Here Are 11 Spots In Oregon You Must Explore This Winter

Oregon is full of incredible places to explore. But Oregon in the winter is even more spectacular! Take the opportunity to check out these incredible destinations in all their frosty glory. Ski on one of Oregon's phenomenal mountains, have a unique camping experience on the coast, discover frozen waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge, and more. Get outside this winter for an unforgettable adventure - you won't regret it.

11. Wallowa Mountains

The Wallowa Mountains are a winter wonderland this time of year. There are great trails for snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and more.

10. The Coast

There's something truly magical about the Oregon coast during the winter. For some its the howling sea; for others the crashing waves. And of course the ocean is always terrific and beautiful.

9. Mt. Hood

Mt. Hood is a wonderful place to explore during the winter. There are many great ski resorts including Timberline, which has a beautiful wooden lodge where you can relax, eat, and sip hot drinks after a day of skiing. To avoid the lines, the ski resorts are best visited on weekdays.

8. Emigrant Springs State Park

Emigrant Springs State Park is a great place to explore during the winter months because it gets a good amount of snow (it's located near the summit of the Blue Mountains) and the park offers log cabins to make winter camping more comfortable.

7. Camp in a yurt on the Coast.

Another way to camp comfortably during the winter months is in a yurt. Some state parks, particularly on the coast, offer these cute little lodgings for overnight stays. Here's a yurt at Fort Stevens State Park.

6. Smith Rock State Park

Smith Rock State Park is beautiful any time of year, and is a great place to hike in the winter.

5. Frozen Waterfalls

Oregon has is full of amazing waterfalls, and some of them look even more magical in the winter. Silver Falls State Park and the Columbia River Gorge have many frozen waterfalls that are so brilliant in the winter. Plus, at this time of year it won't be nearly as crowded. Here's a beautiful photo of Weisendanger Falls covered in ice.

4. The outdoor ice rink in Ashland.

Located in the southern part of the state, Ashland is a wonderful town. One of the most fun things to do in Oregon in winter is to come here and go ice skating in an outdoor park.

3. Baker County

With vast, snowy landscapes and horizons rimmed with mountains, Baker County is a winter wonderland this time of year. You can ride the Sumpter Christmas Train, explore Burnt River Canyon, ski, ride a snowmobile, and more.

2. Crater Lake

Crater Lake is most popular during the summer, but in winter it is absolutely magical. Take a winter hike, appreciate the beauty, or stay a night in the Crater Lake Lodge so you can catch the most amazing sunrises and sunsets you've ever experienced! Just keep in mind, you can only enter Crater Lake in winter largely through the south entrance, as it doesn't involve traveling the scenic rim to get to the lodge.

1. Mt Bachelor

Mt. Bachelor is a wonderful place for dog sledding, skiing, snowboarding, and hiking, and it's absolutely beautiful. There are so many unforgettable ways to explore the mountain, and you'll also find companies that can provide a wide array of unique tours.

How many of these places have you been to during the winter? Which ones were your favorites? Where else do you like to go in Oregon at this time of year? Share your beautiful wintry photos, as well as your suggestions in the comments!