Timberline Lodge
Iconic historic lodge on Mt. Hood, famous for its WPA architecture and 'The Shining' filming location. Offers year-round mountain adventures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Timberline Lodge
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic historic lodge on Mt. Hood, famous for its WPA architecture and 'The Shining' filming location. Offers year-round mountain adventures.
"A true historic gem with breathtaking views and a cozy atmosphere, delivering a one-of-a-kind experience."
Book Lodge Rooms Early
Rooms fill up fast, especially on weekends and holidays. Plan ahead for your stay! :bed:
Free Lodge Exploration
Wander through the historic lodge for free! Take the self-guided museum tour for great insights. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Timberline Lodge
Main Lodge
Explore the stunning 1930s architecture, stone fireplaces, and intricate woodwork. A true National Historic Landmark.
Mount Hood Views
Various viewpoints around the lodge
Breathtaking panoramic vistas of Mount Hood and the surrounding Cascade Mountains. Unforgettable scenery.
Summer Skiing & Snowboarding
Timberline Ski Area
Experience the unique thrill of skiing or snowboarding on Mount Hood during the summer months.
The Shining Connection
Exterior of the Lodge
Visit the iconic exterior of the Timberline Lodge, famously featured in Stanley Kubrick's 'The Shining'.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History & Iconic Views
Year-Round Mountain Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Lodge Rooms Early
Rooms fill up fast, especially on weekends and holidays. Plan ahead for your stay! :bed:
Free Lodge Exploration
Wander through the historic lodge for free! Take the self-guided museum tour for great insights. :camerawithflash:
Dress in Layers
Mountain weather is unpredictable. Be prepared for sun, wind, and potential snow, even in summer. :cloud:
Summer Skiing is Real!
Don't miss the chance for summer turns on Mt. Hood. It's a unique PNW experience! :ski_lift:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Lodge Rooms Early
Rooms fill up fast, especially on weekends and holidays. Plan ahead for your stay! :bed:
Free Lodge Exploration
Wander through the historic lodge for free! Take the self-guided museum tour for great insights. :camerawithflash:
Dress in Layers
Mountain weather is unpredictable. Be prepared for sun, wind, and potential snow, even in summer. :cloud:
Summer Skiing is Real!
Don't miss the chance for summer turns on Mt. Hood. It's a unique PNW experience! :ski_lift:
Cozy Up by the Fire
Enjoy the lodge's many fireplaces for a warm and inviting atmosphere. Perfect for relaxing. :fire:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Timberline Lodge for its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking Mount Hood views. The staff are often noted for their kindness, and dining experiences, particularly at the Ram's Head Restaurant, are highlighted. Some guests mention minor issues with amenities like pool heating or the lack of AC in rooms, which is often expected given the lodge's historic nature.
"Our stay was unforgettable. The lodge is full of history and character, but it also feels incredibly cozy and welcoming. You can tell great care goes into maintaining its beauty and charm.
The staff were genuinely kind and went out of their way to make sure we were comfortable. We had a great meal at the Ram’s Head Restaurant, delicious food with an amazing view.
Whether you're visiting for skiing or a peaceful retreat, Timberline Lodge delivers a one-of-a-kind experience you shouldn’t miss!"
Allissa Lee
"Stopped by Timberline Lodge for lunch and also took a free tour, what an incredible experience! The lodge is packed with history, and the tour was both educational and fun, giving great insight into its architecture and past. The views of Mount Hood from the lodge are absolutely breathtaking. Lunch was tasty, and the cozy atmosphere made it even better."
Brandi T
"Great hotel with stunning architecture and natural surroundings.
I think the hotel could use a bit more love there seems to be reliability issues with the pool heating & lights and sauna.
My room did not have AC, but this didn't come as a surprise as I had expectations for a rustic stay."
Josh Murphy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Timberline Lodge is about a 1.5-hour drive from Portland, Oregon. Take US-26 East towards Mount Hood. The drive itself offers scenic views. Parking is available at the lodge. :car:
Public transportation directly to Timberline Lodge is limited. Some shuttle services may operate seasonally from Portland or nearby towns, but driving is the most common method. :bus:
Road conditions can vary significantly, especially in winter. Always check ODOT TripCheck for current road status and chain requirements before heading up. :road:
Yes, Timberline Lodge is accessible in winter, but tire chains may be required depending on snow conditions. The drive is stunning but requires caution. :snowflake:
While there are hiking trails around Mount Hood, Timberline Lodge is primarily accessed by road. The Timberline Trail circles the mountain, but it's a multi-day trek, not a direct route to the lodge. :hiking_boot:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to explore the historic Timberline Lodge itself is free. You can wander through the common areas, admire the architecture, and enjoy the views without a ticket. :ticket:
The lodge is generally open year-round. Specific hours for restaurants, shops, and amenities may vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information. :clock:
Parking at Timberline Lodge is typically free for visitors exploring the lodge and its immediate surroundings. If you plan to ski or snowboard, lift ticket prices will apply. :parking:
Yes, free guided tours are often available, offering insights into the lodge's history and architecture. Check with the lodge's visitor services for schedules. :tour_bus:
There is no entrance fee to the Timberline Ski Area itself, but you will need to purchase lift tickets to ski or snowboard. Summer activities may have separate fees. :moneywithwings:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Timberline Lodge offers hiking, scenic drives, photography, exploring the historic lodge, dining, and in winter, snowshoeing and tubing. Summer skiing is also a unique option. :mountain_snow:
Yes, Timberline Lodge is family-friendly. Kids can enjoy exploring the lodge, scenic views, and depending on the season, activities like tubing or summer skiing. :family_mm:
Visit the exterior of the lodge, which was used for exterior shots in the film. While the interior scenes were filmed on a set, the lodge's atmosphere evokes the movie's mood. :ghost:
Absolutely! Numerous trails, including sections of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), start near Timberline Lodge, offering stunning alpine scenery. Paradise Park is a popular nearby destination. :evergreen_tree:
Amenities include restaurants, a bar, a heated outdoor pool, a hot tub, gift shops, and lodging. Some rooms may not have AC, reflecting its historic nature. :pool8ball:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Timberline Lodge features several dining options, including the Ram's Head Restaurant for fine dining with views, the Blue Ox Bar for casual drinks and snacks, and a coffee bar. They also offer a breakfast buffet. :forkandknife:
Yes, Timberline Lodge offers breakfast, often as part of a room package or at their dining facilities. Some reviews suggest booking a room with the breakfast package. :croissant:
Dining options can vary. It's recommended to check the current menus online or call ahead to inquire about vegetarian and vegan choices at the Ram's Head Restaurant or other dining spots. :leafy_green:
You can bring your own snacks and drinks for personal consumption, especially if you're staying in a room or chalet. However, outside food is generally not permitted in the lodge's formal dining areas. :apple:
The atmosphere is generally cozy and rustic, with stunning mountain views from many dining areas. The Ram's Head Restaurant offers a more upscale experience, while the Blue Ox Bar is more casual. :wine_glass:
📸 📸 Photography
The lodge's exterior, interior architecture, Mount Hood vistas, and the surrounding alpine scenery offer endless photo opportunities. Look for the grand fireplace and scenic overlooks. :camera:
Yes, Timberline Lodge is a popular spot for senior photos due to its historic architecture, dramatic mountain backdrop, and diverse natural settings. :school_satchel:
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light for dramatic shots of Mount Hood and the lodge. Midday can be good for capturing architectural details. :sunriseovermountains:
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the public areas of Timberline Lodge. However, be respectful of other guests and any posted restrictions, especially in private event spaces. :iphone:
While general photography is permitted, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always check with lodge management for specific rules. :noentrysign:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Depending on the season, families can enjoy activities like snowshoeing or tubing in the winter, or hiking on accessible trails in the summer.
The heated outdoor pool provides a great way for kids to burn off energy. While some rooms may not have air conditioning, the cooler mountain air often makes this a non-issue. Consider booking a room with a view to enhance the experience. 💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and drinks to save on food costs, and consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for potentially lower accommodation rates. For those who love the outdoors, hiking in the surrounding Mount Hood National Forest is a fantastic free activity.
If skiing is your goal, look for deals on lift tickets or consider visiting on weekdays when prices might be lower. Even a day trip to enjoy the views and explore the lodge can be a memorable and affordable experience. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The exterior views of Mount Hood are unparalleled, particularly at sunrise and sunset when the light paints the mountain in warm hues.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Timberline Lodge
The lodge gained international fame as the exterior location for the Overlook Hotel in Stanley Kubrick's 1980 film, 'The Shining.' While interior scenes were filmed on a soundstage, the imposing facade and dramatic mountain setting of Timberline Lodge are instantly recognizable to fans of the cult classic. Visitors often seek out the iconic views that mirror those seen in the movie, adding a layer of cinematic mystique to their visit.
Beyond its cinematic fame, Timberline Lodge offers a unique experience for all visitors. Whether you're a skier, a history buff, or simply seeking breathtaking mountain scenery, the lodge provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The commitment to preserving its historic charm while offering modern amenities ensures a memorable stay for everyone who steps through its doors.
Year-Round Mountain Playground: Activities at Timberline
During the warmer months, the surrounding Mount Hood National Forest transforms into a hiker's paradise. Trails like the Zig Zag Canyon trail offer moderate challenges with rewarding alpine views, and sections of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) are accessible from the lodge, appealing to both day hikers and thru-hikers.
The scenic drive up to the lodge is an attraction in itself, with pull-offs offering stunning photo opportunities of the mountain and the surrounding landscape. Beyond active pursuits, Timberline Lodge provides a tranquil escape. Guests can relax by the roaring fireplaces, enjoy a meal with panoramic mountain views, or take a dip in the heated outdoor pool. The lodge's historic ambiance, combined with the natural beauty of Mount Hood, makes it a perfect destination for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, regardless of the season.
Planning Your Visit: Tips from Travelers
Many visitors recommend taking advantage of the lodge's free exploration opportunities. Wandering through the grand halls, admiring the WPA-era craftsmanship, and learning about its history through the self-guided museum tour are highly recommended activities that don't cost extra.
For photographers, the lodge and its surroundings offer incredible opportunities, with sunrise and sunset providing particularly magical light. Be prepared for mountain weather, which can be unpredictable. Dressing in layers is key, as conditions can change rapidly from sunny and warm to cold and windy, even in summer.
Checking road conditions before you drive up, especially during winter months, is also essential, as tire chains may be required. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit