Top Cross Country Ski Trails Near Eagle Crest Resort

Glide & Explore: Cross Country Ski Trails Near Eagle Crest Resort

Your guide to the best Nordic skiing just minutes from your Eagle Crest vacation rental.

Winter in Central Oregon transforms the high desert into a peaceful, snow-dusted playground — and if you’re staying at Eagle Crest Resort, you’re perfectly positioned to explore some of the region’s best cross-country skiing. From quiet forest loops to wide-open meadows with mountain views, these cross country ski trails near Eagle Crest Resort offer something for every level of skier. Whether you’re planning a family adventure, looking for a workout on groomed trails, or seeking a serene glide through snowy pines, here are our top picks for where to go.

1. Hoodoo Nordic Trails — Closest Groomed Cross Country Trail System

Distance from Eagle Crest: ~35 minutes

Best For: Classic skiing, beginners, families, groomed options

Hoodoo’s Nordic trail system is a favorite cross country trail system for those staying at Eagle Crest thanks to its approachable terrain and stunning views of the Cascades. The groomed loops offer everything from gentle beginners’ routes to longer trails perfect for endurance skiers.

Why It’s Special:

• Reliable grooming throughout the winter
• Easy-to-follow loops for all skill levels
• A laid-back, less crowded alternative to larger ski areas

Tip: Rent gear in Sisters or Bend before heading up — rentals at Hoodoo can be limited on busy weekends.

2. Santiam Pass Nordic Trails — Wooded, Scenic, and Quiet

Distance from Eagle Crest: ~40 minutes

Best For: Intermediate skiers, classic and skate skiing, scenic routes

Right off Highway 20, the Santiam Pass trail networks offer miles of varied terrain beneath towering old-growth forests. Popular areas include the Santiam Sno-Park and Maxwell Sno-Park, both known for quiet trails and excellent snow coverage.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Peaceful, less-traveled trails
• Groomed and ungroomed options
• Close enough for a half-day or full-day adventure

Local Favorite Route: The Maxwell Butte Loop, a moderate, tree-lined trail with rewarding viewpoints.

3. Ray Benson Sno-Park — For Both XC Skiing & Snowshoeing

Distance from Eagle Crest: ~35 minutes

Best For: Mixed adventure groups, wide groomed trails, snowshoe-friendly paths

This versatile sno-park offers multiple interconnected loops with plenty of space to explore, making it one of the top cross country ski trails near Eagle Crest Resort. The terrain is rolling and scenic, making it perfect for families or groups with mixed skill levels — or those who want to combine skiing and snowshoeing in the same outing.

Perks:

• Warming huts along the routes
• Wide trails ideal for new skiers
• Easy parking and good signage

4. Meissner Nordic — For Classic and Skate Skiing Near Bend

Distance from Eagle Crest: ~55 minutes

Best For: Experienced skiers, skate skiing, longer distances

Meissner Nordic Sno-Park offers some of the best-groomed Nordic trails in the region, maintained by the nonprofit Meissner Nordic Club. While it’s a bit farther from Eagle Crest, dedicated skiers will appreciate the professional grooming and variety of terrain.

Trail Highlights:

• The 3-mile Beginner Loop — great warm-up or intro
• The Tiddlywinks + Tangent Loop — fun rollers and forest glides
• Longer routes for endurance skiers wanting a workout

5. Three Creek Sno-Park — A Hidden Gem Near Sisters

Distance from Eagle Crest: ~35–40 minutes

Best For: Backcountry-style exploration, quiet forest trails, advanced XC skiers

If you’re seeking solitude, Three Creek Sno-Park is the perfect spot and one of the best cross country ski trails near Eagle Crest Resort. The trails here are not groomed, which adds a more adventurous, backcountry feel. You’ll ski through snowy meadows, stands of ponderosa pine, and along gentle rolling terrain.

Expect:

• Fewer crowds
• Stunning views of Broken Top and the Three Sisters
• A peaceful, immersive winter experience

What to Bring on Your Cross Country Ski Adventure

• Layers: Central Oregon weather changes fast
• Water + snacks
• Trail map or downloaded GPS map
• Sno-Park permit (required Nov–Apr)
• Sunscreen — even on snowy days!
• Microspikes or snowshoes as a backup for ungroomed routes

Stay Near the Top Cross Country Ski Trails at Eagle Crest Resort

After a full day in the snow, nothing beats returning to a warm, comfortable vacation home. Our Eagle Crest vacation rentals offer:

• Cozy fireplaces
• Hot tubs with sunset views
• Gear storage for skis and winter equipment
• Easy access to Bend, Redmond, and Sisters
• Quiet resort pathways perfect for evening walks in the snow

If you're planning a winter getaway with family, friends, or a group of outdoor enthusiasts, these cross country ski trails near Eagle Crest Resort are some of Central Oregon's best. Find more information on the top things to do in Central Oregon in winter in our winter travel guides.