26 BEST NORDIC SKI GREAT ESCAPES 2022/2023
The Mount Bachelor Nordic Center, nestled in the Cascade Mountain Range near Bend, Oregon, boasts the longest ski season in North America, as well as some of the best cross-country ski trails in the Northwest. This unique resort, located entirely on USFS land, is situated on a dormant volcano and surrounded by peaks of 7,000 to 11,000 feet. With 56 kilometres of groomed trails and an average annual snowfall of 40 feet, Nordic skiers and snowshoers enjoy extensive and exceptional grooming from mid-November through late May, often into June. The Mount Bachelor Nordic Center is the spring training grounds of the U.S. Ski Team. A myriad of winter activities and events delight visitors throughout the winter. Skiers of all ages and abilities enjoy a variety of Nordic ski trails such as the gentle First Time Around loop or the Rich’s Range intermediate route. For a longer and more challenging excursion, experienced skiers can tackle the 18.4km Outer Limits loop, which circumnavigates the trail network and features thrilling descents, climbs and excellent views. Complete rental packages for classic and skate skiing, snowshoes and pulk sleds are all available right in the Lodge, and private and group lessons are offered daily. For longer stays, enjoy multi-day masters or women-only clinics, or take a progressive multi-day “Intro to Skate or Classic Skiing Clinic”. Looking to try something new? The Mt. Bachelor Resort offers many Nordic alternatives to enhance your vacation. Alpine skiing, lift-serviced snow tubing, dogsled rides, childcare and several cafés and bars, are all available just across the parking lot or via the complimentary Interlodge shuttle. The inviting Lodge, an original log cabin designed and built in 1980, is a popular lunch and meeting spot. Rustic seating around the crackling wood fire is first-come, first-served. There is a handy waiting area for your home-made lunch — the yummy Bungalow Burritos are a must-try. The Lodge also houses an extensive Nordic Ski Shop and a casual bag lunch area, great for families and large groups. The closest lodging options are at Sunriver Resort, 14.4mi/23km away, and in the vibrant city of Bend at 22mi/35.4km away, where accommodation varies from B&Bs to chain hotels. The boutique Oxford Hotel’s lavish rooms, complimentary cruiser bikes, loaner Breedlove guitars and Tesla charging station offer a unique stay. Along with a live jazz series and pet-friendly rooms, visitors can also find excellent organic cuisine in the dining room. The Bend Ale Trail features some 30 brewpubs to quench any thirst, such as the Platypus Pub, and Broken Top Bottle Shop, named for the 9,177-foot Broken Top Mountain just north of Mount Bachelor. Multi-day and seasonal options are available online for the Mount Bachelor shuttle bus, offering convenient travel between the mountains and town. Adventure awaits! Plan your vacation to the Mount Bachelor Nordic Center and experience endless snow, the quiet beauty of the Cascades and the lively après-ski activities in beautiful Bend, Oregon. -JA
PHOTOS: BRIAN BECKER
MOUNT BACHELOR NORDIC CENTER
