Celebrate the season with a day of fun at Horseshoe Prairie in the beautiful Blue Mountains of Northeast Oregon!

Winter conditions are dynamic right now and our team is monitoring snowfall. We will keep everyone posted if event details change.

The event begins at 10:00 AM at Andies Prairie parking area and offers something for everyone, from first-time adventurers to seasoned winter enthusiasts. Snowshoes will be available to loan for those new to the activities, making it easy to join in on the excitement. If you need to borrow snowshoes, there is a $10 Ticket Option on Eventbrite with a scholarship option available. We have a limited supply, and we’ll update the website when they are no longer available.

Participants can enjoy a warm and welcoming atmosphere with hot drinks, hot soups, pastries, and other treats. At 10:30 a beginner’s ski lesson will be provided near the Kitchen and at 12:30 there will be a guided ski around Tamarack Trail. Guided snowshoe tours will be offered at 11:00 and 12:15. All excursions will be led by experienced skiers and snowshoers. Meet up will be on the Tamarack Trail near the trailhead of the Umatilla Rim Trail, where the main festivities will be happening.

Whether you're trying out winter sports for the first time or looking to explore the snowy trails with a group, this event is a wonderful way to embrace the season and connect with the natural beauty of the Blue Mountains.

Access maps, grooming conditions and more here.

Questions? Get in touch with Blue Mountain Land Trust, bmlt@bmlt.org.

Trip Details:

• What it takes to participate in this event:

  • Be ready for backcountry conditions and to exercise at your own pace.

  • Warm and somewhat waterproof clothing including gloves and hat.

  • No specific backcountry snow travel experience is necessary—bring a great attitude and an appetite for fun!

  • This event is for all ages! Children 16 and under are welcome with a guardian.

  • SnoPark pass is required for your vehicle.

• Trip notes:

  Well behaved and leashed pets are welcome. Please clean up after pets and dispose of waste properly.

• Meeting location:

  Event will begin at 10am at Andies Prairie Parking area. Again, space is limited at the parking area so please carpool with friends and family.

  Andies Prairie is located approximately 4 miles South of Spout Springs on Highway 204.

  An ODOT Sno-Park is required and can be purchased online, (season pass only) at the Zip Zone Minimart in Milton Freewater, and at the Tollgate Crossing 3 miles North of Spout Springs.  

  BMLT and Blues Crew will have a check in/information station at the north end of the parking lot near the access trail to the sledding hill. For those who have a ticket for snowshoe loan, you will be issued them here. 

  From there participants will carefully cross Highway 204 to the Horseshoe Prairie Nordic Area.  Following the signs and turning right at the ‘A’ Post, they will proceed to the junction of the trailhead of the Rim Trail and Tamarack Trail.  Here they will find warm drinks, food and fire pits.

• Trip schedule:

  Carpool departure from Walla Walla at 8:30 am on Saturday, February 21, 2025 at public parking lot on the corner of Rose and Fourth (Parking lot behind the Farmer’s Market)

  Event will begin at 10am at Andies Prairie parking area and end around 1:30pm.

  Space is limited in the Andies Prairie parking area. BMLT encourages you to carpool with friends and family.

  Schedule: Saturday February 21:

  10:00 a.m. Arrive at Andies Prairie parking area.  

  10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Visit the check in/information booth. Review the day’s activities and head across the highway.  

  10:30. Beginners ski lesson

  11:00 a.m. Guided snowshoe tour-first group

  12:15 a.m. Guided snowshoe tour-second group

  12:30 p.m. Guided ski tour around Tamarack Trail

  1:30 p.m. Event formally ends.  Attendees are invited to continue to explore the area. Return trip home on your own schedule.

• What to wear and equipment to bring:

  Equipment for Cross-Country Skiing:

  ✅ Skis (properly sized for your height and skill level)

  ✅ Ski boots (compatible with your skis)

  ✅ Ski poles

  Equipment for Snowshoeing:

  ✅ Snowshoes (appropriate for your weight and snow conditions)

  ✅ Trekking poles or adjustable ski poles with snow baskets

  ✅ Insulated, waterproof boots (for snowshoeing; ensure compatibility with snowshoes)

  Shared Essentials:

  ✅ Backpack/Waistpack (small to medium size for snacks, water, and layers)

  ✅ Water bottle or hydration system (insulated to prevent freezing)

  ✅ Snacks (energy bars, trail mix, or fruit)

  ✅ Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF

  ✅ Sunglasses or goggles (to protect from glare and snow)

  ✅ First aid kit (BMLT Volunteers will also have first aid kits)

  ✅ Hand warmers (optional but helpful)

  Clothing Suggestions:

  Base Layer:

  ✅ Long-sleeve thermal top (synthetic or merino wool)

  ✅ Thermal leggings

  Middle Layer:

  ✅ Fleece or lightweight insulated jacket

  ✅ Insulated pants or warm softshell pants

  Outer Layer:

  ✅ Waterproof and windproof jacket

  ✅ Waterproof pants or gaiters to keep snow out

  ✅ Puffy jacket if colder temps

  Accessories:

  ✅ Hat or beanie (to cover ears and retain heat)

  ✅ Neck gaiter, balaclava, or scarf (to protect your face from wind and cold)

  ✅ Gloves or mittens (waterproof and insulated; bring an extra pair)

  Footwear:

  ✅ Socks (thick, moisture-wicking wool or synthetic; avoid cotton)

  ✅ Cross-country ski boots (for skiing)

  ✅ Insulated, waterproof boots (for snowshoeing; ensure compatibility with snowshoes)

  Optional Items:

  ✅ Camera or smartphone (for capturing moments)

  ✅ Lightweight seating pad (for breaks)

  ✅ Extra layers (if weather conditions change)

  ✅ Dressing in layers is key to adapting to the activity level and weather conditions. Ensure all gear fits properly for a comfortable and safe day out in the snow!

• Contact information:

  For more information, contact us at bmlt@bmlt.org or 509-525-3136.

Presented in partnership with the Umatilla forest.