Less than 30 minutes from Bend, Kapka Sno-Park sits along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway and is most popular among snowmobilers looking to explore a far-reaching, well-marked network of trails that extend as far south as La Pine and Sunriver—and as far north as the Upper Three Creeks Sno-Park.
Within the Sno-Park, the fun starts with a quick ascent up Kapka Butte and quickly heads deep into a forest of pine. Mount Bachelor rises above it all, framed perfectly by the surrounding forest. Kapka’s high elevation helps it open earlier and remain open later in winter than many nearby Sno-Parks.
The park caters to snowmobile users with a large parking area that provides plenty of room for trailers. An information board with helpful maps can be found in the parking area, as well.
Nordic skiers, meanwhile, can head north from the parking area, cross the highway at Vista Butte Sno-Park, and explore a variety of paths in that area—including one that ascends to the summit of the Sno-Park’s namesake hillside.
Open Season
November-April, depending on snowpack
Dog Friendly and/or Leash Rules
Dogs are permitted at Kapka Sno-Park—but not at nearby Vista Butte Sno-Park.
Best time to visit
Jan.-Feb.
Don’t Miss
Plan a midweek outing in February or early March for a quieter outing with fresh powder and well-established trails.
Fees or Pass Needed
A Sno-Park Parking Permit is required April-Nov.; a daily Sno-Park permit costs $4, a three-day permit costs $9, and a season-long pass costs $25.
Restrictions
None
Activities
Snowmobiling/ATV
Snowshoeing
Parking
A large, paved parking area, with room for RVs and trailers, is available.
Directions
From Bend, the 18-mile drive to Kapka Sno-Park takes about 25 minutes via SW Century Drive, which becomes the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, and Forest Road 45.
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