Bennett Pass Sno-Park/Trailhead

Area Status: Open

This Sno-Park is a great option for recreating early in the winter season due to the higher elevation. Follow direction of Mt. Hood Meadows parking staff for access on busy days. This parking lot has a 5% grade so good tires are a must. Parking lot only has space for 30 vehicles; please do not park on the highway, as this is illegal and poses a safety hazard. Trailers are allowed.

During heavy snow years, snowmobiles will not be able to access the Terrible Traverse area because the area fills with snow due to the high elevations and steep canyon walls. Use your best judgment and turn back if it appears unsafe.

Our field rangers publish a weekly snow conditions report during the winter: www.fs.usda.gov/goto/mthood/snow 

At a Glance

Permit Info: State of Oregon Sno-Park permit required November 1 through April 30.
Usage: Medium-Heavy
Best Season: Winter
Closest Towns: Hood River, OR
Water: No
Restroom: Vault Toilet (1)
Operated By: Forest Service
Information Center: Hood River Ranger District

General Information

Directions:

From Hood River, OR head south on Highway 35 approximately 6 miles north of the junction with US Highway 26. This area is accessed directly from the Mt. Hood Meadows ski area access road. Cross Highway 35 to the east.

From Portland, OR head east on Highway 26 to the junction with Highway 35. Head north on Highway 35 until you read the Mt. Hood Meadows Ski area access road exit. The Sno Park is on your right.


Parking:

This off-ramp is the main access to the Upper Mt. Hood Meadows parking lot. When the Upper Lot is full, Meadows employees may block it to make people park in the lower lot. If you want to cross country ski out of Bennett Pass Sno Park and the off-ramp is blocked, please drive down to the old intersection where there is less congestion and tell the parking attendant that you are going to Bennett Pass Sno Park and not the main Mt. Hood Meadows lot. They will help provide you access to Bennett Pass Sno Park.


Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Day Hiking

Mushing/Skijoring

XC Skiing/Snowshoeing

Snowmobiling

Snowmobile access is very limited in deeper snows due to steep side hills.
 

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Location

 
  Latitude : 
45.310001

  Longitude : 
-121.642037

  Elevation : 
4700'