Welcome to the heart and soul of Southern Oregon! Find your path to your Klam-cation! As all roads in Klamath County lead to the Klamath Basin.
Thanksgiving Week November 27th-30th
Spend Thanksgiving weekend surrounded by the scenic beauty and cozy charm of Klamath County! Embrace the warmth of a hometown holiday with activities that’ll keep the whole family entertained. Start with seasonal outdoor adventures, enjoy a traditional feast, shopping, and festive fun. Whether you’re cozying up in a cabin, exploring snowy trails, or indulging in local flavors, Klamath County offers countless ways to make Thanksgiving unforgettable. From mountain lodges to lakefront cabins to a relaxing resort, and from snowy adventures to warm campfire gatherings, every path here leads to holiday cheer.
Kick off your Thanksgiving with the magical storytelling of The Tale of The Princess Kaguya on the big screen! Showing Thanksgiving Eve at Pelican Cinema as part of Studio Ghibli Fest 2024, this enchanting film brings timeless beauty and adventure to your holiday week. Don’t miss it!
On Saturday, November 23, 2024, The Ross Ragland will celebrate 85 years of the building's history! The Esquire Theater opened on November 30, 1940, with the movie "The Westerner". To kick off their yearlong celebration, a special showing will be on the big screen! An exhibit featuring artifacts from the Esquire Theater will be on display in the lobby. Dana Wirth will also be performing to help celebrate in style! This is a FREE event, so don't forget to reserve your seats today!
November 27th, 2024
Escape to the serene beauty of Running Y Resort for a Thanksgiving weekend for a lifetime! Nestled in the heart of Klamath County, this luxurious resort is the perfect holiday retreat, offering complimentary tickets for two to their lavish Thanksgiving Buffet. Enjoy the resort's incredible amenities, including scenic horseback riding trails, a world-class golf course, and a rejuvenating spa. Make cherished holiday memories with loved ones as you glide across the ice skating rink, then cozy up in beautifully appointed accommodations. At Running Y, Thanksgiving feels like a getaway tailored just for you!
This Thanksgiving, trade the bustle for a serene cabin stay in Klamath County! Unwind at Lake of the Woods, Rocky Point Resort, or Crystal Creek Mountain Lodge, where adventure and relaxation await. Spend your days fishing, kayaking, or paddling on tranquil waters, and your evenings by the campfire with s’mores in hand. Experience the magic of a holiday weekend surrounded by nature’s beauty!
Celebrate Thanksgiving surrounded by the beauty of North Klamath County! Stay cozy in a lodge at Odell Lake Lodge & Resort, Lonesome Duck on the Williamson River, or Red Cone Lodge Bed & Breakfast by Crescent Lake, complete with a hot tub to unwind after a day of winter fun. With stunning views and a peaceful retreat, it’s the perfect spot for a holiday getaway!
Make your Thanksgiving memorable in Klamath Falls, with affordable lodging options for every budget—from KOA cabins to hotels like Fairfield, Shilo Inn, Days Inn, and Microtel Inn & Suites. While you’re here, explore charming downtown boutiques, shop for unique treasures, and enjoy a laid-back holiday atmosphere perfect for relaxing and unwinding!
November 28th, 2024
This Thanksgiving, treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience at the scenic Running Y Resort. Surrounded by breathtaking views and warm holiday ambiance, the Thanksgiving Buffet offers a luxurious spread of seasonal favorites that will delight every palate. From traditional roast turkey and all the classic trimmings to chef-inspired sides and delectable desserts, this feast is the perfect way to celebrate with family and friends.
For $65 per adult and $30 per child, indulge in the flavors of fall while overlooking the serene beauty of Klamath County. With seating times available at 2, 3, and 4 PM, it’s easy to find the perfect time to gather around the table. Reservations are required, so secure your spot today and make this Thanksgiving a cozy, delicious retreat at Running Y Resort.
September 29th, 2024
Indulge in pure relaxation this Thanksgiving with a rejuvenating spa day (or two!) at Running Y Resort, while the rest of the family explores Winter Wonderland adventures. For a memorable group experience, gather everyone for a scenic horseback ride through the resort’s stunning rolling acres, where breathtaking views and fresh mountain air make every moment unforgettable. Whether it’s unwinding solo or creating holiday memories together, Running Y Resort has something special for everyone this Thanksgiving.
This Black Friday, trade shopping lines for the snowy trails of Annie Creek Sno-Park! Enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding in the serene Fremont-Winema National Forest. Then, head to East Klamath County for fishing, kayaking, and a cozy campfire at Rocky Point or Upper Klamath Lake. Embrace an adventure-filled day surrounded by nature’s beauty!
Ditch the crowds and enjoy a unique adventure at Train Mountain Railroad in Chiloquin, home to the world’s longest miniature railroad with over 36 miles of scenic track through lush landscapes. After exploring the detailed train models, rent an e-bike from Zach’s Bikes in Klamath Falls to explore Collier Memorial State Park. Ride through forested trails, visit the Logging Museum, and discover historic logging equipment and cabins for a day of history, nature, and outdoor fun!
Skip the mall and discover Klamath Falls’ best treasures! Start your day exploring unique boutiques, thrift shops, and antique finds at places like Woodsy Kitchen, Rare Bird, Keeper’s Corner, and Everybody’s Vintage. Afterward, enjoy a delicious dinner at local favorites like Thai Orchid Café or Rooster’s Steak and Chop House. End the night with drinks at Basin Martini Bar, Common Block Brewing, or Volcanic Winery, then challenge family members to pool at Black Dog Billiards. This Black Friday, experience a local adventure full of charm, flavor, and fun!
September 30th-31st, 2024
Experience a winter escape in Klamath County, where sunny skies meet snowy adventures! With over 300 days of sunshine annually, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the best of winter’s beauty. Information can be found here on rental equipment for snowy fun!
Discover Crater Lake National Park transformed into a winter wonderland. Snowshoe or cross-country ski along the scenic Rim Drive with breathtaking views of the lake’s deep blue waters. Join a ranger-guided snowshoe walk to learn about the park’s unique winter ecosystem and enjoy the serene beauty of snow-covered landscapes.The memories and pictures will be priceless.Winter guide to visiting Crater Lake in the winter.
Add some extra fun to your trip with a visit to Annie Creek Sno-Park, where you can enjoy cross-country skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing on snowy trails surrounded by towering pines. It's an ideal spot to dive into Klamath’s outdoor magic.
Glide across the open-air Bill Collier Community Ice Arena, set amidst forested hills in Klamath Falls. Whether you're a pro skater or just starting out, it’s a winter activity for all ages. Be sure to call the arena for open skate days and time! (Subject to Reopening).
Klamath County’s blend of sunshine and snow offers the ultimate setting for a memorable winter vacation. From Crater Lake’s stunning vistas to the family-friendly fun at Annie Creek Sno-Park, this winter wonderland awaits you!
Klamath County is defined by its landscapes—from the forests and pastures around Klamath Falls to the dramatic blue hues of Crater Lake National Park. And at the far northwestern edge of our region, less than two hours from Klamath Falls, sits another beloved landscape: the dramatic slopes of Willamette Pass Resort at the summit of the Cascade Range.
The resort has been a regional mainstay since 1941 and today hosts 555 acres of trails boasting roughly 1,560 feet of lift-served vertical terrain. From its panoramic summit, 360-degree views include nearby Cascade peaks, Crescent Lake, and Odell Lake below.
With such scenic terrain and runs geared toward skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels, it’s no wonder the resort is one of the area’s most popular destinations for winter adventure around Klamath Falls. If you’re interested in getting some turns in on bluebird days, here’s everything you need to know about skiing and snowboarding at Willamette Pass Resort.
Where is Willamette Pass?
The resort sits at the northwestern edge of Klamath County and at the summit of the Cascades. It’s along Highway 58 and just west of Odell Lake. The drive takes just over 90 minutes from Klamath Falls—or just 15 minutes from the cozy Odell Lake Lodge & Resort, which sits on the eastern shore of its namesake lake and is open all winter long.
When Does Willamette Pass Resort Open for the Season?
Opening day at Willamette Pass varies from year to year, depending on early-season snowfall. Most years, the resort welcomes its first skiers and snowboarders in mid-December—though that might get pushed to January if it’s a warm or dry start to winter. Check the official Willamette Pass Resort website for updated information on opening day.
As soon as conditions allow, the resort is open daily for skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing—though the ski area may transition to weekend-only operations in April.
As for when the resort closes each spring: It all depends on snowpack and springtime precipitation—and whether that falls as snow or rain. Typically, Willamette Pass wraps up its season between mid-April and mid-May.
What’s New at Willamette Pass in 2024?
The owners of Willamette Pass have invested more than $1 million in upgrades around the resort—so plenty of new features and changes await skiers and snowboarders at Willamette Pass this year. Those include:
Learn more about the upgrades and improvements to Willamette Pass Resort.
What Should You Know About Skiing and Snowboarding at Willamette Pass?
Willamette Pass receives roughly 430 inches of snowfall each winter and spring—making it one of Oregon’s premier ski resorts. There, five chairlifts and one conveyor take skiers and snowboarders to 30 trails that rise up to 1,563 feet. (One run, the appropriately named Real Tough Stuff, is famous for its steepness.) Here’s what to know about the offerings at Willamette Pass:
Rentals: New ski and snowboard gear is available to rent for anyone 12 and older. Gear includes skis, snowboards, boots, poles, helmets, and Nordic skis—with a selection that includes cutting-edge rental and demo items.
Snow Sports School: Excited staffers offer a wide range of lessons at Willamette Pass. First-timers 13 and older can sign up for free two-hour lessons, while skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels can sign up for private lessons (open to anyone 4 and older) or group lessons (available to athletes of all ages). A kids-only camp helps youngsters between 4 and 12 improve their skills, as well.
Lift tickets: Willamette Pass has earned acclaim across Oregon for largely keeping lift ticket prices low. One-day lift tickets for adults generally range from $19 (for midweek trips) to $55 (on weekends)—and are always free for children 12 and younger.
What Else is There to Do at Willamette Pass?
For many, the ski and snowboard trails at Willamette Pass are just the beginning of an outdoor experience that embraces the best of winter. Here’s how to enjoy your time at the resort away from the slopes:
Cross-country skiing: Willamette Pass grooms 225 acres and hosts 20 km of forested Nordic skiing trails. Most traverse the base of the mountain, while one challenging path heads all the way to the summit.
Terrain Park: The resort’s By George Terrain Park offers two features for skiers and snowboarders looking to perfect their skills and try some fun tricks.
Lodge: The Willamette Pass lodge hosts a restaurant serving breakfast and lunch dishes (including soups, sandwiches, pizza, and burgers) and a lounge that affords a sweeping view of the mountain—a view that pairs well with regional craft beer, local wines, and a full slate of cocktails.
Sport Shop: Willamette Pass’ on-site shop sells all the gear you need for an exciting day on the slopes—including goggles, gloves, socks, layering apparel, and more—all from the industry’s top brands.
Lodging at Willamette Pass: There are no overnight options available at Willamette Pass, but the popular Odell Lake Lodge & Resort hosts cabins and lodge rooms a short drive away. Other overnight stays are available in the community of Crescent, roughly 15 minutes east of the resort along Highway 97.
Ready to hit the road? Learn all about winter adventures around Klamath’s lakes—including sleigh rides, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and ranger-led outings at Crater Lake National Park.
In Klamath, the arrival of winter doesn't signal a time for hibernation; instead, it heralds a season of exhilarating outdoor pursuits. The lakes, covered in ice and snow, become arenas for a myriad of activities that celebrate the frosty splendor of the region.
