Winter Wonderland: Oregon’s 10 Best Snowshoeing Trails
Welcome to the winter playground around us, the beloved Beaver State. When our peaks are cloaked in snow and the regions blanketed in a silent white, Oregonians do not retreat into hibernation. We lace up our adventure shoes, or more accurately put on our snowshoes, and dive into the wonderland.1. Crater Lake National Park
The sapphire waters of Crater Lake, nestled in the midst of the Cascade Mountains, provide a striking backdrop to any snowshoeing excursion. Rangers offer free guided snowshoe tours during the winter months, but you’re also welcome to chart your own path. Just remember: safety first, the weather can quickly change.2. Mt. Hood’s Trillium Lake
This family-friendly trail offers a panoramic view of Mt. Hood rising majestically above Trillium Lake. With a relatively flat terrain around a 4.5-mile loop, it’s a favorite for beginners and those looking for a leisurely stroll. Don’t forget to stop by at the historic Timberline Lodge for a hot cocoa afterward.3. Ray Benson Sno-Park
Located near Sisters, this Oregon local haunt skirts the cross-country tracks and takes you through a forest blank in winter’s embrace. With plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting, remember to play detective with those little log cabins of snow – they’re often snow buntings’ nests.
4. Maxwell Sno-Park
Situated in Central Oregon, this trail near the Santiam Pass provides a less crowded, quieter snowshoeing experience. These trails offer a rang of fun and challenges for all adventure levels. Plus, it’s perfect for an overnight adventure with shelters available for reservations at the local district ranger station.5. Frog Lake
An easy yet rewarding trail, Frog Lake near Mt. Hood is a wonderful option for families and those new to snowshoeing. Covering about 2 miles round-trip, this beginner’s trail is short but sweet, and concludes with the serene views of tree-rimmed Frog Lake. Watch for the snow-capped trees, they resemble cotton candy during a good snowfall.6. Diamond Peak Wilderness
A multi-day snowshoeing adventure more to your taste? The Diamond Peak Wilderness within the Willamette National Forest provides backcountry camping options amidst thickly forested terrain. Make sure to follow leave-no-trace ethics as this region is undisturbed wilderness – and let’s keep it that way.7. Mt. Bachelor
The Mt. Bachelor Nordic Center provides expertly groomed trails for snowshoers to explore. Reward yourself after a good day out by eating at The Pine Marten Lodge on the mountain. Nothing beats the taste of food with an altitude.8. Paulina Peak (Newberry Crater)
This Central Oregon trail culminates in sweeping views from atop Paulina Peak, over the Newberry Crater and the surrounding basin. Worth the climb, but remember the trek gets steep, so keep those spikes handy.9. Tumalo Mountain
A must for every Bendite or visitor in Bend, this trail offers an aerobic workout culminating in views of the Three Sisters and Broken Top. The sunrise at the summit? Now, that’s as beautiful as a postcard – no, actually, even better.10. White River West Sno-Park
This trail near Mt. Hood offers a front view of the majestic scene presented by the mountain’s west side. Depending upon the current year’s snow levels, you can follow the White River all the way up to its source, the White River Glacier on Mt. Hood.Oregon’s snowshoeing trails are some of the best around, and there’s something here for everyone – from families to adrenaline junkies, and solitude seekers. So grab your gear, mates, and maybe even pack a thermos of your favorite warm brew, and let’s shuffle through Oregon’s winter wonderland together! Remember, even if the weather outside is frightful, Oregon’s winter trails will always be delightful!