Belknap Crater peak
Belknap Crater rises to 6,872 ft in Pacific-Ranges within the Cascade Range range.
Rising to an elevation of 6,877 feet (2,096 meters), this symmetrical volcanic cone is a popular destination for mountaineers and outdoor enthusiasts. Belknap Crater is part of the larger Three Sisters volcanic complex, which also includes South Sister and Middle Sister.
During the winter season, Belknap Crater is blanketed with snow, and the snowpack range varies depending on the yearly precipitation. The mountain receives an average of 350 inches (889 cm) of snowfall annually, providing ample opportunities for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. Several creeks and rivers, such as the McKenzie River and Deschutes River, are fed by the runoff from Belknap Crater's snowmelt, contributing to the region's water resources.
The name "Belknap" is believed to have been given to the mountain in honor of Captain William W. Belknap, a military officer who served during the American Civil War. As for lore or legends surrounding the mountain, there are no specific documented tales associated with Belknap Crater. However, the volcano's formation and volcanic activity have undoubtedly played an important role in shaping the geologic history of the region.
For trail conditions and access, search Wikipedia or the local land manager's site. Browse other peaks in the Pacific-Ranges range.
Snowpack near Belknap Crater
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Santiam Jct. | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Marion Forks | 1 in | → |
| Marion Forks | 2 in | → |
| Mt Hood Test Site | 18 in | → |
| Nohrsc Chemult Alternate | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Summit Lake | 2 in | → |
| Summit Lake | 2 in | → |
| Nohrsc Peavine Ridge | 322 in | → |
| Mckenzie | 2 in | → |
| Irish Taylor | 3 in | → |
| Smith Ridge | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Jump Off Joe | 2 in | → |
Streamflow near Belknap Crater
USGS streamgauges in the basin drained by this peak. Spring snowmelt from the summit feeds these flows.
| Gauge | Streamflow | View |
|---|---|---|
| Oak Grove Fork Above Powerplant Intake | 317 cfs | → |
| Oak Grove Fork Near Government Camp | 76 cfs | → |
| Bull Creek Near Wilhoit | 0 cfs | → |
| Clackamas River Above Three Lynx Creek | 1,110 cfs | → |
| Beaver Creek | 35 cfs | → |
| Shitike Cr | 54 cfs | → |
| Oak Grove Fork At Ripplebrook Campground | 111 cfs | → |
Plan around incoming weather
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 Belknap Crater
Ski areas, river runs, fishing spots, campgrounds, parks, reservoirs, and boat launches within driving distance of Belknap Crater.
Ski areas
- Hoodoo Ski Area
- White Pass Ski Area
- Mission Ridge Ski Area
- Timberline Ski Area
- Crystal Mountain Resort
- Mt. Ashland Ski & Snowboard Resort
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