bring your board. Of course the amount of snow depends on the weather and with changing weather patterns who know for sure. We were there in august and they were still skiing further up the slope. You can go out to the Timberline web site and if I remember correctly they give you the average snowfall for the last few years

Yes, there are several places to relax near a fireplace, looking out the windows or in one of their restaurants/bars. Enjoy!

If you mean 10 days without coming back, you should inform the lodge. If you are just taking day hikes, they wouldn't even know. It's part of the National park system

Make no mistake about Mt. Hood, it is a "Climb" no "hike". I have climbed it once, at age 50, but only after a number of rigorous hikes first. Guides will require a 1/2 day training session in advance to build skills, like self-arrest. I used Timberline Mt. Guides. It is the 2nd most climbed in the world but many have died due to inexperience, poor judgement on weather, or just bad luck. It is a fabulous experience, but prepare for it. (My great-great grandfather, Pittock, lead the first documented climb in mid-1850's.)

Timberline Mountain Guides is located on site at the ski lodge. I have made the summit numerous times with their mountain guides. I cannot recommend them enough.

There are amazing trails departing directly from the Timberline Lodge including the Pacific Crest Trail. The Forest Service has maps for you on site. I have hiked many and the views are incredible.