Alternative 3 – Expanded Cross-Country Skiing
This alternative places emphasis on expanding cross-country skiing opportunities in the park by developing a groomed trail network in the Mazama Village area. In addition, facilities for overnight frontcountry camping would be provided in Mazama Village, assuming that development in this area occurred.
Snowmobiles
Under this alternative, the existing snowmobile route along the north entrance road would be maintained. No additional snowmobile access would be provided.
Cross-Country Skiing
Under this alternative, the existing ungroomed cross-country ski trail network would be maintained. In addition, a groomed cross-country ski trail system would be developed in Mazama Village. The preferred alternative supports maintaining the existing crosscountry trail network; however, no groomed trail system will be developed.
Development and maintenance of a groomed trail system in the park would require the use of mechanized snow machines or grooming equipment and would therefore be inconsistent with Management Objective 4, which seeks to maintain the quiet and solitude of Crater Lake’s backcountry areas by encouraging nonmotorized modes of travel. In addition, although it would provide opportunities for beginning skiers, a groomed trail system would serve primarily as a recreational activity and would not enhance the participants’ opportunity to enjoy park resources. For the majority of skiers who provided written response to the draft alternatives, a groomed trail system is not essential for use and enjoyment of Crater Lake National Park and would detract from the park’s backcountry wilderness experience. The U.S. Forest Service and Diamond Lake Resort provide groomed cross-country ski trails outside park boundaries.
Snowshoeing
Under this alternative, snowshoe walks would remain as previously discussed under the preferred alternative, with the option for additional guided walks in Mazama Village if this area is developed for winter use.
Overnight Camping – Frontcountry
Under this alternative, as with the preferred alternative, frontcountry camping would be prohibited in Rim Village. Camping facilities would be provided in Mazama Village. Overnight camping in Mazama Village would be reevaluated is this area is developed for winter use.
Overnight Camping – Backcountry
The existing backcountry permit system would be maintained under this alternative. In addition, the NPS would explore the option of developing a hut-to-hut system in the park to enhance the use of backcountry areas. The use of backcountry areas under the existing permit system is consistent with Management Objective 4; however, development of a hutto-hut system would be inconsistent with NPS policy regarding backcountry use. Public comment does not support development of a hut-to-hut system in the park, because many visitors feel it would detract from the backcountry wilderness experience.
