Mount Hood Meadows ski resort is situated on the eastern side of Mount Hood and is well known for its abundance of snow and excellent variety of terrain. Snowboarders are particularly lucky in that the resort has a super-pipe, a natural half-pipe and three terrain parks, as well as the largest PSIA certified snowboarding school in the Northwest.

Hood River, north of Mount Hood Meadows, is the main-stay of the accommodation and features hotels, motels, inns and bed-and-breakfasts; there is also a limited supply of lodgings nearer the resort. Ski and snowboard shops and rental and repair boutiques can be found at the resort, and there are childcare facilities for infants and toddlers from six weeks to four years.

The 87 varied slopes at Mount Hood Meadows are divided into 15 per cent for beginners, 50 per cent for intermediates and 35 per cent for expert snowboarders and skiers. The longest run here is 4.83kms, and 12 lift systems run over an 846-metre vertical to provide access. Additionally, there is a 15-kilometre Nordic track and a further 200kms of cross-country trails in the Mount Hood National Forest.

Other winter activities and facilities at Mt Hood Meadows include: ice-skating, snowshoeing, night skiing, hiking and horseback riding (nearby). Après-ski at the resort is provided by the restaurants, and Finishline and Alpenstube bars. Those staying in Hood River will find plenty of night-time entertainment.

The best snow conditions of the November to April ski season can be had in February, and there are lower rates at the beginning and towards the end of the season. The best way to get to Mount Hood Meadows ski resort is to fly to Portland International Airport and transfer to Hood River, from where a shuttle bus runs to the Nordic Center at the resort. Those who hire cars must also have tyre chains or risk a fine.