Cross country skiing at Mt.Hood?

Question

I would like to go cross country skiing at Mt. Hood. Are there good trails? What would be the best place to rent skiis? Would it be cheaper to rent skiis in Portland?

Answer 1

Here's what Mt. Hood Territory has to say about skiing on Mt. Hood:

"In winter, ski and snowboard on more than 3,000 acres of slopes at our three Mt. Hood ski areas -Timberline Ski Area, Mt. Hood Skibowl, and Summit Ski Area. Mt. Hood Skibowl is America's largest night ski area with 35 lighted runs. To really experience nature's winter wonder, strap on your cross-country skis and glide over 200 miles of trails taking in the forest's quiet splendor."

So the answer to your first question is yes, there are some fantastic cross country trails.

Personally, I would rent my skiis at the resort, rather than in Portland. They would have adjusted the skiis for the exact conditions of the snow and if you have a problem, you can take them back much more quickly. If you rented them in Portland, you would probably have to give up at least an hour of skiing time just to make it back down the mountain to return the skies before the store closed.