As summer quickly approaches us snowboarders must figure out how they’re going to get on board and keep their legs loose in the summer. Many choose to skateboard, but some will make the annual trek out to Mt. Hood for some much needed time on snow. Now let’s start with the basics:
What to Pack:
When it comes to packing for a trip like this, there are many things you could bring out and it is very easy to overpack, especially if you’re driving out, so keep it to the essentials. Bring enough clothes to get you through the trip, remembering you don’t need a new outfit every day. Another suggestion is there’s a laundromat in Government Camp, in case you need to wash your clothes. One big thing to remember is socks, bring enough socks for your days of boarding. Your feet will get wet, and there’s nothing worse than riding in wet socks.
From there, keep it to the essentials: Snowboard and Boots, Layers (mornings on the mountain can be a little chilly, but reach the 70’s by the end of the day), Skateboard, Swimsuit, Towel, and Toiletries.
If you’re camping there will be a lot more stuff involved, but remember the necessities: Tent OR Hammock, Tarps, Rope, Hatchet, Sleeping Bag, Pillow, and Cooking utensils.
Living Situation:
If your budget allows, rent a condo at the Collins Lake Resort in Government Camp or another property around there I highly recommend it, nothing beats having dry gear in the morning. However, if you find yourself looking for some cheaper options, then there is plenty of space to camp. Because Mt. Hood is a national forest you can pull off any of the access roads within the forest and camp there for free, there will be a couple simple rules to follow like clean up after yourself and alter the forest. Another must is bringing tarps, especially if you go in the early part of summer because it can and will rain, and you’re going to want to keep you and your stuff dry.
Where To Ride:
Timberline is notorious for its prices, be prepared to drop 65+ bucks each day to board, unless you’re going to be boarding for more than a couple weeks, then get the 900$ season pass. If you’re a cheapskate and can’t get yourself to drop the money on a ticket, then there’s always the option to hike up, but make sure to keep an eye out for ski patrol and bring extra water, because it’s not a short hike. New for 2018, Timberline will offer a “Pro Park Pass,” which is a $475 pass on top of the summer pass, to ride a handle tow serviced park. If this sounds whack to you I would recommend just riding the public park, you’ll have to hike, but it’s always a good time. If you’re able to get access into the camp lane then do that but remember it’s a kids camp, they go there to learn, so don’t be a jerk.
What To Do Off Snow:
The options off-snow are endless, Oregon has plenty of amenities to offer. If you like hiking you’re in for a treat, there are loads of trails to explore and beautiful hikes you can take through the Mt. Hood National Forest. Make the trek to Hood River, it’s only 40 minutes from Govy and there’s a skatepark, excellent restaurants, and a river you can take a dip in. Take a day trip to Portland, to people watch, skate at countless skateparks, and indulge in great food. A must while in Oregon is a trip to the coast, some towns will even have surfboard rentals so you could try surfing for the first time. Oregon is a great state full of adventure and fun, so get out there and discover it for yourself.
Mt. Hood is a hub for summer snowboarding. If you’re looking to have a rad time, with a community of like-minded people, then you need to check it out for yourself.
Yes! This was the exciting tour İ have ever had. I remember the summit and the view from there as it was the most beautiful one.