Each year, when the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, the Grants Pass Tribune packs up its snow gear and hits the road to celebrate Oregon’s winter playgrounds. This season marks the second annual staycation escape, a tradition that will continue year after year as we explore the state’s best ski and snowboard destinations. The journey begins in familiar territory—right here in Southern Oregon—and takes us to one of the Pacific Northwest’s crown jewels: Mount Bachelor in Bend, Oregon.
Nestled in the Cascade Range, Mount Bachelor embodies everything Oregonians love about winter. Its towering, snow-covered cone rises to nearly 9,100 feet, offering sweeping views and an unmatched alpine experience. For ski and snowboard enthusiasts, it’s a playground of powder, perfectly groomed runs, tree-lined trails, and breathtaking scenery. The mountain averages over 450 inches of snowfall each year, which means the conditions often rival anything you’ll find in the Rockies without ever leaving the state.
Getting there from Grants Pass is part of the fun. The most scenic and direct route takes travelers north on Interstate 5 through Roseburg before turning east toward Bend via Highway 138 and Highway 97. The roughly four-hour drive winds through evergreen forests, passes by the stunning Umpqua National Forest, and offers plenty of opportunities to stop for photos, coffee, or a quick meal. Those who prefer a more leisurely journey often split the trip with an overnight stop in places like Diamond Lake or La Pine, adding a touch of exploration to the adventure.
Once you arrive in Bend, accommodations range from cozy rustic lodges to upscale resorts. Many travelers choose to stay in Bend itself, where the vibrant downtown offers easy access to restaurants, breweries, and shops while remaining only about 20 miles from the slopes. Others prefer the convenience of staying closer to the mountain, where ski-in, ski-out cabins and well-appointed vacation rentals make early morning powder runs effortless.
The heart of the trip, of course, is the mountain. Mount Bachelor offers more than 4,300 acres of skiable terrain, making it one of the largest ski areas in the United States. Whether you’re carving wide groomers, exploring the back bowls, or hitting the terrain parks, there’s something for every skill level. Snowboarders love the natural flow of the mountain, while skiers appreciate the variety of lifts and runs that allow them to explore for days without repeating the same trail.
Beyond the slopes, there’s plenty to do. The Nordic Center features miles of cross-country trails, while snowshoeing and sledding provide family-friendly options. Bend’s après-ski scene is equally appealing, with craft beer flowing at local breweries, hearty meals at mountain pubs, and live music that keeps the winter spirit alive long after the lifts stop running.
As we kick off this year’s staycation series, Mount Bachelor sets the tone for a season of adventure. It’s beautiful, exhilarating, and quintessentially Oregon. For those in Grants Pass looking for a winter escape that doesn’t require airfare or long lines, this trip is proof that world-class skiing is just a drive away. And this is only the beginning—each month, the Tribune will feature another of Oregon’s legendary resorts as part of our annual tradition. Pack your gear, hit the road, and make Mount Bachelor part of your winter story.