Lakeside Locales
One of the most captivating qualities of the Central Oregon wilderness is the ability to access its rugged beauty year-round. In winter, we trade our paddles for poles and our hiking boots for snowshoes as alpine meadows morph into miles of untouched, snow-covered canvases. Almost overnight the deep glacial waters of our region’s nearly 150 high lakes transform into glassy sheets of frozen stillness, reflecting the surrounding peaks that rise behind their shorelines. It is a metamorphosis that unfolds as we witness nature’s spectacular seasonal rhythms.
As the snow begins to fall, a lakeside cabin retreat is a perfect way to experience the blissful comforts of the season and the thrill of wintertime activities. Book a stay at one of these rustic lodges, which are sure to inspire an idyllic getaway for solitude, romance and everything in between.
The Suttle Lodge
Suttle Lake is a gem for all seasons; its picturesque Americana setting feels like a living reenactment of a Norman Rockwell painting. Come winter, the vintage summertime vibe gives way to an enchanted snow-blanketed wonderland. The Suttle Lodge is tucked in the wooded Deschutes National Forest, with lodging options from rustic rooms to deluxe cabins. During your stay, snowshoe the serene 4-mile loop around the lake or take a guided bonfire tour with Wanderlust Tours. Popular Hoodoo Ski Area is just a 15-minute drive away for Nordic, downhill and tubing adventures. After a day of exploring, enjoy a craft cocktail inside the Skip Bar near the roaring fireside hearth. The ambiance mixed with tunes from their local musician series creates a cozy vibe. (Tip: Time a stay for its anticipated Winter Beer Fest in February, a Bavarian-inspired outdoor gathering that brings together Central Oregon’s best trifecta: brews, eats and tunes.)
Elk Lake Lodge
As a treasured favorite among the upper Cascade Lakes, Elk Lake Lodge offers a blissful respite for winter wanderers. The 11-mile stretch from Dutchman Flat Sno-Park to the lodge is accessible only by snowcat, snowmobile or cross-country skiing—so getting there is half the fun. The area surrounding the lake is a back-country recreationist’s dream, boasting more than 100 miles of fresh snow to carve. The lodge requires a two-night minimum for a stay in one of its 13 cabins, so there is plenty of time to embrace the present. Take in the sunrise from the deck as snow-covered ponderosas frame picture-perfect views of nearby Mount Bachelor. In the evening, a storybook winter scene emerges outside each window under the glow of star-filled lights. Settle in with a piping hot bowl of the lodge’s elk chili and a book from the community library.
Paulina Lake Lodge
The Newberry Caldera is inaccessible by car in the winter months, and the only way to explore the splendor of this diverse geographic area is a 6-mile trek from the Ten Mile Sno-Park. Nestled in the volcanic crater is pristine Paulina Lake and its accompanying lodge, built in 1929. In its nearly 100 years, Paulina Lake Lodge has offered a “down-home” experience for its guests, with 13 pleasantly modest cabins. Trek around the lake and enjoy expansive views of Paulina Peak or rent a snowmobile onsite to explore the epic 150 miles of groomed trails. For the avid winter cyclist, take a scenic fat bike ride up the main road to neighboring East Lake. Every itinerary should also include a snowshoe outing to nearby frozen Paulina Falls to marvel at its icy curtain of suspended cascading water. Après-ski, enjoy a hearty pint and then retire back to the fire’s warmth of the lodge’s rooms.
Shelter Cove
As the summer bustle quiets at Odell Lake, and the smell of warm earth and juniper gives way to the scent of damp pinecones, Shelter Cove Resort offers a classic winter destination. More than 100 years ago, Shelter Cove was the site of the Cascade Summit train station. Today, it offers 14 cabins and limited RV spots on Odell’s western shore. Book in advance for an intimate stay at the historic cabin, formerly the train engineer’s private residence. Directly from the resort, guests can access a sprawling network of Nordic trails or drive 3 miles to the Willamette Pass ski area for a downhill fix. As evening falls, a blazing communal firepit awaits on the lakeshore—a welcome contrast against the ink-black winter sky. Quell appetites with a wood-fired pizza and reflect on the day’s adventures over roasted s’mores with new friends and old.
