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Fresh snow has arrived this early season, as 50 inches or more have fallen over many parts of the High Sierra. If you aren’t a big-time skier or snowboarder, does that mean this area is off-limits to you? No way! If you can hike, then you can definitely snowshoe. Here’s just a small selection of places you can snowshoe in the High Sierra, allowing you to experience the beauty and serenity of winter.

Stargaze The Night Away

Truckee

When the nights are longest and the air becomes the coldest, it’s also when the night sky is at its brightest, clearest and most beautiful. What starts out as a sunset snowshoe hike just outside of Truckee, transforms into a tour of the sky by award-winning astronomer Tony Berendsen. With his large aperture telescopes, you’ll be exposed to the mysterious wonders just above you in the Sierra skies. The Snowshoe Star Tour is offered on December 23rd, January 20th and February 24th which includes snowshoes, trekking poles, knowledgeable guides, permit fees, hot drinks and snacks.

Snowshoe Amongst Giants

Yosemite National Park

Grizzly Giant Snowshoeing in the high sierra yosemite national park
Photo by: Nancy Robbins – Image appears courtesy: Visit Yosemite | Madera County

They say the best things in life are earned not given. This is especially true when visiting the Mariposa Grove in Yosemite National Park. As the road shuts around the end of November through at least March 15th, the only way in is by human-power. And once one of the legendary Sierra storms deposits a blanket of snow, it leaves in its wake a convenient two-mile jaunt up to it. Once you enter the grove, you’ll find a profound quiet amongst the giant Sequoias. Within the grove lies an assortment of trails to snowshoe or cross-country ski. You can also combine this adventure with checking out some of the other winter-time sights like the Tunnel View.

Full Moon Stroll To A Dinner

Bishop

Snowshoe in the High Sierra
Image appears courtesy: Bishop Visitor Center

The mountains surrounding Bishop offer an assortment of trails for those that want to try snowshoeing for the first time. Snow-covered roads like South Lake & Lake Sabrina offer you a safe, comfortable learning environment to get your techniques locked down. For those looking for something a bit more special, consider booking a dinner at Rock Creek Lodge. Under a moon-lit sky, you’ll snowshoe the last two-miles through vast wilderness to the pure solitude of the lodge. Once there, you’ll enjoy a family style four-course prix fixe menu. Vegetarian and other dietary restrictions accommodated with advance notice.

For those of you who only visit the High Sierra in the summer or ski at one of the star-studded resorts, you’re missing out on a whole spectrum of snowy fun the Sierra Nevada can provide. Winter-time activities offer you clean-crisp air, snowbound vistas, lesser crowds and so much more. So, for this season, consider snowshoeing in the High Sierra. You won’t regret it.

Author: Alex Silgalis

Alex Silgalis is an outdoors travel writer who enjoys snowboarding, mountain biking, or having a cold one from a local mountain brewery. See more of Alex’s work at https://localfreshies.com

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Spring means your opportunities for a multi-sport day of adventure & fun in the California High Sierra are boundless. Start the day on the slopes followed by a warm bike ride & finish it off with any one of these amazing festivals.
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Pavement – Shmavement – Off Roading In The High Sierra

Get off the beaten path & explore the rugged side of the Sierra Nevada. You won’t regret it!
Christmas festivals in the high sierra

Christmas Festivals In The High Sierra

Get in the holiday spirit by checking out one of the many Christmas festivals in the High Sierra. From one-of-a kind experiences like the Bracebridge Dinner to festive parades.
Halloween in the High Sierra

Spook-tacular Fun For Halloween In The High Sierra

Make this year's holiday a special one by heading into the High Sierra for some Halloween fun. Here's a snippet of the fun you can find this “spooky” season.
Thunder Bird Lodge

High Sierra Museums – Tell A Story

High Sierra museums offer a unique glimpse at the history that exists in the Sierra Nevada. Both residents and visitors alike, will come away learning & truly appreciating the region that much more.
Cougar Rock Guided Hikes in the High Sierra Arnold Rim Trail

Epic Guided Hikes Of The High Sierra

Maximize your time & get an insider’s look at the majestic mountain range in a whole other way by checking out one of these guided hikes.
Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad Railroading Family Vacation Ideas in the High Sierra

One Last Family Fun Extravaganza To Finish The Summer Right!

Don't let the last glimmer of summertime pass you up without one more family trip to the High Sierra. Here are 3 family vacation ideas that will make everyone happy!
Resort at Squaw Creek golf course

Golfing In The High Sierra

Perhaps it’s the quaint towns, invigorating mountain air or maybe the elevation. Who knows exactly... but it makes the perfect recipe for your next golfing adventure.
Bristlecone Pine Forest

4 Must-See Natural Attractions In The High Sierra

Looking for a bucket list of natural wonders to see? Here's four worth exploring from the well-known to some hidden gems that exist deep in the High Sierra.
Bishop Visitor Center Rock Creek Lake Horseback Riding in the High Sierra

Horseback Riding In The High Sierra

Although people may not think “fitness” when they consider taking the reins, a day in the saddle will kick you in the rear. While it may look like the horse is doing all the work, as a rider it takes balance, strong legs and a stable core to stay upright. So, hop on a horse this summer and truly feel the air, smell the foliage and see the High Sierra’s beauty in a unique way.
Kayaking Lake Tahoe Sunset

From Adrenaline-Pumping to Serenity – Here’s 3 Kayaking Adventures In The High Sierra

While there are always new fitness fads out there, why not try a classic – Kayaking! It’s one of those activities that puts you right in the center of nature and provides an excellent workout. We love paddling & think kayaking in the High Sierra is some of the best in the world.

Camping In The High Sierra

The Sierra Nevada gives the BEST of both worlds. It cools off at night, letting you sleep comfortably while warming up during the day for activities like fishing and hiking. Remember... summer is only so long so get out there and enjoy it!
Travertine Hot Springs Mono County

Soak Your Way To Health On A Hot Springs Adventure

The High Sierra hot springs run the full gambit of amenities when it comes to rest and relaxation. From amenity-free to luxurious, you’ll find the pool that fits your needs. Come visit for a soak and create an adventure of your own.

Three Family Adventures in the High Sierra

The High Sierra is a great, big, wonder-filled playground perfect for families. These family adventures are just waiting to engage, inspire and entertain everyone - and make you healthier and happier.

Sampling Of What Mountain Biking High Sierra Has To Offer

From first-timers to seasoned mountain bikers, these are just a sampling of the best lift-served / shuttle accessed mountain biking High Sierra has to offer. So, go ahead and plan a getaway to let yourself breathe the fresh air and melt your cares away along one of these epic trails.
Tuolumne Grove Giant Sequoia - Kim Carroll

Sequoias – Modern Day Equivalent of Jack and the Giant Beanstalk

The California High Sierra is famous for its soaring mountains, deep canyons, roaring waterfalls and the only NATURAL home of the giant sequoias. Existing only on the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada, these groves of giant redwoods must be seen in person to really capture their grandeur.
Columbia State Historic Park Dog Friendly Trip Ideas in the High Sierra

Pet Friendly Trips in the High Sierra

These are just a few of the adventures you can have with your pup in the High Sierra. The opportunities are endless and each region is host to a large assortment of places to stay and eat. So, the next time your thinking of an adventure with your furry friend, come visit the California High Sierra.
Tahoe Mountain Brewing Truckee Tahoe City Microbrewery High Sierra Apres Skiing

Apres In The High Sierra From Craft Beer To Organic Cocktails

Après & skiing have been intertwined since the advent of sliding down a mountain was perfected. Here's a few places you can enjoy a locally made brew, or for the less beer-inclined, a handcrafted organic cocktail as part of your Apres in the High Sierra.

Romantic California Mountain Getaway

Indulge in the luxurious side of the High Sierra with fine dining, spa packages and of course, the best wines California has to offer. From sightseeing and stargazing to golf and sunbathing, couples are sure to find something to bond over while exploring the best of California.

East Side Adventures

Bike, ski, climb and paddle your way through the High Sierra during this epic weeklong road trip. Experience a night under the stars followed by a day discovering California’s unique dining options. Pack some camping gear and don’t forget to bring the camera on this east side adventure.

High Sierra Sampler

For those who like to play as hard as they work, the High Sierra offers plenty of opportunity. From late nights and live music in South Lake Tahoe to backcountry adventures in Yosemite National Park the adventure doesn’t stop until you throw in the towel.

Outdoor Excursions in the Southern Sierra

Giant sequoias, raging waterfalls and Yosemite Valley vistas are just a few of the adventures to enjoy in the Southern Sierra. Families, couples and explorers of all ages will find plenty to discover during this weeklong adventure.

A High Sierra Playground

An adventure for families and the young at heart, this trip explores California’s rich history while taking explorers from the Tahoe Basin to the Central Valley. Discover local cuisine and outdoor recreation in all seasons with the whole family. The Reno-Tahoe airport is the gateway to the region and offers daily shuttle services to Truckee, North and South Lake Tahoe.

A Cultural Tour of the High Sierra

Explore the culinary adventures, art and history in California’s High Sierra with this 6-day trip.

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