While it may have been a little late, winter has arrived on Mt. Hood National Forest. The Forest has plenty of options for getting outside over the next couple months- from snowshoeing, skiing, sledding, snowmobiling, winter hiking, or even skijoring. Here are a few items to help you prepare for safe winter recreation.

There are 5 ski areas on Mt. Hood offering downhill and cross-country skiing: Cooper Spur, Mt. Hood Meadows, Skibowl, Teacup Nordic, and Timberline.

Fees, seasons, and hours vary, but all of them require an Oregon Sno-Park Permit.

-Pack basic winter gear in your vehicle before heading out.
-Read Oregon's Chain Law before traveling Hwys. 26 or 35.
-Forest roads are not plowed during winter & many are closed for safety or wildlife winter range.
-Get your free digital or print Motor Vehicle Use Map, which shows all legal Forest roads.

Sno-Parks on Mt. Hood
Sno-Parks offer a wide variety of winter recreation activities. While some are great for sledding or snowshoeing, others feature snowmobile trails groomed by local clubs.
-Find a Sno-Park by activity.
-Read the weekly Sno-Park Conditions Report, updated every Friday.
-Sno-Parks require an Oregon Sno-Park Permit. You can buy them at our district office in Sandy and at several local businesses. You can also purchase your Sno-Park permit online from ODOT.

Climbing Mt. Hood
Mt. Hood is a technical climb that attracts thousands of climbers every year. To help fund climbing rangers, better safety information, and natural resource protection a climbing permit is now required for those traveling above 9,500' elevation.

Learn more about climbing, climbing prep, guided climbs, and how to buy a climbing permit.

Below the snow line
More of a rain fan? While snow levels change regularly on Mt. Hood National Forest, there are trails on the west side that may be accessible through the winter. Check the local weather and TripCheck before heading out! Remember, most areas don't have cell service, so bring the 10 Essentials with you and be prepared for winter weather.

Visit www.fs.usda.gov/mthood for more information