Ray Benson Sno-Park
The Ray Benson Sno-Park provides access to multiple ski and snowmobile trails on the Willamette National Forest as well as ski and snowmobile trails on the Deschutes National Forest. The trail systems access three warming shelters on the Deschutes National Forest; Brandenburg Butte, Island Junction and North Blowout.
Map of the Ray Benson Nordic Ski Trails
Map of Santiam Pass Nordic Ski Trails and Snowmobile Trails
Facilities:
- Two restrooms
- Warming hut
- Orientation maps
- Staging area with snub posts for sled dogs
- Concessions and telephone are located nearby at Hoodoo Ski Area.
Know Before You Go in Winter: Tips on how to plan ahead and prepare for your trip to ensure the best possible time for you and others who will be sharing the snow with you.
After snow melts, Ray Benson Sno-Park closes as a sno-park and reopens as Santiam Pass OHV Motorized Recreation Area.
At a Glance
Current Conditions: | During the winter a Sno-Park permit is required. Cross-country ski and snowshoe trails are marked with blue blazes. Snowmobile trails are marked with orange blazes. Be cautious in areas that have seen past fire. Dead trees are likely to fall over throughout the winter. Maintain situational awareness, particularly when the wind starts to blow. Be on the lookout for occasional stumps that are buried just below the snow. The south loop has both ski/snowshoe trails and snowmobile trails. User groups are kept separate on designated trail systems. Make sure you know which trails you can be on. |
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Permit Info: | Sno-Park Permit Required |
Usage: | Heavy |
Restrictions: | Routes marked only with blue diamonds are NOT open to snowmobiles. |
Closest Towns: | McKenzie Bridge, OR |
Restroom: | Two restrooms |
Information Center: | McKenzie River Ranger District 57600 McKenzie Hwy McKenzie Bridge, OR 97413 541-822-3381 |
General Information
Directions:From McKenzie Bridge, OR, drive 38 miles northeast on Highway 126 to Santiam Pass.
Turn right to go south on Forest Road 2690 towards Hoodoo Ski area.
Past Hoodoo Ski area, turn left east on Forest Road 920 into Ray Benson Sno-Park.
General Notes:
Snow level information: Hogg Pass Snotel.
After snow melts, Ray Benson Sno-Park closes as a sno-park and reopens as Santiam Pass OHV Motorized Recreation Area.
Parking:
Oregon Department Of Transportation plows Ray Benson Sno-Park lots when conditions permit. Occasionally, lots will not be accessible or deep snow exists causing many vehicles to become stuck. Use caution when entering parking areas. Tents should not be set up within 300 feet of parking areas.
Activities
Mushing/Skijoring
Recreation areas with activity Mushing/Skijoring:XC Skiing/Snowshoeing
Recreation areas with activity XC Skiing/Snowshoeing:- Circle Lake Trail Snow Trail
- North Loop Snow Trail
- Pacific Crest Trail: Winter Snow Trail
- Sand Mountain Loop Snow Trail
- South Loop Snow Trail
- Two Buttes Cut-Off Snow Trail