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!
September 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's winter is not merely a dip in temperature but a call to the wild-hearted and the spirited adventurers. As the snow blankets the landscape, it transforms peaks and valleys into a canvas of boundless potential. The area comes alive with the roar of snowmobiles, the crunch of snowshoes, and the laughter from the ice rink. It's a place where each activity offers a different way to enjoy the season's chill and where every visit is an opportunity to create lasting memories.
Snowmobiling
Klamath is a snowmobiler's paradise, offering a vast network of over 360 miles of groomed trails, thanks to the Klamath Basin Snowdrifters Club. The Great Meadow Sno-Park on Highway 140 and the Annie Creek Sno-Park near Crater Lake provide extensive trails, a warming shelter, and amenities for a comfortable adventure. Pelican Butte and Crater Lake National Park offer unique snowmobiling experiences with trails leading to stunning views and challenging climbs, while Walt Haring Sno-Park near Chemult connects riders to a scenic network leading to Miller Lake.
Odell Lake Lodge & Resort serves as a thrilling snowmobiling haven with trails to Crater Lake's rim, offering rentals and guided tours for all experience levels. Whether you're seeking a serene glide through snowy forests or an exhilarating climb to breathtaking summits, Klamath County's snowmobiling scene delivers an exceptional blend of adventure and scenic beauty, ensuring every winter visit is packed with excitement and unforgettable vistas.
Crater Lake in Winter
Crater Lake National Park transforms into a winter wonderland with an astonishing average of 512 inches of snow each year, making it one of the snowiest inhabited places in America. This deep blanket of snow creates a serene and otherworldly landscape, offering visitors a unique opportunity to engage with nature's quiet beauty.
During the winter months, while many of the park's facilities hibernate under the snow, the lake itself can often be viewed in fair weather, presenting a stark contrast of deep blue waters against the white expanse. For the adventurous, the park offers weekend snowshoe hikes led by rangers, a popular activity that starts in December and continues through late April. Reservations for these treks can be made in advance, ensuring a guided experience through the pristine snowscapes. Cross-country skiing enthusiasts have access to a variety of trails along the closed Rim Drive, catering to different skill levels and providing ample opportunities for backcountry camping with the appropriate permits. Snowmobilers aren't left out of the fun; they're welcome on the North Entrance Road up to the North Junction, offering another exhilarating way to experience the park's snowy splendor. Visitors are reminded to check the latest conditions for potential avalanche dangers or closed areas, ensuring a safe and enjoyable visit to this snowy paradise. Although the roads are plowed daily, it’s always best to prepare for winter driving conditions within the park.
XC Skiing and Snowshoeing
All across Klamath winter landscapes beckon cross-country skiers and snowshoers to its snowy mountains and trails. Crater Lake National Park, a winter wonderland, invites visitors to partake in ranger-led snowshoe hikes or to glide across the pristine snow on cross-country skis, with the convenience of snowshoe rentals available at the Rim Village Gift Shop. The Walt Haring Sno-Park, nearby Crater Lake in Chemult, provides groomed trails for a classic skiing experience.
For those seeking a more intimate connection with the wilderness, Odell Lake Lodge & Resort allows guests to embark directly from their doorstep onto groomed trails set against a backdrop of vast landscapes and towering mountains. Klamath is undeniably a top destination for those looking to explore the serene beauty of Oregon's winters through cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Whether you’re an experienced snowshoer or a first-timer, Lake of the Woods resort has rentals available for those needing gear. There are also great trails and meadows nearby the resort or head right out onto the frozen lake.
Skiing & Snowboarding
Embarking on a skiing or snowboarding adventure in Klamath is not just about the thrill; it's also an opportunity for an affordable winter escapade, whether you're a novice learning to navigate the slopes or an expert chasing the perfect run.
The thrill of the descent awaits at Willamette Pass, where a range of runs cater to ALL skill levels of boarders and skiers. The famed RTS (Real Tough Stuff) run awaits for the daredevils. At a 52-degree decline, it’s Oregon’s steepest (one of steepest in the nation, too) and at one time was home to the U.S. Speed Skiing Championships, where a record 116mph run was recorded. Whether you’re tackling RTS, or setting out on slopes perfect for first-time learners, Willamette Pass Ski Resort offers a diversity of terrain sure to satisfy every visitor. Not to mention, the high-speed six passenger lift—the only one of its kind in the state—whisks adventurers to the start of their alpine journey with the added allure of twilight and night skiing.
Winter Events and Festivals
Klamath County is not just a winter sports paradise; it's also a hub of vibrant events that bring the community and visitors together to celebrate the season's joys. Mark your calendars for the Kite Festival at Lake of the Woods, which takes place on Valentine’s Day weekend each February on top of the frozen lake. Following closely is the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife fishing weekend from February 15-17, an ice fishing extravaganza where you can rent huts and augers for a chill thrill.
The heart of Klamath's winter festivities beats strongest during the Klamath Snowflake Festival. Since 1984, this traditional celebration has been the herald of the Christmas season, offering over two weeks of diverse events. The festival is a tapestry of entertainment and activities woven together by community groups, culminating in the much-anticipated Snowflake Parade. This festival is not just an event; it's a 39-year-old community tradition that ignites the magic of Christmas. It's a time when the air is filled with the aroma of hot cocoa, the sparkle of the city's tree lighting ceremony, and the sound of musical celebrations. From the gingerbread house contest to craft displays, the Klamath Snowflake Festival is a time-honored tradition that continues to create cherished memories for new generations. Join us in 2023 to partake in the festivities and make your own special memories in the heart of Klamath County.
Winter Wonders Below
Lava Beds National Monument is a year-round haven for caving enthusiasts, offering a unique adventure through the extensive network of lava-tube caves formed by the Medicine Lake Volcano. Despite the winter chill, the steady interior temperature of the lava tube caves means that most caving destinations remain open year-round, inviting visitors to explore the fascinating subterranean world beneath the rugged high-desert landscape. With over 800 caves, Lava Beds boasts the largest concentration of lava tubes in North America, providing a variety of caving experiences suitable for all levels, from the well-lit and easy-to-navigate Mushpot Cave to the more challenging and remote Catacombs Cave.
Winter visitors are treated to a starkly beautiful contrast between the snowy surface and the caves' deep darkness. While the surface world is blanketed in snow, the caves maintain their timeless allure, safeguarding unique ecosystems and geological wonders. Visitors are reminded to respect the delicate cave environments and the hibernating bat populations, ensuring that these natural treasures remain for future generations to explore and appreciate.
Bill Collier Ice Arena
The Bill Collier Ice Arena near Klamath Falls is a hub of winter activity, welcoming everyone from first-time skaters to seasoned ice athletes. Open Skate sessions are the heart of the arena, inviting skaters of all experience levels to glide across the ice against a backdrop of stunning open-air views. Broomball offers a fun and competitive alternative for those looking for a twist on traditional ice sports, requiring no skates but plenty of enthusiasm.
Hockey enthusiasts can find their place here, too, whether it’s during Stick and Puck sessions to practice their skills, engaging in friendly competition during pick-up hockey, or watching the energy and excitement of local leagues. The arena provides a nurturing environment for younger visitors with Learn to Play Hockey programs, perfect for kids who dream of becoming the next ice hockey star. These sessions are a fantastic opportunity for local children or those on extended stays to immerse themselves in the sport. Curious about the increasingly popular sport of curling? Learn to Curl lessons are also available for novices eager to throw their first stone.
Nestled within the Running Y Resort, the unique tensile fabric and pavilion-style roof of the arena shields skaters from the elements while offering a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding winter landscape. Since its opening in January 2002, the arena has continued Klamath Basin's rich tradition of outdoor skating. Whether you want to learn, play, skate, or simply enjoy the winter atmosphere, the Bill Collier Ice Arena is a perfect destination for the winter season.
Embrace the full Klamath experience and explore outdoor adventures in every season. Picture a day that starts with a refreshing hike, leads to an afternoon kayaking on crystal-clear waters, and concludes with a tranquil evening by a lakeside campfire. Our "Top 10 Outdoor Adventures in Klamath" article is your perfect companion to expand your exploration, offering everything from exhilarating mountain biking to serene birdwatching. Dive into this guide to spark seasonal curiosity with Klamath's diverse array of natural wonders, ensuring a rich and unforgettable outdoor experience.