Location for Okpik One: Kit Carson Lodge Area on Silver Lake (and discussion of other locations)

Kit Carson Lodge Area on Silver Lake

This area has been the "traditional" location for most Okpik One outings. In addition to being free (it is not a Sno-Park fee area) it had two pit toilets (now replaced with a handicap-accessible toilet - locked shut), and in the past, the winter caretaker at the Kit Carson Lodge has been kind enough to offer any assistance scouting groups might need if a problem occurs. It is up Highway 88, on the east side of the highway, at the end of Silver Lake, on the way to Kirkwood Ski Area.

As the Kit Carson Lodge website states; "Located at an elevation of 7,300 feet above sea level in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California just a 45 minute drive from South Lake Tahoe, Kit Carson Lodge is situated in a spectacular setting off Highway 88 on the shore of Silver Lake."

The downside - it is next to Silver Lake, an alluring but potentially dangerous spot for scouts who might wander off onto the ice. And, at 7,300 feet, the snow may be limited to - sadly - non-existent. 

Here is a topo map of the area.
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At times, we have had to head on up the mountain to the Sno-Park at Kit Carson Pass. Here is a link to even more info on the Sno-Park at Kit Carson Pass. Stop at Kirkwood or some other location to pick up the required permit.The daily fee is $5, so each car will require a $10 payment for an overnight stay.

The following is from the Sno-Park Rules and Regs.

"Parking is on a first-come, first-served basis at all SNO-PARK sites. No refunds are issued if your favorite SNO-PARK is full. Park and drive carefully within SNO-PARK sites. Watch for pedestrians. Overnight parking, including in-vehicle camping is allowed except where noted or signed at SNO-PARK sites. Tent camping or sleeping outside a vehicle in the parking area is prohibited at all SNO-PARK sites. Do not build campfires on paved areas. Do not litter SNO-PARK sites. Trash containers may not be provided, pack out your own refuse.
Carry a shovel and tire chains. Vehicles parked overnight need to be staked at all 4 corners with 1x2 inch by 8-foot poles to prevent accidental damage by snow removal equipment. Lock your vehicle and do not leave items of value in sight. Winter recreation activities may be hazardous. Your common sense, skill level, use of proper clothing, respect for the terrain and weather will combine to affect your safety."

While we have parked at Sno-Park areas overnight, and have not staked out the vehicle (yet) with those eight foot poles, it is important to realize that this might incur the wrath of the authorities and result in a ticket. Particularly if a heavy snow is predicted, it would be wise to have those poles available. I'd hate to see the Subaru sliced in half by a snowplow!

If putting together those poles, reflective tape or high-visibility paint might be a good addition.

Sno Park Brochure

Here is information on some other locations (sorry that the PDF is sideways. I was able to rotate it when viewing, but it is what it is.)
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