Let it Snow on Your Fun in Troutdale

Let it Snow on Your Fun in Troutdale Main Photo

2 Feb 2024


As the snow piles up, so do the opportunities to get out and enjoy the beautiful winter vistas close to Troutdale, OR. Visitors and residents target the mountainous terrain in the area’s stunning beauty for exhilarating outdoor enjoyment.

Sno-Parks

Oregon’s SnoParks offer those who love winter recreation access to the area’s natural “playgrounds,” whether your calling is downhill or cross-country skiing, snowboarding or snowshoeing. Snowmobilers can access terrific terrain and trails. Sledding or just playing in the snow offers tremendous family fun.

The closest to Troutdale are the Mt. Hood Sno-Parks, with over 20 locations just a short drive up Highway 26. Some of the most popular are:

  • Timberline Lodge on Mt. Hood, home to the Timberline Summit Pass and phenomenal downhill skiing in 4,540 feet of vertical terrain, the longest in the United States.
  • Trillium Sno-Park has cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, as well as trail access and trailer parking for snowmobilers.
  • White River West Sno-Park, with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on groomed and ungroomed backcountry trails, along with sledding and tubing.

The winter fun is not for experts only. Equipment can be rented by those who don’t own gear at numerous locations near Troutdale, like Hillcrest Ski & Sports in Gresham or Sandy’s Meadowlark Ski & Snowboard and Otto’s Ski & Mt. Bike.

Info to Know

Sno-Park permits are required in designated Sno-Parks from November 1 – April 30.​ Expert visitors know to get to the Sno-Parks early! Parking lots typically fill by 9:30 a.m. Highway 35 through Hood River may offer less time waiting in line than the traffic jams common on Highway 26 on prime days. Permits costs are:

  • Annual permit (November 1 - April 30) - $25
  • 3-Day (consecutive) Sno-Park Permit - $9
  • Daily Sno-Park Permit - $4

But perhaps the most critical point to remember is to check the weather before you go! Winter conditions on Oregon roads can change quickly. Many roads and highways to get to the Sno-Parks require chains or traction tires on all vehicles when posted. Call 511 or 1-800-977-6368 for Oregon’s 24-hour road report or utilize the websites below.

Current travel conditions
Road Conditions
Winter Driving Guide

Relax in Troutdale

Winter fun in the great outdoors can be tiring, so why not add an overnight stay in Troutdale? Staying in Troutdale for a weekend or more will open a whole new realization of what this wonderful town at the confluence of the Sandy and Columbia rivers contains. A small-town charm filled with quaint shops, delicious restaurants and relaxing accommodations awaits those who stay in Troutdale. 

McMenamins Edgefield in Troutdale reflects the best Oregon offers and offers Ruby’s Spa & Salon, with a heated, saltwater soaking pool and experts to provide manicures, pedicures, massages, body treatments and more.

The Columbia Gorge Salon and Spa offers relaxing salon and spa services, including hair styling and massage therapy from expertly trained providers.

Get outside this winter

Fun times in Troutdale don’t end with the summer months. We’d love to hear about your favorite winter recreation. Contact Explore Troutdale today or follow us on Facebook and Instagram to spread the word!