Cross-Country Skiing and

Snowshoeing at Hope Valley

Outdoors in California- Pickett's Junction,

Highways 88 & 89, Hope Valley, CA 96120

The Hope Valley Outdoor Center (530/694-2266) in Hope Valley, California is a playground for xc skiers, snowshoers, telemarkers, kayakers, hikers, backpackers, mountain bikers, and outdoor aficionados. There are 60 miles of trails (20 miles groomed) at 7,000 feet of elevation. The terrain extends throughout all of Hope Valley and up to Carson Pass and Luther Pass, which allow for many levels of xc skiing. The Web site is www.hopevalleyoutdoors.com

Hope Valley is about 20 miles south of Lake Tahoe along the route of the Emigrant Trail that saw more than 55,000 people make their way to California for the gold rush. They came through Nevada's Carson Valley and Hope Valley, CA on their way over the Carson Pass. There are 150 year-old trail ruts evidence of the emigration. Snowshoe Thompson, who delivered the mail in the Sierra Nevada mountains is known to have frequented the region.

The Hope Valley Outdoor Center is now at a yurt, which is a sturdy circular structure that is spacious on the inside and powered off the grid (solar PV for electric and propane for heat). The yurt is a traditional Mongolian family dwelling known since the 12th century. Hope Valley's yurt had no problems standing up to the reported 17 feet of snow that fell in the Tahoe region during January of 2008!

Hope Valley has rental equipment with xc skis at $18 per day and $15 for a half day; backcountry xc ski equipment is $20 per day and $17 for half day and kids gear is $10 for a day and $7 for half day; snowshoes are $16 per day and $14 for a half day.

The xc ski lessons are $45 offered at 11 AM or, at 1:30 PM for a private lesson and tour, which is $60. Lessons by appointment are $55. There are also guided tours and retail products at Hope Valley Outdoors. Trail fees are by donation.

On weekends, the small cafe has hot soup and chili, and is known for homemade pies and cookies. After skiing or snowshoeing, enjoy hot cocoa, tea or beer-on-tap with the treats.

For nearby accommodations, Sorensen's Resort is adjacent to Hope Valley's trails and it is open daily with unique rustic cabins. Sorensen's Country Cafe & Gift Shop offers 3 family style meals a day from 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM. Reservations are recommended for dinner or accommodations. The gift shop has an eclectic selection of outdoor and wildlife photography, books, art, cards, fine wines, and gourmet foods.