The U.S. ski resort Mount Bachelor is located about 20 miles southwest of Bend, Oregon, in the Cascade Range of Central Oregon.

It is one of the largest ski resorts in the Pacific Northwest. To be more specific, it is the 6th largest ski area in North America, offering about 4,320 acres of skiable terrain.

You will find yourself astonished about the 360-degree access to skiing off the summit, exploring blown-in lava gullies, powder-dusted slopes, and breathtaking views.

This dormant volcano is one of the major attractions of Bend, Oregon and offers year-round entertainment. 

Winter Activities at Mt. Bachelor

It’s just a 20 to 30-minute drive from Bend to reach the Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort. When it comes to winter-time activities, there is plenty to do at the Mt. Bachelor ski area.

From skiing and snowboarding to sledding and snow tubing, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing, enjoying a day in the snow guaranteed. As the highest skiable region in all of Oregon and Washington, Mt. Bachelor offers diverse terrain.

Please note that due to COVID-19, the winter season 2020-2021 brings some restrictions and changes. Check Mt. Bachelor’s website to learn more about parking restrictions, car reservations, and limited services during this pandemic.

Skiing and Snowboarding Mt. Bachelor

The perfect weather conditions and location in the Cascades allow Mt. Bachelor ski resort to offer powder heaven for skiing and snowboarding in Bend, Oregon. On top of the summit, at over 9,000 feet, you can enjoy a 360-degree-view. Once you are up there, it’s up to you—go east, west, south, or north—from the top of Mt. Bachelor, you can ski down in any direction. 

Bachelor is a huge playground providing around 4,320 acres of terrain with 3,365 feet of elevation from the parking lot to the top of the summit. With a total of 12 lifts and over 100 ski runs, the longest being 4 miles, there is something for everyone and every skill level.

You can choose which adventure suits you best, from easy slopes to steep cliffs and deep powder summit runs. And because Mt. Bachelor has an average of 462 inches of snowfall per year and has operating lifts from late November through May, this ski area is also known for having one of the nation’s longest ski seasons.

Mt. Bachelor ski resort offers a good variety of trail difficulty. The 101 ski runs break down as follows:

• 15% easy runs

• 35% intermediate runs

• 30% advanced runs

• 20% expert runs

To reach the top of the slopes, nine quad chair lifts and three triple chair lifts will take you up the mountain.

If you are new to skiing or just want to brush up on your skills, you can take a ski or snowboard lesson. Mt. Bachelor welcomes first-time skiers of all ages with a free carpet lift and the Woodward Start Park. This ski area is designed on easy terrain with a free beginner’s lift and gentle slopes so you can learn how to slide on snow or get back into skiing or snowboarding after a long break without worrying about the costs. 

The Woodward Start Park is located right next to the Sunrise parking area. Throughout Mt Bachelor ski resort, you’ll come across more Woodward Mountain Parks, each created for different ability types and offering something different. All Woodward Mountain Parks at Mt. Bachelor are designed to enhance the learning experience and have fun.

Nordic and Cross Country Skiing 

If you are more into cross country skiing, then Bend is the perfect place to do so. With the highest number of average sunny days in Oregon and reliable snowfall, Bend offers the perfect condition for all kinds of outdoor activities. 

Mount Bachelor’s Nordic Center is easy to reach from Bend and offers more than 34 miles of trails for classic or skate style skiing. The trails are machine-groomed and track set every night, so you will have prime conditions when you ski. In the Cascade Mountains’ picturesque scenery, you will enjoy the beauty of the winter season while gliding around on the well-maintained trails. 

The nordic trail system at Mt. Bachelor offers 22 trails for every level. If you are a nordic skiing beginner, you will have access to easy and shallow loops. There are even double diamond signed loops for all those out there who are cross country skiing experts. The longest trail measures 7.5 miles with a total climb of 600 feet. Either way, you will for sure have fun exploring the groomed trails that guide you through the Deschutes National Forest. 

The cross country terrain and trail system at Mt. Bachelor breaks down as follows: 

• 5% easier for beginners

• 69% more difficult for advanced skiers

• 26% most difficult for experts

Purchase your trail pass for this breathtaking cross country terrain online or at the Mt. Bachelor Nordic Center, where you can also rent daily sharpened and waxed skis. The Nordic Lodge is located across from West Village, where you will also find the access gate to the trail system. 

Find out about more locations for cross country skiing in Central Oregon in our in-depth guide.