YOSEMITE – With the winter season approaching, Yosemite Conservancy announced today that it is accepting lottery registration forms for the 2013-2014 season at the newly restored Ostrander Ski Hut, the cherished rustic stone cabin used by intrepid skiers and snowshoers who make the 10-mile journey from the park’s Badger Pass Ski Area to Ostrander Lake.
“Yosemite is open and new memories for winter enthusiasts await. Trekking to Ostrander Ski Hut offers an unforgettable winter adventure because of its solitude and breathtaking views of Half Dome, the Clark Range and Mount Hoffmann,” said Mike Tollefson, president, Yosemite Conservancy. “Improvements to the ski hut made earlier this year restored original features to ensure that it can be enjoyed by new generations of visitors.”
Yosemite Conservancy donors provided $63,000 in support to repair stone mortar and lodgepole pine beams essential to the historic character of the building, refinish original countertops of solid planks of sugar pine, replace old water tanks to improve water quality, and repair a dilapidated wood shed.
“Much of life happens here, young and old come together, new friendships are kindled, and history and traditions are made,” said Alice Tenscher-Dunbar, a 20-year visitor to the hut. “Ostrander Ski Hut is a backcountry treasure.”
Yosemite Conservancy manages the two-story stone ski hut perched at the edge of Ostrander Lake at 8,500 feet. Built in 1941, 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 early April.
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 Monday through Thursday, and $55 Friday through Sunday. 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.
Lottery applications must be returned by 5 p.m. PST on Nov. 20. Results of the lottery will be emailed by Nov. 25.
Starting on Dec. 2, remaining reservations can be booked by calling 209-379-5161. Reservation information, equipment lists and a description of facilities can be found at www.YosemiteConservancy.org/Ostrander.
Through the support of donors, Yosemite Conservancy provides grants and support to Yosemite National Park to help preserve and protect Yosemite today and for future generations. The work funded by Yosemite Conservancy is visible throughout the park, from trail rehabilitation to wildlife protection and habitat restoration. The Conservancy is dedicated to enhancing the visitor experience and providing a deeper connection to the park through outdoor programs, volunteering and wilderness services. Thanks to dedicated supporters, the Conservancy has provided more than $75 million in grants to Yosemite National Park. Learn more at www.yosemiteconservancy.org or call 1-800-469-7275.
