Crater Lake National Park offers stunning winter landscapes and excellent opportunities for snowshoeing and skiing. Visitors can rent equipment both within and outside the park. The Rim Village Café & Gift Shop provides snowshoe rentals, while several outfitters within a 2-hour drive offer cross-country ski and snowshoe rentals. Marked and ungroomed trails are available for various skill levels, and guided tours enhance the experience.
Where Can I Rent Snowshoes and Skis Near Crater Lake?
Within Crater Lake National Park
Snowshoe rentals are available at the Rim Village Café & Gift Shop. Here are the key details:
- Operating hours: 10 am to 3 pm
- No overnight rentals permitted
- No advance reservations
- For more information: Call 541-594-2255 extension 3309
Outside Crater Lake National Park
There are nine outfitters within a 2-hour drive of Park Headquarters that offer cross-country ski and/or snowshoe rentals. These include:
- Roe Outfitters (Klamath Falls)
- Running Y Ranch Resort (Klamath Falls)
- Cascade Ski Center (Bend)
- Pine Mountain Sports (Bend)
- REI (Bend)
- Ashland Mountain Adventures (Ashland)
- Rogue Valley Family Fun Center (Central Point)
- Diamond Lake Resort (Diamond Lake)
- Three Rivers Resort (Chiloquin)
It’s recommended to contact these outfitters directly for pricing, operating hours, and available equipment.
What Trails Are Available for Snowshoeing and Skiing?
Crater Lake offers a variety of marked and unmarked trails for winter activities:
- Rim Drive: Closed and unplowed during winter, making it a popular ski route from November to April.
- Marked Trails: More popular ski trails are marked for easier navigation.
- Ungroomed Trails: All trails are ungroomed, providing a natural experience.
| Trail Difficulty | Description |
|---|---|
| Easy | Suitable for beginners, relatively flat terrain |
| Moderate | Some elevation changes, requires basic skills |
| Difficult | Steep sections, recommended for experienced users |
First-time visitors are advised to follow established ski routes due to potentially deep snow and challenging navigation. Maps and descriptions of ski trails are available in the park’s newspaper.
What Permits and Regulations Should I Be Aware Of?
- A backcountry permit is required for trekking around the entire lake.
- Participants should be experienced in winter camping, backcountry travel, and avalanche safety.
- Snowshoers are requested to stay off ski tracks as a courtesy to skiers.
What Amenities Are Available for Snowshoers and Skiers?
Within Crater Lake National Park
- Rim Village Café & Gift Shop:
- Offers snowshoe rentals
-
Basic amenities available
-
Information Centers:
- Steel Information Center at Park Headquarters
- Rim Information Desk in the Cafeteria Building at Rim Village
- Ranger Station in the Canfield Building
- Provide information on trail conditions, weather, and park activities
Outside Crater Lake National Park
Outfitters and tour operators like Wanderlust Tours offer additional services:
- Transportation
- Guided tours
- Equipment rentals
- Meals (often included in tour packages)
Are There Guided Tours Available?
Yes, several guided tour options are available:
- Wanderlust Tours:
- Operates from November to June
- Includes naturalist guides, transportation, lunch, and snowshoes
- Tours run from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
-
Safety is the top priority; trips may be postponed or cancelled due to road conditions
-
Public Winter Tour (February 15th, 2025):
- Minimum group size: 8 people
- Includes deli-style lunch, transportation, and naturalist guide
-
Waterproof boots and pants available for rent
-
Ranger-Guided Walks:
- Free 90-minute ecology walks on snowshoes
- Offered on winter weekends at 1:00 PM
- Reservations available by calling 541-594-3100
What Should I Pack for Snowshoeing or Skiing at Crater Lake?
Essential items for your winter adventure:
- Warm, layered clothing
- Waterproof outer layer
- Sturdy, waterproof boots
- Gloves or mittens
- Hat or beanie
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Water and snacks
- Map and compass
- First aid kit
- Emergency shelter (for backcountry trips)
How Can I Ensure a Safe Experience?
- Check weather and trail conditions before heading out
- Inform someone of your plans and expected return time
- Stay on marked trails unless experienced in backcountry navigation
- Carry essential safety gear, including a communication device
- Be aware of early sunset times in winter
- Know your physical limits and turn back if conditions worsen
Renting snowshoes and skis near Crater Lake offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the winter wonderland of this unique national park. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced winter sports enthusiast, the diverse trails and rental options cater to all levels. Remember to prioritize safety, respect the environment, and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Crater Lake in its snowy splendor.
References:
- https://www.craterlakeinstitute.com/what-to-do/planning-your-visit/skiing-and-snowshoeing/
- https://www.nps.gov/crla/planyourvisit/xc-ski-and-snowshoe-rentals.htm
- https://craterlakeskipatrol.com/skiing-snowshoeing/