Don’t get me wrong. Skiing is heaven. Snow tops my favorite-things list every time. But there comes a point during most winters when I start to eye my hiking boots with some longing. When I start to crave the feeling of dirt under my feet. And it’s usually right about now—February.
Is your favorite mountain trail still six feet under? Are you getting tired of dodging snowplows and cars while you try to walk on the road? Or maybe you’re just not a snow-lover and want some exercise while your buddies hit the slopes?
Here are some great spots around Mount Hood, generally free of snow this time of year, where you can do some pre-springtime walking. So if you’re ready to turn off the treadmill and miss that repeat episode of “Real Housewives,” dust off your boots and get going.
Mthood Magazine
Jonesing for a Snow-Free Hike?
- 25 Mar
- Written by Mt Hood Magazine
- In: Recreation
Inner Adventures on Mount Hood
- 25 Mar
- Written by Mt Hood Magazine
- In: Recreation
A decade ago, a few days after moving to Mount Hood from the east coast, I’d stacked a few cords of wood, hooked up my fancy dial-up, and found my way to several sweet-smelling trails. That done, I rolled out my yoga mat on a cedar carpet, and practiced in a bath of moss and golden autumn light.
It was perfect.
Then September 11th. In those following early mornings, I’d lie in bed in my tiny cabin and listen to a red-tail hawk hunting before dawn. That screech sounded like a firecracker, thrown over and over. I would walk to Still Creek and watch the salmon spawning for hours. All of us searching.
I started looking for a yoga class. Mind you, in 2001 yoga was not quite the ubiquitous occurrence it is now and I drove into Portland a lot. One day, though, someone told me about a class happening right in Welches.
Choosing a Cabin as Lodging
- 15 May
- Written by Mt Hood Magazine
- In: Lodging
Tips for Making your Stay Memorable
Choosing a cabin in the woods can be a great way to spend a family vacation, romantic rendezvous or relaxing getaway. Mt. Hood cabins are often surrounded by intimate natural views such as forested areas or streams, bringing the mountain's natural beauty right to your doorstep. Many cabins can also be more isolated which provides a greater sense of privacy.
In truth, a cabin stay can offer all the creature comforts of home, and for this reason alone you may find them to be an exceptional value for your lodging dollars.
Mt. Hood is becoming more and more well-known for its lodging cabins. They are available in very diverse styles, amenities and settings. To find a perfect fit for your needs, take a few moments to consider these questions.
Where to Go When You Like Snow
- 15 May
- Written by Mt Hood Magazine
- In: Recreation
Wintery Events in the Villages of Mt. Hood
Whether you want to get in some skiing or snowboarding, build a snowman, or enjoy a brisk powdery hike, The Villages at Mt Hood have places for you to go and hot meals and warm rooms afterward. Here’s a few of the highlights coming up:
Snowpack Attack
January 2008 marks the 40th Anniversary of Mt. Hood Meadows. You’ll find many specials that continue all through the final week of January, such as the $40 Learn to Ski or Snowboard Special: beginner lift ticket, 2-hour lesson and equipment rentals (for ages 13 and older). Their Anniversary Weekend Celebration is January 26-27, with music, vendors, season pass giveaways, and special guests including entertainer Moe Dixon, voted #1 Best Après-Ski Show by Skiing Magazine. Call 1.800.SKI.HOOD or 503.337.2217.
