The standard ski mountaineering route on South Sister follows the summer climbing trail before diverging for better ski terrain above the snowline. The summit crater and broad upper volcano offer excellent spring corn skiing on all aspects.
From Crater Creek Sno-Park or Dutchman Flat (5,000-5,400 ft depending on snow), ski or skin up through forest following summer trail markers to the volcanic upper slopes. The final 2,000 feet of the South Sister are open, ski-able terrain with options for creative lines.
Park at Dutchman Flat Sno-Park off Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. Northwest Forest Pass or Sno-Park permit required.
Ski descent on the ascent or variant lines. The upper crater rim and surrounding slopes offer multiple descent options. Return to the sno-park.