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Does Banks Oregon Get Snow?

Learn about Does Banks Oregon Get Snow?

Yes—let’s answer this right away. Does Banks Oregon Get Snow? Sometimes, but not a lot. Banks sits at low elevation in the Tualatin Valley, so winters are mostly rainy with a few light snow events. This guide explains what to expect, how often it snows, travel tips, and local resources.

Quick Answer

Banks, Oregon gets occasional snow in winter, usually a light dusting to a couple of inches that melts within a day or two. Some winters bring none at all. Every few years, a bigger storm drops several inches. Nearby hills and the Coast Range get more frequent snow and ice than downtown Banks.

What Does Banks Oregon Get Snow? Means

When people ask this, they want to know if winter brings regular, walk-out-the-door snow in town. The short version: Banks is more rain than snow. You’ll see flakes some winters (mainly December–February), but deep, lasting snow is uncommon at town level. The surrounding hills, including L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, get snow more often.

What to Expect

• Typical winter weather:
  • Highs in the 40s–50s F, lows in the 30s.
  • Rain is common; snow is occasional.
  • Black ice and freezing rain happen some winters and can be more disruptive than snow.
• Snow frequency in town:
  • Many years: 0–2 minor snow days.
  • Usual accumulation: a dusting to 1–3 inches.
  • Bigger storms: every few years, 3–8 inches.
  • Snow often melts quickly at Banks’ elevation (~200–300 feet).
• Higher elevations nearby:
  • L.L. Stub Stewart State Park (about 6 miles west, up to ~1,500 feet) sees snow/ice more often and may hold snow longer.
  • US-26 over the Coast Range (toward Seaside/Tillamook) can have chain requirements and frequent winter snow/ice at the summit.
• Travel notes:
  • From Banks, it’s about 25–30 miles west of Portland (35–45 minutes in normal conditions via US-26).
  • Hillsboro is ~10–12 miles southeast; Forest Grove ~9 miles south.
  • Hagg Lake (Scoggins Valley Park) is ~15–20 miles south; higher spots near the lake can be slick in cold snaps.

Tips for Visitors / Residents

• Be weather-aware:
  • Check National Weather Service (Portland) forecasts before early-morning drives.
  • Look for freezing rain and black ice alerts—these can shut things down fast.
• Driving:
  • In town, you rarely need chains. For the Coast Range on US-26, carry chains or traction tires when storms are forecast.
  • OR-47 and local backroads can be icy in shaded areas and on bridges.
• Around town:
  • Snow often arrives overnight—plan extra time for the morning commute.
  • Schools (Banks School District) announce closures/delays on FlashAlert and social media.
• Outdoor plans:
  • For casual snow play nearby, check Stub Stewart State Park first—it’s the most likely local spot to hold snow.
  • The Banks–Vernonia State Trail can be icy after storms; watch for fallen limbs and shaded slick patches.
• Gear and home prep:
  • Keep an ice scraper, de-icer, and warm layers handy.
  • Short power blips can happen in wind/ice—charge devices and keep flashlights ready.

Best Local Resources

• National Weather Service (Portland): Detailed forecast, winter storm warnings.
• ODOT TripCheck: Live cameras and road conditions for US-26 and OR-47.
• Banks School District / FlashAlert: School closures and delays.
• Washington County Sheriff / Emergency Management: Local advisories.
• PGE Outage Map: Power outage updates for the Banks area.

Frequently Asked Questions About Does Banks Oregon Get Snow?

• How far is Banks from Portland?
  • About 25–30 miles west via US-26, typically 35–45 minutes without weather delays.
• When is the best chance for snow?
  • Late December through February. March can still bring a dusting, but many winters see little or none in town.
• Will I need chains?
  • In town, rarely. For the Coast Range on US-26 or higher-elevation parks like Stub Stewart, carry chains or use traction tires when storms are forecast.
• Is it kid-friendly for snow play?
  • In-town snow is hit-or-miss. For better odds, try Stub Stewart State Park after a cold snap, or head to Mt. Hood (1.5–2 hours east) for reliable snow.
• Does the Banks–Vernonia Trail stay open?
  • Generally yes, but expect icy sections or temporary closures after wind or heavy snow. Check state park updates before you go.

Summary

• Does Banks Oregon Get Snow? Yes—but usually just light, short-lived events.
• Most winters bring a dusting or a couple of inches; some bring none; big storms are occasional.
• Higher elevations nearby see more snow and ice.
• Check forecasts and road conditions, especially if you’re driving US-26 toward the Coast Range.