Westview Shelter

Westview Shelter is just about a mile away from the parking area for the Gold Lake Sno-Park. It’s the perfect spot for a lunch break or an overnight adventure in the Willamette National Forest.

From the Sno-Park, take the trail at the south end. About a half-mile in, look for signs for the Westview Loop and/or Westview Shelter. There are a few trail options to get to the shelter, which is great for any level of experience. You can make your adventure as long or as short as you choose. For a longer adventure, continue on to the Odell Overlook Trail along the Pacific Crest Trail to see Odell Lake or the Diamond View Loop for an unobstructed view of Diamond Peak. The later trail is a little bit more challenging due to the moderate climb, but the view is worth it!

The three-sided shelter was built in 1986 by the Forest Service. It has a picnic table, wood burning stove, and small sleeping loft (four person maximum). The Willamette Backcountry (volunteer) Ski Patrol maintains the shelter and stocks it with wood. The shelter cannot be reserved and should be shared by all individuals. Think of it as a good way to make friends with other like-minded adventurers! Overnight stay is permitted from November 15 through April 30, with a maximum of three nights. Remember to pack-it-in and pack-it-out.

The Gold Lake Sno-Park offers overnight parking (Sno-Park permits are required), a warming hut staffed by friendly volunteers on the weekends, and vault toilets.