Mt. Bachelor rises out of the Central Oregon landscape as both a landmark and a playground. Known for its vast terrain, it’s a favorite for skiers and snowboarders in the Pacific Northwest. The mountain offers something for everyone, from beginner-friendly greens to expert runs off the summit, making it a destination worth exploring, whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth.
“Mt. Bachelor is a stunning dormant volcano with diverse natural terrain and a laid-back atmosphere,” says Gabe Stephens, Marketing Coordinator at Mt. Bachelor. “With 360-degree access to over 4,300 acres, Mt. Bachelor offers a big-mountain skiing and riding experience while maintaining the friendliness and authenticity of a small resort.”
From its breathtaking summit views to the vibrant community that thrives on its slopes, Mt. Bachelor invites adventure, connection and discovery. This guide will help you plan your trip, navigate the mountain, and make the most of your time, whether it’s your first day or your hundredth.
Preparing for Your Day
Planning ahead is key to enjoying Mt. Bachelor. Ticket lines are long during busy weekends and holidays, so buying them online in advance will save you time and stress. Hardcore skiers and snowboarders often opt for season passes to get up to the mountain as often as possible.
For first-time visitors, Stephens recommends downloading the Mt. Bachelor app. “Through the app, you can access our mountain report, trail maps, lift status information, real-time expected wait times at each lift and the local weather forecast,” he says. “You can also share your location with friends, pinpoint your exact GPS location should you need to contact patrol, and track your stats for a chance to win prizes.”
Renting gear or booking lessons? Reserve online before you arrive to ensure you get what you need without the last-minute rush. The same goes for parking—check the resort’s website for updates on availability and shuttle options, especially on powder days when the lots fill up early. And be sure to always check the weather report – here’s our weekly report during the winter season.
Getting to the Mountain
The drive to Mt. Bachelor along Cascade Lakes Highway is as much a part of the experience as the skiing itself. Thick forests and mountain views make for a scenic journey, but winter roads demand attention. Snow tires or chains are strongly recommended, and it’s always a good idea to leave early to avoid any delays.
For a hassle-free option, consider taking the Mt. Bachelor Shuttle from Bend. It’s a stress-free, environmentally friendly way to get to the mountain while skipping the parking challenge.
Navigating the Mountain
You’ve made it to the mountain. Skis or snowboard in hand, ticket in your pocket—now what? What lift do you ride? Which runs do you hit? All valid questions that have a multitude of answers.
“The variety of terrain makes Mt. Bachelor unique,” Stephens shares. “Whether you’re seeking gently sloped beginner zones, terrain parks, open glades, tree runs, or pristine corduroy, there’s something here for every kind of skier and rider.”
Mt. Bachelor’s layout makes it easy to find runs that match your skill level. Beginners often start at Sunrise Base, where the terrain is mellow and inviting. Intermediate skiers tend to favor Cloudchaser, with its mix of open cruisers and tree runs.
Advanced skiers and snowboarders head to Summit Express, where they can take in 360-degree views before dropping into steep, fast terrain. On a powder day, the Northwest Chair is the go-to spot for tree skiing and untouched snow.
Exploring Beyond the Runs
If you’re looking to mix up your day, Mt. Bachelor offers plenty of alternatives. The Nordic Center has 56 kilometers of groomed trails for classic and skate skiing. For something more adventurous, try dog sledding with Alaskan Huskies or join a ranger-led snowshoe tour to learn about the mountain’s volcanic history.
Staying Fueled
Long days on the slopes call for good food. Stephens suggests heading to Pine Marten Lodge for a meal. “If it’s a busy day, get food from Pine Marten Lodge instead of West Village or Sunrise,” he says. “The mid-mountain views are hard to beat, and crowds are generally smaller.”
But if you’re really in the know, there’s one spot that’s worth a bit of a detour: the Nordic Center serves up burritos, and according to Stephens, “They’re the best-kept secret.”
Here’s our roundup of local places for mountain fuel before or after your day on the hill as well.
Après-Ski and Events
When the lifts close, the fun doesn’t stop. Just 20 miles away in Bend, the craft beer scene is worth exploring, with spots like 10 Barrel Brewing, Lifty’s and Boss Ramler Beer Club all offering local brews and a laid-back vibe.
Mt. Bachelor also hosts plenty of fun events throughout the season. The RendezVan Festival celebrates van life with live music and food trucks, while the Big Wave Challenge combines snowboarding with surf-inspired competition.
“The community around Mt. Bachelor is deeply connected to a passion for outdoor recreation and a vibrant local culture,” says Stephens. “This culture of supporting outdoor activities is reflected in the resort’s operations.”
Final Tips
Mt. Bachelor is massive, and it’s easy to overdo it. Dress for the conditions, carry snacks for lift lines and pace yourself so you can enjoy the whole experience.
Whether you’re carving fresh tracks, exploring the Nordic trails or swapping stories over a beer, Mt. Bachelor offers a mix of adventure and community that keeps people coming back. “The resort is known for incredible spring skiing, with more than 1,500 acres of terrain open through Memorial Day Weekend,” Stephens notes. “While most resorts are winding down, Mt. Bachelor offers consistently excellent snow conditions, a packed event schedule, and a large operating footprint through the end of May.”
Now it’s your turn to make the most of it. Read more about the history of Mt. Bachelor, here. And if you are looking enjoy the hill in the off season, Mt. Bachelor is more than a winter destination.
