How to Plan a Group Ski Trip to Mt. Bachelor

Tisha Kelly • December 12, 2025

The Complete Guide for Your Next Group Ski Trip to Mt. Bachelor

Two people snowmobiling as a winter vacation idea in Central Oregon

Planning the Perfect Group Ski Trip to Mount Bachelor

A group ski trip to Mount Bachelor is the ultimate winter getaway in Central Oregon. With incredible terrain, deep snow, and cozy après-ski spots, it’s perfect for families and friends alike. From booking the right vacation home to planning your days on the slopes, here’s how to make your group ski trip smooth, fun, and unforgettable.

Where to Stay

Here are a few of our favorite vacation homes for a Mount Bachelor getaway, one conveniently located in Bend and two cozy options in Sunriver. Each offers plenty of space for your group, easy access to the mountain, and all the comforts you need for a relaxing ski trip.

Big Eddy Getaway is a three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath vacation home in Bend’s River Wild Forest at Mount Bachelor Village, an ideal spot for a group ski trip. Just 20–25 minutes from the mountain and steps from the Deschutes River Trail, it offers the best of both adventure and comfort. The home features a luxurious main-level master suite, a cozy living room with a fireplace, a fully stocked kitchen, and a wraparound porch with a barbecue area. With space for up to six guests and easy access to Bend’s Galveston Avenue for dining and craft beer, Big Eddy Getaway is the perfect blend of mountain retreat and city convenience. BOOK HERE

Besson Getaway is a four-bedroom, three-bath retreat in Sunriver, set on nearly an acre along the peaceful Spring River, just a 20-minute drive from Mount Bachelor. With space for up to 14 guests, it’s ideal for families and groups looking to unwind after a day on the slopes. The home features vaulted ceilings, a spacious open layout, and multiple gathering spaces, including a sunroom and two large decks with a hot tub and gazebo. Enjoy river access, a separate in-law suite, and a bonus game room for extra fun. Besson Getaway perfectly blends comfort, privacy, and adventure for your Central Oregon ski trip. BOOK HERE

The Benefits of Booking a Vacation Home

Vacation homes make group ski trips more comfortable, convenient, and memorable. Here’s why they’re the best choice for your Mount Bachelor getaway:

Everyone stays together under one roof. No separate hotel rooms or long walks between floors.
Plenty of space for ski and snowboard gear, with garages and storage areas to keep everything secure.
Full kitchens for shared meals, cozy living rooms for movie nights, and multiple bedrooms for privacy.
Outdoor perks like decks, private hot tubs, and scenic views to enjoy after a day on the mountain.
The comfort and convenience of a true home away from home, perfect for relaxing, connecting, and making memories.
When you book with us, you’re supporting a locally owned and operated company. Our team lives right here in Central Oregon, knows the area inside and out, and provides a personal, local touch that larger companies can’t.
You’ll also get access to our handpicked local guides, filled with winter activity ideas, restaurant recommendations, and insider tips - all personally created and regularly updated by our team to help you make the most of your stay.

Getting to Mt. Bachelor

From Bend: About a 20–25 minute drive from downtown Bend. Take Highway 97 south, then turn onto Century Drive and follow the signs to the mountain entrance.
From Sunriver: From Sunriver, the mountain drive is roughly 20 minutes. Head north on Century Drive, then follow signs for Mount Bachelor.

Shuttle Option
If you’d rather skip driving, the winter shuttle operated by Cascades East Transit (CET) runs from Bend (Hawthorne Station or the Park & Ride on SW Columbia) to the mountain’s West Village and Sunrise base areas. One‑way fares are around $7, round‑trip about $12. NOTE: There’s no direct public shuttle listed from Sunriver, so if you’re staying there, you’ll likely drive or use private transport.

Tips for Driving in Snow

Make sure your vehicle is equipped with snow tires or chains, especially during heavy snowfall.
Drive slowly and leave extra distance between vehicles on slick roads.
Keep an emergency kit in your car with blankets, snacks, water, and a shovel.
Check road conditions before you depart - ODOT, local radio, or apps provide updates.
If you’re unfamiliar with mountain driving, consider carpooling or building in extra time for your trip.

Tickets & Gear Rentals
When you’re heading up to Mount Bachelor, here’s how it works:

Lift tickets: You can purchase single‑day tickets, multi‑day passes, or even season passes through the mountain’s website HERE or on‑site at the ticket window. Booking ahead often nets you a better price.
Gear rentals (skis, snowboards, boots, poles): There are several local rental shops where you can pick up quality equipment for your trip.
In Bend: Powder House offers daily and season‑lease rental options for skis, snowboards, cross‑country equipment, and more.
Another Bend option for more specialized gear: Mountain Supply of Oregon - they rent alpine touring (AT) sets, snowshoes, XC ski gear, and more.
In Sunriver: 4 Seasons Recreational Outfitters (open every day) rents skis, snowboards, snow gear, and has you covered if you’re staying in Sunriver.
Also, in Sunriver: Village Bike & Ski offers a large rental fleet of ski & snowboard gear and lets you pick up gear the night before to save time on the hill.
Typical rental rates vary by gear type, age/size, and performance level. For example, sport ski packages at Village Bike & Ski start around $40‑$50/day.
Tip: Especially for groups, it’s smart to reserve gear in advance, pick it up the night before, and confirm sizing with the rental shop so you spend less time waiting and more time skiing.

Perks of a Group Ski Trip to Mount Bachelor

Shared costs: Split gas, rental cars, and lift tickets to make the trip more affordable.
Easier planning: Coordinating lessons, activities, and schedules is simpler when everyone is together.
Group lessons & rentals: More fun and often cheaper than individual lessons or rentals.
Social experience: Skiing with friends or family makes the trip more memorable and enjoyable.
Après-ski fun: Going out together for meals, drinks, or activities adds an extra layer of excitement.
Special celebrations: Birthdays, anniversaries, or just a winter getaway feel extra festive when shared as a group.

Other Winter Adventures for Non-Skiers

Not everyone in your group may be hitting the slopes, but Central Oregon has plenty of winter adventures for non-skiers too. From snowshoeing and dog sledding to tubing and winter hiking, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during your Mount Bachelor getaway.

Snowshoeing: Explore Wanoga Snow Park (closer to Bend) or Dutchman Snow Park (closer to Sunriver) on scenic trails suitable for all skill levels. Rentals and guided tours are available at both locations.
Winter Fishing: Try Fall River (near Sunriver) for peaceful winter fishing, with opportunities for trout and other local species. Bring your own gear or rent from local outfitters.
Epic Sledding & Tubing: Autobahn Tubing (near Bend) offers thrilling runs for kids and adults, complete with lift access so you don’t have to hike back up the hill.
Snowmobiling: Central Oregon Adventures and Octane Adventures (both near Bend) offer guided snowmobile tours through pristine forests and open terrain - perfect for adrenaline seekers.
Winter Hiking: Tumalo Mountain (closer to Bend) provides a beautiful, snow-covered trail for moderate to experienced winter hikers. Dress warmly and bring traction devices for icy spots.
Nordic Skiing / Cross-Country: Swampy Lake Snow Park (near Bend) and Newberry Caldera (closer to Sunriver) have groomed trails for all levels. Rentals are often available on-site.
Dog Sledding: Experience an unforgettable guided dog sledding tour at Mount Bachelor (closer to Bend), where mushers take you through snowy mountain landscapes.
Scenic Drives & Snow Play: Explore the Cascade Mountains for quiet snow-covered viewpoints, easy snowball fights, or winter photography - accessible from both Bend and Sunriver, depending on the route.

Après-Ski Spots in Central Oregon

After a long day on the slopes or exploring winter adventures, there’s nothing better than warming up by a crackling fireplace with friends or family. Central Oregon has several après-ski spots where you can relax, enjoy a drink or a meal, and soak in that cozy mountain atmosphere - perfect for ending the day in comfort and style.

10 Barrel Brewing (Bend): Lively brewery with craft beers, casual food, and a fun atmosphere. Large tables make it great for groups to unwind after skiing.
Crux Fermentation Project (Bend): Trendy spot with creative small plates, local brews, and plenty of space for socializing. Perfect for friends or adult groups looking for a vibrant après-ski vibe.
Cascade Lakes Brewing (Bend): Family-friendly brewpub with hearty food and local beers. Relaxed environment, good for both families and groups of friends.
Sunriver Brewing Company (Sunriver): Casual and welcoming, with beers on tap and a menu that satisfies kids and adults alike. Great for post-adventure meals or drinks.
Village Bar & Grill (Sunriver): Casual Sunriver spot serving hearty comfort food and warm cocktails. Perfect for unwinding après-ski after a big day on the mountain.
Café Sintra (Sunriver): Cozy spot with a mix of international dishes, ideal for a relaxed sit-down meal after a busy day on the mountain.