Overview

For both visitors and residents of Bend, Oregon, cross country skiing is one of the most popular winter activities. Both novice and advanced Nordic skiers have miles of groomed and ungroomed trails to explore in the vast forests and wilderness areas of beautiful Central Oregon.

Where to go Cross Country Skiing

• Dutchman Flat Snow Park – This popular area near Mt. Bachelor provides access to over 19 miles of trails that range from easy to very difficult. The 2.2 mile Dutchman Loop trail is perfect for novice skiers, while intermediate and expert skiers will enjoy the 4 mile Flagline Trail. Pete’s Way and Todd Ridge Trail, each 1 mile long, are expert-level trails. Several other snow parks in the area also provide access to excellent cross country trails. Snow Park permits are required.
• Newberry Crater – This 17-square mile volcanic caldera receives 35 inches of snow each year, making it a popular place for cross country skiing.
• Tumalo Falls – There are several miles of groomed Nordic trails in the area near the falls, including the Tumalo Creek Nordic Loop.
• Diamond Lake – The area surrounding this beautiful alpine lake has 8 miles of groomed Nordic trails and over 50 miles of marked ungroomed trails.
• Three Creek Lake – Intermediate and advanced Nordic skiers can access over 15 miles of trails, including Warren’s Loop and Snow Creek Trail.
• Mt. Jefferson Wilderness – Over 190 miles of trails wind through this scenic wilderness area, making it a popular venue for cross-country skiers.
• Ski Resorts – Nearby ski resorts are great places for cross country skiing. Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort, just west of Bend, offers 56 kilometers of groomed trails for cross country skiers. Hoodoo Ski Area has 16 kilometers of Nordic trails and Willamette Pass Ski Area has 20 kilometers of trails.
• Ochoco National Forest – East of Bend, this scenic area offers many miles of cross country ski trails, including the popular Bandit Springs Cross Country Ski Trail that winds through old growth Ponderosa pine.