I've heard of these things called "Sno-Park Permits"... what are they, and do I need one?

Oregon's Sno-Park permit program helps provide parking at many of your favorite winter recreation areas. 2006 Oregon Sno-Park Permit

You must have a valid Sno-Park Permit displayed in the windshield of your vehicle if you park in designated winter recreation parking areas (Sno-Parks) between November 15 and April 30. Sno-Parks are located in all mountain passes of the state and in most recognized ski, snowmobile, and snow play areas.

There are three types of permits:

• Annual permit - $15
• 3-day consecutive permit - $7
• Daily permit - $3

Permits are sold at all Oregon DMV office and by permit agents in resorts, sporting good stores, and other retail outlets. Agents are allowed to charge a service fee for each permit they sell.

Permits are transferable from vehicle to vehicle.

Snow-Park permits issued by Washington, California and Idaho are honored in Oregon and Oregon permits are honored in those states. However, if your vehicle has Washington plates, you must have a Washington permit to park in a winter recreation area in Washington.

The penalty for parking in a designated area without a permit may result in a fine of $30.