Broken Top Peak
Broken Top rises to 9,175 ft in Cascade-Range within the Cascade Range range.
Standing at an elevation of 9,175 feet, it offers a challenging and rewarding mountaineering experience. The mountain's distinct jagged peak and exposed volcanic core make it a prominent feature in the Central Oregon landscape.
During the winter season, Broken Top receives a substantial snowpack, which attracts backcountry skiers and snowboarders. The snowpack range varies from year to year, but on average, it accumulates between 15 and 30 feet of snow, providing ample opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts. The mountain's proximity to the Cascade Range ensures a reliable snowpack, making it a popular destination for winter adventurers.
Several creeks and rivers benefit from the runoff of Broken Top's melting snow. Among these are Deschutes River, Metolius River, and Tumalo Creek, which are all fed by the mountain's pristine waters. These waterways not only provide scenic beauty but also offer recreational activities such as fishing and rafting.
As for the name's history, Broken Top obtained its distinctive moniker due to the dramatic shape of its summit, which appears to have a broken-off peak. The mountain holds significance in Native American folklore, with stories of its creation and mythical origins being passed down through generations. Exploring these legends adds an intriguing cultural dimension to the mountaineering experience on Broken Top.
In conclusion, Broken Top in the Pacific Ranges mountain range is a captivating and challenging destination for mountaineering enthusiasts. With its impressive elevation, substantial winter snowpack, and connections to significant waterways, this mountain offers a unique and rewarding outdoor experience.
For trail conditions and access, search Wikipedia or the local land manager's site. Browse other peaks in the Cascade-Range range.
Snowpack near Broken Top
Snow water equivalent and snowpack depth at SNOTEL stations near the peak. Best proxy for what's currently sitting on the summit.
| SNOTEL station | Snowpack | View |
|---|---|---|
| Peavine Ridge | 1 in | → |
| Salt Creek Falls | 3 in | → |
| Nohrsc Mckenzie | 5 in | → |
| Nohrsc Peavine Ridge | 1 in | → |
| Silver Creek | 1 in | → |
| Smith Ridge | 1 in | → |
| Tyler Heilman Snow Depth Statio | 0 in | → |
Streamflow near Broken Top
USGS streamgauges in the basin drained by this peak. Spring snowmelt from the summit feeds these flows.
| Gauge | Streamflow | View |
|---|---|---|
| So Fk Mckenzie River Abv Cougar Lake Nr Rainbow Or | 183 cfs | → |
| N.Umpqua R Abv White Mule Ck | 89 cfs | → |
| North Umpqua R Bl Lemolo Lk Nr T Falls | 87 cfs | → |
| N.Umpqua R Blw Warm Springs Ck Nr Toketee Falls | 93 cfs | → |
| Lake Creek Near Diamond | 113 cfs | → |
| Clearwater R Ab Trap Cr Nr T Falls | 51 cfs | → |
| Clearwater R Blw Mowich Creek | 50 cfs | → |
Weather Forecast
Same NOAA / yr.no feed Snoflo's iOS app uses. Watch the precipitation column -- snow at this elevation typically lags the radar signature by a few hours.
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day forecast
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks.
What's around Broken Top
Ski areas, river runs, fishing spots, campgrounds, parks, reservoirs, and boat launches within driving distance of Broken Top.
Ski areas
- Willamette Pass
- Mt. Shasta Ski Park
- White Pass Ski Area
- Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort
- Mt. Ashland Ski & Snowboard Resort
- Hoodoo Ski Area
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