Skiing and Snowshoe Rules and Regulations

Partially funded by CLI, the 2018 Ski Patrol training team. Crater Lake Institute donates equipment to this fine group.
Skiing around Crater Lake
Ski and Snowshoe Trails

The  National Park Service has issued this set of guidelines for winter use.

  • Sno-Park permits are not required to visit Crater Lake during the winter. Sno-Park permits are required for skiing in the adjacent National Forests.
  • Do not ski or snowshoe on plowed roads or parking areas. Please put on your skis or snowshoes only after leaving the roadway.
  • No overnight lodging is available in the park during winter and roadside camping is not permitted. Backcountry camping is allowed with a free backcountry permit.
  • All backcountry campers must register at a park Visitor Center for a free permit before camping. Campers must ski or snowshoe to their campsite. The following areas are closed to camping:
    • Within one mile of any plowed road
    • Within one mile of Boundary Springs or Sphagnum Bog
    • Within 100 feet of any water source
    • Within visibility of any other backcountry campers or ski trails
  • Entering the caldera is extremely dangerous and strictly forbidden. Stay well back from the edge of any drop-off. Snow overhangs, called cornices, can fall away without warning.
  • You are responsible for your own safety. Our volunteer ski patrol operates only on weekends. Even during patrolled periods, not all trails and possible routes can be canvassed.
  • Pets are not allowed on any ski routes.
  • Firearms are not permitted anywhere in the park.
  • No open fires are permitted during the winter season. This is to protect the exposed vegetation. During the summer, dead and downed wood may be used for campfires; during the winter, however, it is covered by deep snow.
  • Camping parties are restricted to no more than eight people per party. Groups larger than eight must break into smaller groups, travelling and camping separately.

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