Perched high atop the Siskiyou range and straddling the California-Oregon border is 7,523-foot Mount Ashland (541/482-2897, www.mtashland.com). To get here, take the Mount Ashland Exit off I-5 and follow the road 4 miles uphill.

While Mount Ashland is 15 miles from downtown Ashland by road, it’s only 8 miles away by Nordic ski trails. Skiers of all levels enjoy the 23 different runs, 100 miles of cross-country trails, and breathtaking vistas. The vertical drop here is 1,150 feet. An average of 325 inches of snow falls on the mountain, making it possible to ski from Thanksgiving through Easter.

Daily lift rates are $36 weekdays, $43 weekends, and lower rates are available for seniors and youth (ages 7–17); children under 7 ski free, and night skiing is $23. Don’t forget to purchase your Oregon Sno-Park permit.

Spring and fall are good times to visit Ashland, as accommodation rates are lower than during the peak summer tourist season. Many proprietors include discounted Mount Ashland lift tickets with the price of the guest room. Check with the Southern Oregon Reservation Center (110 E. Main St., Ashland, OR 97520, 541/482-3486, www.ashlandchamber.com) about available ski packages.

After the snow has melted, the walk to the top of Mount Ashland is an easy one with good views of the Siskiyou Mountains and 14,162-foot Mount Shasta in California. It’s prudent to bring along a sweater even in warm weather, as it can get fairly windy.

Ashland Mountain Supply (31 N. Main St., 541/488-2749) rents outdoor recreation equipment at reasonable rates.