Winter & Snow Sports

While Willamette Valley and Oregon Coast weather conditions are generally mild in winter, snow is frequent in the Cascade Mountains. Plan a trek to the mountains for the best chance of a snowy winter getaway.

Sno-Parks

Thirty minutes from Eugene, just past Oakridge/Westfir, discover the region's state Sno-Parks. Easy to access off Highway 58, Salt Creek Sno-Park is a family-friendly place to play in the snow. Toss snowballs, make snow angels, sled, tube or snowshoe to the magnificent Salt Creek Falls. Cross-country ski on maintained trails around Gold Lake Sno-Park, warming up at strategically placed shelters. Or rev up the snowmobile at Waldo Lake Sno-Park for some winter sightseeing!

Sno-Park permits are required so purchase them in advance and check the road conditions too. There are additional Nordic trails at Willamette Pass Resort.

Sledding, Snowshoeing & Snowmobiling

In the Cascades, you'll discover several Sno-Parks popular for sledding, tubing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Sno-Parks require a permit, so plan ahead and get one before you head out.

Skiing & Snowboarding

Downhill ski, snowboard or cross-country ski in the Cascade mountains – just one hour from Eugene! From Eugene, drive or take a bus to the slopes. Before heading out, check the ski report, weather and road conditions. You can also stay in the Oakridge/Westfir area, only 30 minutes from the slopes, or along the McKenzie River.

The largest ski resorts in the vicinity are Willamette Pass, Hoo Doo Ski Resort and Bachelor.

Get Your Gear

Ice Skating

Lace up your skates and glide out onto the ice during a public skate session. Seasonally, The Rink Exchange offers indoor ice sports including ice hockey, ice skating and broomball. It's home to the Eugene Figure Skating Club, the minor league Eugene Generals and University of Oregon Club Hockey. 

Hockey and skating lessons, as well as adult and youth recreational leagues are available. Skate rentals, snack shop and gift shop are on-site. The arena-style center seats 2,700 spectators and may be rented for private events and parties. The Rink Exchange is located on the grounds of the Lane Events Center, just a few blocks from downtown Eugene.