Intel on the various Mt. Hood ski areas?

I've never been to any of the Mt. Hood lift-accessed ski areas. It looks like there is a chance that the snow may shift southward sometime next week and I figure that is a good excuse for me to take a trip to Oregon.

I'll probably only have one day. Is there a big difference between Timberline, Meadows and Ski Bowl? Which should I go to?

For what it's worth my favorite local area is Baker. I much prefer the old-school, not-so-resorty places to the more fancy areas. Of course, great snow and terrain trumps all.

Thanks in advance for your opinions.

From what you have described, "Old School", you'll be happy at Ski Bowl. In my opinion I'd stay away from Timberline, uninteresting terrain and if you like long lift lines go to Meadows. Plus the Bowl is way cheaper than the other 2, the terrain is awesome, it's closer to Portland and with this weather we're having the place will just rock.

ditto... if theres new snow at Ski Bowl, definitely hit it....Ski Bowl is lower than the other resorts so it doesn't get snow as consistently, but its the most entertaining terrain around Mt.Hood (probably cause its not actually on Mt.Hood). Timberline is a good family resort and fun in the summertime, but in the winter its booooring. Meadows is good, but expensive and crowded.

i have been at baker for a long time and thought meadows was a great ski area for terrain and snow. i have never been to timberline or ski bowl. both timberline and meadows have night skiing for about $20 too.

ski bowl has night skiing too ( largest in NA according to the sign) and is quite fun. Meadows is more of a resourt but when Heather canyon is open it's smiles all around. Timberline is also fun and I love skinning up to crater rock or the zig zag glacier for a great workout and then skiing the miles back to Govy only to hitch a ride back to the lodge after a few tasty IPA's at the brew pub. To me that's the perfect day. 

between Meadows and Timberline I'd vote for Meadows hands-down. Busy and expensive yes.... but way better terrain, better protected, better lifts, better snow, more vertical. As far as I'm concerned Timberline is only worth it in the summer and/or for a visit to their super cool Lodge.

If you like Baker, Timberline will dissappoint big time: it's flat, windpacked (often), not interesting.

Hope that helps.