Location

Why the new reservation policy?  The historic Tilly Jane A-frame cabin must receive the protection of regulated use, lest this old structure be lost.  We have had  user conflicts when those without reservations  arrived before those with reservations - you can imagine how you'd feel if you got up there with a paid rez and then ran into a rowdy group of squatters who did not pay.  It's been happening the past 2 years.  Some nights saw 50 people and a pack of dogs, some turned away.

Is the A-Frame open for day use and is there a fee?  Yes, day users can drop in between 10 AM and 4 PM and are expected to place a $5 donation in the lock box.  Donations will help support maintenance and fire wood.  Failure to comply with this policy will result in closure to day users in the future.

Is the door locked?  No, but you will be given the combo for the tool box after you pay your reservation.  The door WILL be locked in the future if we have unpaid users – please report violators to the Oregon Nordic Club.  Check through the National Recreation Reservation System to see who is expected during your stay.  Unauthorized use is a felony under federal law.  Report violators.

Can we use the Cook Shed if the A-Frame is full?  No the Forest Service has condemned the building.  Only grant money will revive it.  Join the effort by the Oregon Nordic Club to restore this element of the Tilly Jane complex to its historic place.

Why has the fee increased?  In the next year the Oregon Nordic Club  faces an estimated $30,000  of maintenance, management and upgrade costs at the A-frame.  Even the new fee will not  cover these costs.  In September the ONC spent $1250 on firewood and another $500 on maintenance.

What is supplied at the A-frame?   Firewood and wood splitting tools, lanterns and maybe some propane for the lanterns. Bring 1 pound propane canisters to be sure of having lights. Pots provided to melt snow for drinking water.

How far from the Snopark?   2.7 miles with an elevation gain of 1900 feet.  It takes an average of 3-4 hours with a full pack.  Two hours if you are in great shape and have ideal conditions.

What is the best way down on skis?  The safest way to ski down is the Cloud Cap Road (FS 3512). This can be a long (8.5 miles) miserable slog if there is soft snow. The Old Wagon Road shortens this distance by about 4-5 miles but involves steep slopes in the upper section of the road. The shortest route and probably the safest in poor snow conditions is to walk down the Tilly Jane Ski Trail, a distance of 2.7 miles. 

Can I walk up to the A-frame?   Some have done so in waist deep snow, but snowshoes or skis with skins are a much easier way up. You could get stuck up there without proper winter wilderness gear and skills to use it.

What furniture is in the A-frame?   Two picnic tables and several benches. 

What do I need to bring up to the A-frame?   Bring what you would normally bring backpacking except a tent, plus winter clothes and safety gear.  One person per group needs to bring matches or a lighter, and newspaper to start the fire. Bring a shovel. Bring toilet paper & propane.

Where do I sleep?  In the upstairs loft that is used to layout your pads and sleeping bags.

Can my dog stay at the A-Frame?  Why not?  Sorry, no.  Because we have complaints of wet dogs on sleeping bags, stolen food and dog poo in the drinking water.  Complaints are common about disturbances resulting from conflict among dogs or between dogs and lodgers.