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 |
|---|---|---|
| Mt. Hood Meadows Base | 11 in | → |
| Timberline Lodge | 8 in | → |
| Peavine Ridge | 1 in | → |
| Tyler Heilman Snow Depth Statio | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Peavine Ridge | 1 in | → |
| Salt Creek Falls | 2 in | → |
| Salt Creek Falls | 2 in | → |
| Smith Ridge | 1 in | → |
| Bear Grass | 3 in | → |
| Nohrsc Bear Grass | 3 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Blowout Creek Near Detroit | 6 cfs | → |
| So Fk Mckenzie River Abv Cougar Lake Nr Rainbow Or | 187 cfs | → |
| No Santiam R Blw Boulder Crk | 315 cfs | → |
| Smith R Ab Smith R Res Nr Belknap Sprgs | 4 cfs | → |
| Deschutes River Near Madras | 4,000 cfs | → |
| South Santiam River Below Cascadia | 48 cfs | → |
| Mckenzie River At Outlet Of Clear Lake | 129 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 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
- Mt. Hood Skibowl
- Warner Canyon
- Mission Ridge Ski Area
- Crystal Mountain Resort
- Timberline Ski Area
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