Lodge-Style Condos near Skiing amid Deschutes National Forest
Oregon’s Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway offers some of the best views of the smoky-blue peaks and volcanic formations in the Cascade Range. The still-active Newberry Volcano lies at the southern end of the byway. Further up the road is the Lava Cast Forest, which is filled with molds of pine trees that were suddenly incinerated in a lava flow about 7,000 years ago. Seventh Mountain Resort is situated at the roadway's eastern end, and you can sit at the resort’s private patios to overlook groves of douglas firs and ponderosa pines.
The forest is more than a scenic backdrop—its rocky ridges and waterscapes form a playground for adventures year-round. In the winter, skiers and snowboarders head to nearby Mount Bachelor and its 71 runs. In spring and summer, you can bike through Bend, named America's Top Mountain Biking Town by Mountain Bike Action magazine. Fishers wade through the Deschutes River for trout and steelhead, and there are several area golf courses with gorgeous mountain backdrops. After a full day on the mountain, you can soak in one of the two heated outdoor pools or three hot tubs.
There’s a kitchen in each one-bedroom condo, so it’s easy to whip up dinner at home. Or you can drop by one of the resort's two restaurants: Seasons Restaurant serves smoked-chicken hash ($10) and other hearty breakfast dishes to start the day, while the intimate Rimrock Bar serves unique dinner entrees, such as pan-seared trout stuffed with bacon and crab ($16).
Bend, Oregon: Skiing and Hiking Adventures in the Cascade Range
Although the Pacific Northwest is associated with gray skies, Bend, Oregon, is blessed with about 300 days of sunshine per year, creating a warm, dry climate and high-desert terrain. And yet, in spite of the sun, Mount Bachelor accumulates more than 370 inches of snow annually.
Located within Deschutes National Forest, the mountain’s ski lift takes you up to breathtaking views of central Oregon’s wilderness, and gives access to nearly 35 miles of groomed cross-country skiing trails. Though there are plenty of warm-weather activities at the mountain, you could also head over to nearby Smith Rock State Park, where day hikes reveal golden eagles, mule deer, and river otters.
Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.
