Winter Sports
The recreational opportunities continue on the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest during the long winter months with all types of winter sports. From mid-December through late April visitors come to the Forest to enjoy hundreds of miles of snowmobile trails, cross country skiing and snowshoeing, and sled dog racing, sledding and general snow play.
For those wishing to downhill and Nordic ski, the Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort ski area is a short drive off of Interstate 84 with overnight lodging and restaurants at several local communities.
Click for more information on the Anthony Lakes Area and Grande Ronde Lake Sno-Parks.
Winter Condition Information
Avalanche Safety - Safe backcountry travel requires preparation, planning, and experience. If you travel in the backcountry during the winter, we strongly urge you to consider advanced education. The Wallowa Avalanche Center provides Northeast Oregon condition summaries, and back country reports, as well as education and weather links.
Forest Road Conditions - Advisory
During the winter season motor-vehicular use is allowed on some Forest Service roads that are not groomed for snowmachine use, or not closed with a Forest order. However visitors should be aware that changing winter road conditions may restrict their use. Some roads may be impassable due to snow levels, frozen surfaces, downed trees, or other hazardous conditions. Be prepared! If you are planning a visit during the winter season, make sure you check current weather forecasts and take the proper clothing and equipment to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
State Road Conditions - State road conditions can be found on these links:
- Oregon Department of Transportation "Trip Check"
- Idaho Transportation Department - Travel Information
- Washington State Department of Transportation - Traveller Information
Snowmobile Riding and Management
Snowmobile Registration and Decal Requirements
All riders must have a registered snowmobile with a valid Oregon snowmobile decal to operate their machines on National Forest Service lands in Oregon. Information about purchasing an Oregon snowmobile decal, registration, operator requirements, and obtaining an out-of-state trip permit is found on the Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles website.
Snowmobile Routes
The Wallowa-Whitman National Forest's season for grooming snowmobile routes coincides with the State's designated Sno-park permit season. For Oregon, this is November 1st through April 30th. However due to snow levels, route grooming by our local snowmobile club partners may not begin in November. During the snowmobile route season when the routes are being groomed, wheeled vehicular use (e.g. ATVs and 4x4s) is not permitted on the routes in accordance with Oregon Revised Statute (ORS 821.295).
Minimizing Snowmobile Impacts
The ability of snowmobiles to venture into all types of forest terrain can lead to resource impacts if not used responsibly. Try to minimize your impacts and respect other wintertime visitors to the Forest.
Snowmobile Partners and Organizations
Snowmobile partners and local organizations assist the Forest in; operating and maintaining trails, planning and implementing projects, and providing information about local riding areas and being a responsible operator.
The Oregon State Snowmobile Association (OSSA) is an organization of individuals, snowmobile clubs, and businesses working together to preserve, protect, and enhance the sport of snowmobiling. Statewide OSSA manages the grooming program under agreement with Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), and in cooperation with local snowmobile clubs. These local snowmobiles clubs volunteer hundreds of hours each year maintaining and grooming the forest's trails.
Search for Winter Sports Opportunities
Antlers Guard Station
Blue Springs Summit Sno-Park
Catherine Summit Sno-Park
Clear Creek Sno-Park
Grande Ronde Sno-Park
Mason Dam Boat Launch
Millers Lane Campground
Mowich Loop Picnic Area
Salt Creek Summit Sno-Park
Social Security Point Trailhead