January 16-17th and February 27-28th

This course is an overnight snowshoe trek to familiarize you with winter travel methods and considerations, winter hazards, and snow-camping techniques so that you can safely enjoy the wonders of the winter in the Tahoe region.

The course will cover the preparation that is necessary before you venture out into the cold, white world. You will learn important techniques and other considerations once you are out traveling and camping in the snow. This one-night trip will be led by two very experienced TRTA guides (Jordan Summers and Wayne McClelland) and staff.

What You Will Learn

• How to pack
• Basic outdoor orientation skills
• Winter travel hazards - avalanches, hydration, frostbite, hypothermia
• Winter survival techniques
• Campsite selection and set-up
• Winter backpacking cooking hints and demonstrations
• Principals of Leave No Trace

What You Will Get

• One morning of classroom training - how to pack and prepare, gear inventory, what to expect
• Two days and one night of hands-on winter camping experience with qualified TRTA Guides and Staff
• Two scrumptious meals and cooking demonstrations
• Tips and tricks on how to make a winter overnight a comfortable and enjoyable experience
• An opportunity to meet great people and immerse yourself in incredible winter beauty

Prerequisites

Participants must be 21 years of age or older and must have the following experience:

• Three-season hiker with spring or fall backpacking experience within the last three years
• Experience snowshoeing in high elevations
• Must be comfortable and able to snowshoe in moderate terrain, up to 8 miles
• Able to provide necessary winter camping equipment and clothing
• Completion of health information and release of liability documents

Course Details

Sample Itinerary

Day One

DWR Community Non-Profit Center 8:00am-10:00am

• Introductions (participants, instructors)
• What to expect
• Winter travel hazards
• Layering
• Hydration
• Nutrition
• First Aid
• Review of gear and packs

At the trailhead ~ 10:00am @ Tahoe Meadows

• Review of classroom instruction
• Snowshoe techniques and equipment check
• Falling techniques
• Sanitation

On the trail

• Winter travel hazards (avalanche, hydration, frostbite, hypothermia)
• Camping techniques (site selection, LNT principals, tent site preparation)

Destination arrival/ in camp

• Camping techniques
• Kitchen placement
• Cooking demonstration and hints
• Feast
• Entertainment

Day Two

More of the same! Participants will return to the trailhead by 2:00pm.

How to Register

For more information or to register, please contact Mila Dunbar at (775) 298-0238 or by email at programs@tahoerimtrail.org