Snowshoeing: More than just a trek through the snow by LJ Bottjer
Full moons have been reported in fact and fiction to make people dance under them and werewolves sprout hair. During the current lunar phase this Friday and Saturday night, Tahoe Adventure Company invites all to don a pair of snowshoes. Then atop a winter wonderland where moon rays cause the snow to glint and gleam, participants can tramp across the frozen paradise.
On the Friday, Jan. 29, the nocturnal expedition leaves at 5 p.m. from the North Tahoe Regional Park located one mile north of Tahoe Vista. The Saturday, Jan. 30 night journey in the Donner Lake locale also includes a dinner at the Cedar House in Truckee. Each tour, like the tours offered during the day throughout the winter months, offers more than just a trek through the snow.
Knowledgeable guides highly versed in the history and naturalist aspects of the region lead the tours. Often stories of long-ago Washoe Native Americans can be mixed with talks on the vast array of pine and fir tree forests surrounding the Lake. Astronomy, the study of all things celestial, will be a special highlight during the full moon tours. Mars, the red planet, is scheduled to make it's closest 2010 approach to Earth on Friday, according to The Old Farmer's Almanac.
Whether gazing skyward or looking in other directions, snow shoeing is an activity the entire family can enjoy, notes Tahoe Adventure's Kevin Hickey. "If one can walk, one can snowshoe," he said. He urges all participants be at least 10 years old. Following the initial meet-up, everyone will be outfitted with equipment and the basics of the sport will be covered.
Hot, non-alcoholic drinks and snacks will be available during the tour that ends at 9 p.m. The food and drink is included in the $70 tour price.
Future tours will occur in February and March. A sense of wonder is guaranteed to all who trek the Tahoe high country under the gaze of a full moon.
Visitors Love To Adventure With Us
"The snowshoeing was fantastic. Nikki was our very knowledgeable and friendly guide. Everything that could have been thought of was. Great equipment. Amazing scenery. Highly recommended." -Chris Y.
"Also, many thanks to Katie for her attentiveness. As a solo traveler, I couldn't book this trip just for myself, I'd have to wait for others to book a trip since there is a four-guest minimum. What she did is she took down my name and number and called me when someone booked in the date range I wanted to go, so that I could go with them. Great service, and as someone who's often been excluded from activities as a solo traveler, that is very much appreciated!" -Trip Advisor Review
"Being a local here in Tahoe for many years I am not one to sign up for a tour, but inspiration came when my friend invited me for the Full Moon Kayak tour on Lake Tahoe. What a treat to see the sun set behind our boat and then to watch the full moon rise and reflect upon the lake." -Jani O.
"We had a fantastic snowshoeing tour with the very friendly and knowledgeable Tyler! The sights and area was beautiful, and Tyler was always accommodating, offering insightful advice and info along the way. Couldn’t have asked for a better first experience snowshoeing and would love to return again one day!" Lori C.
-- Lori C.
So, my wife and I did the kayak tour for 3 hrs. just the other day from Sand Harbor. Tahoe Adventure were great start to finish. Online registration is simple and was confirmed quickly. Reminders sent, directions and recommended list sent. Very professional. The day of the trip was simple. Sign up, travel and into the water. Kayaks were comfortable and clean, back support was excellent. Guides were great, knowledgably and easy going. The Lake is fabulous We had a wonderful day. We had first timers, on the trip that had no issues with the trip what so ever. If you want a fun day, this is your ticket. -Joe L.
-- Joe L.
Kate was our guide. She was patient, informative and very personable. Loved hearing the Lake Tahoe myths and stories. The two hour tour was plenty of time for us, heard there was a 4 hour tour that may get tiring from paddling so much/long. For groups, I recommend sharing the kayak (2 person kayak) as it just made it easier for us to enjoy the experience with each other (communication, pictures, etc.).
Thanks for a great experience, Kate! 100% recommend! -Sarah L.