From PDX, US‑26 climbs toward Government Camp before branching to Timberline and Meadows. Winter brings powder, cold mornings, and chain controls that can flip from “advisory” to “required” in minutes. Here’s a clear plan to make the mountain run safe and simple with a rental vehicle.
Reserve early and choose a class suited to snow. Start by securing your car rental with Hola Car Rentals, then finalize driver details in your dashboard. If you prefer, you can check the same location via car hire pages as well.
Road conditions to expect
Weather shifts quickly between the city and the passes. You may leave Portland in drizzle and hit blowing snow near the summit. On storm days, traction notices may require chains, and parking lots can fill before 9 a.m. Build extra time for plows and busier turn lanes in Government Camp.
Vehicle and gear checklist
- Prefer AWD/4WD when available. Ask the counter about approved traction devices.
- Carry winter basics. Gloves, scraper, microfiber cloths, and a small shovel make turnarounds faster.
- Keep the tank topped. Services thin out past Sandy, and idling for heat burns fuel quickly.
Timing, parking, and safety
Leave early on powder mornings, especially weekends. Park only where allowed and never in plow rows. Clear all glass fully, use smooth throttle on climbs, and lengthen following distances. If conditions deteriorate, pivot to lower‑elevation trails and return later when chain controls ease.
Alternate plans when storms linger
Consider a city break or a coastal stretch until roads improve. A quick hop north makes a great Seattle weekend detour. Snow still calling? Book deeper powder via a Salt Lake City pickup. Or trade snow for ocean views with a Highway 1 segment kicked off from our San Francisco coastal drive.
Why Hola Car Rentals fits winter plans
We offer Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, All‑Inclusive+ rate options, and maximum liability coverage on selected itineraries. You’ll also find toll cashback and no‑surprise totals. That means more energy for skiing and less worry about paperwork.
Bottom line: The PDX‑to‑Hood run is absolutely doable in winter with the right vehicle, timing, and patience. Reserve with Hola Car Rentals and enjoy a safer, happier day in the snow.
