The 8 Best Cabin Rentals on Mt. Hood Near Portland, Oregon

Spanning Northern California into British Columbia, the stoic Cascade Mountain Range spreads stunning volcanic landmarks along the entire American West Coast. As Mt. Rainier looks over Seattle, Mt. Hood soars some 50 miles east of Portland, Oregon. Looking like a child's depiction of a snow capped mountain, perfectly mountain-like Mt. Hood is a welcomed sight on clear days in town and a joy to explore when time allows.

Mt. Hood National Forest offer hundreds of miles of hiking trails, dozens of primitive campgrounds, and legendary rivers and creeks to fish in spring, summer, and fall. And in the winter dang fine skiing can be found at Mt. Hood Meadows and America's largest night ski area—and my personal favorite mom & pop ski hill—Skibowl. And of course, historic Timberline Lodge—an icon of the CCC Works Progress Era used as The Overlook Hotel's exterior in The Shining—offers America's only year-round ski resort.

Cabin culture is alive and well on Mt. Hood. In fact, I'm currently sitting at my family's Forest Service cabin as I write this very sentence. For decades the old growth forests have been a refuge for many. Now, as COVID restrictions loosen and more cabin owners become privy to the potential gold mine that is Airbnb, Mt. Hood can be a destination for you and yours too.

Read on for our top picks for the best cabin rentals on Mt. Hood, Oregon.

Rhododendron, OR — Rancho Relaxo

Vibe: Modern minimalism

An absolute stand-out also included on our 15 Best A-Frame Cabin Rentals, Rancho Relaxo features a peaceful contemporary interior complete with a number of unique architectural details—perfect for those looking for a relaxing, restorative getaway. The Zigzag river and Government Camp offer up activities nearby.

Rate: $161/night

Welches, OR — Cedar Creek Hideaway

Vibe: (Buckminster) Fuller House

Tucked away among old growth cedar groves and surrounded by seasonal creeks is this geodesic cabin. With intricate wood paneling and traditional log cabin furniture throughout, you’ll feel right at home in this dome. Hang creekside and BBQ on the wraparound deck or fire up the wood stove and play a game of pool. Plus it sleeps nine and is a dog-friendly cabin, so invite your quarantine crew and their puppers for some more quality time together.

Rate: $130/night

Rhododendron, OR — Niksen House

Vibe: Scandinavian clubhouse

An hour outside of Portland, this pet-friendly recently renovated not-quite-A-Frame is thoughtfully put together with a Scandinavian vibe. With lots of things to do in the surrounding area, you may not be spending much time indoors thought. In winter, ski, snowboard and tube at nearby Mt. Hood Meadows, Timberline or Ski Bowl or snowshoe and cross country ski on nearby trails. In warmer months, head to the Sandy Ridge Trail system for mountain biking or Lost Lake to kayak. And when the day is over, relax on the back deck or cozy up inside.

Rate: $182/night

Welches, OR — Cedarwood Cabin

Vibe: Cabin classic

Though we have a penchant for mid-century and contemporary design, there’s truly nothing like a traditional, low key, log cabin—the Lincoln Log kind that blurs the line between the wooden interior and its woodland surroundings. Cedarwood Cabin is just that. Restored to its 1922 glory, this cozy spot is great for the lone traveler or couple. Slow down and live the simple life inside the rustic interior, then head to the Zig Zag Inn for dinner, a local’s favorite for pizza and beers.

Rate: $92/night

Mt.Hood Village, OR — A-Frame

Vibe: Home is where the hearth is

The hearth is truly the heart of this cozy cabin, located on the edge of the Mount Hood National Forest. The well-crafted interior is at the crossroads of sophisticated and cozy, with mid-century pieces and a tranquil vibe throughout the A-Frame cabin and adjoining studio bedroom. Though the master bath is the star here. Walk a short distance to Salmon River Trailheads—an epic trail network through lush old growth—or if you’re belay certified, have a sport climbing session at Salmon River Slab and the nearby French’s Dome.

Rate: $257/night

Rhododendron, OR — East River Rest Cabin

Vibe: Riverside retreat

Spend a weekend along the riverfront in this Scandinavian inspired luxury cabin. Lots of light and carefully curated interior details make the space inviting but luxurious. Soak in the hot tub after a day of skiing around Mt. Hood or sip on a lil something on the deck overlooking the Sandy River. Mountain villages abound for local shopping and Little Zig Zag falls is a nice short hike away for those seeking some exercise.

Rate: $185/night

Rhododendron, OR — Klaus Haus

Vibe: Sophisticated cozy

Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright pupil, architect Robert C. Douglas in 1977, the recently renovated Klaus Haus plays with shape and embraces a one-with-nature philosophy. Although relatively small, the house—captured with admittedly uninspiriing photography—features a few interesting architectural moments like a large lofted bedroom, spiral staircase, and built-in couch. The mid-century inspired interior and small deck are cozily furnished for all your wine-sipping or fireside-lounging needs. Get some fresh air and take in the river views along the Sandy River or hike, bike, and climb in the surrounding Mt. Hood area.

Rate: $131/night

Rhododendron, OR — Sycamore Lodge

Vibe: Handcrafted habitat

Sycamore Lodge serves up a traditional ski chalet feel with its very wooden interior and mountain-sport decor. Numerous relaxing options are available here, from the large central fireplace downstairs, the lofted wood stove lounge area, to the outdoor hot tub and patio. Ski or snowboard at nearby mountains or spend a day at Mt. Hood Adventure Park for some adrenaline. Though the intensely edited photography may be a bit of a turn off, this proper log cabin is impressive. What kind of mountain cabin list would this be if we didn’t include a lodge like this?

Rate: $315/night