If you’re planning a winter trip to Central Oregon, you owe yourself the breathless pleasure of skiing or snowboarding in Bend. You’ll find ample options for swooping down powder-dusted slopes whether you prefer snow play with two sticks on your feet or one.

A dormant volcano formed nearly 15,000 years ago, Mt. Bachelor offers more than 4,300 acres of lift-accessible terrain and the highest skiable elevation in all of Oregon and Washington. Located on the eastern flanks of Oregon’s Central Cascades, the mountain is known for its light, dry snow, diverse terrain, family-friendliness, and long seasons.

Expert skiers and snow riders will find plenty of steep runs and challenging terrain parks. Guests can ski or ride 360 degrees off the summit, hike the adjoining cinder cone for a thrilling run down, or ski the trees to find that great cache of powder. But Mt. Bachelor is also a great place for new skiers and snowboarders as well as families of all skill levels. Their free beginner’s lift offers an easy ride up and gentle slope down, or they offer lesson packages.

Located just 22 miles from Bend, Mt. Bachelor is easy to reach and boasts an average of 462 inches of light, fluffy snowfall each year. And with a season that spans November through May, the mountain has one of the longest ski seasons in the Pacific Northwest.

A few miles farther, but well within day-trip range of Bend is Hoodoo Ski Area. Known for Thrifty Thursdays ski pass deals and night skiing — Hoodoo is the only resort in Central Oregon that offers night skiing — you can have an affordable all day ski adventure for you and your friends or family.

Do keep in mind the 2020-2021 season looks a bit different due to COVID-19. Be sure to check each ski area’s website before traveling to learn more about reservations, parking restrictions, and limited services during the pandemic.