Hotel Review: Timberline Lodge

The historic Timberline Lodge hotel, a National Historic Landmark, is perhaps more notable than the ski resort itself.

Located on the south face of Mount Hood adjacent to the ski resort with which it shares its name, the Timberline Lodge hotel stands out as an iconic Oregon landmark. This lodge—the only on-site accommodation at a ski resort in Oregon—has a storied history, having been constructed in the 1930s by a New Deal agency and designated as a National Historic Landmark. In addition, the lodge was rather famously used in the filming of The Shining, with all outdoor footage of the fictional hotel recorded on-site.

Thanks to its rustic feel, stunning mountain views, and exceptional isolation, this hotel boasts one of the most distinctive experiences of any ski resort accommodation, let alone any North American hotel. However, some of the historic lodge’s strengths lead to certain drawbacks that may dissuade select vacationers from a visit.

With the exception of the small flat-screen TV, stepping into a Timberline Lodge room feels like transporting back into the 1930s.

Accommodations

The accommodations at Timberline Lodge range from standard guest rooms to fancy multi-room suites sleeping up to 15 guests. All of these rooms boast a rustic elegance, with timber-lined walls, wood furnishings, and historic upholsteries that feel like they came straight from the 1930s. Guests will be treated to niceties such as Timberline-branded water glassware and local artwork. For those who don’t want to fully disconnect, every room comes with complimentary wi-fi and flat-screen TVs with cable.

One of the most notable aspects of the rooms is the views they provide. On clear days, the lodge’s north-facing rooms offer stunning views of Mount Hood, while the south-facing rooms peer down into the valley thousands of feet below. Many guests will find waking up to the sight of snow-capped peaks or vibrant forests to be an unforgettable experience.

The hotel’s north-facing rooms offer stunning views of Mount Hood, while south-facing rooms peer down into the expansive valley below.

However, Timberline’s rustic rooms do come with a few drawbacks. The lack of noise isolation is a notable downside—conversations and activities from adjacent rooms are often audible, which can disrupt sleep or make it challenging to relax in the room. The hotel is aware of this shortcoming and provides complementary earplugs to all guests.

In addition, the lodge’s in-room climate controls do not always line up with what the heater puts out, and turning the thermostat to a cold setting may still result in toasty quarters. Thankfully, opening the windows for fresh mountain air greatly helps moderate the temperature inside.

Amenities

Common Spaces

Timberline Lodge offers a wide range of amenities that impeccably complement the rustic rooms. The resort’s common spaces are top notch, with communal, iconic vibes that make it easy to spend the majority of one’s stay outside the room. The remarkable attention to detail in the lodge's design, including exquisite wood carvings, uniquely shaped doors, and rustic signs, adds a touch of artistry and authenticity to the overall experience.

The spacious and welcoming Lower Lobby serves as the stately entryway to the lodge, featuring a large fireplace, cozy seating arrangements, and historic artifacts detailing the New Deal-era build of the hotel. Adjacent to the lobby, the large Barlow Room offers additional seating options and an array of games, creating an inviting spot for socializing and relaxing.

Above the entry floor sits the stunning Main Lobby, with high, lofted ceilings, a grand fireplace, and incredible panoramic views both up and down the mountain. Throughout the property, there are also various nooks and sitting areas. These cozy corners provide quiet retreats for relaxation, reading, or taking in the breathtaking views. Guests can also enjoy an outdoor patio offering incredible, in-your-face views of Mount Hood.

This third floor lodge nook provides an excellent hideaway from the more lively parts of the property.

Pool and Spa

The heated outdoor pool and hot tub allow visitors to relax and unwind while taking in the majestic mountain panorama. Additionally, the fitness center is well-equipped for those who wish to stay active during their stay.

For those seeking a pampering experience, the lodge offers a full-service spa where guests can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and massages. The attentive and professional staff ensure a blissful escape from the stresses of everyday life.

NOTE: As of the time of writing, the pool and hot tub facilities at the Timberline Lodge hotel are undergoing renovation with a projected re-opening after Summer 2023. For some guests, it may not make sense to book a trip here until the renovations are done. Prospective visitors should inquire with the hotel for the most accurate estimated re-opening date.

The Timberline Lodge pool sits adjacent to the ski slopes. The pool and spa facilities are closed for renovation through summer 2023.

Dining

Given its remote location, a stay at Timberline Lodge almost assuredly means a meal there as well. The main dining affair is the Cascade Dining Room, a stately room with a fine-dining ambiance and sweeping mountain views. The menu focuses on artisan cuisine, featuring locally sourced ingredients, including seafood, organic produce, and regional wines. While the quality of the food is generally commendable, it’s also quite pricey. Guests must schedule reservations to eat here, and they can book up quickly. With a well-timed reservation, guests can choose to dine in the lodge’s majestic Main Lobby rather than the main dining room.

For a more relaxed atmosphere, the Ram's Head Bar offers handcrafted cocktails, local brews, a diverse menu of appetizers and light fare, and incredible Mount Hood views. The fully underground Blue Ox Bar is known for its lively ambiance, aprés-ski drinks, and pizza, making it a popular spot for socializing. These spots may be slow on the weekdays, but they get absolutely packed on the weekends during the peak winter season.

Cascade dinner guests can choose to dine in the lodge’s majestic Main Lobby.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the Timberline Lodge hotel’s unrefined quarters and remote location mean it won’t be for everyone. But the one-of-a-kind ambience, array of amenities, and exquisite attention to detail ensures an unforgettable stay for those seeking an immersive mountain retreat.

The lodge’s prices aren’t cheap, with even the least expensive rooms starting at over $200 per night. But Timberline Lodge is one of the few ski resort hotels to truly prove itself just as much an “experience” as the resort itself, and even for those who choose to stay just one night, it’s hard to leave this historical hotel regretting it.

For more information on Timberline Lodge, check out our ski area review and Oregon ski resort rankings. Additionally, you can check out our Timberline Lodge video review below.