Between two different mountain ranges with their own wilderness areas, a downhill skiing hidden gem, and the comforts of Downtown Baker City, your wondrous winter exploration awaits in Baker.
Skiing at Anthony Lakes
Maybe the best kept secret in all of Eastern Oregon, Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort offers the kind of affordable, no-frills downhill skiing experience you just can’t find most places anymore. With one chair lift sitting at a base of 7,100 ft (the highest ski base in Oregon), you can access fun downhill runs or venture into the backcountry of the North Fork John Day Wilderness.
Check out groomed cross-country trails, plus access to great snowshoeing destinations just off the Elkhorn Crest Trail. You can even reserve overnight stays in a yurt or guardhouse for immediate, all-day mountain access.
Best of all, it’s easy to get to – just 35 easy miles from Baker City. So you can enjoy the slopes and the festive atmosphere of downtown all in the same day.
Backcountry skiing
In addition to backcountry skiing opportunities starting from Anthony Lakes, the southern Wallowas offer rugged, isolated valleys for the experienced winter adventure seeker. Go with a guide like Eagle Cap Mountain Guides or the Wallowa Alpine Huts, or check out the highly detailed and helpful written guide if you plan your own trip. Always make safety the #1 priority and check the avalanche forecast.
Snowmobiling
If you prefer to speed over snowy terrain on your snowmobile, you’ll find plenty of groomed routes and helpful information from three different snowmobiling clubs in the area. Access the Elkhorns, Wallowas, or area around Dooley Mountain for fun rides and fantastic views.
Wildlife Viewing
In the winter, elk come down from the mountains to seek warmth in the valleys. If you’re lucky, you can see herds of elk at the Elkhorn Wildlife Area.
Winter Events
Mark your calendars for several great events happening every winter:
- Twinkle in Time – if you want to get festive, check out Baker City Downtown’s holiday extravaganza, including tree lighting, Christmas Bazaar, and cookie crawl.
- Christmas Trains – Sumpter Valley Railroad runs very special train rides to get you into the holiday spirit. Fun for all ages!
- Starbottle Throttle Banked Slalom – those who are competitive can take their spot in the banked slalom event at Anthony Lakes (or just enjoy the fun as a curious onlooker) in the new year.
- Taste of Nordic – in March, Anthony Lakes hosts a mashup event mixing nordic trail and local food vendors – what’s not to love?
Baker City – your bustling hub for dining, shopping, and lodging
When you’re done with the snow and the mountain, head back to Baker City to fuel up, chill out, and warm up. With a diversity of dining options and a mix of boutique shops, Downtown Baker City is a beautiful and walkable destination for those looking for cozy, small-town experiences. And you can visit exciting cultural institutions all season, like the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, or see art at Crossroads Carnegie Center for the Arts. Plus, Churchill School brings in amazing musical acts every single month.
Have fun and be prepared
Remember that winter weather can change suddenly, so be prepared with the appropriate gear. When venturing into the backcountry, always check the avalanche forecast. Because when you’re safe, you can get out there and find the wonder of winter.