Steens Mountain Nordic BC Ski and Snow Camping Trip

Activity Notes

The slopes of Steens Mountain (9733 ft) often hold the winter snowpack until mid June. These conditions can provide solitude and long sunny days of spring skiing!  Meet at Burns BLM office at 8am Friday.  We'll obtain the road gate key from the BLM office, caravan up to the snow line, then ski up the road to find a good base camp at or above Jackman Park (7700').  We'll explore the surrounding area on skis the rest of the weekend, before skiing out and driving home Sunday. Participants should be able to ski minimum 12 miles/day, carrying a pack or pulling a sled.  Distance skied per day will depend on how far past the gate we can park.  Graduates of Mazamas Nordic Backcountry are encouraged to apply! Gear: Backcountry Nordic (not alpine touring) skis.   Camping will be on snow. Note it is a 5.5 hour drive one-way to Burns OR.  Staying overnight at Crane Hot Springs on Thursday night is optional but recommended!