Visit Historic Timberline Lodge

Perched at the 6,600-foot level on Mount Hood, Timberline Lodge is an elegantly rustic National Historic Landmark that has welcomed visitors since 1937. If you're an avid skier, snowboarder, or climber, you may be familiar with the lodge, but if not, catch the informative movie that's shown in a small room off the lobby. The film tells the story of the highly skilled and dedicated craftspeople who hand-built the lodge as a federal WPA project (Federal Works Progress Administration) during the Great Depression. The accomplishment is as amazing as majestic 11,235-foot Mount Hood itself! Ground was broken on June 14, 1936 and after only 15 quick months, President Franklin Roosevelt dedicated the completed Timberline Lodge on September 28, 1937.

The cavernous fireplaces in the lobby are wonderfully welcoming, so after all that learning, sit and read, or ogle the mountain scenery through the enormous windows. As you scan the winter wonderland from your warm and comfy seat, you might notice Silcox Hut about a mile above Timberline Lodge. In the summer you can hike up there, but with 200 inches of snow on the ground now, transportation for overnight guests is provided via snow-cat. Silcox Hut is a very private getaway, perfect for groups looking for a rustic mountain experience. Bring your own sleeping bag, or the host will make up a bunk. While Silcox Hut is a no-frills kind of place with family-style meals, it does have running water, heat, lights, and indoor plumbing.

When it's meal or snack time, you've got plenty of choices at Timberline Lodge. Named one of the top ten mountaintop restaurants in the Western United States and Canada by Sunset magazine, the Cascade Dining Room serves fine dining fare with an extensive wine list. The Ram's Head Bar on the second floor and the Blue Ox Bar tucked behind the main lobby, offer casual food and drinks. You can also head outdoors and cross the parking lot to the Wy'East Day Lodge, a favorite hangout for skiers taking a break from the slopes. Sandwiches, soups, hotdogs, and other light meals and snacks are kid-friendly. Also check out the well-stocked gift shop while in the Wy'East Day Lodge. In addition to local artwork and unique Northwest souvenirs, choose from a huge array of outerwear and accessories to keep you warm and stylish. If you're not into snow sports but think you might want to give it a try, a team of experienced, dedicated professionals provide both ski and snowboard lessons for all ages. Full equipment rental is also available in the Wy'East Day Lodge.

Before you leave, look around for Bruno, Timberline's lovable Saint Bernard. If he'll sit still long enough, this canine cutie provides a terrific photo opportunity!