Winter has arrived in the Cascades and visitors are beginning to flock to Sno-Parks, ski areas, and other recreation sites on the Mt. Hood National Forest. Cold temperatures, snow and increased winter recreation traffic and snow mean it is essential to be prepared and know before you go!
Most areas on the forest do not have reliable cell service and online mapping services are not always reliable on national forest roads. Mt. Hood Motor Vehicle Use Maps are free and show all forest roads, as well as seasonal closures. Pick up a paper copy at forest offices or download a georeferenced map for the Avenza app.
Winter driving conditions can change considerably as elevation increases when traveling to the forest. Check the latest road and weather conditions before you leave home. Visit TripCheck.com for traffic and live webcams. Vehicles that get stuck could end up waiting hours for a tow truck. Extra food, water, layers, and blankets should always be a part of people’s winter car kit.
Sno-Parks are a great place to sled, ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile, but can fill up quickly on weekends. If a parking lot is full, please do not park along the highway, in no-parking zones, or block other vehicles. Ambulances and other emergency vehicles need unhindered access to operate safely and save lives. Vehicles blocking traffic or parked illegally are subject to ticketing and towing. For more info on snow levels, check the weekly Mt. Hood Sno-Park conditions report.
Sno-Parks across the forest require users to display a Sno-Park permit. The Oregon Sno-Park permit program is managed by Oregon Dept. of Transportation (ODOT) and money earned from permits sales directly funds plowing and maintenance of Sno-Parks. More information on Sno-Park permits can be found at TripCheck.
| More Winter Safety Tips: |
| Carry a winter car kit and make sure you have a full gas tank & charged battery. Carry chains & know how to use them. Have a backup plan in case your destination is full. Let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return. Consider carpooling or using public transit, such as the Mt. Hood Express or Gorge-To-Mountain Express buses. Turn around if conditions aren’t safe. |
| Have a fun and safe winter on the mountain! Check out forest winter recreation opportunities at: fs.usda.gov/activity/mthood/recreation/wintersports |
| Weather can be different in the forest than weather at lower elevations. Check the forecast before you visit. |