Looking for a cheap place to stay on Mount Hood?

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Zachary Young with his pal Rocky (left) and Sam Crowe (right) stand in front of the Mt. Hood Hostel sign on Dec. 17, 2008. The two are managing the hostel this season. (Photo courtesy: Sam Crowe)

By Shannon L. Cheesman

Story Published: Dec 17, 2008 at 9:29 PM PST

Story Updated: Dec 17, 2008 at 10:11 PM PST

MOUNT HOOD - If you're looking for a skiing or snowboarding trip that's easy on the budget, you might try bunking dorm-style at the Mt. Hood Hostel.

The hostel just opened up for the winter season a couple of weeks ago and at just $20 a night (plus tax), the price really can't be beat.

The digs are comfortable and there is plenty of space for everyone. 

Zachary Young and Sam Crowe, who are managing the hostel this year, said although there are 30 beds available, they rarely fill up.

"This is our first year managing the hostel, so we're just going by what other people have told us.  But what we were told is that there was usually between five and 10 people (a night) last year," said Crowe.  "The most they had was on New Year's Eve with 24 people."

As far as the atmosphere of the place, Young and Crowe said it's pretty laid back because the people that stay there are skiers, snowboarders and travelers.

"It's pretty calm," said Crowe.  "Everybody respects everybody.  If you don't, you can sleep in the snow."

"We try to say respect others, respect me and Sam and respect the building," said Young.  "People are pretty chill up here."

Although blankets are available, Young and Crowe said it's best to bring your own sleeping bag.  And while you're packing, you might as well thrown in a towel as well (for the shower).

Also, here's a great tip if you're looking to be extra thrifty - try hitching a ride on the Fusion Shuttle, which runs between Sandy and Timberline.  Mt. Hood Pass, Timberline and Skibowl season pass holders ride for free.  Otherwise, the cost is $15.

Amenities

  • Big screen TV with cable, Playstation 2, DVD player, VHS
  • Wireless Internet
  • Workout equipment
  • Full use of the kitchen (bring your own food)
  • Dining area
  • Quiet reading room
  • Lockers
  • Showers

Additional Costs

  • It's $1.40 for the tax, so it will run you $21.40 for the night
  • $5 - blanket and top sheet
  • $3 - towel
  • $2 - lock

Rules To Abide By

  • No partying.
  • No alcohol.
  • No smoking.
  • No sharing beds.

How to Make Reservations

  • Book online.
  • Call the Collins Lake Resort Front Office at (888) 865-4597.
  • Walk up to the Mt. Hood Hostel during the reception hours of 3 p.m. to midnight.

Walk-Ins Welcome Too

  • According to Young and Crowe, beds are pretty much always available (with the possible exception of some holidays), and anyone is welcome to grab one on the fly.

Shannon L. Cheesman is a Portland-area Web Producer/Reporter who specializes in the outdoors. She writes and reports for Fisher Interactive Network, which consists of 13 local news/information Web sites in Oregon, Washington, Idaho and California.

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