Winter is finally here–for what feels like the first time in forever, we feel like we are finally able to enjoy our favorite South Lake Tahoe winter activities! We’re having the best winter we’ve had in the last 5 years and it’s time to enjoy and play in the snow. Yes, we have some of the best ski resorts here in Tahoe but what if you want to do something a little more low key or away from the crowds to get outdoors?
Here are a couple of our favorite things to do when we’re not on the slopes:
Snowshoeing
What’s great about snowshoeing is that it’s low impact but you’re still going to get a great workout. There are many places to snowshoe here in South Lake Tahoe like Camp Richardson out on Highway 89 or the Yurt at Picketts Junction in Hope Valley – both places rent snowshoes as well. Some of the ski resorts including Sierra at Tahoe and Kirkwood also have snowshoe trails and rentals. If you go to the US Forest Service’s main office at 35 College Way, South Lake Tahoe CA 96150, they have free handouts on a few popular trails that are well used in the winter months, and some of our favorite after work locations to get a quick workout at. Of course you can always go along the lake as well which is a beautiful sight on a bluebird day.
When you’re out in the forest, remember you may not always have cell phone reception so always let someone know where you are headed, dress in layers and never wear cotton clothing, and carry lots of water and food with you. Don’t venture into untraveled areas with slopes unless you are properly equipped with avalanche safety gear, have taken classes, and/or have knowledge about avalanche dangers. Stay safe, follow the trail and enjoy!
Cross Country Skiing 
This sport is a lot more challenging than snowshoeing–but still far easier than downhill skiing and a great workout! So for those who are feeling like getting outdoors on skis but not in the mood to deal with the crowds on the slopes, this is a great outdoor winter activity in our area and the opportunities abound!
For those newbies, it’s easy to get frustrated with your progress, but take it slow, enjoy the views and eventually it’ll feel like second nature to you. Soon you will be able to pull a “sled” like Colleen is in this picture, towing her grandson along the beach! One of his favorite things to do as a kiddo also is to get outdoors during the winter and enjoy the snow with us!
There are many places in town to rent cross country skis including Camp Richardson, Rip N Willies and Powder House. Kirkwood Ski Resort also has cross country ski rentals as well as 50 miles of groomed trails. We would suggest staying on the flat beaches or meadows until you can get some practice on small hills. Hope Valley, Bijou Community Park or Kiva Beach are some great places to start.
Just like snowshoeing, dress in layers and never wear cotton clothing, and carry lots of water and food with you. Don’t venture into untraveled areas with slopes unless you have taken classes or have knowledge about avalanche dangers. It’s better to prepared – that way you can fully enjoy your time cross country skiing!
The Lake Tahoe Community College has some great wilderness classes that teach you snowshoeing, cross country skiing, backcountry skills and more. It’s a great resource here at the lake and it could help you to get out there and take in all that this beautiful place has to offer!
