Central Oregon is just as beautiful in the sunlight as it is covered in snow. And for those who love spending time in the outdoors no matter what season you’re in, Bend is an all-season paradise. When the winter snow begins, those summer backpacking trails become the region’s best cross-country skiing tracks. Here’s the lowdown on cross country skiing in Bend Oregon.
The Trails
Both Mount Bachelor and Hoodoo Ski Resort have Nordic trail systems. At Mount Bachelor, you have access to more than 56 km of Nordic trails, including easy loops for beginners and double diamonds. Hoodoo has more than 13 km of beginner, intermediate and advanced Nordic trails.
The Tumalo Mountain Trail is a relatively easy trail usually favored for hiking, but in the winter months it transforms into the perfect beginner cross-country ski trail. This trail around this shield volcano offers beautiful views of the Three Sisters mountains, Broken Top and Mount Bachelor. A Sno-Park pass is required for parking November 30 through April 30.
If you don’t want to go to a resort for cross country skiing in Bend Oregon, then Meissner Nordic Ski Area is a good fit. The snow park is located 15 miles outside of Bend. The community ski area offers 30 km of skating and classic style ski trails. At the park, there is a lodge with picnic tables and a wood burning stove.
Bend Cross Country Skiing Rentals and Classes
Bend Cross country skiing lessons are even more affordable than downhill skiing and snowboarding. You can learn to cross-country ski (either in the classic or skate style) and rent your equipment at Mount Bachelor for just $80. If you just want to rent the gear, it’s just $29.
Lessons at Hoodoo are very affordable, too. Adults can rent cross-country skis for just $14 and a full-day pass is just $16.
If you’re not interested in downhill skiing or snowboarding, don’t let that discourage you from spending your winter vacation in Bend. Cross-country skiing is a great, leisurely way to enjoy the winter months in Bend without having to invest the time or money into skiing lessons.
Renting with us makes your trip so much easier. You can spend the whole day out and come back to have the whole house to yourself, warm fireplace and all. Call us or visit our website today to search for your perfect vacation rental and for more information about Bend cross country skiing.
