According to last week’s report from Deschutes National Forest trail crew supervisor Joe Welke, deep snow persists in the high country but, as the snowline recedes, access is slowly expanding. Most trails above 5,000 feet have at least some snow. Welke said forest visitors should expect a late melt out. Broken Top Trailhead had 7-8 feet of snow above 6,500 feet as of May 23, Welke reported. For anyone looking for a June ski or snowshoe, Dutchman Sno-park still has adequate snow for winter recreation. Temporary signs have been removed, so visitor s are responsible for their own navigation.
Forecasts are predicting a bit of a chilly weekend for May. Temperatures could reach the 60s Friday, but expect cloudy days with temps staying in the 40s over the weekend and a chance of rain Saturday. With overcast, cool days and fresh snow in the mountains, some late-season turns may be the way to go. Not to mention, Mt. Bachelor is throwing a festival in its parking lot and base area. But folks looking for low-elevation fun are in luck. Many area trails are in great condition.
Deschutes National Forest trail crew supervisor Joe Welke wrote in this week s trail report that most lower elevation trails — below 4,500 feet — are snow free and dry. Phil s trails are open for business but beware that some upper portions of the system may still have patchy snow. Climb to higher trails while aware and assessing conditions, and please provide updates to Welke, bendtrails.org and the BendTrails Facebook group.
Weather forecasts predict clear, 60-degree days with temperatures dropping into the low 30s overnight. Expect sun through Monday and keep sunscreen at the ready.