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Exploring the Park on Skis
or Snowshoes
Ski trails at Crater Lake National Park
Click to enlarge |
Beginning Skier Trails
Wizard Island Overlook
The most popular ski trail in the park, this gently rolling route
follows the park's west rim drive and provides spectacular views
of Crater Lake. Round-trip to Discovery Point: 2 miles Round-trip
to Wizard Island Overlook:
5 miles (8 km)
Mazama Village Loop
This loop through Mazama Village provides easy, flat skiing conditions
for beginners. The trail begins just north of the park's entrance
station. Round-trip: 1 mile (1.6 km)
Intermediate Skier Trails
Hemlock Trail
This rolling wander through an ancient Mountain Hemlock forest
features views of Crater Lake and the Klamath Basin. Round-trip:
2 miles (3.2 km)
Sun Notch Trail
This is a good alternative to skiing along the caldera rim when
the winds are strong. Sun Notch offers a spectacular view of
Crater Lake, and directly overlooks the Phantom Ship. During
high avalanche danger, use the marked avalanche bypass route.
Round-trip: 10 miles (16 km)
Advanced Skier Trails
Raven Trail
Beginning directly east of Crater Lake Lodge at Rim Village,
this trail is a favorite with telemark skiers as it descends
steeply to park headquarters. One-way: 1 mile (1.6 km)
Dutton Creek
This trail descends steeply and includes several sharp turns
as it winds toward the Annie Springs area. One-way: 4.5 miles
(7.2 km)
Be
Safe!
The park's winter weather can be beautiful, but dangerous. Sudden
snowstorms, cold temperatures, and icy road conditions may create
hazards for unprepared visitors. Following park regulations will
help to ensure you a safe visit:
 Keep a safe distance from the
rim of the caldera. Hazards include steep, slippery slopes and
hidden snow cornices. Entering the caldera is extremely dangerous
and is strictly prohibited.
Please use plowed parking lots
and do not park along the roadways. Overnight car camping in
parking lots is not permitted.
Do not use roadside snow banks
as snow play areas.
Do not feed or disturb wildlife.
Pets must be kept on leashes,
and are not allowed beyond paved roads and parking lots.
Free backcountry permits are
required for all overnight trips.
Be Prepared!
Proper planning and preparation are important before heading
into the backcountry. Inquire at park visitor centers for current
weather, avalanche, and snow conditions.
It's easy to get lost during snowstorms. White-out situations
may occur and rapidly falling snow can quickly cover your tracks.
In an emergency, you might have to stay in the backcountry longer
than planned... possibly overnight.
Carry extra gear necessary to survive an unplanned night out.
Always include the following in your daypack:
Map and compass
Waterproof clothing
Extra gloves and socks
Plenty of water
High energy food
 The Crater Lake Ski Patrol
We are fortunate to have a group of dedicated volunteers from
local communities to assist park staff with trail patrol, search
and rescue, and medical emergencies.
Members of the Crater Lake Ski Patrol can be identified by
their bright red parkas and hats with the ski patrol emblem.
Feel free to contact them for help with any problems or questions
you might have.
For further information on ski patrol activities or volunteering,
please write to:
Crater Lake Ski Patrol
Attn: John Broward
P.O. Box 7
Crater Lake, OR 97604
 The
Crater Lake Natural History Association
Reflections is made possible by a donation
from the Crater Lake Natural History Association, a private,
non-profit organization that supports interpretive programs and
research at Crater Lake National Park. The Association derives
its funds through the sales of interpretive, educational and
informational publications at the Steel Information Center. For
information and mail orders, contact:
Crater Lake Natural History Association
P.O. Box 157
Crater Lake, OR 97604
(541) 594-2211 Ext. 498
This issue of Reflections was designed, written, and
edited by Kevin L. Bacher.
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