Snow buries Crater park: late opening likely because of depth

Mail Tribune
Medford, Oregon
March 04, 1999

KLAMATH FALLS -- Ongoing snow storms have buried buildings at Crater Lake National Park, likely delaying the opening of park facilities this spring and summer.

The snowpack was well above average Wednesday and some of the biggest snowstorms of the year are still expected.

Chief Ranger George Buckingham said the heavy snows will likely delay snowplowing on Rim Drive, which will in turn delay the opening of the North Entrance and lake boat tours.

Traditionally, the park attempts to open the North Entrance Road on Memorial Day Weekend and offer concession boat tours beginning in early to mid June.

The park received 2 inches of snow Tuesday night and early Wednesday. The park's on-ground snowpack totals 184 inches, well over the March 2 average of 113 inches.

So far this season the park has received 517 inches of snow. On average, the park receives about 550 inches of snow between July 1 and June 30. Based on park records, March and April are two of the heaviest snowfall months.

The north entrance to the park has been closed for some time and will remain closed for the season. The south entrance is open, but the road is blocked by snow from the park headquarters to the rim.

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