Nestled in the heart of the Cascade Range, Mt. Bachelor and the effortlessly cool town of Bend, Oregon create a winter haven for ski-loving families like mine. Boasting a rich history, breathtaking volcanic landscapes, and a myriad of outdoor activities, this destination offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation -for a long weekend or a lifetime. I love Bend more than I should and will likely show major favoritism, but you will easily see why after you hear more about this outdoor wonderland.
First of all, how often do you get to ski on a volcano? Mt. Bachelor stands proudly as a dormant stratovolcano, dominating the Central Oregon skyline. With an elevation of 9,065 feet, this majestic peak offers unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding Cascade Range. The volcano's last known eruption occurred over 8,000 years ago, leaving behind a snow-covered playground for winter enthusiasts.
Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort is renowned for its extensive and varied terrain, catering to skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. The resort boasts 4,318 acres of skiable terrain, including skippy groomed runs, challenging bowls and endless glades. You can ski 360 degrees off the summit which sets this place apart- although we’ve learned conditions for the Summit chairlift can be pretty finicky. The problem is it makes you want to chase it even more.
For me, the most special thing about Mt Bachelor is the tree skiing- as in the best that I’ve ever skied and I LOVE tree skiing. I rode a chair lift with a local and asked about the black diamond East Bowls, which are interesting because they head out of bounds to where if you go too far, you have to trek in on the cat track. But it intrigued me when he said, the East Bowls could “change your life”. And I’m not joking, I think the East Bowls did change me. It was the most perfectly painted tree paradise I’d ever seen and the place to push skiing skills to new heights. For families seeking an off-piste adventure, the tree skiing at Mt. Bachelor is an absolute highlight. Whether you're cruising down groomed runs, doing ski school off the Sunrise lift, or conquering the East Bowl, Mt. Bachelor ensures a thrilling experience for every member of the family.
Surrounding Mt. Bachelor, the Deschutes National Forest provides an endless wilderness for families to explore. With over 1.6 million acres of diverse terrain, including dense pine forests, sparkling lakes, and pristine meadows, the forest is a haven for outdoor activities beyond skiing. And it’s all right there on your way up to Bachelor.
Families can dig in on snowshoeing, ice skating, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling to fully immerse themselves in the winter wonderland. The forest also offers a chance to spot local wildlife, such as elk, deer, and even the elusive snowshoe hare. The Deschutes National Forest transforms into a magical landscape during winter, offering families a peaceful escape into nature.
After a day of exhilarating adventures on Mt. Bachelor, families can unwind in the vibrant town of Bend. Nestled along the banks of the Deschutes River, Bend exudes a laid-back atmosphere with its charming downtown, craft breweries, and diverse foodie scene that’s just on fire! If you are looking for breakfast, check out Jackson’s in Old Mill- a classic with fantastic food. And for lunch, because of the high desert, outdoor eating and drinking abound at places like The Warming Hut, Pod-ski and Bend Brewery. You can’t miss Deschutes Brewery as a fan favorite as well as checking out the massive McMenamin’s campus with its old school restaurant, church bar and secret passages to a sweet hidden surprise- ask around when you are there! And we had many locals give a top nod to Wild Rose, which is a super cozy Northern Thai restaurant with some very cool signature cocktails. All of these places are spread out across Northwest Crossing, Old Mill and downtown Bend, so you eat your way around this foodie paradise!
Mt. Bachelor and Bend, Oregon, together create a winter wonderland that caters to the desires of every ski-loving family. With a volcano's fascinating history, the pristine beauty of the Deschutes National Forest, and the diverse ski terrain at Mt. Bachelor, families are treated to an unforgettable experience. You have the perfect recipe for a memorable winter getaway that caters to both adventure seekers and those looking for a town atmosphere. Pack your winter gear, gather the family or some friends, and get ready to create lasting memories in this snowy paradise.