. Being on the east side of the mountain also means the snow is typically lighter and the days are brighter with more sunshine. Timberline Ski Area is Oregon's first ski resort with the lodge being built between 1936-1938 and home of the Magic Mile chairlift which was built in 1939. It was the second chairlift ever built. Mt Hood Skibowl, located in Government Camp is the local's favorite and the easiest ski area to access, especially for visitors who are staying in Government Camp. Skibowl is known as America's largest night ski area and for their Cosmic Tubing. Cooper Spur Ski Area near Parkdale on the north side of the mountain is operated by Mt Hood Meadows and is ideal for beginners and kids. Summit Ski Area and Tubing Hill, is located on the east end of Government Camp. With one chairlift, it has long been the favorite place to teach kids how to ski. RLK & Co., the managing company for Timberline recently bought the ski area with long-range plans of joining the two ski areas.

For snow enthusiasts who like getting their cardio workout on the snow, Mt Hood offers a number of places for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing for all fitness levels. The wide-open and relatively flat area at the White River Sno-Park is ideal for beginners who do not want too much steepness or trying to wind their way through the trees. And you will get amazing views of Mt Hood. Most cross-country areas do not have set tracks, so if you are the early bird who gets on the trail first, you will be breaking trail for others. Note to snowshoers, please do not trek over those hard-earned ski tracks; go along the side.

For set cross-country tracks, try the Teacup Lake trail system with 12 miles of groomed trails from flat and easy, to challenging hills with turns. Tracks are set by a full-size Snocat for both skating and touring skis. Just across Highway 35 at Hood River Meadows is the Nordic Center at Mt Hood Meadows with more than 9 miles of groomed and set track including skating and traditional striding lanes through beautiful wooded trails and meadows.

Reclaim your inner child and make an angel in the snow. You can do this just about anywhere and with anyone.

Sledding and tubing has been around since kids have been playing in the snow. There are a number of designated sled and tube hills around the mountain (duh moment here: please do not sled or tube down the roads where cars are driving). The most popular areas for sledding and tubing are Summit Tube Hill at the east end of Goverment Camp, Snow Bunny just east of Government Camp and the White River West Sno-Park.

Ramp up the tubing experience with Cosmic Tubing at Mt Hood Skibowl with over 600,000 LED lights, laser light shows, black lights, colored lights, rocking music and more it will be the most fun you’ve had all weekend. At the bottom of the tube hill, a dual conveyor lift takes you and the tube back up the hill. The Multorpor Cafe is at the top of the tube hill for hot cocoa, chili, burgers and more.

On select Saturday nights and New Year's Eve, you can catch the fireworks show at Mt Hood Skibowl.

There is nothing more peaceful and serene than a winter walk in the snow. Many hiking trails are accessible during the winter months and as long as the snow is not too deep, you can walk in a winter wonderland. Be sure to wear the warm winter clothes (no cotton) and winter boots.

Let the kids and the family dog get tired out with a romp in the snow. Many Mt Hood Vacation Rentals are surrounded by snow during the winter, so they can just head out the back door. Or you can take a short drive to one of many Sno-Parks and join in on the fun. The best Mt Hood Vacation Rentals for playing in the snow are in Government Camp, however, we often have snow around the cabins and lodges at the lower elevations, too.

Whether your idea of a good time in the snow is to play in it or if you prefer to sit inside near a cozy and warm fire while it snows outside, you will love one of our Mt Hood cabins, lodges or chalets for your winter snow play vacay this year. Call one of our Vacation Planners, Fay or Kayla at 888-424-9168 or send them an email to find the perfect winter vacation rental. Need a little more time to plan, search Mt Hood Vacation Rentals online.

There is something for everyone this Holiday Season!

Whether you are spending a few days in a Mt Hood Vacation Rental this holiday season or visiting Mt Hood for just a few hours, there are lots of activities for you to enjoy from snow play fun like tubing, skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing as well as making snow angels and snowmen or throwing snowballs, to shopping to Christmas Caroling or visiting with Santa; there is something for everyone in your family and friend group to do. Beginning before Christmas and on past the New Year, check out our list of favorite things and not so typical things to do at Mt Hood this holiday season.

Snowshoe Tours

Find a trail and take off into the woods on snowshoes on your own or join a guided tour, exploring the snow in a quiet and remote setting is relaxing and fun. And because you are moving, you will stay warm and burn calories, earning your pizza and beer when you are done.

Mt Hood Meadows Snowshoe Tours - Daily, 1:30 - 3:30 PM, December 26-31 and January 5-6
Enjoy a wonderful afternoon away from the hustle and bustle of the holidays on a guided snowshoe tour through trees and meadows with a scenic view of frosty Umbrella Falls. Mt Hood Meadows Snowshoe Tours are an incredible way for visitors who don't ski or snowboard to experience the beauty and inspiration of the being on the mountain. The tour begins at 1:30 PM each day from the Lesson Meeting Area located in front of the North Lodge. Learn more...

Mt Hood Outfitters Guided Snowshoe Tours - Daily, Times vary depending upon the tour
Mt Hood Outfitters, operated by Mt Hood Skibowl has several options for snowshoe tours including Daytime Tours on the Crosstown Traail of 2-4 hour and 2-6 miles and Moonlight Tours that are 2-6 miles that are lit up by the snow. However, for a really fun adventure, sign up for the New Year's Eve Bonfire Snowshoe Tour with expert guides taking you on little known trails to a beautiful viewpoint of Mt. Hood Skibowl. Enjoy a backcountry fire pit with lots of treats while you ring in the New Year watching the fireworks show over Mt. Hood Skibowl at midnight. A truly unique experience without the craziness and the crowds. This tour goes from 9:00 PM - 1:00 AM on New Year's Eve. It always fills up, so book your spot soon. Learn more...

Party with Santa and Frosty

Santa Claus and Frosty the Snowman will be making several appearances in the Mt Hood area during the holidays. The kids will get a last chance to tell Santa what they want for Christmas and Frosty the Snowman is just lots of fun to hang out with.

Christmas Tree Lighting in Government Camp, December 15, 6:00 PM
Santa and Frosty will arrive on a special fire engine from the Hoodland Fire Department to the center of town to assist in lighting the Christmas Tree. The festivities begin at 6:00 PM when the switch is flipped and the town Christmas tree is lit up in all its splendor. Donuts and hot cocoa will be on hand. Learn more...

Breakfast with Santa at Mt Hood Meadows, December 22-23, 8:00 & 9:00 AM
Join Santa for a waffle and parfait bar breakfast at Mt. Hood Meadows. Enjoy great food and tell Santa what you want this season! Get your picture taken with Santa and receive a North Pole gift bag. Learn more...

Cosmic Tubing with Santa and Frosty, December 15-16 and December 22-23, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
The jolly elf himself will be visiting Mt Hoood Skibowl with Frosty the Snowman at the Snow Tube & Adventure Park at Skibowl East. Santa and Frosty will be visiting the tube hill, and then Santa will set up shop in front of the fireplace inside the Multorpor Lodge. Kids will be able to sit with Santa and tell him what they want for Christmas. There will be photo opportunities and treats for the kids, too. Learn more...

Live Music and Dancing

There are lots of choices for live music and dancing around the Villages of Mt Hood during the holidays including Open Mic Nights and Karaoke if you like being part of the show.

Skyway Bar and Grill, Every Night (closed Christmas Day), Music Starts between 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Music styles are varied throughout the holidaysat the Skyway with more danceable music on the weekends in the genre of country, rock, jazz and blues and local folk artists on Sunday and Monday nights. Thursdays are Open Mic nights for all ages until 10:00 PM (your kids can get in on the fun). And on Christmas Eve, all ages Christmas Karaoke starts at 8:00 PM. Learn more...

Pub 26, Friday - Tuesday, 4:00 PM - Midnight
Pub 26 is a popular new bar for adult time away from the kids. Long-time local mixologist Jarod opened the bar with lots of TVs showing sports, a pool table, entertainment stage, bar food menu and great cocktails and local craft beer on tap. Sunday nights are Trivia Nights and Tuesday nights are Karaoke Nights. Then to mix things up, the first Saturday of the month is Comedy Night (January 5). Learn more...

Relaxation Vacation

Do the holidays feel stressful and hectic? If so, make your holiday vacation a relaxation break with a yoga class or visit to the spa or schedule a relaxation massage.

Vinyasa Yoga Flow Class, December 26 and January 2, 5:15 PM - 6:15 PM
Join an energizing evening Vinyasa Flow Yoga Class at the Mt Hood Cultural Center and Museum. The class on December 26th will be a New Year Intention Setting theme and on January 2nd, the class will celebrate birthdays with cake. Please bring your yoga mat if you have one, a few mats will be available. Suggested Donation of $5-$10/person. Learn more...

The Spa at the Mt Hood Oregon Resort, Hours vary; call for an appointment
The full-service 5,000 square foot facility features seven treatment rooms, including three massage rooms, a skin care treatment room, wet treatment room with a Vichy Shower, a deluxe doubles treatment room with an oversized two-person soaking tub and a manicure/pedicure room. Completing the indulgent spa experience are separate brand new cedar saunas for men and women, plus a relaxation area with a stone fireplace and our Infiniti Tea Garden. Learn more...

Massage Therapy
Sometimes a relaxing and rejuvenating massage is what you need to melt away the stress of getting ready for the holidays. There are several licensed massage therapists throughout the Villages of Mt Hood. However, if you think you want to treat yourself to a massage when you are here, please call ahead to set an appointment.  Learn more...

There is A Whole Lot More to Do...

Looking for more fun things to do during Christmas Vacation at Mt Hood? Head to our Events page and our Concierge page to learn more.

If you are still thinking about a renting a cabin or lodge for Christmas or New Year's Eve, call a Vacation Planner today at 888-424-9168 or send us a quick email. There is limited availability for the holiday stays. We do have more choices in Mt Hood Vacation Rentals December 14-21, 2018 and January 1-5, 2019.

Activities for Adults and Kids in the Villages of Mt Hood

Are you visiting Mt Hood next week for Thanksgiving? There are lots of fun things to do for both adults and kids. And with snow in the forecast for Wednesday through Sunday, you can schedule a snowball fight or build a snowman.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 16

Live Music at the Skyway Bar and Grill. Bob Shoemaker and The Vaporizors, Delta Blues guitar master influenced by Leadbelly and Brownie McGee. 9 PM - Midnight. Roadhouse-style NW BBQ place with a “lick your plate clean” a la cart menu from Chef Jason Hornor, featuring an Oregon spin– recipes that highlight the bounty of fresh meats that are smoked and cured onsite, combined with local foods of the great Pacific NW. Savor NW BBQ and listen to music next to the vintage indoor fireplace. Daily food specials and Skyway infused cocktails hit the spot on any day! 21 and older.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 17

Hoodland Holiday Market. The Hoodland Holiday Market will be offering everything from fresh produce, meat and eggs to locally handmade crafts, jewelry, herbal products, yard sale items, live music and more! Each day will feature a different variety of vendors. The Market will be held in the gymnasium at Camp Arrah Wanna, 24075 E Arrah Wanna Blvd in Welches. Friday and Saturday, 2 - 6 PM and Sunday, Noon - 4 PM. All ages.

Live Music at the Skyway Bar and Grill. Fortune's Folly, voted Best Band in Eugene, an energetic 4-piece band performing progressive alternative rock. 9 PM. Roadhouse-style NW BBQ place with a “lick your plate clean” a la cart menu from Chef Jason Hornor, featuring an Oregon spin– recipes that highlight the bounty of fresh meats that are smoked and cured onsite, combined with local foods of the great Pacific NW. Savor NW BBQ and listen to music next to the vintage indoor fireplace. Daily food specials and Skyway infused cocktails hit the spot on any day! 21 and older.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 18

Heidi's 3rd Birthday at Timberline Lodge. Timberline Lodge's St. Bernard, Heidi turns 3! Join us for cake and pictures with the birthday girl. Heidi’s birthday party will take place in the Barlow Room at Timberline Lodge. Free admission, everyone is welcome! 10 AM - 3 PM. All ages.

NFL Ticket at the Mt Hood Oregon Resort. Every Game, Every Sunday on NFL Ticket. Join your friends for great football, food and drinks at Mallard's Pub every Sunday throughout the NFL season. Food specials weekly. All ages.

Live Music at the Skyway Bar and Grill with Will Frank, local folk songwriter and singer, 7 - 9 PM. Roadhouse-style NW BBQ place with a “lick your plate clean” a la cart menu from Chef Jason Hornor, featuring an Oregon spin– recipes that highlight the bounty of fresh meats that are smoked and cured onsite, combined with local foods of the great Pacific NW. Savor NW BBQ and listen to music next to the vintage indoor fireplace. Daily food specials and Skyway infused cocktails hit the spot on any day! All ages.

Trivia Night at Pub 26. Bring your friends for teams of 6 and see how much you really know! Winning team gets 10% off their tab. 7:30 PM. 21 and older.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 19

Happy Hour at the Rendezvous Grill and Tap Room. $2.00 off any alcoholic beverage or small plate. Every Monday and Tuesday from 2 - 5 PM. 21 and older.

Live Music at the Skyway Bar and Grill. Fingers and Chili, Folk Rock Jam from local performers with some originals and covers. Special Guests join in. 8 PM. Roadhouse-style NW BBQ place with a “lick your plate clean” a la cart menu from Chef Jason Hornor, featuring an Oregon spin– recipes that highlight the bounty of fresh meats that are smoked and cured onsite, combined with local foods of the great Pacific NW. Savor NW BBQ and listen to music next to the vintage indoor fireplace. Daily food specials and Skyway infused cocktails hit the spot on any day! All ages.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 20

Karaoke Night at Pub 26. Drink Specials, free pool and darts. Hosted by Ryan Peloquin, 9 PM - Midnight. 21 and older.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 21

Wine Down Wednesday at the Rendezvous Grill. $2 off any glass of wine, 5 PM - close. 21 and older.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22

Thanksgiving Dinner at Timberline Lodge. While the snow falls, Timberline's chefs will be serving a memorable multi-course meal. Guests will be seated in the award winning Cascade Dining Room and Main Lobby Headhouse. - Reservations required. 1 - 7 PM. All Ages.

Thanksgiving Dinner at the Mt Hood Oregon Resort. Buffet feast in the Altitude Restaurant, 11 AM - 4 PM. All ages.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23

Free Fishing for Black Friday. Start a new Black Friday tradition and share your love of fishing with family and friends. Introduce a friend, child, co-worker or family member to fishing during Oregon's free fishing days. ODFW offers Oregon residents and visitors the opportunity to explore and experience fishing, crabbing, clamming without the need for a license or tags on specific listed dates throughout the year. Enjoy the fun of fishing for free anywhere in the State of Oregon! Fishing regulation and bag limits still apply. Valid in locations that normally require a fishing license. All ages.

Hoodland Holiday Market. The Hoodland Holiday Market will be offering everything from fresh produce, meat and eggs to locally handmade crafts, jewelry, herbal products, yard sale items, live music and more! Each day will feature a different variety of vendors. The Market will be held in the gymnasium at Camp Arrah Wanna, 24075 E Arrah Wanna Blvd in Welches. Friday and Saturday, 2 - 6 PM and Sunday, Noon - 4 PM. All ages.

Cosmic Tubing at Mt Hood Skibowl. Enjoy over 600,000 LED lights, laser light shows, black lights, colored lights, rocking music and more! It will be the most fun you’ve had all weekend. Don’t bother walking up the hill with that big tube, just jump on Mt. Hood's only dual conveyor lifts dedicated to tubing, and relax all the way to the top! 5 PM - 11:30 PM. All ages.

Live Music at the Skyway Bar and Grill. Pagan Jug Band, high-energy bluegrass, all acoustic boot-stomping band.. 9 PM - Midnight. Roadhouse-style NW BBQ place with a “lick your plate clean” a la cart menu from Chef Jason Hornor, featuring an Oregon spin– recipes that highlight the bounty of fresh meats that are smoked and cured onsite, combined with local foods of the great Pacific NW. Savor NW BBQ and listen to music next to the vintage indoor fireplace. Daily food specials and Skyway infused cocktails hit the spot on any day! 21 and older.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 24

Free Fishing for Black Friday. Start a new Black Friday tradition and share your love of fishing with family and friends. Introduce a friend, child, co-worker or family member to fishing during Oregon's free fishing days. ODFW offers Oregon residents and visitors the opportunity to explore and experience fishing, crabbing, clamming without the need for a license or tags on specific listed dates throughout the year. Enjoy the fun of fishing for free anywhere in the State of Oregon! Fishing regulation and bag limits still apply. Valid in locations that normally require a fishing license. All ages.

Hoodland Holiday Market. The Hoodland Holiday Market will be offering everything from fresh produce, meat and eggs to locally handmade crafts, jewelry, herbal products, yard sale items, live music and more! Each day will feature a different variety of vendors. The Market will be held in the gymnasium at Camp Arrah Wanna, 24075 E Arrah Wanna Blvd in Welches. Friday and Saturday, 2 - 6 PM and Sunday, Noon - 4 PM. All ages.

Pray for Snow Party at Mt Hood Meadows. Kick-off another awesome winter at Mt Hood Meadows' Pray for Snow Party! Join us for music, dancing and dinner! Backwoods Brewing will be pouring seasonal brews, our Junior on the Prowl will be throwing down some rockin tunes, and Guest Services will be here to help you renew or purchase your season pass. Bring yourself, bring the kids and bring the snow dances!  All ages.

Holiday Artisan Sale. Discover the local artisans of Mt. Hood. Browse knit goods, jewelry, wines, bath products, and other local goods to kick-start your holiday shopping. For more information, call 503-622-3101. This free event takes place in the Cascade Ballroom (main building) at The Mt Hood Oregon Resort. Saturday - 90 AM - 6 PM and Sunday 10 AM - 3 PM. All ages.

Cosmic Tubing at Mt Hood Skibowl. Enjoy over 600,000 LED lights, laser light shows, black lights, colored lights, rocking music and more! It will be the most fun you’ve had all weekend. Don’t bother walking up the hill with that big tube, just jump on Mt. Hood's only dual conveyor lifts dedicated to tubing, and relax all the way to the top! 5 PM - 11:30 PM. All ages.

Live Music at the Skyway Bar and Grill. Scott Pemberton Band, Timber Rock iconic of the Portland indie sound. 9 PM - Midnight. Roadhouse-style NW BBQ place with a “lick your plate clean” a la cart menu from Chef Jason Hornor, featuring an Oregon spin– recipes that highlight the bounty of fresh meats that are smoked and cured onsite, combined with local foods of the great Pacific NW. Savor NW BBQ and listen to music next to the vintage indoor fireplace. Daily food specials and Skyway infused cocktails hit the spot on any day! 21 and older.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 25

NFL Ticket at the Mt Hood Oregon Resort. Every Game, Every Sunday on NFL Ticket. Join your friends for great football, food and drinks at Mallard's Pub every Sunday throughout the NFL season. Food specials weekly. All ages.

Hoodland Holiday Market. The Hoodland Holiday Market will be offering everything from fresh produce, meat and eggs to locally handmade crafts, jewelry, herbal products, yard sale items, live music and more! Each day will feature a different variety of vendors. The Market will be held in the gymnasium at Camp Arrah Wanna, 24075 E Arrah Wanna Blvd in Welches. Friday and Saturday, 2 - 6 PM and Sunday, Noon - 4 PM. All ages.

Holiday Artisan Sale. Discover the local artisans of Mt. Hood. Browse knit goods, jewelry, wines, bath products, and other local goods to kick-start your holiday shopping. For more information, call 503-622-3101. This free event takes place in the Cascade Ballroom (main building) at The Mt Hood Oregon Resort. Saturday - 90 AM - 6 PM and Sunday 10 AM - 3 PM. All ages.

Cosmic Tubing at Mt Hood Skibowl. Enjoy over 600,000 LED lights, laser light shows, black lights, colored lights, rocking music and more! It will be the most fun you’ve had all weekend. Don’t bother walking up the hill with that big tube, just jump on Mt. Hood's only dual conveyor lifts dedicated to tubing, and relax all the way to the top! 5 PM - 9:15 PM. All ages.

Live Music at the Skyway Bar and Grill. Tony Graham. 7 - 10 PM. Roadhouse-style NW BBQ place with a “lick your plate clean” a la cart menu from Chef Jason Hornor, featuring an Oregon spin– recipes that highlight the bounty of fresh meats that are smoked and cured onsite, combined with local foods of the great Pacific NW. Savor NW BBQ and listen to music next to the vintage indoor fireplace. Daily food specials and Skyway infused cocktails hit the spot on any day! 21 and older.

Trivia Night at Pub 26. Bring your friends for teams of 6 and see how much you really know! Winning team gets 10% off their tab. 7:30 PM. 21 and older.

Thanksgiving Vacation Rentals. There are a few cabins left for Thanksgiving Weekend, but they are going fast. Call a Vacation Planner at 888-424-9168 or book online.

Mt Hood Experiences for the Perfect Holiday Gift

It is that time of year when everyone is thinking about holiday gifts for friends and family members. Instead of circling the parking lot looking for an empty space and battling the crowds at the mall, give a memorable experience or specially crafted artwork as a gift this year. Your friends and family will appreciate the unique, different and thoughtful gift and you will have a much calmer holiday shopping season. Here is a list of unique gifts and activities from local Mt Hood area businesses.

Take the Train to Christmas Town

Every holiday season, the Mt Hood Railroad transforms the historic train into a holiday excursion, a unique excursion through the Hood River Valley on the east side of Mt Hood. The Christmas Town Train is a magical experience for everyone in the family and includes holiday music and caroling, Christmas cookies and hot cocoa, Santa and his elves and special gifts for everyone. Passengers are encouraged to wear holiday attire.

If you are unable to Take the Train to Christmas Town this holiday season, buy tickets for the Parkdale Express which runs June through October or for the Western Train Robbery themed ride traveling on select dates during the summer.

Mt Hood Railroad

Private Ski or Snowboard Lessons

Does your friend or family member love snowsports? Give them a private lesson so they can hone their skills and improve in the areas they want to work on. A private lesson is tailored specifically to the skier or rider and they will see the results immediately when they go sliding down the hill. For the kids, you can enroll them in a full-day kids' session. all of the ski areas make it fun with hot cocoa and snow play. Mt Hood Meadows, Timberline and Mt Hood Skibowl all have great ski school and offer private and group lessons for all ages.

Mt Hood Meadows Ski School
Timberline Ski School
Mt Hood Skibowl Ski School

Take the Family Cosmic Tubing

Cosmic Tubing at Mt Hood Skibowl is all the rage and rightly so; it is a ton of fun. You and the tube ride up a conveyor belt, so no more walking uphill dragging the innertube behind you. Then ride down a lane lit up with multi-colored lights while music plays. The tubes are not plain, either. They are shaped and colored like bananas, hamburgers, sharks and just about anything else you can think of. You can go inside to the lodge right next to the tube hill for a hot drink and a snack, too.

Cosmic Tubing at Mt Hood Skibowl

Dinner in the Cascade Dining Room at Timberline Lodge

If you have a foodie on your list, give them a gift certificate for the Cascade Dining Room at Timberline Lodge. They will appreciate the opportunity to dine in this historic setting with awesome views. Executive Chef, Jason Stoller Smith has created an unique menu designed around fresh northwest ingredients. The wine list is created to compliment the food with a special focus on Oregon wines.

Cascade Dining Room at Timberline Lodge

Relaxation Massage

Everyone loves a relaxation massage and there are several great massage therapists in the Mt Hood area. You can buy a gift certificate for your favorite person that they can use during their next visit to Mt Hood. And some will come to your vacation rental as well, so your loved one does not need to do anything but relax. Or maybe your special person would prefer a facial or pedicure; these pampering treatments are also available.

Massage Therapists in the Mt Hood Area

Private Yoga Lesson

Give the Yogi or Yogis in your family a private lesson in a Mt Hood Vacation Rental. Lauren Carusona, Registered Yoga Teacher, will come to you with props and music; you just need to bring your yoga mat (she has mats if you forgot yours). She teaches Vinyasa Flow, as well as Restorative yoga and likes to incorporate some acupressure points, self massage and energy medicine yoga as well to further promote deep relaxation, healing and self care. She checks in with everyone to find out about any injuries and what everyone is looking to get out of the session. Private or group sessions are available.

Whole Hearted Yoga and Nutrition

Local Coffee and Beer

If your best friend likes their beverages to be local, you can gift them with their morning brew and their evening brew all concocted at Mt Hood.

Mt Hood Roasters is a family business located in Rhododendron where they roast their coffee daily. You can tour the coffee roasting facility, buy a cup of coffee or pick up bags of beans or ground coffee for holiday gifts, 7 days a week at Mt Hood Roasters.

Coffee House 26 is a family business located in Welches. They have been serving coffee and breakfast and lunch treats for years and recently started roasting their own beans on-site. Stop in for a coffee clatch with friends, then pick up your gift bags of coffee for your holiday gifts. Watch for visits with Santa during Christmas Vacation.

Mt Hood Brewing has been around for close to 30 years brewing favorite craft beers in Government Camp including their signature beer, Ice Axe IPA. There are several other regular beers plus many seasonal beverages. Have lunch or dinner at the Brew Pub, then pick up a few growlers for your friends.

Local Mt Hood Art

Sue Allen Studio Ink creates hand-screened cards and wall art in a whimsical style depicting the flora, fauna and wildlife of Mt Hood with a special focus on history and landscapes using bright and cheery colors in their Brigthwood studio. Watch for holiday studio sales this fall.

Lindsoe Clayworks crafts hand-thrown pottery for practical uses in the kitchen and home as well as art for your walls and garden in Dulcie Lindsoe Johansen's garage studio in Rhododendron. You can have a custom-made dog bowl thrown, too. Watch for holiday studio sales this fall.

Wy'East Weldworks in Welches turns scrap metal headed for the recycle bin into works of art including holiday ornaments, wall art and industrial-style furniture. Check out Sally Butler Unkefer's Etsy page and if you don't see what you want, contact her for a custom one-of-a-kind piece of art.

Gary Randall Photographic Art is a highly-regarded local photographer specializing in landscapes throughout the Pacific Northwest, Alaska and Hawaii. Pick up a card, print, photo on metal or a calendar on Gary's website. Or treat the budding photographer in your family to a one-on-one photography workshop with Gary Randall.

Mt Hood Vacation Rentals Gift Certificate

Give your favorite person in the whole wide world a vacation this year. You can purchase a gift certificate for the full amount at a specific vacation rental with specific dates or you can purchase a gift certificate in any amount that your loved one can use towards their choice in a cabin or lodge at Mt Hood for the dates that work best for them. Just call us with the details and we will email a printable gift certificate to you within 24 hours. (Note: our offices are closed on December 24 and 25, so plan ahead accordingly.)

Contact Mt Hood Vacation Rentals at 888-424-9168 to purchase a gift certificate.

Vibrant Fall Colors + Crisp, Cool Days + Fun Activities
= The Perfect Mt Hood Vacation

HIKING

Fall is the best time for hiking. The trails are less crowded and the fall colors on the trees are vibrant making for an eye-popping scenic adventure. Some of our favorite trails are:

Little Zigzag River Trail: A short 1.2 mile out and back hike that is easily accessed by most people including small children and less-abled walkers alike

Old Salmon River Trail: A relatively flat trail that follows the Salmon River for 5 miles total, out and back. Or you can hike the Salmon River Trail (trailhead is at the bridge) for up to 9 miles one-way!

Trillium Lake: Not only will you see a spectacular view of Mt Hood at the lake, but you will also see lots of fall colors. You can hike, run or bike around the lake on forest roads or hike the 1.9 mile trail that goes around a portion of the lake.

Castle Canyon Trail: This 2.2 mile out and back hike is rated moderate, but feels difficult and is not for the less fit, however it you want to get a workout and spectacular pinnacle views, this is a must-do hike. Watch for chantrelles along the trail, too.

Timberline Trail and Pacific Crest Trail from Timberline Lodge: These two trails are popular for summer hiking and should be considered for fall hiking before the snow falls. You can do as little or as much as you like from Timberline Lodge with amazing views of Mt Hood. Then head into the lodge for a snack and hot beverage.

Check out all of the hiking trails in the Mt Hood National Forest. For trails near your Mt Hood Vacation Rental, we are surrounded by the Zigzag Ranger District.

SALMON SPAWNING

Salmon will be spawning in the rivers around the Villages of Mt Hood during the fall. The exact timing is different every year based on weather (rainfall and temperatures), but once they arrive to spawn, the show lasts for a few weeks. The salmon run is when the salmon swim upstream from the ocean back to the rivers to lay eggs for the next year's new fish. In our case, the salmon have a long trip from the Pacific Ocean up the Columbia River to the Sandy River, then on up to the Salmon River and other tributaries like Still Creek. After this arduous and tiring trip, the eggs are laid and fertilized, then the salmon die. When the salmon eggs develop into new fish, these fish will eventually swim back to the ocean, only to return to the same river they were born in to spawn and then die just as their parents did. The aptly named Salmon River is the best place to see the salmon spawning, but check out this video of salmon in Still Creek from a few years ago.

HOOD RIVER COUNTY FRUIT LOOP

Just a short drive to the east side of Mt Hood, you can visit the Hood River County Fruit Loop when vacationing at Mt Hood. Fall is apple and pear season in the Hood River Valley and their are many farm stands open with freshly picked apples and pears of multiple varieties as well as fresh-pressed apple cider. They will also be selling pumpkins and other squash and late season vegetables just harvested from their farms. Bring the apples back to your vacation rental and make an apple pie with the kids (all of our vacation rentals include pie pans). Our favorite recipe is Martha Stewart's Mile-High Apple Pie. Of course, you an buy a pre-made pie crust and just make the filling to make things easier. The adults may want to do a little wine tasting at one of several wineries in the Hood River region as well.

GATHER AROUND THE FIREPIT

As the nighttime air chills down during the fall, the outside campfires in the firepit at your vacation rental become more fun. Gather around the fire with a hot beverage and make s'mores for dessert. Everyone will have fun talking about the day's adventures and where you want to go next.

MORE FALL EVENTS

Looking for more things to do? From listening to live music, running a 50K trail run, visiting local farmers' markets and more, there is something fun and interesting to do at Mt Hood for everyone this fall.

MT HOOD VACATION RENTALS

The best part about visiting Mt Hood during the fall is that it is our Quiet Season, so there are less crowded trails, restaurants and stores and less traffic on the roads plus you can stay in a Mt Hood Vacation Rental at ridiculously reduced rates for the first 2 nights, then add a 3rd night for 1/2 price and the 4th night is free. When is your trip? For friendly, personalized assistance in finding the best vacation rental to meet and exceed your expectations, call a Vacation Planner at 888-424-9168.

There is Something for Everyone at Mt Hood During the Summer...

That is if you like spending time outside.

If you have visited during the winter months, you might think that Mt Hood is a winter snow sport destination only. However, summer is just as popular of a season to visit Mt Hood. Because the elevations thruoghout the Villages of Mt Hood (Brightwood, Welches, Zigzag, Rhododendron, Government Camp and on up to Timberline) range from about 1200 ft to 6000 ft and we are surrounded by tall evergreen trees and flowing rivers originating from Mt Hood snowmelt, the weather is perfect at Mt Hood when it is too hot in the city. As a matter of fact, most summers we do not get out of the 80's during the daytime and you might even want a sweater some nights.

There is alot to do here, too, however you will not find movie theaters, bowling alleys or nightclubs in our villages. You will find all kinds of fun activities to do outside, good food and drinks at more than 50 eateries and great live music of all genres for all ages at the bars as well as outdoor venues.

Mt Hood is also popular for romantic retreats. Many of our cabins have played a part in engagements, honeymoons and anniversaries. Family reunions are fun, too with all of the activities for adults and kids to enjoy.

What better way to cool down on a sunny summer day than to visit the lake. There are 5 lakes nearby Mt Hood Vacation Rentals: Trillium Lake is just 3 miles east of Government Camp, Lost Lake is about 15 miles up Lolo Pass Road, Frog Lake is 5 miles past Trillium Lake and Timothy Lake is another 12 miles southeast of Frog Lake. (There are actually more than 150 lakes and 14 wild and scenic rivers throughout the Mt Hood National Forest.) Mirror Lake is just off the highway, 1 mile west of Government Camp.

Trillium Lake is perfect for swimming because only non-motorized boats are permitted. Being a smaller lake, the water is warmer, too. You can fish, canoe, kayak and paddle board at Trillium Lake. There are also several trails for all abiliites for hiking, running and biking around the lake, too.

Frog Lake is named for the frogs that live in the trees near the lake (they are actually Western Mountain Toads). During the early summer, you will find lots of tadpoles swimming in the shallow areas of the lake and by mid-July, they will be toads. There are several trails you can access from the Frog Lake parking area including the Twin Lakes Trail.

Timothy Lake is the one of the few lakes that allows motorized boating (10 MPH speed limit) making it easier to explore the entire lake or to go fishing. There is a 13-mile trail around the lake that is open to hikers and horses and most of the trail is also open for mountain bikers.

Lost Lake is the most difficult to get to requiring some gravel road driving, but the views are well-worth the drive with some of the best Mt Hood views in the area. You can fish, canoe, kayak, paddle-board and hike at Lost Lake. Boat rentals are available at the lake, too.

Mirror Lake is just off the highway near Government Camp. This is one of the most popular hiking trails in the area, so you will want to hit it early. The good news is that the Forest Service is building a new parking lot and trailhead to ease the congestion.

If you are flying in or did not bring boats with you, you can rent kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddle boards from Mt Hood Adventure in Government Camp. They will even meet you at the lake with the boats and pick them up when you are finished boating.

Is your Mt Hood vacation all about relaxing and re-centering your life? If so, there are several yoga classes offered in the area throughout the summer. For a very scenic class, head up to Timberline Lodge on Thursday evenings, 5:30 - 6:30, July 12 - August 30 for Yoga with a View (of Mt Hood that is). All ages and skill levels are welcome.

Wholehearted Nutrition and Yoga is offering classes, Friday through Monday mornings at the Rendezvous Center in Welches. Friday, Saturday and Monday classes are all levels Flow Yoga and Sunday classes are Restorative Flow Yoga.

Fresh, local produce and flowers, meats and hand-crafted works from local artisans plus live music are at two local farmers' markets this summer. The Mount Hood Farmers' Market in Sandy is a non-profit fund raiser for The Ant Farm, a non-profit with a mission to "create and connect a healthy, purposeful, and compassionate community by providing life-changing learning experiences for youth".

The Hoodland Farmers' Market is new this year and will be held on Sundays at the Rendezvous Center in Welches. The market will have elements of change each week inlcuding Certified Naturally Grown produce, meat, eggs, flowers, preserved/pickled foods, herbs, herbal products and information about Nutrition and self care.

Mountain bikers flock to Mt Hood every summer for recreational and competitive riding on several trails in the area. When the snow melts at Mt Hood Skibowl, the Mountain Bike Park opens. Ride the chairlift up the hill with your bike and ride more than 40 miles of trails. Or you can ride one of the Mt Hood National Forest trails including the Pioneer Bridle Trail or the Timberline to Town Trail. You can ride the Mt Hood Express Shuttle which is equipped with a multi-bike trailer up to Timbelrine at 6000 feet, then ride all the way back to the lower villages at 1200 feet for just $2/person. The now world-famous Sandy Ridge Trails are in Brightwood and just minutes from several Mt Hood Vacation Rentals. And next summer the new mountain bike trail park will be open at Timberline Ski Area.

If you didn't bring your bike with you or you just want to ride for a day, there are several options for renting mountain bikes including Mt Hood Bicycle, Mountain Sports, Hurricane Racing and Mt Hood Adventure.

Trout fishing and fly fishing are popular year-round at Mt Hood. Kids and adults alike can fish for trout at the lakes around the Mt Hood National Forest, including free youth fishing clinics in June and again in September. Fly fishing for salmon and steelhead is world-class at Mt Hood on one of 3 rivers, the Salmon, Zigzag and Sandy. The Fly Fishing Shop in Welches offers all the gear you need for fly fishing as well as expert guides who know all the sweet spots and can provide tips and tricks. There are Fly Fishing Schools available which are held several days throughout the summer.

Hiking is the second most popular reason our guests give for visiting Mt Hood during the summer. The Villages of Mt Hood (Government Camp, Rhododendron, Zigzag, Welches and Brightwood) are surrounded by the Mt Hood National Forest which is comprised of 1700 square miles that includes 1000's of miles of hiking on 320+ trails. Mt Hood Vacation Rentals' cabins and lodges are surrounded by the Zigzag Ranger District, which boasts more than 100 trails. One of the most popular trails for families and people with limited mobility or who just want to take it easy is the Little Zigzag Falls Trail, a wide out and back 1/2 mile trail that flows gently uphill along the Little Zigzag River to the falls. For the more ambitious hikers, two of the best known and iconic trails are the Timberline Trail which circumnavigates Mt Hood at treeline for 41 miles and the Pacific Crest Trail with 130 miles located in the Mt Hood National Forest, passing right by Timberline Lodge and the summit of Lolo Pass Rd. Both of these trails have several access points for shorter day hikes. For more hiking trails, here is the list of all the trails in the Zigzag Ranger District.

And the number one reason our guests give for vacationing at Mt Hood is to relax. With vacation homes surrounded by the national forest, tall evergreen trees and colorful decidious trees, nestled next to rivers, creeks and streams and with awesome views, it is easy to just kick back and rejuvenate when you visit Mt Hood. Most Mt Hood Vacation Rentals are in secluded or semi-secluded settings with creeks and rivers flowing nearby, creating a relaxing ambiance for your retreat. 

If your family dog travels with you on your vacations, we have you covered with more the majority of our vacation homes being dog-friendly. Your pooch will love his Mt Hood vacation with so many lakes and rivers to swim in, trails to run on and back decks to nap on.

We also provide fully-equipped kitchens with all appliances (stove, oven, refrigerator, dishwashwer, microwave, coffee maker and toaster) with an extensive supply of pots, pans, dishes and utensils, so you can easily prepare a favorite meal with friends and family. Of course if you decide to leave the cooking to someone else and eat out, we have more than 50 restaurants, bars, taverns and cafes to choose from starting in Brightwood and moving all the way up and around the mountain to Mt Hood Meadows ski area.

Besides serving great food and drinks, all in casual settings (no dress up required at Mt Hood - come as you are), several locales also offer up free live music. The Skyway Bar and Grill is known for their house-smoked BBQ and mac-n-cheese and the fun outside atmosphere with a firepit and eclectic art and they are also known for the free live music 5 nights a week (usually played outside during the summer). Thursday is Open Mic night for all ages until 10 PM, continuing on until closing time; Friday and Saturday nights are reserved for more lively party and dance music starting at 9 PM, with more casual tunes presented on Sunday nights at 7 PM and rounding out the week, you can enjoy listening to local musicians playing on Monday nights.

On Wednesdays, from 3 PM - 5 PM during July and August, you can catch folk and Americana music at Timberline Lodge on the back patio with stunning views of Mt Hood. The Labor Day Mountain Music Festival at Timberline is held outside on the amphitheatre featuring a dynamic selection of some of the finest young string bands currently recording and touring the folk, bluegrass, and roots music scene. Admission is free to the Timberline Labor Day Mountain Music festival. And you can bring an instrument to join in the jams led by the Taborgrass Players on “Pickin’ Patio".

For more information and ideas about fun things to do while visiting Mt Hood, visit our Mt Hood Concierge page or call us; we are happy to share more ideas for your summer fun.

To find the perfect Mt Hood Vacation Rental for your summer vacation, call one of our Vacation Planners at 888-424-9168 or Book Online.