Rules and Regulations |
Skiing around Crater Lake |
Ski Trails
For those desiring a winter backcountry adventure in a
spectacular setting, skiing around Crater Lake on the unplowed Rim Drive
is an unforgettable experience. The trip is thirty miles long and
typically requires three or four days, longer on snowshoes.
Although a
trip in either direction is possible, most people start at Rim Village
and proceed clockwise around the lake to Park Headquarters, with a net
loss of 700 feet of elevation. For groups with only one car, the Raven
Trail offers a connection between Park Headquarters and Rim Village.
Winter conditions at Crater Lake can be highly variable and can
change quickly. Backcountry visitors should be prepared for all possible
conditions. Prior to leaving for an overnight trip, your group will be
asked to complete a skills and equipment checklist and leave emergency
contact information.
Avalanches and icy conditions can create hazards at several points
along the Rim Drive. Please familiarize yourself with avalanche safety
precautions before your trip, and check on current avalanche conditions
upon your arrival at Crater Lake.
Distances and
Elevations on the Rim Drive
| Location |
Total
Mileage |
Distance
from last |
Total
Climb (ft) |
| Rim Village |
0.0 |
0.0 |
-- |
| Discovery Point |
1.1 |
1.1 |
50 |
| Lightning Springs Trailhead |
2.3 |
1.2 |
50 |
| Watchman Trailhead |
3.8 |
1.5 |
200 |
| North Junction |
6.1 |
2.3 |
200 |
| Cleetwood Cove |
10.7 |
4.6 |
450 |
| Wineglass |
13.5 |
2.8 |
350 |
| Skell Head |
14.9 |
1.4 |
400 |
| Cloudcap |
17.9 |
3.0 |
600 |
| Kerr Notch |
21.4 |
3.5 |
600 |
| Dutton Ridge |
24.0 |
2.6 |
650 |
| Sun Notch |
25.5 |
1.5 |
650 |
| Vidae Falls |
27.0 |
1.5 |
650 |
| Park Headquarters |
30.0 |
3.0 |
|
All mileages and elevation changes are along the Rim Drive and do not
consider any avalanche detour routes.
