Winter Wonderland: Oregon’s Best Snowshoeing Trails
There’s a particular magic that blankets the Beaver State when winter rolls around. Oregon, with its stunning forestland, snow-capped mountains, and untamed wilderness areas, transforms into a veritable winter wonderland. Fresh snow crystals sparkle on the slopes of Mount Hood, the stillness of Crater Lake deepens under ice, and the central desert freezes over in a hushed silence, all beckoning to be explored on snowshoes. As a true-blooded Oregonian, we don’t just await the winter, we embrace it. Bundle up, grab your snowshoes, and come on! Here, we’ll reveal Oregon’s best snowshoeing trails.1. Cedar Swamp on Mount Hood
Don’t be fooled by the name. Cedar Swamp on the slopes of Mount Hood isn’t a treacherous slog but a favorite snowshoeing loop full of old-growth forest and snow-covered wetlands. Enjoy the views of the Clark and Rushing Water Creeks and, on clear days, catch glimpses of Mount Jefferson to the south. Trust us, be ready to pause for photos.2. White River West Sno-Park
Located on Highway 35, a few miles north of US 26, White River West Sno-Park is the place to go when you want magnificent vistas of Mount Hood. Follow the river uphill, and you’re guaranteed postcard-worthy winter scenes. Be sure to bring your camera and perhaps a thermos of hot cocoa for that rest stop on the river’s bank.3. Trillium Lake
With Mount Hood standing as a majestic backdrop, Trillium Lake offers a leisurely 4.4-mile loop trail that’s ideal for beginners. Swing by the Mt. Hood Adventure Park at Skibowl early morning for some gear rental, then meander around the lake, taking in the tranquility while you crunch through the fresh snow.
4. Crater Lake National Park
Snowshoeing in Crater Lake National Park should be on every Oregonian’s winter to-do list. Ranger-led snowshoe tours are typically offered during weekends in January and February. If organized events aren’t your thing, simply pick a trail and explore the park on your own terms. Don’t forget to marvel at the lake in its frozen state; it’s the eye of Oregon’s winter storm.5. Upper Tumalo Falls
Tumalo Falls somewhere between Bend and Sisters transforms into a frozen spectacle as winter hits its stride. Following the creek upstream leads you to several waterfalls, each with their own icy artistry. Mind your steps as the trail gets icy, and remember it’s about the journey, not just the destination.6. Salt Creek Falls
Located near Willamette Pass, Salt Creek Falls trail offers the perfect half-day snowshoe adventure. Follow the summer route, and you’ll be rewarded with a view of the cascading falls, a snowy accent to the surrounding rugged wilderness. The nearby Salt Creek Sno-Park has warming huts – always a welcome sight in cold weather.7. Paulina Lake
Paulina Lake, nestled within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, offers tranquil snowshoeing trails along its frosty shores. Start your journey from Paulina Lake Lodge— they serve a hearty bowl of clam chowder, a delicious way to warm up post-trail.8. Diamond Lake
Venture to the Umpqua National Forest with its Diamond Lake, a glistening jewel in Oregon’s winter crown. The Mt. Bailey Trail provides stunning views of the lake and is less crowded than other snowshoe trails. For overnight stays, consider the Diamond Lake Resort and its rustic cabins—an authentic Oregonian winter experience.9. Maxwell Sno-Park
Near Santiam Pass, Maxwell Sno-Park offers multiple snowshoeing trails with varying levels of difficulty. The Pacific Crest Trail crosses through here, so wander in the footsteps of many passionate hikers who undertook the formidable thru-hike in warmer months. It’s a remarkable winter twist to an epic summer adventure.10. Odell Lake
Odell Lake, off Highway 58, is a pristine spot for snowshoeing. Follow the shoreline trail to Trapper Creek, and you might be lucky enough to spot some local wildlife. The Odell Lake Lodge is renowned for their friendly hospitality, and warming your toes by their fire after a day’s snowshoeing is a treat in itself.Exploring Oregon’s winter wonderland on snowshoes is not just an activity, it’s an Oregonian tradition. Whether you’re trudging through the evergreen forests of Mount Hood or making your way around the icy rims of Crater Lake, every trail holds a different wonder. Celebrate the winter, rejoice in the snowfall, and immerse yourself in the frosty enchantment that is Oregon. Now, let’s get outside and create some tracks!