Enjoy the Winter Weather at a SNO-PARK

The high country of the Sierra provides some of the finest winter recreation opportunities in California. The Winter Recreation Program is one of the Department of Parks and Recreation's best kept secrets.

The Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR) Division of California State Parks, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, Caltrans, counties and local landowners, operate 18 SNO-PARKs and 29 Snowmobile Trailheads. These areas afford opportunities for snow play, cross-country skiing, dog sledding, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. At the SNO-PARKs and Trailheads you will find cleared parking lots, restrooms, and garbage receptacles. During the winter months families venture out in record numbers; it is not uncommon for these areas to reach capacity by mid morning. 

If you wish to visit one of California's 18 SNO-PARKs, a permit is required. Permits are $15 per day or $40 for a season pass which lasts from November 1 through May 30.   Permits can be purchased from vendors throughout northern California or through the OHMVR Division Headquarters.  A list of vendors can be found at ohv.parks.ca.gov. If you are visiting a location which is a Trailhead only, and not part of a SNO-PARK system, no permit is required.

If you would like to learn more about the SNO-PARKs, Trailheads, Sno-Pals Program, or are interested in a brochure or any information on the winter recreation program, please call 916-324-4442 or log on at ohv.parks.ca.gov.