Are you up for something different? Slip your feet into a pair of snowshoes.
Snowshoeing has become increasingly popular in recent years and the good news is that, if you can walk, you can snowshoe. Snowshoeing doesn't have the substantial learning curve that comes with cross-country skiing _ just lift those knees! It's a great way to explore a variety of terrains and to access areas that you might not be able to otherwise.
There are many places around the Lake Tahoe region where you can rent and try out snowshoes. Here are three.
1. Camp Richardson
One of South Lake Tahoe's most popular tourist spots rents snowshoes out of its Mountain Sports Center. Visitors can stroll along 10 kilometers of marked trails that offer lovely lake views. Lessons are also available. When you're tuckered out, you can head over to the Beacon Bar & Grill and have their signature drink _ the Rum Runner.
Details: 1900 Jameson Beach Road, South Lake Tahoe; www.camprichardson.com.
2. Northstar California Resort
Rentals here are offered at the Cross Country, Telemark & Snowshoe Center, located at mid-mountain. Northstar allows snowshoers to explore all 65 kilometers of its scenic cross-country trail system, which features terrain for all ability levels and "wilderness warming huts" with hot chocolate and tea. Also offered: Guided star-gazing tours.
Details: State Route 267 at Northstar Drive, Truckee; www.northstarcalifornia.com.
3. Sierra-at-Tahoe
This is a great snowshoeing spot for visitors staying near Meyers in South Lake Tahoe. Rentals are available at Blizzard Mountain, located adjacent to the E Parking Lot. Sierra-at-Tahoe maintains three miles of groomed snowshoe trails that wind through "scenic hideaways and pristine alpine terrain." Signs along the trails explain wildlife and other facts about the Sierra Nevada.
Details: 1111 Sierra-at-Tahoe Road, Twin Bridges; www.sierraattahoe.com.
