Oregon's scenic Timberline Lodge located on Mount Hood
Timberline Lodge is Oregon's second most popular tourist attraction receiving almost 2 million visitors each year. ~ Multnomah Falls is Oregon's number one tourist attraction. Timberline Lodge is a National Historic Landmark located on the southern flank of Mt. Hood. The Lodge was built in 1937 from stone and huge, whole timber logs. The lodge has been renovated, but the main structure still remains in tact. Located just 55 miles east of Portland, it has been a favorite of Oregonians for years. Open almost year round, it only closes for two weeks in September for scheduled maintenance. The Lodge is located at the 6000 foot level, with the elevation at the top of the ski run at 8,540 feet in the winter, with 3,500 feet of vertical skiing. The chair lifts operate from the 5,000 to 8,500 feet level. There is plenty of skiing areas with over 1,430 acres of incredible scenic views and the longest run is 3 miles. On an average year the lodge will get between 400 - 550 inches of snow. Most years the ground floor of the lodge is completely buried in snow, requiring entry into the Lodge through a snow tunnel.
Even if you're not a skier there is something at the lodge for everyone. From hiking, snowboarding, skiing and drinking hot chocolate in front of the large crackling fireplace. Don't just come in the winter, because there is plenty to do in the summer too.
If your visit includes an overnight stay, the lodge offers a number of options. There are 70 rooms in the lodge; most of them have their own bathrooms. If this is important to you, you may want to make sure you get a room with a bathroom. Rooms start at $99 a night. You will need to call the lodge to book your room. The Lodge is quaint with loads of charm, but it definitely isn't a 5 star hotel. The rooms are small and can be noisy, but if you're a dedicated skier you can't get any closer to the ski runs.
The lodge offers a number of dining choices, in the main Lodge the Cascade Dining Room serves gourmet Pacific NW cuisine. Also in the main Lodge, The Ram's Head and Blue Ox bars offer hearty mountain fare and specialty beverages in a casual atmosphere. Located across the parking lot from Timberline Lodge, in the Wy-East Day Lodge are a couple other choices. The Black Iron Grill and the Market Cafe with its sundeck, offer a relaxing break in the action for skiers and riders on the run.
Other services and amenities at the lodge are the lounge, pool, ski shop, rental shop and gift shop. Snowboard and ski school including SKIwee program for kids. Group and private ski lessons are available for all ages and abilities.
