Maggie Fisher’s adventure-filled childhood fostered a love of all things outdoors in her. Born and raised in Massachusetts, Maggie spent her childhood traveling frequently to the White Mountains of New Hampshire to cross country ski with her family. Her love for travel and the mountains inspired Maggie to move across the country to Portland, Oregon. From there, she made her way to New Zealand to explore and see even more of the world. Upon returning to the Oregon coast, Maggie decided she wanted to try downhill skiing for the very first time.

After watching a “How to Ski” youtube video, Maggie rented her first pair of skis and headed up to Mount Hood. Immediately falling in love with downhill skiing and the mountain itself, Maggie was hooked. Four years later, she continues to spend her winters skiing at Mt. Hood, which she now considers her absolute favorite place to ski. Between the spectacular views and year-round accessibility, Maggie has yet to find another mountain that tops it.

Ski Spots

Mount Hood is home to three diverse ski resorts: Timberline, Mt. Hood Skibowl, and Mt. Hood Meadows. The only ski-in, ski-out lodge in the state, Timberline ski area, provides the largest vertical terrain in the Pacific Northwest, with 3,690 vertical feet. Mt. Hood Skibowl is infamous for being America’s largest night ski area, as well as for having the most black diamond runs in the state. With more than 2,150 acres of diverse and playful terrain, Mt. Hood Meadows has miles of open land with spectacular views. Regardless of which area you choose, Mt. Hood offers year-round skiable terrain for all ability levels.

Palmer Glacier

Of the many areas to ski at Mt. Hood, Maggie’s top favorite spot is Palmer Glacier. Located at the Timberline ski area, Palmer Glacier is accessible all summer long, providing skiers and snowboarders with terrain 12 months out of the year. Due in part to the high elevation (ranging from 9,300 to 6,200!), this area of Mt. Hood not only allows for year-round skiing but also provides some of the best views of the surrounding mountains of Oregon.

timberlinelodge.com

Mt. Hood Express

Maggie’s second favorite spot to ski is the Mt. Hood Express. Located at Mt. Hood Meadows, this infamous four-person high speed chairlift provides access to intermediate and advanced terrain. A quick ride up and you’re dropped at some of the best trails Mt. Hood has to offer! Mt. Hood Meadows receives an average of 430 inches of snow per year, making the Mt. Hood Express the perfect chair for the first tracks of the day!

the-ski-guru.com

Where To Stay

Located 70 miles east of Portland, Mt. Hood, Oregon attracts snow sport enthusiasts year-round. While staying outside of Mt. Hood is an option, most people choose to stay close to the mountain for easy access. The other option for the braver souls is to camp in the lot at White River Canyon Snow Park. However, with each of the uniquely authentic lodging options you can gain ski-and-stay package deals in partnership with the nearby ski resorts.

Government Camp

Referred to as “Govy” by locals, Government Camp is the highest elevation community on Mt. Hood. This was one of Maggie’s favorite places to stay while visiting due to its proximity to the mountain. She booked a cute A-frame house through Airbnb and enjoyed staying in a unique, resident-owned home. Government Camp’s black iron-art lined main street has quaint dining and shopping options, and Maggie loved the accessibility to both the mountain and local experiences.

booking.com

Timberline Lodge

Maggie’s second recommendation for places to stay while visiting Mt. Hood is the Timberline Lodge. The only ski-in, ski-out accommodation in Oregon, this 60-room lodge sits directly on the slopes of the Timberline Ski Area. Boasting a truly authentic ski lodge vibe, guests are welcomed by a warming fire in the impressive stone hearth and treated to a cozy stay. Maggie loved being right at the base of Timberline Ski Area and highly recommends the lodge itself!

@timberlinelodge

Where to Après in Mt. Hood

Between live music and local breweries, après at Mt. Hood is a great way to end your day on the slopes. Each ski area provides guests with a uniquely diverse experience, making Mt. Hood an aprés dream. Whether you stay at the mountain or venture down the road, there are a variety of options, from casual to luxurious, to help round out your day.

Pub 26

While Maggie does enjoy grabbing an après beverage at Government Camp, nothing beats a margarita at Pub 26. Located approximately 15 minutes west of the base of Mt. Hood in Welches, Pub 26 is a local pub and bar with a friendly environment and an ideal après food and drink menu. Maggie’s favorite thing to get there is a Margarita, claiming it is the best one she’s ever had! They squeeze fresh juice into it right in front of you, totally sealing the deal for Maggie.

yelp.com

Double Mountain

For a classic après meal, head to this highly rated brewery in Hood River for a slice of pizza and a beer. Located about 50 minutes from Mt. Hood, Double Mountain Brewery offers a fun atmosphere, locally brewed beers, and top notch pizza. What better way to follow up a day of skiing? Hit it on the right day and you’ll catch some great live music as well!

@doublemountain

Other Activities

Mt. Hood is a beautiful area to visit every month of the year. Known most notably for attracting winter enthusiasts, Mt. Hood also offers spectacular hiking, swimming, climbing, and other popular recreational sports. The picturesque landscape of Oregon provides visitors with endless activities, in addition to dining, shopping, and sightseeing.

Climbing French’s Dome

Although Maggie visits Mt. Hood primarily for the incredible skiing, she also enjoys visiting in the springtime to climb French’s Dome. This scenic spot is located in Sandy, Oregon, about 17 miles from the base of Mt. Hood. Enjoy the tranquil setting amidst the old-growth forest and take in the breathtaking views of Mt. Hood.

mountainproject.com

Timberline Hiking Trail

Get a taste of the Pacific Crest Trail by taking a day hike on the Timberline Hiking trail. Traveling along vistas, waterfalls, alpine meadows, and forests, this beautiful trail is sure to provide the true Oregon experience. Starting at the Timberline Lodge, you will have continuous views of Mt. Hood while descending along Gnarl Ridge. While the trail covers roughly 41 miles, you can make your trek as short or as lengthy as you choose!

cleverhiker.com

Where to Eat

Towering, snowy peaks are not the only thing that Mt. Hood is known for. In addition to world-class skiing, Mt. Hood is home to a variety of delicious restaurants and dining options. Whether you’re craving regionally sourced favorites or a classic burger and beer, the choices are endless. Not to mention, Oregon is infamous for its local breweries, so craft beers are a must!

Phlox Point Cabin

This unique cabin was originally built in 1930 to serve as a warming hut for the Timberline Ski Club. Fast forward to today and it is now a mid-mountain ski-in-ski-out lunch spot. Located off of the “Walt’s Baby” trail between the Pucci and Jeff Flood/Still Creek lifts, Phlox Point Cabin is the perfect spot for tacos, beer and hot cocoa. Enjoy your meal by the outdoor fire pit, and make sure not to leave before trying the blueberry hot sauce!

@pomomagazine

Koya Kitchen

For delicious Japanese cuisine, be sure to stop in at Koya Kitchen in Welches, Oregon. In addition to the delicious menu, Maggie loves the atmosphere. The ramen was her favorite dish, which she enjoyed eating while sitting under string lights surrounded by massive trees. The perfect meal after a cold day on the mountain!

@koyakitchen

Maggie Fisher

Halfdays community member Maggie Fisher is originally from Massachussets and now lives in Portland, Oregon. Although she grew up a cross country skier, she now enjoys downhill skiing as often as possible at her favorite mountain, Mt. Hood. In the summer months, you can find her hiking and exploring all that Portland has to offer.