Reno / Lake Tahoe National Winter Trails Day 2009

Since we have winter for several months each year, Winter Trails Day is a great opportunity to learn more about safe and fun family recreation in our nearby snowy mountains. There are numerous free organized events from which to choose.

Winter Trails Day at Tahoe Meadows

The Tahoe Rim Trail Association is hosting this free family event for National Winter Trails Day. The fun begins at 10 a.m. and will be at Tahoe Meadows, on the east side of the Mount Rose Highway. There will be winter safety clinics, guided snowshoe hikes, and free hot chocolate and snacks from Starbucks. To participate, you must register in advance by emailing katyw@tahoerimtrail.org, or by calling (775) 298-0012.

Winter Trails Day at Kirkwood Cross Country Ski Area and Snowshoe Center

Winter Trails Day at Kirkwood is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Kirkwood is a Winter Trails Anchor Site, which means that, in addition to the other activities, there will be product demos available from various snowshoe makers such as Atlas, MSR, and Tubbs. You'll be able to join REI Outdoor School instructors for guided snowshoe tours. Other professionals will be on hand to help you learn about winter recreation, backcountry travel, avalanche safety, as well as other information about enjoying winter safely.

If you want to try cross country skiing on Winter Trails Day, Kirkwood will be hosting free ski lessons from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It's a free package that includes the lesson, equipment rental, and a trail pass. Regular trail users will receive a $6 discount on cross country trail passes. Call (209) 258-7248 for more information.

Kirkwood Cross Country is on Highway 88, half a mile east of the Kirkwood downhill ski area. I've skied here and it's a nice place, but parking is limited - carpool if you can.

Winter Trails Day at Other Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe Areas

Kirkwood isn't the only Reno / Tahoe ski area with Winter Trails Day activities. Others include Royal Gorge, Northstar, Sierra-at-Tahoe, Tahoe Cross Country, and Bear Valley. Check out the Winter Trails Day website for a complete list with additional details.

Register to Participate in Winter Trails Day

Registration and a waiver agreement are required to participate in Winter Trails Day. You may also need to make a reservation, depending on the place you choose. To speed things along, you can register online, then print the form and take it with you.