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Mountain Hosts

Become a Member of the Mountain Hosts

Thank you for expressing an interest in joining the Mountain Hosts, members of the Mt. Hood Ski Patrol. This synopsis is designed to give you an introduction to becoming a participating member.

Mountain Host apprentice class on the mountain

Who We Are

Mountain Hosts are an all-volunteer courtesy patrol serving Timberline Lodge and Timberline Summit Pass, providing safety and hospitality services indoors and out. Duties can include:

  • Meeting and greeting daily visitors
  • Providing information and support to skiers and snowboarders
  • Assisting guests with equipment rentals
  • Patrolling the slopes or assisting at the top of the chairlifts
  • Supporting the Ski Patrol with injured guests

Who We’re Looking For

You do not need to be an expert skier or snowboarder. We look for:

  • Strong intermediate ski or snowboard skills
  • Outgoing personalities who enjoy helping others
  • A love of the mountain environment
  • Age 18 or older

Hosts come from all walks of life: teachers, technicians, blue collar workers, white collar professionals, and retired individuals.

How to Join

  1. Attend an interview in the fall
  2. Pass a background check
  3. Join the apprentice class for the season
  4. Pay dues to Mt. Hood Ski Patrol

Identifying insignia and uniforms are provided during the apprentice year.

The Apprentice Year

  • A day-long Apprentice Orientation at the start of the season
  • A day of on-hill training
  • Mentoring by veteran Hosts throughout the season
  • 10 weekend days on the mountain, December through April
  • 1 additional shift supporting MHSP training or fundraising

Apprentices who complete the requirements and meet the standards of their apprentice year are nominated for membership. Upon approval of the Mt. Hood Ski Patrol Executive Council, they become Active Members of the Mountain Hosts.

Requirements

All Mt. Hood Mountain Hosts receive specialized training to ensure the safety and well-being of our guests. Basic requirements are listed below.

TrainingFrequencyDetails
CPREvery 2 yearsMust maintain current certification
Outdoor First CareEvery 2 yearsMust maintain current certification
Service RequirementAnnualMinimum 10 hosting days per year
Snow-covered trees under a blue sky on Mt. Hood
Fresh snow drifted beneath the trees at Timberline

We hold interviews for new Hosts each fall. Please contact us by email if you’re interested.

Mission Statement

The Mt. Hood Ski Patrol is a member driven organization primarily serving the Mt. Hood recreational community. It is dedicated to providing rescue, emergency care and public safety for the Mt. Hood recreational community.