❄️ Tahoe Beginner Snowshoe Hike — Andesite Peak Summit Views

Sunday, January 18 — 8:00 AM Meet‑Up
📍 Meet at: Castle Peak Trailhead (north of I‑80)
📌 Coordinates (recommended for GPS): 39.34091 N, 120.34754 W
📌 Approx. Address (for reference only): 19455 Bunny Hill Dr, Soda Springs, CA 95728

> ⚠️ Note: The trailhead is slightly offset from mapping apps — please use the coordinates for the most accurate location.

🌄 Overview:
Join the Tahoe Beginner Snowshoe group for a friendly, beginner-focused snowshoe hike up Andesite Peak! This outing is perfect if you’re new to snowshoeing, want a supportive pace, or just want to enjoy panoramic winter views in a social, encouraging group. The trail climbs gently through forested ridges to the summit, offering views of surrounding Sierra valleys, Boreal Ridge, and Soda Springs area.
👣 Hike Details:

• Distance: ~4.7 miles (roundtrip, out & back)
• Elevation Gain: ~965 ft
• Estimated Time: 2–3 hours
• Pace: Easy to moderate, plenty of breaks
• Experience Level: Beginner-friendly

🧰 Recommended Gear:

• Snowshoes (essential)
• Poles (essential)
• Microspikes / ice crampons (highly recommended — snow may be hard or icy, especially after sunny weather)
• Backpack with straps (to attach snowshoes if ice is too hard to hike in them)
• Layered winter clothing (base, mid, and waterproof/windproof outer layers)
• Warm hats, socks, snow gloves (essential)
• Snow boots or waterproof hiking boots
• Sunglasses and sunscreen (sun reflects strongly off snow)
• Water and snacks

🕗 Schedule:

• 8:00 AM: Meet at the trailhead parking lot — introductions and gear check
• Depart as a group onto the snow-covered trail
• Summit viewpoint, group photo, and short break
• Return at a relaxed pace

🔗 AllTrails Link:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/andesite-peak-trail
☀️ Weather Note:
As of now, next week (Monday–Sunday) is forecasted to be sunny and clear, but winter weather can change quickly. If conditions become unsafe, the event may be delayed or rescheduled.
⚠️ Important Disclaimer:
This is not a professionally guided tour. The organizers are amateur hikers who enjoy exploring the outdoors. By joining, you acknowledge that snowshoeing carries inherent risks, including slips, falls, or other winter hiking hazards.
📝 Release of Liability:
By participating in this hike, you assume all risks associated with winter hiking and release the organizers from any claims, liabilities, or responsibility for injury, accident, or loss. Participation is at your own risk.

💬 Notes:

• Winter chains may be required on I‑80 / Soda Springs roads depending on conditions — check before arrival.
• Everyone is welcome — new to snowshoeing, new to Tahoe, or just here for community and views!