Bechtel Shelter

Open — Open year-round for day use and overnight stays on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations or fees. Accessed via 2.3-mile ski or snowshoe from Gold Lake Sno-Park during winter months.

About

Bechtel Shelter is a three-sided backcountry shelter situated at the northern boundary of the Diamond Peak Wilderness in Willamette National Forest. Accessed from Gold Lake Sno-Park at milepost 61.5 on Oregon Highway 58, the shelter is approximately 2.3 miles via an easy ski or snowshoe route along Abernethy Road. The shelter is primarily used during winter months when the area is snow-covered. The shelter provides basic amenities including a sleeping loft, wood stove with stocked firewood, wood picnic table, and gravel floor. Maximum overnight capacity is four persons, though visitors must share the space with all who arrive. The shelter is open year-round for both day use and overnight stays on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations or fees required. During winter, the Willamette Backcountry Ski Patrol maintains and stocks the shelter. Visitors should be prepared for backcountry winter conditions and pack appropriate gear. No drinking water or restroom facilities are available. The shelter provides access to the Pacific Crest Trail and nearby wilderness lakes. Highway 58 provides year-round access to Gold Lake Sno-Park, though a Sno-Park permit is required for winter parking.

Directions

From Oakridge, travel east on Oregon Highway 58 for approximately 28 miles to milepost 61.5. Turn right into Gold Lake Sno-Park. From the parking area, continue down the road at the back of the lot and follow signs to Bechtel Shelter, approximately 2.3 miles via Abernethy Road. Winter access requires skiing or snowshoeing. A Sno-Park permit is required for parking during winter months.

Nearby Campgrounds