One frequent question I see posted on social media is where the overnight parking is at Timberline Lodge. There seems to be a little lack of information that is split between Timberline Lodge and ODOT. As always, make sure to check for yourself, but this is the latest information I have.
[Update for 2024] I reached out to Timberline Lodge directly to get some current information and still got some mixed results. They seem to request that overnight parking be in the lower Salmon River Lot (in the image above the Salmon River Lot is at the top right of the image). The start of the parking around the concrete barrier is now reserved as an overflow for the hotel guests.
The overnight parking area is in the main Timberline Lodge car park, facing the concrete barrier. This is the highlighted area that is highlighted in the above picture. At some times of the year, there seem to be signs that indicate that this is the correct area to park. I suspect these may be there in winter when snow clearing operations are in effect.
What’s the cost to park at Timberline Lodge? In the summer months, there is no charge to park. Indeed nor is a Northwest Forest Pass required at Timberline Lodge. In the winter months, a Sno-Park pass is required. This is from the 1st of November to April 30th.
Timberline Lodge is a great location. It is relatively safe and well-traveled. There are great facilities at the lodge and Wy’East day lodge. It is also the entry point to some great hikes, from a day hike to Paradise Park to the iconic Timberline Trail.
Looking for other great hikes – check out these area hikes.
Summary
- Use the lower Salmon River Lot
- Park facing the concrete barrier on your left as you enter the main parking lot, towards the end of the main lot
- No fee to park in summer, no Northwest Forest Pass needed
- Sno-Park pass needed from 1st of November to 30th April