Portland Oregon Nordic Club upcoming events

Wednesday Bike Ride Is Back (Wednesday, August 26, 2026)

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 16:00:00 GMT

When: Aug 26 Banks to Vernonia and back

9:00 Leave from Banks (42.5 mi RT) or

9:30 Leave from Manning trailhead (34.5 mi RT) or

10:00 Leave from Buxton trailhead (29 mi RT)

Please reply with your choice of starting points. We will get lunch in Vernonia. Please wear a helmet (club rules).

State Parks' website page and trail map

Organizer: Sam Digard

TLC Party - Government Camp & Summit Ski Tr. (Wednesday, October 07, 2026)

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Join us to give the ski trails some TLC (Trail Limbing and Clearing) at a close-in setting on Mt. Hood. This is chance to get some elevation acclimatization just before the snows set in. Most trail tending work parties involve light brushing, tree limbing, and the hanging of blue diamonds. We will work until about 2:30 pm with return to Portland about 5 pm. We’ll supply the tools and hardhats. No prior experience needed, we just need you!!

WHERE: Oldtown Troutdale (next to railroad tracks)
105 Historic Columbia River Hwy., Troutdale, OR, 97060

Meet at Old Town Troutdale at 8 am sharp for carpooling – see map below.

What to bring: Bring a comfortable pair of work gloves to protect your hands (gardening gloves, leather, etc.). Wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, hiking boots and protective eye wear. Dress for the weather; it could be hot, cold, windy, rainy, or any and all in the same day. Have bug repellent, sunscreen, plus 12 essentials. Finally, bring small backpack with a lunch and snacks as you are sure to work up an appetite, and lots of water.

Sign up below – select the number of spaces for all of the people in your party and provide their contact information where indicated. Note to members – please sign in to make a reservation.

For more info or if the signup is full, contact the leader: Ken Wenzel 503-729-6571 (call or text) skiwenzel@hotmail.com

Click on the map to view a larger scale with street details of the meeting place. Or view on Google Maps: 105 Historic Columbia River Hwy, Troutdale, OR 97060. Look for us in the parking area behind the buildings just south of the railroad tracks.

Sovereign Lakes & Silver Star BC - January (Sunday, January 03, 2027)

Sun, 03 Jan 2027 08:00:00 GMT

Destination: Silver Star & Sovereign Lakes, British Columbia

Terrain: Groomed trails

Trip rating: Intermediate

Skiing opportunities:

Lodging:

First night: Best Western Osoyoos, BC

2nd-6th nights: Exclusive Mountain Ranch Lodge | 7 mins to Silver Star

Details:

This 7 day/6 night trip gives skiers the opportunity to ski at 3 different XC ski areas. The trip is all on groomed trails.

Day 1 is a big driving day with 430 miles to get to Osoyoo, BC. To break up the drive once we are north of Ellensberg, the leader will provide a list of a few short hikes that are along our route. We spend the 1st night at the Best Western in Osoyoo.

Day 2 we get to ski at Nickel Plate Nordic (6,000’ elevation) about 50 miles northwest of Osoyoo. 45km of groomed trails. After skiing we drive a couple hours north along Okanagan Lake to our home for the rest of the week just outside of Vernon, BC.

Days 3-6 we get 4 days of skiing at Sovereign Lake Nordic Area and Silver Star. It’s a 10-15 minute drive from our house. There are trails that connect the two ski areas. Sovereign Lake and Silver Star are known for early season snow. If there is going to be snow for groomed xc skiing anywhere in Western North America - this is it. Elevations range from 5,000, to 6,200.

Day 7 we drive home.

What’s included:

Cost listed is just for lodging other than breakfast on day 2. Ski passes you buy yourself. Carpooling costs are shared. For meals, we typically are on our own for breakfast and lunch. Dinner, we take turns buying and cooking dinner other than eating out the first night which is on your own.

Other considerations:

You need your passport, and it must not expire within 6 months of the trip.
You need Snow Flake-rated tires and AWD (recommended) in BC.

Trip limit: 10 participants including trip leaders
Cost: $530 per person
Travel miles: From Portland, 1100 miles round trip, plus mileage to the ski areas
Trip Leader: Mary Ellen Fitzgerald
Co-Leader: Glenda Marsh

Methow Rendzevous Huts and Guesthouse (Saturday, January 09, 2027)

Sat, 09 Jan 2027 08:00:00 GMT

Destination: Methow Valley, WA
Terrain: Groomed for Classic and Skating
Trip Rating: Intermediate Plus

Cost Includes:

Shared house Jan 9-11 near Winthrop.
Rendezvous Huts Jan. 11-15. We’ll have one night at Gardner Hut, two nights at Cassal Hut and one night at Grizzly Hut.
Freight hauling of all food and gear to each of the three huts
Saturday or Sunday night dinner at the Guesthouse - one dinner, we’ll go out for the other.

Not included: Methow Trail Passes, breakfasts and lunches

The Methow Valley Trails system combines beautiful views, excellent classic and skate grooming, and miles and miles of skiable trails. We will spend two days skiing from a shared house within a half mile of Winthrop, then four nights at higher elevation, staying in the cozy Rendezvous Huts.

Participants must be able to ski on groomed trails gaining 1000+ feet of elevation and be able to comfortably negotiate speed and turns on groomed downhills.

While skiing to the Rendezvous Huts, we will carry only day packs. All additional gear and food will be hauled to the huts for us by the tour operator. Participants must be comfortable with very cozy shared co-ed accommodations, minimal privacy and no running water for 4 nights. The huts are very rustic - some water is hauled in and if needed we will melt snow for more water. We sleep in shared bunks and keep warm by the wood burning stove. Our cook stove is propane, and there is no electricity. The privy is a close walk through the snow away.

While at the Guesthouse, we will have one shared dinner and plan to go out for one. While at the huts, meals will be shared. The specifics of the meals will be discussed during our pre-trip Zoom meeting. Here are details about the huts. Carpools are encouraged. Those who can’t drive will need to take initiative to make sure they have a ride. Drivers who have room for riders are asked to be helpful.

Itinerary:

Saturday, Jan. 9 is a travel day. A trip to Winthrop, Washington in winter typically takes 7-9 hours. Some in the group may prefer to drive part way on Friday and spend Friday night enroute, allowing for some skiing Saturday afternoon. We can discuss this at the Zoom meeting. A stay in a motel Friday night is not included in the cost of the trip.
Sunday we ski in the valley, and prepare for our ski into the huts Monday morning.
Monday - Thursday we stay at three huts - Gardner, Cassal Hut and Grizzly Hut, all located within the smooth, pristine, Methow groomed trail system.
Friday, we ski out and head home.
If you know you snore loudly or use a cpap machine, this may not be the trip for you. If you have a spirit of adventure and cooperation and don’t need WIFI to keep you happy, this may be your best ski experience yet.

Trip limit: 7 participants
Cost: $450 per person
Travel miles: From Portland, 800 miles round trip, plus mileage to the ski areas
Trip Leader: Donna Wiench

Relaxing Sunriver Without the Crowds (Sunday, January 10, 2027)

Sun, 10 Jan 2027 08:00:00 GMT

Destination: Sunriver, OR

Terrain: Groomed and non-groomed trails

Trip Rating: Intermediate

Join 10 fellow Nordic Club intermediate skiers for leisurely ski tours as we enjoy this winter wonderland and make new friends.

Enjoy skiing a variety of trails in the Mt. Bachelor area within a 30-minute drive from our 5-bedroom house with 5 bathrooms and a hot tub to soothe sore muscles. Three rooms are available for 3 couples in queen beds and 2 rooms for singles in 2 twin beds each.

The spacious, fully equipped kitchen (with 2nd refrigerator), dining and living room areas offer an easy flow for us on this trip. A 2nd living/playroom is available upstairs for extra room to spread out and relax. Parking available in a 3-car garage as well as a large driveway.

We will probably spend days at Virginia Meissner; Bachelor Nordic/Todd Lake and at Swampy lakes/Edison Butte/Paulina Lake. If poor snow conditions, we might snowshoe or hike around Sunriver and Smith Rocks.

Get to know your fellow skiers in the evening during the three potlucks, discussions and games.

Trip limit: 10 participants
Cost: $260 per person
Travel miles: From Portland, 360 miles round trip, plus mileage to the ski areas
Trip Leader: Ken Barker
Co-Leader: Nancy Schmidt

Shelter Cove Resort (Sunday, January 10, 2027)

Sun, 10 Jan 2027 08:00:00 GMT

Destination: Shelter Cove, OR

Terrain: Non-groomed Trails

Trip Rating: Intermediate

High up in the Cascades east of Eugene lies Willamette Pass and the beautiful Odell Lake situated at 4,800 feet. There, so there is plenty of snow plus great scenery. We will stay in the Kokanee Lodge C and D units at Shelter Cove Resort. These units comfortably sleep twelve with one king bed, two queens, and four twin beds. We will have beautiful views from our porch of the lodge, situated right on the shore of Odell Lake.

There are a number of good ski routes near the Pengra ski area, the trails to Gold Lake, smaller trails right around Shelter Cove Resort and the Willamette Pass ski area. Which has 22 km of beautifully groomed trails, trail fees required. Downhill skiing is also an option at Willamette Pass. There is also a possibility of a night ski around Shelter Cover Resort camp grounds! Come and have a real winter experience at this beautiful snow-laden resort on a gorgeous high mountain lake, just a few hours from Portland.

We will potluck on Monday and Tuesday evenings. Sunday will be dinner on your own since we will have different arrival times. You will bring your own breakfast, lunch and snack foods as well as any beverages you will want. The kitchens come equipped with most basic items including a microwave, coffeemaker, dishwasher and basic pots, pans and cooking utensils. If you will need a specialty pan or utensil, bring it. Finally, bring any games you enjoy playing as we’ll have time in the evenings to spend around a game table for those who are interested.

Trip Limit: 12 participants including trip leader

Cost: $210 /member, per person, includes 3 nights lodging. Extra costs not included: travel expenses, Sno-Park permits and meals.

Carpool Miles: 360 miles round trip from Portland, plus mileage to Sno-Parks

Leader: Johanna Lovell

Co-leader: Peggy Samolinski

Horseshoe Prairie and Anthony Lakes (Thursday, January 14, 2027)

Thu, 14 Jan 2027 08:00:00 GMT

Destination: Baker City, OR
Terrain: Groomed
Trip Rating: All levels

Ski at Anthony Lakes and/or Horseshoe Prairie while staying in luxury, with an amazing kitchen, a massage chair, and a hot tub.

Thursday, January 14 and Monday, January 18 are our travel days, and folks may choose to ski en route. Over three days (Friday to Sunday), we will ski at Anthony Lakes Nordic Center for $18 (with our lodging's 10% discount) or at Horseshoe Prairie for a grooming donation but note that those 70 or better ski free at Anthony Lakes. For those who wish to ski downhill at Anthony Lakes, that's $50 with our lodging's discount, but again it's free for those 70 or better. T

here is terrain for all abilities, and folks will choose where they want to ski every day. Every vehicle will need an Oregon Sno-Park permit. Breakfasts and lunches will be on our own, but over four nights everyone will be asked to participate in shared dinners. A dinner planning Google Sheet will be shared with participants. It's 600 miles round-trip between Portland and Baker City's Wunder House, but folks may travel an extra 300 miles round-trip over the three days of shared skiing.

Trip limit: 12 participants including leader
Cost: $285 per person, 3 nights lodging
Travel miles: From Portland, 600 miles round trip, plus mileage to the ski areas
Trip Leader: Bill Stein

Lake Creek Lodge 2027 (Friday, January 15, 2027)

Fri, 15 Jan 2027 08:00:00 GMT

Camp Sherman, OR

Terrain: Non-groomed trails

Trip Rating: Intermediate Plus

Halfway between Santiam Pass and Sisters is the very popular Lake Creek Lodge.

Boasting quaint, rustic cabins paneled in knotty pine, fireplaces, full kitchens and a creek coursing thru the grounds, it is the ideal ambience for a XC ski holiday. Check out the website at www.lakecreeklodge.com Separate rooms for couples/genders.

We'll carpool over on Friday, have a traditional Nordic Club potluck dinner on Saturday, with leftovers and a slideshow on Sunday. Ski options are many -- Santiam Pass, Mt. Bachelor area, Maxwell Sno-Park, Tam MacArthur Rim, and if we're lucky, right out the door of our cabins.

This trip offers off-trail options for members who have the competence and equipment needed to enjoy and navigate ungroomed and downhill slopes under varied snow conditions.

Trip limit: 16 participants including trip leaders
Cost: $175 per person
Travel miles: From Portland, 300 miles round trip, plus mileage to the ski areas
Trip Leader: Steve Levy
Co-Leader: Rainer Hummel

Ochoco Ranger House BackCountry Ski Adventure (Friday, January 22, 2027)

Fri, 22 Jan 2027 08:00:00 GMT

Destination: Ochoco National Forest, OR

Terrain: Non-groomed trails/Backcountry

Trip Rating: Intermediate

We will ski in the Ochoco Mountains about 30 miles east of Prineville in a relatively remote area of Oregon taking advantage of the dry snow and wonderful views. We will be on the Walton Lake and Bandit Springs Forest Service trails.

We will be staying in an artfully constructed 1,145 square foot three-bedroom 1.5 bath two-story former ranger house, with a wonderful dining room table that accommodates our entire group, as well as a large knotty-pine paneled living room with comfortable seating for evening reading, cards, board games and chats. There is no cell service at the cabin.

If snow is lacking, we will do some hikes in the local area and over at the Painted Hills in the John Day Fossil beds. Participants are responsible for their own breakfasts, lunches & Friday night Dinner. Saturday and Sunday dinners will be potluck.

Backcountry ski gear (NNN-BC bindings or better with metal edge skis) required as skiing will be done on ungroomed trails with up and down terrain. Available beds: two double spaces and three singles (singles in one large bunkhouse style room).

Trip limit: 7 participants including trip leader.
Cost: $55/member, per person, includes 3 nights lodging. Extra costs not included: travel expenses and meals.
Travel miles: From Portland, 350 miles round trip, plus mileage to the ski areas
Trip Leader: David Bath

XC Skiing the Methow Valley, Magical Winter Wonderland (Sunday, January 31, 2027)

Sun, 31 Jan 2027 08:00:00 GMT

Destination: Methow Valley, WA
Trip Rating: All levels

Terrain: Groomed trails

Join us as we ski on Methow Valleys 120 miles (200 km) of groomed trails. Also enjoy many of the other winter adventures of snowshoeing, fat tire biking and ice skating.

Up to 28 of us will be staying at the comfortable Chewich Inn and Methow River Lodge (an easy 0.2 mile walk between them).

Each bedroom has a private bath. Enjoy their included morning breakfasts and small hot tub (4-6 people at a time). These lodges are within a 0.6-mile walk of downtown Winthrop (quaint town with eateries and shops) on a nice, plowed walking trail.

Enjoy the Nordic Club’s famous potluck dinners for 3 meals. Get to meet lots of your fellow Nordic Club skiers and find compatible ski groups with this large group outing.

Trip limit: 28 participants
Cost: $445 per person for 4 nights lodging
Travel miles: From Portland, 800 miles round trip, plus mileage to the ski areas
Trip Leader: Ken Barker
Co-Leaders: Mark Fitzsimons and Lisa Hay

Sunriver Without the Crowds 2027 (Monday, February 01, 2027)

Mon, 01 Feb 2027 08:00:00 GMT

Destination: Sunriver, OR
Terrain: Groomed and Ungroomed trails
Trip Rating: All levels

TBD

Trip limit: 10 participants including leader
Cost: $235 per person
Travel miles: From Portland, 380 miles round trip, plus mileage to the ski areas
Trip Leader: Mary Ellen Fitzgerald

Silver Star / Sovereign Lakes - February (Friday, February 05, 2027)

Fri, 05 Feb 2027 08:00:00 GMT

Destination: Silver Star Mtn., BC

Terrain: Groomed trails

Trip Rating: Intermediate

Silver Star Mountain Resort in British Columbia, Canada, boasts Canada's largest groomed cross-country network with over 105 km of track. Connected to the neighboring Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre, the area offers world-class classic and skate skiing. This is one of my favorite areas to ski in British Columbia.

Leaving early on Friday, February 5, we will stay our first night in Osoyoos, BC at the Best Western Motel. After breakfast at the Best Western we will drive to Nickel Plate Nordic and ski the well-groomed Nordic trails (skate or classic) and depart about 2 PM to head to Vernon, BC where we will stay at Timber Ridge Ranch in a very nice house that sits just below Sovereign Lake Nordic Center and Silver Star Mt. At Silver Star, one gondola ride to the top is included with your daily ski pass, then you ski the Nordic Trails DOWN. If conditions look good, we may drive one day to the Telemark Nordic Club, about a 1-hour drive from our house.

On Friday, Feb. 12th, we head home. Carpools can choose to take 2 days and ski on the way to Portland or just take a break on the trip, or they may elect to make the trip in one long day. (Skiing ideas, ask me.)

If you want beer or wine at the house, I suggest bringing it up from Oregon. Do not bring any fruit across the border in either direction.

We will try to combine our grocery shopping to prevent excess trips to town.

Meals:

Saturday breakfast is at the Best Western Motel and included with the room.
Other breakfasts and lunches are on your own. Silver Star does have restaurants and food to purchase for lunch. Sovereign Lakes is more basic; bring your own lunch to the lodge.
We will take turns cooking dinners and share the meal costs at the house. (Estimate about $75 per person)

Other expenses:

Mileage is about 550 miles each way.
Daily ski pass is $20 - $30 per day.
Meals and lodging on the trip home.

Other considerations:

You need your passport, and it must not expire within 6 months of the trip.
You need Snowflake-rated tires and AWD (recommended) in BC.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Ken.

Trip limit: 10 participants
Cost: $615 per person for lodging and the best Nordic ski trails you can imagine
Travel miles: From Portland, 1100 miles round trip, plus mileage to the ski areas
Trip Leader: Ken Wenzel

Ski Tahoe: A Week of Nordic Bliss (Sunday, February 07, 2027)

Sun, 07 Feb 2027 08:00:00 GMT

Destination: Tahoe - Truckee

Terrain: Groomed trails

Trip Rating: All levels

Fly into Reno, hop into our two winter-ready AWD vehicles, and head straight for a week of adventure in the snowy wonderland of California’s Truckee/Tahoe region. We’ll be based in a spacious 4-bedroom home just a few miles from the 100 km of beautifully groomed trails at Tahoe Donner Cross Country—perfect for classic skiing, skate skiing, or snowshoeing right out the door.

In addition to Tahoe Donner, we’ll explore more of the best cross-country terrain in the Sierra:

Royal Gorge – North America’s largest XC resort, with up to 200 km of trails to roam
Auburn Ski Club – 25 km of meticulously groomed trails used for racing
Tahoe XC – 65 km of scenic trails with stunning views of Lake Tahoe
Mt. Rose – A hidden gem with 18 km of high-altitude skiing at 8,000 feet

This all-levels trip is designed for groomed trail enthusiasts—whether you’re a beginner or seasoned skier. Snowshoers are welcome too! While there’s excellent backcountry skiing nearby, it’s not part of this trip—you’d need to hire your own guide.

The trip fee includes your lodging and shared AWD vehicles with gas. Trail passes will be purchased separately based on which areas we visit. Join us for crisp mornings, alpine air, and great company in one of the most beautiful ski regions in the West.

Trip limit: 9 participants, 7 single, 1 double
Cost: $845 per person for lodging and AWD rental. Flight to Reno not included.
Travel miles: N/A
Trip Leader: Lauren Lake

Sunriver President's Day Weekend 2027 (Friday, February 12, 2027)

Fri, 12 Feb 2027 08:00:00 GMT

Destination: Sunriver, OR

Terrain: Groomed and non-groomed trails

Trip Rating: Intermediate

Join us for two days of skiing over President’s weekend. This is prime time skiing in the Central Cascades!

Weather permitting, we have options to ski the groomed trails at Mount Bachelor Nordic Center (56 km of groomed trails) or Virginia Meissner (40 km of groomed trails) in addition to the ungroomed trails around Swampy Lakes, Vista Butte, or other suggested locations. Both Virginia Meissner and Swampy Lakes offer snowshoeing opportunities.This trip requires a minimum of two people for snowshoeing to ensure safety.

We will be staying in Sunriver at a four-bedroom (+loft), 3 bath home with a hot tub. Dinners will be potluck style with all other meals the responsibility of each participant.

Trip limit: 9 participants including trip leader.
Cost: $200 per person, includes 3 nights lodging. Extra costs not included: trail pass fees, travel expenses, sno-park permit, and meals.
Travel miles: From Portland, 360 miles round trip, plus mileage to the ski areas
Trip Leader: Terry Helland

Yellowstone In Winter 2027 (Sunday, February 14, 2027)

Sun, 14 Feb 2027 08:00:00 GMT

Destination: Yellowstone Nation Park, WY

Terrain: Ungroomed trails/Backcountry

Trip Rating: All levels

Yellowstone is one of the world’s greatest wonders—in winter, something magical happens. Imagine skiing near steaming, bubbling turquoise hot springs where the steam creates a winter wonderland of frosted trees. Skiing alongside the geothermally heated Firehole River, where buffalo and elk congregate along its warm banks to graze on green grass during the winter. Seize the opportunity to ski and snowshoe among a land of dramatic geysers, abundant wildlife, and incredible views and experience YELLOWSTONE IN WINTER! Twelve lucky PDX Nordic Club members will have the opportunity during Valentine's Day week 2027.

Carpool from Portland to arrive Sunday, February 14, at Gardiner, just north of the Yellowstone National Park north entrance. We will stay that evening at the Absaroka Lodge on the shores of the Yellowstone River, in rooms with two queen beds and private baths. The following day we will travel to Mammoth Hot Springs, minutes from the park’s north entrance, and board a heated snow coach at 7:45 AM for a several-hour tour to Old Faithful, where we will stay in the modern Western Cabins with two queen beds and private baths. Spend three days skiing among the magnificent geysers, pools, and bubbling springs of the Old Faithful basin; up to the Continental Divide; and on the Mallard Lake Ski Trail, all while viewing elk and bison (and perhaps wolves), catching the Yellowstone that most tourists miss. Many ski trails start right from the Old Faithful area, and others are accessible via snow coach shuttle services, arranged at the Old Faithful Lodge. Dry snow and clear days are the expectation.

Thursday we will return to Mammoth Hot Springs by snow coach and then stay in Gardiner for 3 nights at a spacious Airbnb home with 6 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, a full kitchen, and 3 communal living areas. We will ski in areas accessible from the Mammoth Basin Area—Tower, Indian Creek, and Blacktail Plateau; the northeast Cook Park Area—Bannock and Barronette; or spend a day in the famous Lamar Valley and its world-famous wildlife viewing.

We will come back each night to share stories and camaraderie at potluck dinners. On Sunday, Feb 21, we leave for home, relaxed and full of memories of our adventures and animal sightings. There is a wide selection of trails available, from beginner to advanced; something for every desire.

This trip offers off-trail options for members who have the competence and equipment needed to enjoy and navigate ungroomed and downhill slopes under varied snow conditions. The trip leaders will assist participants in reviewing specific tour options and facilitate organizing tour groups for those interested.

Included are 7 nights' lodging, double occupancy, and guided snow coach between Mammoth Hot Springs and Old Faithful. Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are available in the dining rooms at Old Faithful but are not included in the per-person cost above. We have reservations for dinners at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge dining rooms. Yellowstone National Park entry fees (or passes) are required but not included.

For travel to and from Garibaldi, Montana, participants carpool the 13-hour drive over one or two days. It is also possible to fly to Bozeman to avoid the drive. Please contact the tour leader or co-leader for information.

If the registration page shows the trip as full, please join the waitlist online or email the trip leader. There are almost always cancellations, so chances are very good you will be able to get on the trip. For additional information about this trip, please contact the trip leader or co-leader.

Trip limit: 12 participants, including leader and co-leader.
Cost: $1,535 per person for 7 nights lodging and snow coach. Two people per room. Meals, other travel expenses, and park fees not included. Trip deposit of $500 due at signup, balance due by Dec 1, trip leader will coordinate.

Travel miles: From Portland, approximately 1,800 miles round trip. Costs for carpooling, lodging and meals en route are not included in costs above.

Trip Leader: Marty Pike
Co-Leader: Mark Fitzsimons

Sun Valley Ski Trip 2027 (Tuesday, February 16, 2027)

Tue, 16 Feb 2027 08:00:00 GMT

Destination: Sun Valley, Idaho
Terrain: Groomed trail, backcountry for those interested
Trip Rating: All abilities

Let’s return to ski Sun Valley, the first destination ski resort in the US. Although known for its downhill ski areas, it also has extensive groomed cross-country ski trails at Galena and magnificent backcountry ski trails in the Sawtooth Mountains towards Stanley. We plan to experience the best that the area has to offer!

We will plan to ski a couple days from Galena Lodge, a few miles from Sun Valley, which has more than 50 km of all levels of groomed trails. We also plan to do easy skiing around Alturas Lake, Red Fish Lake, and the Woodland Trail. For those inclined, there is also the opportunity to do serious backcountry skiing and snowshoeing, if desired, or relax in the wonder town of Sun Valley.

We will be staying in the same large, comfortable home in Ketchum (Grandma’s House), about 5 miles from Sun Valley, preparing potluck meals and/or enjoying the ritz of Sun Valley for dining! Although this is not a luxury trip, we will have the opportunity to explore this world-famous area; it also does not carry with it a luxury price tag.

We will carpool from Portland on Monday, February 15 (staying overnight on the route to Sun Valley at additional cost), returning directly on Sunday, February 21, with a round-trip mileage of 1,200 miles, plus local driving.

There will be room for two couples and four singles. Cost per person is only $290 per person for five nights' lodging. Any trail fees are additional.

Trip limit: participants
Cost: $ per person
Travel miles: From Portland, 1200 miles round trip, plus mileage to the ski areas
Trip Leader: Ted Scheinman
Co-Leader: Rick Grote

Sunriver II Without the Crowds (Tuesday, February 23, 2027)

Tue, 23 Feb 2027 08:00:00 GMT

Destination: Sunriver, OR
Terrain: Groomed and Ungroomed trails
Trip Rating: Intermediate

This is a final midweek trip to enjoy skiing without the crowds in the Mt. Bachelor Area. There is something for everyone in this area; groomed trails, skate skiing, and backcountry or a mix. Ski Mt. Bachelor Nordic, Virginia Meisner, Swampy or Dutchman Flats.

This trip is flexible allowing for skiing on the way over and/or on the way back in the area around the Ray Benson Sno-park.

(While the trip is rated for an intermediate skier or above there is skiing for novices if you sign up with a ski partner.)

The house where we'll stay has 2 kings, 1 queen, 4 twin beds {in two rooms) and a family room (where I usually stay) with 5 bathrooms and a hot tub. There is a large common area and kitchen. Dinners will be communal. Carpooling is strongly encouraged.

Trip limit: 10 participants including leader.
Cost: $255 per person
Travel miles: From Portland, 380 miles round trip, plus mileage to the ski areas
Trip Leader: Mary Hepokoski

Sun Valley Vitamin D Guaranteed 2027 (Saturday, February 27, 2027)

Sat, 27 Feb 2027 08:00:00 GMT

Destination: Sunny Valley, ID
Terrain: Groomed trails
Trip Rating: Intermediate Plus

Sun Valley, located in the Sawtooth mountains, is often called the Alps of America. It’s surrounded by five distinct mountain ranges with gorgeous alpine scenery, bright sunshine and over 200 kms of world-class Nordic trails.

Sun Valley Resort and Blaine County Recreation District (BCRD) both groom and maintain Nordic trail systems for classic and skate skiing. A BCRD Nordic pass provides access to over 140 kms of skiing on Harriman Trail, The North Valley Trails, Galena and the Quigley trails. The Sun Valley Resort Nordic pass can be used on Sun Valley’s 40 km of trails. The free 32 km Wood River Trail runs from Ketchum to Bellevue. Check out this link for maps and links to passes: Complete Guide to Cross-Country Skiing Sun Valley - Sun Valley Idaho

We will stay in Elkhorn Village, in the Sun Valley resort, one mile from Ketchum, in the Sunburst Condominium Complex where we’ll have access to the hot tub and sauna. Centrally located to the Nordic ski areas.

Transportation options: Carpool from Portland on Saturday, February 27, return on Thursday, March 4 round-trip 1,200 miles. Or fly PDX to SUN (check out Alaska Airlines). Note – if we all fly, we can rent cars to get us to the trail heads and split the cost. If you’re going to rent a car be sure the time works with your flight arrival as some rental companies close during the afternoon and don’t reopen until late evening.

Lodging: The condo unit has three bedrooms and a loft. There will be room for eight people with two rooms with queen beds, a room with two twin beds and an upstairs loft with two twin beds.

Cost per person is only $380 per person for five nights lodging. Trail fees, transportation, and meals are additional.

Level: Intermediate to Advanced. This is not a trip for beginners as there is steep terrain and the group will keep a lively pace on the flats.

Trip limit: 8 participants
Cost: $380 per person
Travel miles: From Portland, 1200 miles round trip, plus mileage to the ski areas
Trip Leader: Sam Digard
Co-Leader: Chris Pappas

Mt. Rainier Backcountry 2027 (Friday, March 05, 2027)

Fri, 05 Mar 2027 08:00:00 GMT

Destination: Ashford, WA

Terrain: Backcountry

Trip Rating: Intermediate-Advanced

On this trip we will ski at Paradise Visitor Center, Reflection Lakes, Mt. Tahoma Trails areas, and maybe White Pass Nordic Center. We will choose locations and routes depending on weather and snow conditions and the interest of the group. These areas offer a wide range of conditions from backcountry to groomed trails. You need backcountry skis and sturdy boots for Mt. Rainer areas and skis with metal edges for most of the Mt. Tahoma Trails system. Backcountry skills and equipment are advised for Mt. Rainier National Park. We will carpool and share driving costs. A National Parks Pass and a Washington Sno-Park Pass will be needed for each car. Drive time is about 3 hours one way. Chains or traction devices are required for access to Mt. Rainier National Park.

We will be staying at the Bearadise Lodge in Ashford, WA. It is a nicely laid out and furnished lodge with a pool table, sauna, full kitchen and dining room, and hot tub. Dinners will be shared, famous Nordic Club potluck style. Breakfasts and lunches are each skier’s responsibility.

You can drive up early on Friday and ski ½ day before going to the lodge or arrive later to ski Saturday through Monday. On Monday the plan is to ski at Mt. Rainier and then drive home. Another possibility is to drive to White Pass on Wednesday to ski before driving home.

Logistics and meal arrangements will be discussed as the date approaches.

Trip limit: 8 participants, including the trip leaders

Cost: $295 per person. Includes 3 nights lodging. Excludes cost of travel and meals.

Carpool miles: 270 miles round trip from Portland plus excursions to trailheads.

Trip Leader: John Saunders

Co-Leader: TBD

Ochoco Summit Siege Revisted (Monday, March 08, 2027)

Mon, 08 Mar 2027 08:00:00 GMT

Destination: Ochoco National Forest, OR
Terrain: Backcountry, Ungroomed Trails
Trip Rating: Advanced ski to Ochoco Mountain Summits

Come ski this enchanting area of rolling, forested high country in the Ochoco Mountains, perfect for telemark or alpine turns in open glades. Just 25 miles east of Prineville, this area of Oregon is known for its dry snow, butterscotch-smelling ponderosa pines, and expansive views.

Weather and conditions dependent, I will lead advanced tours on Lookout Mt (highest peak in the range), Round Mt, and Slide Mt.—three full days of skiing. If the conditions are not favorable, we can ski the Walton Lake Forest Service trails. There are 20 miles of trails. A half-day ski during travel days is an option for individual carpools.

We will be staying at the Ochoco National Forest Ranger House. This well-lived-in former forest ranger home is furnished with 1.5 bathrooms and 3 large bedrooms—two rooms with queen beds and one co-ed room with three twin beds. The house has electric lights, hot water, and heat. The kitchen is a bit worn but fully functional with cook stove, refrigerator and plenty of basic kitchenware and cleaning supplies. There is no dishwasher. A large wooden dining room table and a spacious knotty-pine paneled living room with comfortable Mission-style seating add to the charm. There is very erratic and spotty cell service at the cabin.

Participants are responsible for their own breakfasts and lunches. Three dinners will be potluck.

Backcountry ski gear (NNN-BC, Xplore bindings, or better) is required for these advanced tours. Participants should be able to ski 10 miles with 2000’ gain, have solid downhill ski skills, and be able to navigate map and compass or GPS app.

This trip segues nicely with the John Craig Memorial ski race and tour Saturday March 13, 2027 on the Old McKenzie pass near Sisters, OR.

Trip limit: 7 participants
Cost: $70 per person
Travel miles: From Portland, 350 miles round trip, plus mileage to the ski areas
Trip Leader: Audrey Bergsma

Canadian Rockies Dream Ski Trip 2027 (Saturday, March 20, 2027)

Sat, 20 Mar 2027 07:00:00 GMT

Destination: Canmore, Alberta, Canada
Terrain: Groomed and Ungroomed trails
Trip Rating: All levels skiing and snowshoeing

Canadian Rockies Spring Break Ski Trip

This is the Big One! Don’t miss out! Join us for a ski expedition to the magnificent Canadian Rockies: Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise, and Kananaskis Country. We have planned six days of glorious backcountry easy-intermediate level ski touring and groomed X-C trails in that region.

The group will travel by car, leaving from Portland Saturday, March 20, and arriving in Canmore, Alberta, Canada, Sunday, March 21, with one overnight stay on the road (not included in cost). We will start our adventure by spending a day skiing at the Canmore Nordic Center, the site of the 1988 Winter Olympics. Trails selected for ensuing day tours are well known in that area and include Burstall Pass, many Banff Nordic trails, many Lake Louise Nordic trails, and Smith-Dorrien trails starting from Chester Lake. These trails can be skied to whatever level of choice you care to. One day will be left open for sightseeing or, yes, more skiing! Downhill skiing is also an option.

Accommodations in Canmore entail a new luxury condominium arrangement with kitchen facilities and entertainment areas for dinners and socializing—as well as a hot tub! Canmore is a delightfully entertaining community and worthy of at least one night “on the town.”

The return trip will begin early Sunday, March 28, returning to Portland late that night. Travel distance to Canmore is approximately 725 miles, plus local driving. (It is possible to fly to Calgary and take a shuttle to Canmore.) A pre-trip meeting will be scheduled to go over the details.

Other considerations:

You need your passport, and it must not expire within 6 months of the trip.
You need Snow Flake-rated tires and AWD (recommended) in BC.

Trip limit: 20 participants
Cost: $395 per person for 7 nights lodging. Not included are travel costs, including at least one night on the road, carpool sharing, meal and any trail fees.
Carpool miles: From Portland, 1450 miles round trip, plus mileage to the ski areas
Trip Leader: Ted Scheinman
Co-Leader: Rick Grote