Project overview: Safeguard and maintain critical systems at the Ostrander Ski Hut to allow for its continued use by winter enthusiasts who rely on its preservation for safe journeys into the Yosemite wilderness.

How your support helps: High above the Valley floor, the Ostrander Ski Hut and its namesake Ostrander Lake sit among high country meadows and granite domes of Yosemite’s wilderness. This historic two-story, Swiss-inspired stone ski hut was built for cross-country skiers back in 1941, and is still a welcome sight for backcountry snow enthusiasts today. 

The path to Ostrander offers stunning views of Yosemite’s peaks and valleys, but the winter journey up to Ostrander is arduous. Multiple trails can be taken to the hut — the most popular being a 10-mile one-way trip from Badger Pass — but no matter the route, visitors will undoubtedly face challenging climbs and varied terrain that requires considerable stamina and cross-country skiing experience. 

To provide shelter to weary travelers, Yosemite Conservancy runs overnight operations at the Ostrander Ski Hut from late December to early April each year. These accommodations not only improve the quality and safety of winter trips but also keep a historic Yosemite structure at the forefront of visitor experiences. 

With donor support, various upgrades and enhancements to the hut and the adjoining woodshed have been made over the past 80 years to safeguard visitor health and improve the quality of accommodations. Without ongoing preservation, this historic structure would fall into disrepair and become unavailable to park visitors. 

This year: In 2026, the Yosemite Historic Preservation Crew will implement essential maintenance and repair work at the Ostrander Ski Hut to allow for continued visitation of the park’s wilderness by winter visitors. Hut projects will include the installation of new windows and doors, roofing and electrical repairs, lead paintand rodent abatement, and more. With your support, these projects will ensure this historic building continues its legacy as a refuge for backcountry travelers and cross-country skiers.

Project partner: Yosemite National Park

Alice Tenscher-Dunbar

Longtime visitor to Ostrander Ski Hut

Project Notes

"Much of life happens here, young and old come together, new friendships are kindled, and history and traditions are made. Ostrander Ski Hut is a backcountry treasure that deserves our support and protection."