About us
Welcome to a friendly, active winter hiking group focused on snowshoeing, winter hikes, uphill hiking, and snowy mountain adventures in Tahoe and Northern California. We host outings for beginners and more experienced hikers who enjoy exploring winter terrain at a comfortable pace, with plenty of breaks and time to enjoy the scenery.
Our trips range from easy winter hikes and short snowshoe routes to longer or more challenging peaks, depending on conditions and group interest. Everyone stays together—no one gets left behind. Small group sizes help keep outings safe, social, and enjoyable.
We explore winter terrain around Tahoe and NorCal, including Donner Summit, Mt. Tallac, Waterhouse Peak, and other local routes. In the future, we may venture to more distant peaks like Mount Shasta or Yosemite-area routes for those seeking bigger winter adventures. The focus is on enjoying the mountains, building experience over time, and making smart, conservative decisions as a group.
Most outings use basic winter gear such as snowshoes, microspikes, trekking poles, winter boots, and proper layers. Pace is relaxed to steady, with regular check-ins and opportunities for learning.
Whether you’re new to winter hiking or an experienced hiker looking for consistent winter outings with good people, you’ll fit in well here.
READ THE FOLLOWING – IT’S FOR YOUR AND THE GROUP’S SAFETY AND ENJOYMENT:
All organizers are volunteers, not professional guides. Winter hiking has inherent risks including slips, falls, changing weather, and cold exposure. Each participant is responsible for their own safety, fitness, and gear, and should assess the route and conditions as if hiking solo.
By joining and RSVPing to events, you agree to Meetup’s Terms of Service: https://www.meetup.com/terms/
Weather conditions: http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/rev/
The 10 essentials: http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/day+hiking+checklist.html
Road conditions: http://www.safetravelusa.com/
Upcoming events
2
Easy Winter Hike to Azalea Lake – Beginner Friendly
Donner Summit SNO-PARK, 19455 Boreal Ridge Rd., Soda Springs, CA, USEnjoy a short, beginner-friendly winter hike to Azalea Lake from Donner Summit Sno-Park. This 2-mile round-trip hike features gentle terrain through snowy forest and open granite areas, perfect for those new to winter hiking or anyone looking for a relaxed outing. Expect a friendly pace, breaks, and beautiful alpine lake views.
We will meet at the Donner Summit Sno-Park at 11:30 AM and hike as a group. Dogs are welcome on leash. Snowshoes, microspikes, and poles are suggested for safety and comfort. Dress in layers and bring water, snacks, and warm clothing.
Distance: 2 miles round trip
Elevation gain: 207 ft
Estimated time: 1.5–2 hours
Experience level: Easy (beginner friendly)This is a small-group event limited to 8 participants to ensure a comfortable pace and enjoyable experience.
Meet time is 11:30 AM. Parking is first-come, first-served and requires a Sno-Park permit (daily or seasonal). You can purchase a permit here: https://secure.cloudwisesolutions.com/app/products.html.
Please check road conditions before heading out and carry chains if needed.Trail information: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/azalea-lake-from-sno-park-8661f4c?u=i&sh=l70o0l
READ THE FOLLOWING – IT’S FOR YOUR AND THE GROUP’S SAFETY AND ENJOYMENT:
The organizers are volunteers, not professional guides. Winter hiking has risks including slips, falls, changing weather, and cold exposure. Each participant is responsible for their own safety, fitness, gear, and judgment. Assess the route and conditions as if hiking on your own.
By RSVPing, you agree to this and Meetup’s Terms of Service: https://www.meetup.com/terms/
Weather conditions: http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/rev/
The 10 essentials: http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/day+hiking+checklist.html
Sno-Park permit: https://secure.cloudwisesolutions.com/app/products.html
Road conditions: http://www.safetravelusa.com/4 attendees
Intermediate Snowshoe to Ralston Peak – Epic Lake Tahoe Views
Ralston Trailhead/Camp Sacramento, HY 50, Twin Bridges, CA, USExperience a challenging winter snowshoe to Ralston Peak with breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe, Desolation Wilderness, and surrounding Sierra peaks. This is approximately 6.3 miles round trip with about 2,765 feet of elevation gain. Expect sustained climbing, snow-covered terrain, and possible icy sections near the summit. Summit attempt will depend on conditions.
We will start from the Ralston Peak trailhead off Hwy 50 and hike as a group. This is a solid workout and best suited for experienced winter hikers. Not suitable for beginners. Dress in layers and come prepared for winter conditions.
Snowshoes, microspikes or equivalent traction, trekking poles, layered winter clothing, warm hat and gloves, insulated waterproof boots, water, and snacks are recommended. Snow conditions will be checked at the trailhead and plans may be adjusted if needed.
Meet time is 8:30 AM. Parking is available at roadside pullouts near the trailhead. Please check Hwy 50 road conditions before heading out and carry chains if required.Trail information: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/ralston-peak
READ THE FOLLOWING – IT’S FOR YOUR AND THE GROUP’S SAFETY AND ENJOYMENT:
The organizers are volunteers, not professional guides. Winter hiking has risks including slips, falls, cold, wind, and changing conditions. Each participant is responsible for their own safety, fitness, gear, and judgment. Assess the route and conditions as if hiking on your own.
By RSVPing, you agree to Meetup’s Terms of Service: https://www.meetup.com/terms/
Weather conditions: http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/rev/
The 10 essentials: http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/day+hiking+checklist.html
Road conditions: http://www.safetravelusa.com/4 attendees
Past events
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