You’re driving up Highway 26, the air is getting thinner, and the Douglas firs are starting to look like giants. Most people are rushing. They’re gunning it for Government Camp or Timberline, obsessed with getting to the snow or the trails. But if you’re actually paying attention in Zigzag, Oregon, you’ll see it. It’s the place with the massive fire pit and the kind of porch that looks like it was built by a mountain man with a penchant for live blues. That’s the Skyway Bar and Grill.
It’s not just a restaurant. Honestly, it’s more like a communal living room for the Mt. Hood corridor. While most tourist traps offer frozen burger patties and overpriced beer, Skyway has spent decades carving out a reputation for legitimate, wood-fired barbecue and a vibe that feels surprisingly authentic for being right on the main drag.
People get it wrong. They think it's just a pit stop. It isn't.
The Real Deal on the Skyway Bar and Grill Smoker
Let's talk about the smoke. You can smell it before you see the building. We aren't talking about liquid smoke or some electric cabinet tucked in a kitchen corner. They use real wood. The Skyway Bar and Grill specializes in a style of BBQ that leans heavily into the Pacific Northwest identity—rugged, hearty, and unapologetic.
Their pulled pork is the anchor. It’s slow-smoked until it basically gives up and falls apart at the suggestion of a fork. Then you have the brisket. Brisket is the ultimate test of any pitmaster, and here, they manage to keep that moisture locked in while developing a bark that’s dark and peppery. It’s the kind of food that makes you want to cancel your afternoon plans and just sit by the fire.
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Most folks don't realize that the "Mac and Cheese" is arguably more famous than the meats. It’s a heavy-hitter. It’s thick, creamy, and topped with a crust that provides that necessary crunch. If you’re coming off the mountain after a day of snowboarding or hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, this dish is basically a legal requirement for recovery.
The Backyard Experience
If the food is the heart, the backyard is the soul.
The outdoor area at Skyway Bar and Grill is legendary. It’s a sprawling, eclectic space filled with mismatched chairs, metal art, and a massive fire hole that seems to burn year-round. There’s something deeply satisfying about sitting outside in the crisp mountain air, a local IPA in hand, watching the sparks fly up toward the stars. It’s messy. It’s loud. It’s perfect.
During the summer, this place is a madhouse in the best way possible. They host live music constantly. We’re talking blues, folk, and rock bands that actually know how to play. The acoustics of the trees and the wood-heavy architecture create this warm, fuzzy sound that you just can't replicate in a city club.
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- Get there early if it's a Saturday.
- Grab a seat by the fire.
- Don't worry about the wait; the people-watching is top-tier.
Why Zigzag Isn't Just a Pass-Through Anymore
For years, Zigzag was just a name on a map for people heading to the summit. But establishments like the Skyway Bar and Grill changed the gravity of the area. It created a reason to stop. Now, you’ll see a mix of grizzled locals who have lived in the woods for forty years sitting right next to weekend warriors from Portland wearing brand-new Patagonia gear.
The "Skyway vibe" is hard to pin down but easy to feel. It’s a bit of 70s ski culture mixed with a gritty roadhouse aesthetic. There are antlers on the walls and vintage signs everywhere. It feels lived-in. In a world of "Instagrammable" restaurants that feel sterile and planned, Skyway feels like it evolved naturally over time, like moss on a rock.
The Drink Situation
You can't have a roadhouse without a serious bar. They focus heavily on Northwest craft. You'll find a rotating selection of taps from breweries in Hood River, Portland, and Bend. But don't sleep on the cocktails. They do a Bloody Mary that's basically a meal in itself, often garnished with enough pickled vegetables to count as a salad.
The "hot drinks" menu is the secret weapon during the winter. When the snow is dumping outside and Highway 26 is a mess of tire chains and slow-moving SUVs, ducking into the Skyway for a hot buttered rum or a spiked coffee is a spiritual experience.
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Navigating the Crowds and the Menu
Here is the truth: Skyway gets busy. Very busy. If you show up at 6:00 PM on a Friday during ski season, you’re going to be waiting. But that’s sort of the point. The wait is part of the ritual. You hang out by the fire, you talk to strangers, and you realize that everyone is there for the same reason—to decompress from the "real world" down in the valley.
- The Ribs: Dry-rubbed and substantial. No mushy meat here.
- The Wings: Smoked then finished, giving them a depth you don't get from a deep fryer.
- Vegetarian Options: Surprisingly, they exist and aren't an afterthought. The salads are fresh, and the mac is meat-free (unless you add the bacon, which you probably should).
One thing people often overlook is the service. It’s mountain service. It’s friendly, maybe a little laid back, but they know their stuff. They aren't going to hover over you, but they'll make sure your glass isn't empty when the band starts their second set.
A Note on the "Old School"
The Skyway has a history. It’s been through different iterations over the decades, but the current soul of the place has been intact for a long time. It survived the lean years and the wild winters. This resilience is reflected in the decor—every piece of junk art in the yard has a story. Ask the staff about the "Big Foot" sightings or the history of the building itself if you want a real local education.
Is Skyway Bar and Grill Worth the Trip?
If you’re looking for white tablecloths and tiny portions, keep driving. Honestly, just don't stop. But if you want food that sticks to your ribs and an atmosphere that makes you forget about your emails, the Skyway Bar and Grill is the peak of Mt. Hood hospitality.
It’s the kind of place where your boots can be muddy and your hair can be messy from a helmet. Nobody cares. In fact, you’ll probably fit in better that way. It’s a slice of Oregon that hasn't been polished down into a boring, corporate version of itself.
Actionable Ways to Make the Most of Your Visit
- Timing is Everything: Aim for "off-peak" hours (late lunch or early dinner on weekdays) to snag the best seats near the stage or the fireplace without a two-hour wait.
- Check the Calendar: Visit their official website or social media pages before you head up to see who is playing. The live music is a core part of the experience, and some nights lean more toward quiet acoustic sets while others are full-blown dance parties.
- Dress for the Elements: Even in the summer, Zigzag gets chilly once the sun drops behind the mountains. If you want to enjoy the backyard, bring a flannel or a light jacket.
- Plan Your Transportation: If you’re staying in Government Camp or Welches, check for local shuttle options or ensure you have a designated driver. The mountain roads are no joke, especially after a couple of those stiff Skyway cocktails.
- Take a Piece Home: They often sell their own sauces or merchandise. If you find yourself craving that specific smoke flavor back in the city, grabbing a bottle of sauce is a solid move.
The next time you find yourself crossing the Sandy River and heading up into the trees, keep your eyes peeled for that neon sign in Zigzag. Pull over, grab a plate of ribs, and take a second to breathe in the pine-scented smoke. You won't regret it.