Ranger-Guided Snowshoe Walks

In an average winter, Crater Lake National Park receives 42 feet of snow! Ranger-guided snowshoe walks are a fun way to explore this winter wonderland while learning how plants, animals, and people survive the harsh conditions.

 

Walks are offered on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from late November through April, conditions permitting. They also take place on weekdays during Winter Break and Spring Break.

They start at 12:30 pm, last two hours, and cover 1 to 2 miles of moderate-to-strenuous terrain. They don’t follow a trail—the hike is an off-trail exploration through the forests and meadows along the rim of Crater Lake. On days when the road to Rim Village is closed, they explore the forests and meadows near Park Headquarters. An adequate amount of snow is needed on the ground in order for walks to begin. Walks are subject to cancellation due to severe weather conditions or lack of snow.

 

There is no cost for the tour, apart from the park’s winter entrance fee of $20 per vehicle. Snowshoes are provided free of charge and no previous snowshoeing experience is necessary. Participants must be at least 8 years old and come prepared with warm clothing and water-resistant footwear. Pets are not allowed.

 

Space on each tour is limited and advance reservations are required. For more information and to sign up, call 541-594-3100. Outdoor clubs, scout troops, and other organized groups of 10 or more people may be able to arrange for a separate tour, staff permitting.