Lava Lake East Trail from Big Springs Sno-Park

Big Springs Sno-Park has many options for the snow enthusiasts. With a variety of trails from easy to difficult, there’s something for everyone. The sno-park is located a few miles west of the Santiam junction, about 30 miles from Sisters. With easy access, a large parking area, and vault toilets, it’s a great spot to start an adventure! The Maxwell Sno-Park is just under a mile away with even more trail options.

The main trail from the parking area heads west along the Forest Service road 90. Note that it is a multi-use trail/road and is open to snowmobiles. Along that trail are markers with letters (they don’t go in alphabetical order; you’ll pass I, then A, and finally reach B at the end of the road). At the end of the trail, after about half a mile, is maker B, from there head south onto Big Springs Loop. Continue for another half-mile to reach marker C. From there take the right (southwest) to continue on to the Lava Lake East Trail. This trail descends through the old-growth forest toward Lava Lake for just over 2 miles. Keep an eye open for animal tracks in the snow or other signs of wildlife in the area. Lava Lake East is an out-and-back trail, but there are options to connect with the Big Springs Loop and the Middle Springs Loop trails to get back to the parking area.

The sno-park is a popular area, but with the many trail options, you’re bound to find some solitude in the snowy wonderland that is the Willamette National Forest.