Oregon Trail of Dreams, Bend

Considering its abundance of light, dry snow, diversified terrain, and long seasons that typically last deep into May, it's no wonder Mt. Bachelor has become a booming resort. With 3,700 acres of lift-accessible terrain, the mountain frames visits with the towering hemlock and pine trees of the Deschutes National Forest, as well as postcard-worthy views of the Three Sisters and the Cascades. Here are a few facts about Mt. Bachelor that make it a prime destination:

• Origin: In December 1958, founder Bill Healy got things rolling with a rope tow and a single lift. The property has since grown into one of the largest ski resorts in the United States.

• Claim to fame: Mt. Bachelor boasts the highest skiable elevation in all of Oregon and Washington.

• Important stats: The mountain features a total of 88 runs, and it receives an average snowfall of 462 inches.

• Coolest way to get around: Skiing and snowboarding are pretty cool, sure, but zipping around behind a pack of sled dogs is tough to top. Oregon Trail of Dreams—a family owned company that's operated at Mt. Bachelor for more than three decades—makes such experiences possible with rides led by professional mushers.