The Hut-to-Hut Ski Traverse Lottery consists of 5 fully funded spots a value of $350.00 per a person.

Activity Dates: Sunday - Tuesday; usually the first week of April

1. Must 21 years of age or older and COVID-19 vaccinated.

2. Must be a Black, Indigenous , Woman of Color including Trans-Woman of Color, or Genderqueer under-represented in snow sports. Must be comfortable in women operating spaces.

3. Must have previous Backcountry experience with cross-country, alpine touring, or split-boarding

4. Nationwide opportunity.

5. Lottery will close TBD.

6. Winners will be notified TBD.

This is an off-trail, ungroomed 22 mile backcountry route. There is no steep or technical terrain. The challenge lies in variable snow conditions and long distances.

The traverse is NOT recommended for beginners. If the route is icy and you have little experience skiing, you will be falling… a lot. If there is lots of new snow, it can be exhausting breaking trail. That said, many beginners do tackle the route regardless. They find it rewarding but very challenging. If you are not sure if you are up for it, go ski “off-trail” for 8 miles at a local XC ski area and see how you do.

This is a three-day, point to point high-country traverse with overnight stays at the Happy Valley Hut and Lone Wolf Hut.

The day begins with guests meeting at Three Creeks Sno-park in the morning to drop off their vehicles. You will meet with our staff for a briefing about the route and snow conditions and safety protocols. A Cog Wild van will then shuttle you and your gear to Dutchman Flat for the beginning of your ski adventure.

Maps and recommended route descriptions will be provided in a waterproof case. The route is marked with nordic blue diamonds or yellow flags. Each group skis from south to north, moving to the next hut each day.

Three Sisters Backcountry’s goal is to try and reduce the gear you have to carry so that skiing is more enjoyable.

Each hut is stocked with food, wood stoves, propane cook stoves, and full kitchen supplies. Every bunk has a mattress and sleeping bag. You are required to bring your own sleeping bag liner. You are welcome to bring your own sleeping bag as well if you don’t mind carrying it. Drinking water comes from melting snow on the stove.

There is an outhouse with TP at each hut location.

Ski Selection

Skis: Bring metal edge skis with scales or lightweight telemark skis with skins.

Boots/Bindings: Beefy Nordic (NNN BC or 3 Pin/duck bill) and coordinated binding.

Alpine Touring and Telemark gear that is more suited for descending might be a bit too heavy and bulky. Skate skis and track classic skis without edges will be too light and flimsy.

No show shoes. We have had a few people try and show shoe the route… they all had a very difficult time snowshoeing that far.

IMPORTANT! If you plan on renting skis, plan ahead. Many shops have stopped renting because of COVID. Mountain Supply in Bend and Eurosports in Sisters have offered to rent to our Three Sisters Backcountry only. You must plan ahead and reserve, quantities are limited and shops are closed some days of the week.

Skins: We recommend skins. They can be extremely helpful in hard-pack conditions. TSBC has a limited number of 40mm wide skins that work for most skis. These are free to borrow, but its best if you have your own that custom fit your skis.