What is it?
Mt. Hood’s White River Canyon (WRC) is a popular playground for sledding, snowshoeing, and cross country skiing. The area is easily accessible, picturesque, and eminently explorable. Located roughly 65 miles from downtown Portland, the WRC is generally easy to get to. It is accessed from the White River West Sno-Park just off of the frequently plowed Highway 35.
Why Visit?
Skiing and snowboarding are perhaps the largest draws on Mt. Hood this time of year. There is no shortage of places around the mountain where you can take on both. But for many, these winter sports can get pricey rather quickly. Even renting equipment for the day can set you back quite a bit. On the other hand, snowshoeing offers up as much winter fun and exercise as you can handle at a more wallet-friendly price point.
Get There:
Take Highway 26 east to the junction with Highway 35. Turn north onto Highway 35 towards Hood River and drive 4 more miles to the White River West Sno-Park on the left. There are three vault toilets provided in the parking area, and a Sno-Park permit is required ($3 a day or $20 a year). As always, check conditions before you go.
From the parking area, make your way over to the White River, which is easily identified by a large sign, and head upstream towards Mt. Hood. The first ¼-mile stretch is the primary sledding area. If you're in the mood for some sledding after your trek, this is the place to do it.
Continue past the sledders upstream. You can make the journey as easy or as difficult as you like. If you're new to snowshoeing or you prefer a casual route, the grade is gentle if you stay in the wide open space paralleling the river. Once you reach the power lines, turn around and retrace your steps for an easy 3 mile out and back. If you're seeking more exercise, continue as far as you like. Make your way to the river, explore the steep ridgeline, or head into the trees. There are blue diamond-marked pines guiding the way back to the parking area.
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