With its delightful combination of snow and sun, mountains, forests and shimmering lakes, Klamath County in Southern Oregon transforms into a serene winter playground in the cool season. This part of Southern Oregon offers a perfect balance of outdoor adventure and small-town comfort. Whether you prefer ice skating on a frozen lake, sipping fresh-roasted coffee downtown or swooshing through a snowy forest, here’s how to make the most of your next Southern Oregon getaway.
Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing Through Wintry Forests
If you like to kick and glide on skis or float on snowshoes, you’ll delight in the cold, powdery snow at Walt Haring Sno-Park, an hour north of Klamath Falls near Chemult. You’ll cut through breathtaking pine forests on these beginner-friendly trails, some of which are groomed by volunteers. With a little climbing, you can grab a view of Mt. Thielsen from atop one of two hills.
Odell Lake Lodge & Resort in the Deschutes National Forest, 1.5 hours north of Klamath Falls, offers a wilderness-like experience with modern conveniences close at hand. Rent skis or snowshoes at the resort and access groomed trails, snow fields and stunning mountain views right out your cabin door.
Lake of the Woods Resort is a popular family-friendly winter playground 45 minutes northwest of Klamath Falls. You can rent snowshoes at the lodge and enjoy the meadows around the lake from there, or venture out onto the lake for a one-of-a-kind experience if it’s frozen (check with resort staff to make sure the ice is thick enough). Be sure to look up and catch the stunning views of snowcapped Mt. McLoughlin. For a longer outing, check out the 4-mile High Lakes Trail or link up with the network of trails at Great Meadow Sno-Park, just a few miles down the road off Highway 140.
If you prefer a slower pace, Crater Lake National Park is one of the snowiest inhabited places in the U.S., with an average of 512 inches of annual snowfall. Marvel at the way snowdrifts transform the landscape while cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on Rim Drive, which is closed to vehicle traffic in winter. Experienced skiers may consider backcountry snow camping; a permit is required. If you prefer motorized recreation, consider snowmobiling to the rim via a 9-mile route along the North Entrance Road from Highway 138. For some, simply gaping at the sapphire lake in its snowy setting is worth the drive, but be aware that clouds can often obscure winter views. Check current conditions for road closures and avalanche conditions before you go, and be prepared with chains and other emergency supplies.
Downhill Skiing and Ice Skating in a Winter Wonderland
An hour and 40 minutes north of Klamath Falls, Willamette Pass Ski Resort near Odell Lake offers runs for all skill levels. Best of all, kids 12 and under ski for free. Choose from five lifts, including the Eagle Peak Accelerator, the only high-speed six-passenger lift in Oregon. Skilled skiers can test their mettle on the RTS — that’s short for Real Tough Stuff — a hair-raising run with a 52-degree decline. (Fun fact: A skier in the U.S. Speed Skiing Championships clocked a record 116 mph on this run.) If you don’t have mad skills, you can brush up with a lesson. Check the schedule for twilight and night skiing, too.
For something different, pull on your skates and take a twirl at the Bill Collier Ice Arena at the Running Y Resort just west of Klamath Falls. The outdoor pavilion sports a lofty arched roof and a 350-degree view of the snowy forest. The rink hosts regular open-skate sessions for all ages and skill levels; you can also sign up for curling lessons, join a pick-up hockey game or try your hand at broomball, a hockey-like game on ice played wearing skates. No skates? No problem — you can rent a pair at the rink and buy snacks at the food truck.
Warm Up With Local Coffee, Eats and Brews
After a day in the snow, head back into downtown Klamath Falls to refuel and unwind. Girasol Mexican Restaurant & Cantina is known for its flavorful, comforting dishes and colorful cocktails, while The Pikey serves craft beers and hearty fare in an elevated pub atmosphere. Or head for upscale yet relaxed Basin Martini Bar for cocktails, Oregon wines and small plates for sharing. Early risers can start the morning with locally roasted coffee and fresh pastries at Gathering Grounds Roastery, or stop by B/S Coffee Co for a creative latte and a friendly small-town vibe. Another favorite is A Leap of Taste, a downtown cafe serving sandwiches, soups, smoothies and plenty of vegan and gluten-free options.
Whether you’re looking for a lakeside view or a walkable downtown stay, Klamath Falls has options for every traveler. The Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott offers the area’s only hotel with lake views, plus an indoor pool and a fitness center. The cozy Best Western Plus Olympic Inn welcomes guests with warm cookies in the evening and a complimentary morning breakfast buffet. For a pet-friendly option, the Cerulean Hotel on Main Street offers comfort and convenience within walking distance of downtown shops and restaurants.
