Oregon Winter Getaways

Six great travel destinations to experience Oregon in winter.

written by Sheila G. Miller


Winter travel in Oregon can be daunting. There are holidays and family gatherings to consider. Roads in farther-flung regions become impassable, making true wilderness adventures more of a challenge. But just because snow might be falling and dusk may come earlier day after day, that doesn’t mean you can’t find a spot for relaxing winter getaways. Here are our picks for some of the best spots to escape for a winter warmer.

Oregon Winter Getaways Number 1: Running Y Resort


This eighty-two-room lodge on the outskirts of Klamath Falls has all the trappings of Oregon’s beauty—lake views with the looming Cascade peaks. There’s an ice rink at the entrance to the resort, and it’s the perfect jumping-off point for a snowy adventure at Crater Lake, which is just fifty minutes away.
Get away to the Running Y Resort this winter.

  • Bonus: Running Y is at the center of the largest gathering of wintering bald eagles in the contiguous forty-eight states. Other bird species are easy to spot nearby, too.

Oregon Winter Getaways Number 2: Ashland Springs Hotel


For some, winter means cuddling up. But for the traveler not content to sit around, Ashland Springs Hotel offers comfort and convenience to cultural experiences. The hotel, built in 1925, has been restored to its original glory and features comfortable feather down beds, a lovely continental breakfast and an afternoon cookie and tea service. Plus, it’s steps from the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and a short trip from the southern Oregon wine country.
Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day? Winter is a fine time to stay at the Ashland Springs Hotel.

  • Bonus: The hotel offers packages around the Shakespeare festival, but also deals on wine tasting, craft beer and its onsite spa.

Oregon Winter Getaways Number 3: House on the Metolius


If what you seek is true privacy, House on the Metolius is the place to lay your head. The resort, which consists of a main house and five smaller cabins spread throughout the 200-acre property, is tucked away in Camp Sherman. Surrounded by forest and nestled against the Metolius River, you’ll get all the best of Central Oregon—quiet solitude, winter weather and Oregon’s inspiring vistas.
House on the Metolius is a wonderful Oregon winter getaway.

  • Bonus: From November to April, House on the Metolius offers a complimentary third night when you book a two-night stay in one of the cabins.

Oregon Winter Getaways Number 4: Steiner Cabins


These storybook cabins are heavy on the rustic side of winter getaway—but they’re about as Oregon as you can get. Sprinkled around Mt. Hood and built between 1925 and 1952, the cottages look like something you’d see in a storybook, deep in the woods with basalt rock fireplaces, locally sourced log beams and gabled porches. The cabins are privately owned but a couple are available for rent.
Read about the Steiner cabins here, also the place to find tours and other information.
Owners of the Steiner cabins get together on this facebook page. You might find a rental here.
This Steiner cabin is available on VRBO.
Keep your eye on real estate listings! You might be able to buy a Steiner cabin of your own!

  • Bonus: Even if you can’t get into one of the Steiner rentals, Mt. Hood Cultural Center & Museum puts on an annual self-guided tour of some of the Steiner cabins in the area.

Oregon Winter Getaways Number 5: Salishan Spa & Golf Resort


Salishan is one of the old-school options oft overlooked by modern Oregonians. First opened in 1965 on the central Oregon coast, Salishan has been remodeled and has kept those Siletz Bay views and the quiet forest surrounding its grounds. Four restaurants onsite and a spa mean there’s no need to leave—but if you do venture out, Gleneden Beach is a stunning spot for a walk.
Salishan Spa & Golf resort might just be the perfect Oregon coast getaway in the winter!

  • Bonus: While out walking the 7-mile stretch of sand from Siletz Bay to Roads End near Lincoln City, keep your eyes peeled for one of the 3,000 handcrafted glass floats made by local artists. The Finders Keepers program runs from mid-October to Memorial Day, and if you spot a colorful glass keepsake nestled into the surf, you get to keep it.

Oregon Winter Getaways Number 6: Brasada Ranch


This 1,800-acre resort outside Powell Butte brings glamour to the Western rustic ranch feel, to a delightful result. Try one of the eight hotel suites (complete with private balconies and some with soaking tubs), or grab one of the luxury cabins. With an on-site spa, visitors can work up a sweat with a ski, then spoil themselves with a body wrap or massage.
Brasada Ranch is full of winter adventure and relaxation when you are looking for a short trip in Oregon.

  • Bonus: Brasada staff can set up a special treat or two in your room before your arrival, from a housemade ‘smores package to Oregon pinot noir to a bouquet of wildflowers.

10 Winter Destinations in Oregon
Ten Romantic Getaways in Oregon
A Winter Trip to Southern Oregon

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