About ONC

ONC History

Formed as a non-profit volunteer organization in 1968 by a handful of Nordic ski enthusiasts interested in using public lands for recreational cross-country skiing, the Portland Chapter of the Oregon Nordic Club quickly grew to over 400 members. With activities year-round, the Portland Chapter is dedicated to promoting greater participation in and understanding of the value of outdoor recreation with an emphasis on Nordic skiing.

ONC Activities

Year round activities include:
  • Monthly meeting/potluck and presentation
  • Nordic Issues
  • Nordic trail development and conservation
  • Clinics and lessons
Snow season events:
  • Nordic tours on groomed and ungroomed trails
  • Backcountry and telemark skiing
  • Lessons and novice tours
  • Weekend and week-long trips to Nordic ski resorts
  • One day ski tours, on weekends and mid-week
  • Skijoring trips.
Events during other seasons:
  • Hiking
  • Road and mountain bike tours
  • Car camping
  • Backpacking
  • Kayaking/Canoeing

Monthly Membership Meetings

On the first Tuesday of each month, a general membership meeting is held at the Multnomah Art Center with potluck beginning at 6:30 PM. At 7:30 PM, we have announcements and a program related to Nordic skiing or other outdoor events appealing to guests and club members. Meetings are free, and non-members are welcome!

Potluck participants should bring their own dishes (plate, cup, and eating utensils - disposables are discouraged), a beverage, and a food item to share.

The Multnomah Art Center (MAC) is located at 7688 SW Capitol Highway, Portland Oregon. See the directions page for a map and directions.

Teacup Lake Groomed Trails

You've seen the sign on Mt. Hood Highway 35, but did you know the Oregon Nordic Club helps maintain a system of groomed trails at Teacup Lake? Open to racers and recreational skiers alike, Teacup offers 20 kilometers of groomed trails and a day use cabin. Maintenance of the trails is financed in part by the $5 donation made by those using the system. Dogs and snowshoes are not allowed on the trails.

You can Join the Teacup Chapter of the Oregon Nordic Club for $35.00 individual, $55.00 family and forgo the $5.00 donation per visit. There are reduced rates for those still in school. The Teacup chapter has its own membership form.

Nordic Issues

Working closely with the US Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management (BLM), we present a unified voice for Portland area Nordic skiers. Issues include trail development, trail maintenance, snow parks, trail fees, as well as environmental concerns affecting our natural resources.

Racing

The Portland Chapter participates in numerous racing events. The state organization, Oregon Nordic Clubs, sponsors the annual John Craig Memorial Race. This race commemorates the pioneering spirit of John Craig, the mail carrier who died in 1877 while 'skiing the mail' over the McKenzie Pass in a blizzard. The race, plus a noncompetitive tour, retraces Craig's snowy route to the top of the pass. This race draws hundreds of skiers of all levels. y. More information can be found on the John Craig event web page.

Mazama Lodge

Oregon Nordic Club members are eligible to use the Mazamas' beautiful lodge on the southern slopes of Mt. Hood. Current prices are shown on the Mazama Lodge web page. Both accommodation and meals are of high quality and are unbelievably good value for money.

1999–2008 Portland Chapter ONC. All Rights Reserved.