If you love Mount Hood in winter and are looking for a like-minded community to join, you have options ranging from hard-core racing to super-active social groups, not to mention the longest-running all-volunteer ski patrol in the American West.
The Northwest Ski Club Council is based in Portland, representing over 10,000 skiers and snowboarders, and some of the most active and popular clubs gather on Mount Hood for races, parties and other activities.
Here are nine active snowsport clubs on Mount Hood:
Mountain High Snowsport Club has more than 300 members and multiple race teams. They organize several trips each year to resorts in Canada and the Western U.S., and their website and newsletters are packed with information, deals and upcoming events. Membership is open to anyone over 21 and dues are $25 per year. [email protected]
Mt. Hood Ski Patrol was formed in 1937. The organization is composed of about 300 volunteer patrollers who help out the resorts on weekends and holidays and another 120 mountain hosts who provide guest services at Skibowl and Timberline. Members get free passes depending on how many days they work the mountain. Tryouts are scheduled for March, and anyone considering training to join the ranks can fill out the Mt. Hood Ski Patrol’s online form.
Bergfreunde Ski Club (German for mountain friend) is the largest Mount Hood club, with over 900 members, many social activities, trips and a racing team. Monthly gatherings at the Gateway Elks Lodge, 711 NE 100th, Portland. Dues are $65 per year, and membership is open to anyone over 21. [email protected]
Cascade Ski Club was founded in 1928 by Norwegian ski jumpers. The club offers the sweet membership benefit of affordable lodging and meals in Government Camp at the Grand Lodge, a mountain gathering place since 1947. Membership is open to all, and dues are $115 for a primary adult, $50 for spouses or seniors, $25 for children under 18. 503-272-9204.
Skiyente is Mount Hood’s all-women ski club, founded in 1955. They are really into racing and they sponsor the annual King Winter Dance and Coronation, honoring a man or woman who has made a significant contribution to skiing on Mt. Hood. Dues are $40 per year. [email protected]
The Oregon Nordic Club has a Portland Chapter and a Columbia Gorge Chapter, and they operate an excellent network of groomed trails around Teacup Lake. Membership is open to all and dues are $27 per year. Members can sign up online.
Cascade Prime Timers Ski Club is for men and women 50 and older, with rafting and hiking trips, ski trips and social events. Dues are $35 per year. [email protected]
Altair Ski & Sports Club is the big club in Eugene, with more than 200 members. They make most of their turns at Mt. Bachelor, but they also come to Mount Hood. Open to anyone over 21, dues $75 per year. Potential members can email for more info.
Schnee Vogeli is Mount Hood’s all-male ski club, founded in 1942. They have won the PACRAT team racing competition for three years running and they organize the annual Pray for Snow event in Govy. Membership by invitation only.
Last modified: October 1, 2013
