Mount Hood, about 90 minutes east of Portland, Oregon, is a snow lover's dream with the longest ski season in North America at Timberline Lodge & Ski Area and America's largest night ski terrain at Mt. Hood Skibowl. But the secret is out, which means this low-key ski destination can be packed on weekends in the wintertime. Fortunately, timing is everything, and mid-week travel makes it possible to have your mountain and ski it too. It's super affordable this season with plenty of mid-week ski and mid-week lodging deals in Mt. Hood Territory.

At Timberline, if you stay one night Sunday through Thursday, two people ski for free the following day. Or double the memories; stay in one of The Lodge at Government Camp's spacious condos and receive two lift tickets for both Timberline Ski Area and Mt. Hood Skibowl. On the flip side, you may also present your season pass or lift ticket from any Mount Hood ski resort to receive a special rate starting at $99 on a fireside studio at The Resort at the Mountain.

Get your après-ski fix with a visit to Government Camp, a snow-covered alpine village fit for a postcard.  While there, check out Mt. Hood Cultural Center & Museum and don't miss their thoughtfully curated art gallery featuring local artists. Plus, no trip is complete without some locals' favorite Mt. Hood staples: a pint of Mt. Hood Brewing's flagship Ice Axe IPA and huckleberry pancakes from Huckleberry Inn. Don't drive in snow? You can still get between Timberline, Skibowl and Government Camp thanks to Mt. Hood Express.

There is also plenty of snowy fun beyond skiing and snowboarding. Explore Mount Hood National Forest on snowshoes, including the Crosstown Trail around Government Camp. If you want a guide, Mt. Hood Adventure offers tours. Their moonlight snowshoe excursion makes you feel like you're walking in a winter wonderland. They also hold the only snowmobiling permit on Mount Hood.

There are also plenty of excellent lodging deals for non-skiers. At both Mt. Hood Vacation Rentals and All Seasons Vacation Rentals, book two mid-week nights for half off the third night. Mt. Hood Vacation Rentals even offers the fourth night free. And Summit Meadow Cabins offers a free third night with a two-night cabin stay. 'Tis the season for savings!