Living in Central Oregon, we never really know what nature will throw at us. Will it be a snowmageddon like the one that hit in 2017? Or a mild winter like last year’s, which bummed out even the less enthusiastic winter fans?
Either way, after living in Bend for several years, I’ve learned it’s best to be prepared for whatever comes our way. Many of us move here from warmer climates, whether it’s sunny Southern California, the dry desert of Arizona or, in my case, Memphis, Tennessee. Before my family moved here, we had never experienced a white Christmas.
Our first year, the snow was novel, beautiful and amazingly fun. It also served as a wake-up call and, at times, a hassle. So, for newcomers to Central Oregon, here are some ideas and suggestions that have helped my family not only survive the Central Oregon winter but thrive in it.
Dress in layers
The first rule of winter survival is simple: Layers are your friend. Think snow boots, snow pants, warm coats, gloves or mittens, hats, plenty of socks and several layers to wear underneath. Extra sweatshirts, flannel shirts and thermal underwear are all worth keeping in the closet. In fact, we usually overprepare because it’s easy to take a layer off but much harder to warm up a cold, wet kid!
Local retailers like Pine Mountain Sports, Mountain Supply and REI are dependable places to find quality gear. A good winter wardrobe doesn’t have to break the bank, either. Secondhand options, such as Gear Fix and local thrift stores, can be great places to find used outdoor clothing and equipment.
Traveling in winter
Getting from Point A to Point B often requires more planning in winter. Before heading out, especially on a long trip or over mountain passes, check TripCheck online for road conditions, closures and accidents. Conditions can change quickly, and a sunny morning in Bend doesn’t necessarily mean the roads to Portland are easy to navigate. On icy roads, it’s always better to allow extra time and slow down. Four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles can help with traction, but they don’t make you immune to ice. I usually toss some sandbags—and even a large ponderosa pine round—in the back of my Tacoma for extra peace of mind. Snow tires are worth considering, too.
Keeping your vehicle ready for winter is particularly important if, like us, you don’t have a garage. Believe me, waking up early to scrape ice off the windshield isn’t fun, but it eventually becomes part of the morning routine. Most importantly, keep a basic emergency kit in your car with essentials such as water, snacks, an ice scraper, basic tools, jumper cables, extra clothing, a blanket, a flashlight and even a snow shovel.
Get up, get out
Then there’s the early-darkness challenge. By 4 p.m., it can feel like bedtime, and I’m tempted to retreat to my room and hibernate all winter. The sun disappears earlier, making it hard not to feel like the day is over when there’s still time left. Those darker hours, however, can be filled with board games, books, baking, family movie nights and all kinds of other activities. If you’re feeling adventurous, grab some headlamps and take an evening walk around the neighborhood.
And when the sun does come out, take advantage of it and get outside! One of the easiest ways to make winter miserable is to spend the entire season indoors trying to avoid the cold. Which brings me to the fun stuff!
What to do?
Luckily, Central Oregon offers families plenty to do during winter. Kids can learn to play hockey or ice skate at The Pavilion, go sledding at Wanoga and other popular spots, build snow forts, make snow angels or dig tunnels in parks or their own yards, rent snowshoes to explore one of the many snowy trails, or simply play outside until everyone gets cold and comes inside for hot chocolate.
For families looking for more structured activities, the Bend Endurance Academy and Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation offer youth programs that introduce kids to Nordic skiing and other snow sports. Mount Bachelor also offers youth programs for children as young as four who are interested in learning to ski or snowboard.
Winter in Bend doesn’t have to send us into hibernation. With the right clothing, some vehicle prep, a little planning and a willingness to embrace the cold, it can be one of the most memorable seasons for a family. Over time, my family has learned to appreciate the colder months as a time to slow down and relax a bit. We don’t necessarily have to love winter to live here, but it sure helps when we’re prepared and learn to enjoy it!
For more ideas for winter family fun, check out these previous articles in The Bend Nest: Snow Much Fun and It’s a Snow Day
This article appears in Bend Nest Winter 2026.
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