The Perfect 3-Day Winter Itinerary

Bend’s crisp winter air, ample snowfall, and amazing scenery are refreshing to the senses and encourage all to get out and seek adventure — but before you head out, you’ll want to rest-up amongst the bespoke comforts of Tetherow. Located on the edge of the Deschutes National Forest, we’re perfectly sited, providing quick access to Mt. Bachelor, downtown, and everything in between.

Since you just arrived, we’ll start easy with a winter skate at Bend’s state-of-the-art ice-skating facility, The Pavilion, just minutes from Tetherow. The Pavilion is both open-air and covered, getting you outdoors while still offering protection from the elements. Be sure to check out the schedule for open skate times before heading down and lacing up, or you might be in the penalty box in the local hockey league!

As the long first day winds down and the chill begins to set in, it’s time for a warm dinner at The Row, Tetherow’s pub-style, casual dining spot with a menu that offers both American and Scottish-inspired items. And while Tetherow’s signature restaurant, Solomon’s, is closed for the winter while we renovate the clubhouse, you can still go upscale at The Row and order from the special “Taste of Solomon’s” menu. You won’t be disappointed! After dinner, retire to your comfortable accommodations, and relax in anticipation of the day ahead.

Mt. Bachelor, recently nominated by the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Ski Resort and Best Place for Snowboarding, will have your second day packed with adventure. This IKON pass partner mountain is North America’s sixth-largest ski area – and is just 20 minutes from your front door at Tetherow. Hitch a comfortable ride on Tetherow’s shuttle to make the trip even easier. Skiers and snowboarders have expansive terrain to explore at Mt. Bachelor, and when the skies clear and the summit opens up, intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders will have access to a true 360º summit experience. If you’re not a downhill enthusiast, don’t fret! Mt. Bachelor offers an expansive Nordic Center with 56km of groomed skate and classic trails for you to find your rhythm and break a sweat. And if you’re more inclined to hike, the daily guided snowshoe tours of Mt. Bachelor hosted by the U.S. Forest Service will offer you a closer look at this dormant volcano on more familiar footing!

After a big day on the slopes, head back to town and refuel at The Row, and celebrate a successful adventure with a locally crafted brew – the pub’s 12 taps and more than 30 bottled and canned beers present plenty of options. Or warm up with a hot toddy, hot-buttered rum – or sample a mocktail or other non-alcoholic drink from The Row’s bar. Finish the day by relaxing those sore muscles at the Sports Center’s hot tub and sauna. Or retell your day’s adventures amongst new friends while unwinding at the outdoor fire pit, perhaps with a nightcap in hand.

With so much still to see and do, Sunday is no day of rest in Central Oregon. Kickstart your final-day adventures with a hearty breakfast. Paired with a bloody Mary or mimosa, the Row’s Scotch eggs or McTetherow Sandwich are a great way to start a Sunday morning. Or grab the crew and venture into town to check out Sparrow Bakery, known for its legendary Ocean Rolls, or Jake’s Diner, serving up BIG breakfasts since 1987.

Burning breakfast off won’t be a problem today — the SnoParks of the Deschutes National Forest beckon, and you’ll find miles of trails to explore. Wanoga Snow Play Area is a great place to start… not just because the trails are popular for skiers, snowshoers, and fat bikers, but because of its beloved sledding hill. If you need to rent gear, you can get outfitted at Powder House, Pine Mountain Sports, and Skjersaa’s, all just a short drive from Tetherow. 

Whew — what a weekend! You might be a little sore, but that’s just the mark of time well spent. Grab a coffee before you hit the road home, and we’ll see you again soon.