Whether you’re hitting the trail on a classically sunny Central Oregon day or searching for pockets of powder among old-growth trees, a day at Mt. Bachelor will leave your crew with tired legs and smiles plastered on their faces. With the ski area’s proximity to cozy places to stay and the Redmond Municipal Airport, planning a winter vacation in Central Oregon has never been easier. Here’s the essential information you need to plan a trip for your family or friends to see why Central Oregon is the ultimate ski destination.
Hit the Slopes at Mt. Bachelor
Mt. Bachelor has one of the longest-running ski seasons in the U.S., with lifts running through May. Take a lift to the summit for panoramic views of the Cascades, glide down groomed corridors through towering pines and explore 365 degrees of terrain to find powder stashes. An events calendar stacked with activities, contests, games and live music keeps the fun rolling all season long. Add variety to your days on the mountain by taking a sled-dog ride or free snowshoe tour.
If you have a Mt. Bachelor season pass or an Ikon Pass, you’re ready to go. If you need tickets, you can save by purchasing in advance. Discounts are available for multiday tickets, and kids 12 and under can ski for free. The resort also offers lodging deals with properties across the region.
Whether you’re learning to ski or taking your skills to the next level, lessons are available for every rider. Need gear? No problem — Mt. Bachelor offers rental packages for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Whether you rent or bring your own gear, you can skip the hassle of carting it back and forth by storing your equipment safely and securely at the mountain.
Book a Cozy Cabin or Resort Stay
Start and finish each day of your winter vacation at one of Central Oregon’s premier lodging properties. Situated amidst ponderosa forests along the Deschutes River, 20 miles southeast of Mt. Bachelor, Sunriver Resort offers a cozy place to hunker down after a day on the hill. With paved paths, spa treatments and culinary options from burgers to fine dining, this retreat full of large rental homes and hotel-style offerings offers the perfect getaway for the family or a group of friends. There’s even a One, Two, Ski package that pairs lift tickets, lodging and shuttle service, plus ski valet services and other special discounts.
For those drawn to wide-open spaces, Brasada Ranch and Juniper Preserve each offer room to stretch among the sagebrush and juniper of Central Oregon’s high desert. Located 15 to 20 miles from Bend, Redmond and Prineville, these resorts offer convenient access to all three towns.
Brasada’s suites and guest rooms include private patios and hot tubs, while its 65 two- and four-bedroom cabins provide ample room for families. Multiple on-site eateries offer casual and fine dining, while the resort’s Ranch Platters let families take chef-prepared meals to-go for grilling or baking at their cabin.
Juniper Preserve’s rooms integrate wood and stone, along with the brown and green hues of the surrounding natural environment. Its on-site Iris restaurant offers a culinary experience that features locally sourced ingredients. Unwind from a day of winter activities at the Juniper Spa.
In the heart of Bend, Tetherow sits conveniently along Cascade Lakes Highway, 18 miles from Mt. Bachelor’s West Village and minutes from downtown. Enjoy on-site restaurants and fitness amenities as well as walking access to trails, or head into town to explore Bend’s restaurants, craft breweries, shops and parks. Choose from Tetherow’s 50 hotel-style rooms or book an extended stay at one of its vacation homes.
Whether you’re booking for your family, a few friends or a larger crew, you can find lots more vacation rentals across Central Oregon. Many top choices like Tetherow, Sunriver Resort and Brasada Ranch offer shuttles to Mt. Bachelor and can arrange private transportation upon request. There’s also a Mt. Bachelor’s Park ’n’ Ride in Bend with regular shuttle services.
Enjoy Food, Drink and Festivals
After last chair, keep the winter celebration going among Central Oregon’s food and drink scene. Casual options include Bend residents’ favorites Miyagi Ramen and El Sancho tacos, as well as spots in Sunriver like Century Commons Taps & Carts, Village Bar & Grill and Owl’s Nest. Food-cart lots can accommodate every craving, such as The Barn in Sisters or On Tap in Bend. For a fine-dining experience, book a reservation at Zydeco Kitchen in downtown Bend and enjoy a Southern-inspired menu crafted with locally sourced ingredients. Or try Brickhouse in Redmond, with a menu that features locally raised beef, sustainably sourced seafood and local, organic produce.
From live music to art festivals and museum exhibits, there’s always a host of events to keep an eye out for. For even more snowy fun, visit Central Oregon’s independently owned Hoodoo Ski Area, located just 22 miles from Sisters and near The Suttle Lodge and Black Butte Ranch, for a low-key vibe, family-friendly tubing and the region’s only night skiing.
