Lottery Registration Now Open for Yosemite’s Ostrander Ski Hut

Lottery Registration Now Open for Yosemite’s Ostrander Ski Hut - Historic Ostrander Ski Hut Offers An Epic Winter Experience for Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe Enthusiasts - news release
Media Contacts:
Scott Gediman and Kari Cobb (NPS) 209-372-0248
Peter Bartelme (Yosemite Conservancy) 415-664-1503
Jennifer Miller (Yosemite Conservancy) 415-434-1782

Yosemite Conservancy is accepting lottery registration forms for the 2012-2013 season at Ostrander Ski Hut, a popular overnight destination for those making the stunning 10-mile trek from Badger Pass Ski Area to Ostrander Lake in Yosemite National Park.

“Ostrander Ski Hut provides visitors with the chance to experience a breathtaking winter backcountry adventure with unforgettable views of Half Dome, the Clark Range and Mount Hoffmann,” said Mike Tollefson, president, Yosemite Conservancy. “It’s a perfect winter retreat away from crowds and resorts in a beautiful and isolated wilderness area. Proceeds collected from the ski hut, along with contributions to the Conservancy, are poured into projects and programs that preserve and protect the park and improve the visitor experience.”

Yosemite Conservancy manages the rustic two-story stone ski hut, which sits in a small glacial cirque at the edge of Ostrander Lake at 8,500 feet. The historic hut was built in 1941 and maintains much of its original facilities. The accommodations are suitable for individuals or groups up to 15. The ski hut is staffed by a full time hut keeper and is typically open mid-December through the end of March. Facilities include single bunks with mattresses, community cookware stocked in a common kitchen, wood for heating, solar powered electric lights for evening use and two outdoor toilet facilities. Nightly rates range from $35 Mon.-Thurs. and $55 Fri.-Sun.

The lottery applications must be returned by 5:00 p.m. PST on Nov. 14. The annual registration lottery is scheduled for Nov. 15. Starting on Nov. 26, remaining reservations can be booked by calling 209-379-5161. Reservation information, equipment lists and a description of facilities can be found at http://www.YosemiteConservancy.org/Ostrander .

Yosemite Conservancy is the only philanthropic organization dedicated exclusively to the protection and preservation of Yosemite National Park and enhancement of the visitor experience. The Conservancy works to restore trails, protect wildlife through scientific research and habitat restoration, and offers outdoor programs that provide visitors with unique ways to connect with the park. It has funded projects in areas including trail and habitat restoration, wildlife protection, education, volunteering, and the production of award-winning books and DVDs.

Learn more at http://www.YosemiteConservancy.org