One of Oregon’s architectural gems, Timberline lodge is also a major Pacific Northwest tourist attraction. Nearly two million visitors arrive at the lodge each year to tour its historic interior and to ski the slopes of Mt. Hood. Skiing continues through the summer when hiking is also popular along trails that begin just outside the lodge.
A favorite summer activity is riding the Miracle Mile chair lift for spectacular views of Mt. Hood and Mt. Jefferson.
Handcrafted by Depression-era Craftsmen
Unemployed craftsmen hired by the Federal Works Progress Administration began work on Timberline Lodge in June of 1936. The site near the top of Mt. Hood was a challenge itself, but harsh mountain weather also pushed the builders to complete the work quickly. It was dedicated by President Franklin Roosevelt in late September of 1937. Completely hand-crafted using local timbers and stone, the lodge reflects a style of architecture combining old world quality craftsmanship with local materials to create a regional style known as “Cascadian Architecture.”
Today Timberline Lodge is a National Historic Landmark.
Interior décor includes Native American, wildlife and Oregon pioneer themes.
A central feature of the lodge is the fireplace and stone chimney rising from the main floor lobby past upper level dining rooms and bars to the domed ceiling supported by massive native timbers. Skiers and visitors can relax in cozy couches and chairs as they warm up by the fireplace.
Tours, Hikes, Skiing and Snowboarding
Visitors can stop at the US Forest Service desk near the main entrance to join a guided tour of the lodge and to obtain information about activities in the surrounding Mt. Hood National Forest.
In the summer Forest Service rangers lead hikes on short trails outside the lodge.
Hiking the trails behind the lodge is popular in the summer. Hikes range from short, easy walks through summer wildflowers to the 41-mile Timberline Trail for well-seasoned experienced hikers.
Of course, Timberline is a ski lodge, and skiing and snowboarding are year-round activities.
Dining and Lodging
The main restaurant at Timberline Lodge is the Cascade Dining Room serving breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. The Ram’s Head Bar on the mezzanine serves casual meals amid mountain views. A third option is the Blue Ox Bar on the lower level with pub pizza and hand-crafted microbrews.
Overnight lodging is available.
The lodge also houses a gallery with work from regional artists, a gift shop, and historic exhibits.
Timberline Lodge is located about 63 miles east of Portland.
Whether for skiing, hiking or just visiting this majestic lodge, a trip to Timberline is a must for any visitor to Oregon.
Reservations and other information about visiting is available from Timberline Lodge, phone: 503-272-3311.
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Linda McDonnell - I have been a journalist for 20 years, currently freelancing. As an outdoor and nature lover, I particularly enjoy writing about outdoor ...
