Take in the Winter Scenery of Mount Hood, Oregon

Mount Hood has a lot of things to do all year round. It has snow and skiing from about November to May. Late spring and summer there is hiking, fishing, boating, etc.

Timberline Lodge is a fun place to take the family anytime you have that itch for snow. Many options for skiing like lessons, equipment, etc. But you can also come to play in the snow and take nature photos. And when you get cold, just head to the lodge by the fireplace with a hot cup of coffee. Please take care on the road and bring chains, as sometimes it can get icy in the winter months.

Government Camp is a little alpine town with shops, cafes, restaurants and hotels. A wonderful place, but when it snows it becomes like the Alps. You can grab fondue, beers, coffee, hot chocolate and in the hot summer, you can get ice cream and fresh berries from the stands.

In the warmer season, check out Trillium Lake which is beautifully set against the backdrop of Mount Hood. There are options for boats, fishing and swimming for the family.

For a good day hike, check out the Mirror Lake loop trail, which I would consider between easy and moderate, a bit under 4 miles.

If you want a more epic and challenging hike, you can go past Mirror Lake to Tom, Dick and Harry Mountain. This hike is rewarded with sweeping views of Mount Hood and the countryside. Tom, Dick and Harry is also where they filmed the opening shot of Wild, the story of Cheryl Strayed walking the PCT.

Other hikes include Ramona Falls, Zigzag, Zigzag Canyon. For easier hiking, kid (and adult) friendly, check out the Trillium Lake Loop.

• Mount Hood Brewery: If you like microbreweries, here's your place. Drink craft beers in the snow or share a bowl of fondue.

• High Mountain Cafe: Come from the cold outdoors to a warm place with delicious breakfast food and sandwiches. Nothing like the feeling of drinking a hot chocolate and seeing the snow outside the window.

• Glacier Haus Bistro & Pizza: Family owned, craft crews, European food and pizza. This place is known for its quality food and is right in the old Govy Country Store.