Snowshoeing in Big Springs Sno Park

January 12, 2007


On January 6th, 2007, it was a winter wonderland in the Santiam Pass Winter Recreation Area (about 2 hours east of Salem, Oregon). Huge Ponderosa Pines covered in thick, white velvet at Big Springs Sno Park stretched past Detroit Lake on route 22. A Sno Park Pass is required. Definitely bring chains as they are required and necessary (we had to put on our cables). The parking lots were minimally filled and we began by blazing our own snowshoeing trails. There was hardly any showshoeing or cross-country skiing traffic in these areas compared to Mirror Lake near Government Camp outside of Portland. In fact, we barely passed anyone while making our way through the forest. At certain parts, the snow came up to my waist.

A good pair of 21 Tubbs snowshoes (womens) did a great job for me as I paved my way through the snow perusing up and down small hills. I definitely want to try some cross-country skiing in this area soon! The landscape was absolutely amazing! Big Springs Cross-Country Loop Trail is an intermediate level, 3.5 mile loop with varied terrain. If you're looking for a good, solid workout and magnificent scenery, this is the trail for you!

-Jessica Collins
Travel Oregon

Editor's Note: Before embarking on your snow-filled adventure, please be sure to check the weather, prepare an emergency kit, and obtain a sno-park permit.
Safe Travels!

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Comments (2)

Christy Barber:

As much as I love the snow, I have begun to plan some spring travels and I would highly recommend The Taste of Tillamook County being held in Tillamook on March 16-17-18. This family event will include amateur Mac and Cheese competitions, oyster shucking contests, live music by renowned Oregon artists, classes on wine and cheese pairings, tastings and much much more. I personally plan on attending this event and I hope to meet all of you there. For more information please visit www.tasteoftillamookcounty.com.

Posted by Christy Barber | January 12, 2007 6:57 PM

Laura Mark:

Looks beautiful, so that is where all the snow is! (No snow in Boston yet this season.)

Posted by Laura Mark | January 18, 2007 8:43 AM

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