Pacific Northwest skiers looking to change up their Cascade cement ski days now have the option for a direct flight to the home of Champagne Powder.
On July 23, 2026, Alaska Airlines announced a brand-new seasonal nonstop flight from Portland International Airport (PDX) to Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN), which sits just outside Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
The new route begins operations on February 11, 2027, and will fly direct from Oregon to Colorado on Thursdays and Saturdays through March 28, 2027, making for an easy weekend trip.
Flights will depart PDX at 10:40 a.m. and arrive in Hayden at 2:05 p.m. or leave Hayden at 2:45 p.m. and arrive at PDX by 4:35 p.m. Both flights operate twice a week on an Embraer 175 aircraft. Alaska Airlines allows passengers to check ski & snowboard equipment under 115 inches long and 50lb. for a standard checked baggage fee of $35, as well as a boot/helmet bag.
Photo: Courtesy Steamboat Resort
Nestled in the northeastern corner of the state, Steamboat is roughly a three-hour drive from Denver and the Denver International Airport. This new direct flight eliminates the need for a long drive, a connecting flight, or winter delays and can help maximize a trip for PNW skiers.
Alongside the snow, Steamboat is teeming with other fun things to do in the winter. The town was built on top of a large geothermal network of hot springs. For a more family-friendly experience, you can enjoy the large thermal pools, complete with rock walls and water slides, at Old Town Hot Springs in downtown Steamboat.
For a more serene wilderness experience, Strawberry Park Hot Springs near Buffalo Pass are some of the most beautiful, well-built hot springs in the state. It’s also easy to catch live music at one of the town’s venues, like Old Town Pub, or you can plan a whole weekend of bluegrass and beer at Winter Wondergrass, which returns to Steamboat March 5-7, 2027.
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