Glide Through the Ochoco Mountains

Ochoco National Forest, OR
Feb. 16 – 20, 2026, Mon – Fri
Intermediate Ungroomed Trails

Join me for a mid-winter kick-and-glide adventure in the beautiful Ochoco Mountains. We’ll head out on Monday, February 16, and return Friday, February 20. As in years past, we’ll be staying at the Ochoco Ranger Cabin—a cozy base nestled among the Ponderosa pines.

This trip is geared toward intermediate-level skiers, with daily routes of up to 10 miles. We’ve put time and effort into improving the trails over the last few years, and if the snow gods are kind, we’ll enjoy some smooth cruising through serene forests.

Cabin Details
The cabin does not provide bedding, so please bring:

• Medium-weight sleeping bag
• Pillow
• Towels
• Ear Plugs

Meals

• Breakfast & Lunch: Bring your own.
• Dinner: We’ll share evening meals, with each person contributing to the four dinners.

Ski Gear Recommendations
These are ungroomed trails, so:

• Bring no-wax skis and boots suitable for breaking trail and making turns and gliding
• Gaiters recommended
• AT gear is too heavy, and light track skis won’t hold up well

Trail Info & Conditions
We’ll mostly be breaking our own trail, which adds to the adventure. Being mid-week, it’s unlikely we’ll encounter other skiers or snowmobiles. We’ll have plenty of trail options, and with elevations between 4,500 and 5,500 feet, snow conditions should be favorable.

Travel & Carpooling
The drive is approximately 4 hours each way, about 350 miles round-trip. Carpooling options are available—let’s coordinate!

I hope you’ll join me for a rejuvenating glide through the Ponderosa forests.

Trip limit:  7 participants, including trip leader
Cost:  $70 per person. Includes 4 nights lodging. Excludes cost of travel and meals.
Travel miles:  From Portland, 350 miles round trip, plus mileage to the ski areas
Trip Leader:  Ken Wenzel, skiwenzel@hotmail.com