World-class skiing and snowboarding aren't the only reasons to come play for a day (or a few) at Timberline. From snowshoeing to snowcat rides, discover all the other fun and thrilling activities we have to offer.
Snowshoeing is fun, easy, and there is no better place than Timberline to try it out. Walking atop the snow, you can move quickly for a bit of a work out or simply go for a leisurely stroll while you explore the unique high-alpine terrain surrounding Timberline Lodge. Our snowshoe trail is approximately 3/4 of a mile long and snowcat track-packed as needed. Snowshoe rentals are available in the Wy’East Day Lodge for $27 per person/per day (limited availability – first come, first serve).
Here’s a few tips to make your snowshoeing adventure an enjoyable one. Dress warm: wearing multiple layers is beneficial so you can take one off after you work up a sweat. Remember a hat, gloves, and goggles. Bring a small backpack with water and snacks. If you’re missing any gear, stop in to our store in the Wy’East Day Lodge. We stock everything you need to get out on the mountain.
For the safety of our guests and staff, all types of sledding are not allowed up at Timberline. Not near the lodge, not near our parking lots, and certainly not on the sides of our access road. During the winter season, guests can tube at Timberline's sister ski hill, Summit Pass, located in nearby Government Camp (Summit tubing has closed for the 2023/2024 season). If you’re seeking somewhere to pull over and play in the snow, the Snow Bunny snow park lot across from Trillium Lake on Hwy 26 is a good place to go.
Timberline Summit Pass, formerly Summit Ski Area, was established in 1927, and is the second oldest continuously operating ski area in the United States. Summit’s base elevation is 4,000 ft. and has 306 ft. of vertical lift for skiing and snowboarding. Summit Pass caters to families and novices.
During our winter season, you can catch a ride on the Palmer Snowcat to 8,540 feet on Mt. Hood. To access Timberline's 4,540' vertical in its entirety, skiers and snowboarders with a lift ticket or season pass can take the Timberline Resort Shuttle from Summit Pass in Government Camp up to Timberline. At Timberline, catch the Magic Mile Chair Lift up to the Palmer Snowcat access point to be taken to the top of Palmer. Enjoy the ride down to the Alpine Trail or West Leg Road, which ends at the bottom of Summit Pass. Shuttle capacity and availability varies and is not guaranteed. The best time to ski or ride the Alpine Trail and West Leg Road is 10am - 2pm is in order to reach the shuttle at Summit in a timely fashion.
Why not run the Palmer Express lift to the top in the winter? Well, it was installed in 1996 to service our summer ski operations. While we wish it was possible to maintain it in the winter, frequent and heavy storms coat the lift towers in thick snow and ice. These storms often have wind speeds exceeding 100 mph and brutally cold temperatures. These factors make de-icing the lift virtually impossible. It’s typical that in the spring we have to replace many of the components on the lift that have broken or that have otherwise been compromised by the elements. So, in place of the lift, we offer our Snowcat service for your snowcat skiing enjoyment.
Usually if we can see the top of Palmer from the top of the Magic Mile we will run Palmer Cat Ski. The line forms at the top of the Magic Mile Chair Lift and it’s first-come, first-served, twelve passengers per ride, usually three trips per hour. Check the Conditions page for Palmer Snowcat current operating hours.
To get there, take the Magic Mile up and unload to the right. Proceed toward Silcox Hut and you’ll see the line for the snowcat. We always have a Ski Host in a yellow jacket managing the line – so feel free to ask them any questions. A ski patroller will accompany you to the top and will advise you on any specific conditions you will need to be aware of as you begin your snowcat skiing or riding adventure.
Conditions can change rapidly on Palmer and are often variable. The Palmer Snowfield is recommended for advanced skiers and riders only.