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January 2005

Ski Update

This winter promises many thrill-packed days in the mountains of Northern California, Nevada, and Utah. Below are the major resorts, their locations, features, and ticket prices. The resort names are links to the resort’s Web pages. Before heading to the slopes, be sure to check the driving and commuting page on csaa.com before starting out.

ALPINE SKIING

 North

North Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe

Central

South

Utah

CROSS COUNTRY SKIING

North

North Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe

Central

South

UTAH

OTHER WINTERS SPORTS

Northern California

Central California

Utah
illustration of ski boarder

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA/CASCADES

Cedar Pass

Elevation 6000-6400'
Two Lift
$15 all-day

Five runs and one powder bowl on 40 acres, longest run 3000'. 30% advanced, 50% intermediate, and 20% beginner. Snack bar, ski and snowboard school, lessons and rentals.

Prices: All day: $15 adults, $12 kids (6-18), $5 kids (5 & under). Half day (1 p.m.) $13 adults, $10 kids (6-18), $3 kids (5 & under).
Season: December-April, weekends and holidays. Hours 10-4.
Location: 18 miles northeast of Alturas on SR 299E. 501 Short Street, Alturas, CA 96101. (530) 233-3323.


Lassen National Forest-Stover Mountain

  • Elevation 5100-5600'
  • One Lift
  • $15 all-day
8 runs on 13 acres. 1 rope tow. 40% advanced, 30% intermediate, 30% beginner. Warming hut.

Prices: All day: $15 adults, $10 kids (12 & under).
Season: Thanksgiving-Easter. Hours: 9-3. Weekends and holidays.
Location: 3 mi. west of Chester. 3.5 miles from intersection of SR 36 and SR 89 on Forest Service Road 316A. (530) 258-3987. www.plumascounty.org.



Mt. Shasta Ski Park
  • Elevation 5500-6890'
  • Four Lifts
  • $35 all-day
Timbered and open runs on 425 acres. 25% advanced , 55% intermediate, 20% beginner. 3 triple chairs, 1 surface lift. Day lodge with food service, ski and snowboard lessons rentals.

Prices: All day: $35 adults (13-64), $19 kids and seniors (8-12 and 65 & up), $5 kids (7 & under). Half day (noon): $28 adults, $15 kids and seniors, $3 kids (7 & under). Night ski (4-10 p.m.) $20 adults, $13 kids and seniors, $3 kids (7& under).
Season: December-April. Hours 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Weds.-Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun.-Tues.
Location: I-5, 4 hours north of Sacramento. Park is on SR 89 and Ski Park Highway, 10 mi. east of Mt. Shasta City and I-5. 104 Siskiyou Ave., Mt. Shasta, CA 96067. (530) 926-8610. Snow Phone (530) 926-8686. www.skipark.com.
Discount: Learn-to-ski packages, multi-day passes, group rates.

NORTH LAKE TAHOE

Alpine Meadows

  • Elevation 6835-8637'
  • 14 Lifts
  • $39-$49 all-day

Over 100 runs on 2400 acres. 35% advanced, 40% intermediate, and 25% beginner. 1 high-speed quad, 1 6-person detachable chair, 4 triple chairs, 5 double chairs, and 3 surface lifts. Day lodge, ski and snowboard school, shop, and rentals. Tahoe Adaptive Ski School and children's ski instruction program. Snowshoe rentals. Day lodge, restaurant, bar, and deli.

Prices: All day: $39 adults ($49 on holidays), $39 teens (13-18) and seniors (65-69), $15 youths (7-12) and seniors (70 & up), children 6 & under free. Parent interchangeable tickets $39 ($49 on holidays).
Season: Mid-November through early May. Hours 9-4 daily.
Location: On Alpine Meadows Rd. about 6 mi. northwest of Tahoe City off SR 89. 2600 Alpine Meadows Rd., Alpine Meadows, CA 96146. (530) 583-4232. Snow phone (530) 581-8374. www.skialpine.com.

Boreal

  • Elevation 7200-7700'
  • 9 Lifts
  • $36 all-day

41 runs on 380 acres. 15% advanced, 55% intermediate, and 30% beginner. 4 double, 3 triple, 2 quad, 1 carpet. Snowmaking on 80% of runs. Ski and snowboard school, shop, and rentals. Western Skisport Museum. Lodging, day lodge, and food service.

Specials: Learn-to-ski or snowboard lessons, college students (with ID) $10 on Fridays.
Prices: All day: $36 adults, $10 kids (5-12), $22 seniors (60-69), $5 (70 & up), 4 and under free. Night ski (3:30-9 p.m.): $22 adults, $10 kids, $18 seniors.
Season: October-May. Hours 9 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. Night operations Thanksgiving through Easter.
Location: On I-80 at the Castle Peak/Boreal Ridge Road exit on Donner Summit. P.O. Box 39, Truckee, CA 96160. (530) 426-3666. www.borealski.com.

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA/TAHOE AREA

Donner Ski Ranch

  • Elevation 6720-7200
  • 6 Lifts
  • $25-$29 all-day

More than 50 runs and 18 miles of trails on 78 acres. 25% advanced, 50% intermediate, and 25% beginner. Ski and snowboard school, shop, and rentals.

Prices: All day weekday: $25 adults, $20 youth (13-17), $5 kids (5-12), $15 seniors (65 & up). All day weekend and holiday: $29 adults, $24 youth, $5 kids, $25 seniors. Seniors 69 & up free.
Season: Late October through May. Hours 9-4 daily. Backside chairs 2,3 & 5; close at 3:30.
Location: On Old U.S. 40, 3.5 mi. E of I-80 at Norden /Soda Springs exit. P.O. Box 66, Norden, CA 95724. (530) 426 3635. www.donnerskiranch.com.

Granlibakken Ski and Sledding Hill

  • Elevation 6300-6610'
  • 1 surface lift
  • $20 all-day
Caters to beginning and intermediate skiers and families with children. 1 rope lift serves a 300-foot vertical hill. Ski and snowboard lessons and rentals. Warming hut and snack bar. Snowshoe rentals. Lodging.

Prices: All day: $20 adults, $14 kids (12 & under). Half day: $12 adults, $9 kids.
Season: Thanksgiving through April 1. Hours 9-5 weekends and holidays.
Location: On Granlibakken Rd. 1 mi. south of Tahoe City off SR 89. 725 Granlibakken Rd., Tahoe City, CA 96145. (877) 552-6301. www.granlibakken.com.
Discount: Ski and stay packages available.

Homewood Mountain Resort
  • Elevation 6230-7880'
  • 8 lifts
  • $25-$44 all-day

59 runs on 1260 acres. 1 quad chair, 3 triples, and 4 surface lifts. 35% advanced 50% intermediate, 15% beginner. Children's ski school from 3 and up. Ski and snowboard school, shop, and rentals. Restaurant and day lodge.

Prices: All day weekday non-holiday: $25 adults (11 & up), $15 seniors (62 & up), kids 10 & under free with a paid adult. All day weekend and holiday: $44 adults, $30 juniors (11-18), $22 seniors.
Season: Early December through mid-April. Hours 9-4 daily.
Location: On SR 89 6 mi. S of Tahoe City. P.O. Box 165, Homewood, CA 96141. (530) 525-2992. Snow Phone (530) 525-2900. www.skihomewood.com.
Discount: Multi-day lift tickets.

Northstar-at-Tahoe

  • Elevation 6330-8610'
  • 17 lifts
  • $61 all-day

70 runs on 2420 acres. 25% advanced, 50% intermediate, and 25% beginner. A 4-passenger gondola connects the village and Lodge at Big Springs. Early arrival particularly weekends and holidays recommended as ticket sales are limited. Ski and snowboard school, shops, and rentals. Childcare facilities, day lodge at mid-mountain, and restaurants. Lodging. 5 terrain parks and 2 pipes.

Special: Lift/lodging packages and Stay and Ski free.
Prices: All day: $61 adults (23-64), $51 youths (13-22), $21 kids (5-12), $41 seniors (65-69), $12 super seniors (70 & up). Half day (12:30): $47 adults, $41 youths, $16 kids, $31 seniors, $12 super seniors.
Season: Mid-November through late April. Hours 8:30-4 Mon.-Fri., 8:30-4:30 weekends.
Location: On SR 267 halfway between Truckee and North Lake Tahoe. P.O. Box 129, Truckee, CA 96160. (530)-562-1010 or (800) 466-6784. www.skinorthstar.com.

Soda Springs Mountain Resort

  • Elevation 6230-7325'
  • 2 lifts
  • $25 a day

120 skiable acres with two wide-open bowls. 20% advanced 50% intermediate and 30% beginner. Ski and snowboard school, shop, and rentals. Cafeteria and day lodge. Snow tubing hill with two tow ropes. Two terrain parks. Planet Kids park with tubing carousel for children 10 and under.

Prices: All day: $25 adults, $16 youths (8-17), $10 kids (12 & under), $5 seniors (70 & up).
Season: November through April. Hours 9-4 daily.
Location: 1 mi. E of I-80 at the Norden/Soda Springs exit. P.O. Box 39, Truckee CA 96160. (530) 426-1010 or (530) 426-3901. www.skisodasprings.com.

Squaw Valley USA

  • Elevation 6200-9050'
  • 34 lifts
  • $62 all day

Wide-open skiing on 4000 acres, spread over 6 major peaks. 30% expert and advanced, 45% intermediate and 25% beginner. Children's center, ski and snowboard school, shop, and rentals. Ice skating, snowshoeing, climbing wall, swimming, spas, day lodges and lodging. Terrain parks and pipes.

Specials: Beginner (1st time skier/snowboarder) package (lesson, lift and rentals), $62-$79. Multi-day discounts.
Prices: All day: $62 adults, $31 juniors (13-15), $5 kids (12 & under), $31 seniors (65-75), seniors 76 & up free. Half day (1-9 p.m.): $45 adults. Night ski (4-9 p.m.) $20 adults.
Season: Mid-November-May. Hours 8:30-4 weekends and holidays, 9-4 weekdays. Night skiing until 9 p.m., mid-Dec. through mid April.
Location: On Squaw Valley Rd. 6 mi. north of Tahoe City off SR 89. 1960 Squaw Valley Rd., P.O. Box 2007, Olympic Valley, CA 96146. (530) 583-6985; (800) 403-0206 (reservations). Snow Phone (530) 583-6955. wwww.squaw.com.

Sugar Bowl Ski Resort

  • Elevation 6883-8383'
  • 12 lifts
  • $59 all day

84 trails on 1500 acres. 38% advanced, 45% intermediate, and 17% beginner. 4 high-speed quads, 3 fixed-grip quads, 2 double chairs, 2 surface lifts, and 1 access gondola. Winter access by gondola and drive-in access via Mt. Judah entrance. Ski and snowboard school, shop, and rentals. Lodging, restaurant, cafeteria and childcare center. Terrain parks and pipes. Snowmaking on 375 acres.

Prices: All day weekend and holiday: $59 adults (23-59), $44 youths (13-22) and seniors (60-69), $15 kids (6-12), $5 super seniors (70 & up), kids 5 & under free. All day weekday: $44 adults. Half day (12:30): $44 adults, $30 youths, $15 kids, $30 seniors.
Season: Mid-November through April. Hours 9-4 daily.
Location: On Old US 40, 3mi. E of I-80 at Norden/Soda Springs exit. P.O. Box 5, Norden, CA 95724. (530) 426-9000. Snow phone (530) 426-1111. www.sugarbowl.com.

Tahoe Donner

  • Elevation 6750-7350'
  • 2 lifts, 1 tow
  • $34 all-day

14 runs on 120 acres. 60% intermediate and 40% beginner. 1 double chair, 1 quad chair, 1 surface lift. Ski and snowboard school, shop, and rentals. Day lodge and cafeteria.

Prices: All day: $34 adults, $13 kids (12 & under) and seniors (60-69). Half day: $21 adults, $8 kids and seniors.
Season: Mid-December-Easter. Hours 9-4 daily.
Location: Off I-80 in Truckee, 5 mi. from Donner State Park. 11603 Slalom Way, Truckee, CA 96161. (530) 587-9444. Snow Phone (530) 587-9494. www.tahoedonner.com.


TAHOE ZONE-SOUTH

NEVADA

Heavenly Mountain Resort

  • Elevation 6540-10,067'
  • 30 Lifts
  • $65 all-day

Wide-open skiing on 4,800 acres in 2 states. Longest run 5.5 miles. 35% advanced, 45% intermediate and 20% beginner. More that 70% of all runs are serviced by facilities own snowmaking capability. 3 base areas: 1 off Ski Run Blvd. in California, the other two off upper Kingsbury Grade in Nevada. Ten day lodges and warming huts, ski and snowboard school, shop, and rentals. Terrain parks and pipes.

Specials: Lift /lodging packages. Introductory ski-school packages.
Prices: All day: $65 adults (19-64), $54 teens (13-18), $32 kids (5-12), $45 seniors (65 & up). Season: Mid-November through mid-April. Hours 8:30-4 weekends and holidays, 9-4 weekdays.
Location: On Ski Run Blvd. off US 50 in South Lake Tahoe. P.O. Box 2180, Stateline, NV 89449. (775) 586-7000 or (800) 432-8365. www.skiheavenly.com.

Kirkwood Mountain Resort

  • Elevation 7800-9800'
  • 12 lifts
  • $59-$62 all-day
More than 65 runs on 2300 acres. 2 quads, 7 triples, 1 double, 2 surface lifts. 35% advanced 50% intermediate and 15% beginner. Ski and snowboard school, shop, and rentals. Childcare, children's ski school, day lodge and lodging. Terrain parks.
Specials: Beginner's specials. Lift and lodging packages.

Prices: All day weekend and holiday: $62 adults (19 & up), $50 juniors (13-18), $16 kids (6-12), $6 kids (5 & under), $35 seniors (65-69), $16 seniors (70 & up). All day weekday: $59 adults, $47 juniors, $13 kids, $32 seniors, $13 seniors (70 & up).
Season: November-May. Hours 9-4 daily.
Location: On SR 88, 30 mi. S of South Lake Tahoe. P.O. Box. 1, Kirkwood California 95646. (209) 258-6000 or (877) 547-5966. www.kirkwood.com.

Sierra at Tahoe
  • Elevation 6640-8852'
  • 11 lifts
  • $54-$59 all-day
46 runs on 2000 acres. 25% expert/advanced, 50% intermediate, and 25% beginner. 3 high-speed, detachable quad chair lifts, 1 triple chair, 5 double chairs and 2 children's surface lifts. Ski and snowboard school, shop, and rentals. Day lodge, day care, and food service. Snow tubing and snow toy area. Six terrain parks and pipe. $19 shuttles from Sacramento.
Specials:First time skiers or riders package $43.

Prices: All day off-peak: $54 adults (23-64), $44 youths (13-22), $13 kids (5-12), $33 seniors (65-69), $16 seniors (70 & up). All day peak: $59 adults, $49 youths, $16 kids, $39 seniors, $22 seniors (70 & up). Half day: $47 adults, $37 youths, $12 kids, $28 seniors, $16 seniors (70 & up). Season: Mid-November through mid-April. Hours 9-4 weekdays, 8:30-4 weekends and holidays.
Location: US 50, 2.6 mi. W. of Echo Summit. 1111 Sierra-at-Tahoe Rd., Twin Bridges, CA 95735. (530) 659-7453. Snow phone (530) 659-7475. www.sierratahoe.com.

NORTH LAKE TAHOE

Diamond Peak

  • Elevation 6700-8540'
  • 6 lifts
  • $44 all-day

30 runs on 655 acres. 75% snowmaking, 36% advanced , 46% intermediate, and 18% beginner. 3 double chairs, 3 quads. Children's ski center. Ski and snowboarding school, shop, and rentals. Day lodge with food service. Snowmaking on 75% of runs. Terrain park.

Special: First time beginner package, $55. Beginner lift only passes $15.
Prices: All day: $44 adults, $35 youths (13-17), $16 kids (6-12) and seniors (60-79), kids 5 & under and seniors 80 & up free. Half day (12:30 p.m.): $33 adults, $27 youths, $12 kids and seniors. Family package $58.
Season: Early December through mid-April. Hours 9-4 daily.
Location: One mile off Nevada SR 28, north on Country Club to Ski Way. 1210 Ski Way, Incline Village, NV 89541. (775) 832-1177. Snow phone (775) 831-3211. www.diamondpeak.com.

Mt. Rose Ski Area

  • Elevation 8260-9700'
  • 7 lifts
  • $52 all-day
More than 60 runs on 1200 acres. 50% advanced, 30% intermediate, and 20% beginner. 2 six-pack lifts, 2 quads, 2 triples, 1 surface lift. Ski and snowboard school and rentals.

Prices: All day: $52 adults (18 & up), $38 teens (13-17), $12 kids (6-12), $32 seniors (60-69), seniors 70 & up and kids 5 & under free. Half day (9 a.m.-12:30 or 12:30-4 p.m.): $42 adults, $33 teens.
Season: Mid-November through late April. Hours 9-4 daily.
Location: On SR 431, 11 mi. NE of Incline Village, 22 miles SW of Reno. 22222 Mt. Rose Hwy, Reno, NV. 89511. (775) 849-0704 or (800) 754-7673. www.mtrose.com.
Discount: First-time skiers and boarders.

CENTRAL ZONE

Badger Pass
  • Elevation 7200-8000'
  • 5 lifts
  • $35 all-day
10 runs in Yosemite National Park. 15% advanced, 50% intermediate, and 35% beginner. Childcare, ski and snowboard school, shop, rentals and day lodge with food service. Accommodations in Yosemite Valley. Free daily bus service from the valley.

Specials: Learn-to-ski package.
Prices: All day: $35 adults, $18 kids (12 & under), $35 seniors (65 & up). Half day (12:30): $25 adults, $15 kids, $25 seniors. Season: Mid-December through mid-March. Hours 9-4 daily.
Location: On the Glacier Pt. Rd in Yosemite National Park off SR 41. Yosemite Concession Services Corp., Yosemite National Park, CA. 95389 (209) 372-1000 or (209) 372-8432. www.yosemitepark.com.

Bear Valley Ski Area
  • Elevation 6600-8500'
  • 9 lifts
  • $38-$45 all-day

67 runs on 1280 acres; vertical drop 1900' 30% advanced, 40% intermediate, and 30% beginner. 2 triple, 7 double, and 1 carpet. Ski and snowboard school, shop, rentals and day lodge with food service. Day care, snow tubing, free guided tours of the mountain, adaptive ski school.
Specials: Ski and lodging packages, packages for adaptive school.

Prices: All day weekend and holiday: $45 adults (24-64), $38 juniors (13-23), $16 kids (6-12), $19 seniors (65-74), $10 super seniors (75 & up), kids 5 & under free. All day weekday: $38 adults, $32 juniors, $14 kids, $16 seniors, $8 super seniors.
Season: Mid-November through mid-April. Hours 9-4 daily.
Location: On SR 4 at SR 207, 45 mi. northeast of Angels Camp. P.O. Box 5038, Bear Valley, CA 95223. (209) 753-2301. Snow phone (209) 753-2308. www.bearvalley.com.

Cottage Springs Ski Area
  • Elevation 6000-6500'
  • 2 lifts
  • $25 all-day
Open slopes with a small terrain park. 50% beginner, 50% intermediate. Double chair and platter lift. Night skiing Friday and Saturday. Ski and snowboard school, shop, and rentals. Restaurant and espresso hut. Area for snow tubing.

Prices: All day: $25. Tubing $20.
Season: December through March. Hours 8-5 Thurs. and Sun. Night skiing Fri. and Sat. until 10 p.m.
Location: On SR 4, 8 mi. east of Arnold. P.O. Box 1059, Angels Camp, CA 95224. (209) 795-1209.

Dodge Ridge
  • Elevation 6600-8200'
  • 11 Lifts
  • $46 all-day
59 runs on 815 acres. 40% advanced, 40% intermediate, and 20% beginner. Children's ski school, ski and snowboard school, shop, rentals, and 2 day lodges with cafeteria. Five terrain parks. Adaptive lessons.

Specials: Beginners special that includes two-hour lesson, rentals and beginners lift pass $65.
Prices: All day: $46 adults (20-61), $35 teens (13-19), $15 youths (7-12) and seniors (62 & up), kids 6 & under and seniors 82 & up free. Half day (12:30): $38 adults, $30 teens, $10 youths and seniors.
Season: December through April. Hours 8:30-4 weekends and holidays, 9-4 weekdays.
Location: Off SR 108, 30mi. E of Sonora. P.O. Box 1188, Pinecrest, CA 95364. (209) 965-3474. Snow phone (209) 965-4444, ext. 5. www.dodgeridge.com.

The Canyons
  • Elevation 6800-9600
  • 13 lifts
  • $52 all-day
125 runs on 3300+ acres, longest run 2 miles; vertical drop 2580'. 40% advanced, 46% intermediate and 16% beginner. 9 quads, 1 triple chair, 1 8-passenger gondola; 1 2-passenger, fixed grip chair. Ski school, lessons and rentals. 3 restaurants, cafeteria and snack bar. Snowboarding, with rentals and lessons available.

Prices: Adult half-day, $39; ages 12 and under; $27 all-day, $20 half-day.
Season: Mid November through mid-May. Hours 9-4 daily; 8:30 to 4 weekends.
Location: 25 mi SE of Salt Lake City via I 80 and SR 224. 4000 The Canyons Resort Dr., Park City, UT 84098. (435) 649-5400 or (800) 754-1636.

Deer Valley Resort
  • Elevation 7200-9400'
  • 19 lifts
  • $60 all-day
87 runs on 1750 acres, longest run 2 miles; vertical drop 2200' 35% advanced, 50% intermediate and 15% beginner. 5 high-speed quads. 1 high speed 4 passenger gondola, 3 fixed grip, 2 double chairs. Ski school, lessons and rentals. Restaurant, cafeteria, snack bar, lodging and child care.

Prices: Adult half-day, $42; ages 12 and under, $32 all-day, $24 half-day; over age 65, $42 all-day, $27 half-day.
Season: December 4 through April 9. Hours 9:00-4:15 daily.
Location: 39 mi SE of Salt Lake City on SR 190 at 2250 Deer Valley Dr. South. P. O. Box 1525, Park City, UT 84060. (801) 649-1000 or (800) 424-3337 (reservations). Snow Phone (801) 649-2000.

Elk Meadows Ski & Summer Resort
  • Elevation 9100-10,400
  • 5 lifts
  • $30 all-day
35 runs on 1200 acres, longest run 2 miles; vertical drop 1400' 25% advanced, 60% intermediate and 15% beginner. 2 double chairs, 1 triple chair. Ski school, lessons and rentals. Restaurant, cafeteria, lounge and lodging. Snowboarding, with lessons and rentals available.

Prices: Adult half-day, $22; under age 12, $15 all-day, $12 half-day; under age 6, free.
Season: Thanksgiving through mid-April. Hours 9-4 daily.
Location: 161 mi S of Provo via I-15 to Beaver Canyon; 18 mi E of Beaver. P. O. Box 511, Beaver, UT 84713. (435) 438-5433 or (435) 888-SNOW.
Discount: Adult and children's all-day lift ticket. (Some holiday periods excluded).

Nordic Valley Ski Mountain
  • Elevation 5200-6400'
  • 2 lifts
  • $15 all-day
20 runs; vertical drop 1000' and 350'. 30% advanced, 40% intermediate and 30% beginner. 2 double chairs. Ski school, lessons, rentals. Restaurant, snack bar. Snowboarding and rentals.

Specials: Family Night specials and Christmas Package.
Prices: Night skiing $10; seniors and children under 5, $5 all-day.
Seasons: Mid-November through mid-March. Hours 9-4-daily; 5:30-10, Mon-Sat (night sakiing).
Location: 15 mi NE of Ogden in Eden, 49 mi of Salt Lake City via I-15 to Ogden's 12th street exit. Proceed east and follow the sign. P. O. Box 478, Eden, UT 84310. (801) 392-0900.

Park City Mountain Resort
  • Elevation 6900-10,000
  • 14 lifts
  • $52 all-day
93 runs on 2,200 acres, longest run 3.5 miles; vertical drop 3100'. 39% advanced, 45% intermediate and 16% beginner. 4 high-speed, 6 passenger chairs, 2 quads, 6 triples, 4 doubles. Ski school, lessons and rentals. Restaurant, cafeteria, snack bar, warming hut and day care (3 yrs and over). Snowboarding, with lessons and rentals available.

Prices: Adult half-day, $37; under age 12, all-day $23, half-day $18; adult night pass (4-9 pm), $18, under age 12, $8; ages 65-69, $24.50 all-day; ages 70 and over, free. Gondola round-trip, $8.
Season: Mid-November
Location: 27 mi E of Salt Lake City via I-80 and SR 224 P. O. Box 39, Park City UT 84060. (801) 649-8111 or (800) 222-7275. Snow Phone (801) 647-5335.

Powder Mountain Resort
  • Elevation 7600-8900'
  • 7 lifts
  • $33 all-day
Over 70 runs on 5500 acres, longest run 3 miles; vertical drop 1300'. 10% advanced, 50% intermediate and 40% beginner 1 triple, 2 double, 3 ropes, 1 poma, 1 quad. Ski school, lessons and rentals. Restaurant and day lodge. Snowboarding, with lessons and rentals available. Snow cat skiing.

Prices: Adult half-day, $27; under age 12, $19 all-day, $18 half-day; ages 65 and over, $26 all-day; adult day/night $38, under age 12, $20;seniors $28. Night skiing (4:30-10pm): adult $16, under age 12, $10. Hours 9:30am-10pm daily.
Season: Mid-November through mid-April.
Location: 22 mi NE of Ogden on SR 158. P. O. Box 450, Eden, UT 84310. (801) 745-3772. Snow phone (801) 745-3771.

Snowbasin Resort
  • Elevation 6400-8800'
  • 9 lifts
  • $29 all-day
39 runs on 1800 acres, longest run 3 miles; vertical drop 2400'. 30% advances, 50% intermediate and 20% beginner. 4 triple chairs, 1 double chair. Ski school, lessons and rentals. Restaurant. Snowboarding, with lessons and rentals available.

Prices: Adult half-day, $24; under age 11, $20 all-day, $17 half-day; ages 65 and over, $21 all-day, $18 half-day.
Season: Late November through early April. Hours 9-4 pm.
Location: 17 mi E of Ogden via 12th Street exit off I-15 or from the south and the SLC International Airport, I-15 N, exit I-84 E to Mt. Green/Huntsville. P. O. Box 460, Huntsville, UT 84317. (801) 399-1135. Snow phone (801) 399-0198.

Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort
  • Elevation 7760-11,000'
  • 10 lifts
  • $52 all-day

84 runs. The longest run is 3.5 miles; vertical drop 3240. 45% advances, 35% intermediate and 20% beginner. 1 tram, 7 double chairs, 2 high-speed quad. Ski school, lessons and rentals. 5 restaurants, cafeteria, snack bar and lodging. Free guided skiing tours. Helicopter skiing. Snowboarding, with lessons and rentals available.

Specials: Packages available.
Prices: Adult half-day $44; children under 13 free on chair lifts with adult purchasing all-day ticket: ages 65 and over, $39 all-day, $30 half-day. Chair lift only: adult $35 half-day; ages 12 and under and 65 and over $30-$33 (w/parents, ski free).
Season: Late November-early May.
Location: 25 mi SE of Salt Lake City on SR 210. P. O. Box 929000, Snowbird, UT 84092. (801(742-2222.

Solitude Ski Resort

  • Elevation 7988-10,035'
  • 9lifts
  • $39 all-day
63 runs on 1200 acres longest run 3 miles; vertical drop 2047'. 30% advanced, 50% intermediate and 20% beginner. 1 high -speed quad chair, 2 triple chairs, 4 double chairs. Ski schools, lessons and rentals. Restaurant, cafeteria and snack bar. Lodging and day lodge. Snowboarding, with lessons and rentals available.

Prices: Adult half-day, $33; ages 60-69, $32 all-day; under 10 and 70 and older, free.
Season: November through April. Hours 9-4 daily.
Location: 28 mi SE of Salt Lake City on SR 190. 12000 Big cottonwood Canyon, Solitude, UT 84121. (801) 534-1400.

Sundance
  • Elevation 6100-8250'
  • 4 lifts
  • $30 all-day

41 runs on 450 acres; vertical drop 2150. 40% advanced, 40% intermediate and 20% beginner. 2 triple chairs, 1 quad. Ski school, lessons and rentals. Restaurants, cafeteria, market, deli, general store, snack bar and lodging. Snowbaording, with lessons and rentals available. Art and Nature Center and summer camp.

Specials: Lodging packages; stay 3 days, ski free.
Prices: Adult half-day, $20; ages 6-12, $16 all-day, $16 half-day; ages 65 and over, free.
Season: December 10 through April 9. Hours 9-4:30 daily.
Location: 15 mi N. of Provo on SR 92 off US 189 at the north fork of Provo Canyon. RR 3 Box A-1, Sundance, UT 84604. (801) 225-4107 or (800) 892-1600 (lodging reservations). Snow phone (801) 225-4100.


CROSS-COUNTY SKIING
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA/CASCADES
All ski areas in the North Zone are found on CSAA's Northern California Section map.

Eagle MCross Country Ski Area

  • 42 mi. groomed & marked trails
  • Ski School
  • Rentals
  • Tours

28 trails, elevation 5900-7000'. Trail maps available. Group and private lessons. Restaurant, snack bar and cafeteria. Rentals $16.50 all-day, $13.50 half-day skis and snowshoes.

Season: November 1 through May 1. Hours 9-5 daily. Twilight after 3pm, $8.00.
Prices: Adult all-day, $16.50, half-day $13.50; ages 12-16 $8.50 and 59 +, $10 all-day; under 12, free. Twilight after 3pm, $8.00.
Location: I-80, exit Yuba Gap S and follow sign; 1 mi. off I-80 on Lake Valley Road, Emigrant Gap, Ca 95715 (530) 389-2254 or (800) 391-2254
Discount: Adult all-day lift ticket.

Lassen National Forest Cross-Country Ski Area

  • 42 mi. groomed & marked trails
  • Ski School
  • Rentals
  • Tours

Insert Description

Trail: Trailheads in Susanville and at Mason Station, 4 miles north of Westwood . 24 1/2 miles of scenic trails along an abandoned grade of Fernley and Lassen Railroad . Trail is unmarked but easily followed. Western part of trail is best for cross-country skiing. First seven miles of trail are handicap accessible. Parking at trailheads. Free.

Beyond the designated areas, most of the forest is open to cross-country skiing with more challenging terrain on the west side and gentler areas on the east. Check with forest service for more information.

Address: Alamanor Ranger District 900 Main Street, P.O. Box 767, Chester CA 96020 (530) 258-2141

Lassen Volcanic National Park

  • 30 miles un-groomed trails
Activities in the southern part of the park focus on mountaineering skiing, in addition to cross-country skiing on six miles of groomed trails. Intermediate to expert levels of skiing. Day skiers must register at the trailhead. Permits required for overnight backcountry travel. Ranger guided snowshoe tours on Saturday.

At the northern entrance to the park near Manzanita Lake are 7 miles of groomed ski trails with safe ski terrain when there is high avalancehe danger in the rest of the park. Beginner to intermediate skiers. No commercial services of any kind. Skiers must register at the trailhead. Permits required for overnight backcountry travel.

Some 26 miles further east on SR 44, a 6-mile unplowed road leads into the Butte Lake Area and provided access to Cinder Cone Lava Beds and other volcanic features.

Address: Lassen Volcanic National Park, P.O. Box 100, Mineral, Ca 96063. (530) 595-4444 weekdays.

Mount Shasta (USFS)
  • 3 mi.marked trails
3 marked cross-country trails for beginning and intermediate skiers are located within the Mt. Shasta Ranger District of the Shasta Trinity National Forest: Sand Flat Trail, the Overlook Loop Trail and the Bunny Flat Trail. Restroom facilities and parking are available only at Bunny Flat. Trailheads are located at the 6,600' to 7,000' elevations on the Everitt Memorial Highway, 10 to 12 miles above the city of Mt. Shasta, 204 W Alma, Mt Shasta, CA 96067. Phone (916) 926-4511 weekdays. Weekend recorded information (530) 926-3781.

Mt. Shasta Ski Park Cross Country
  • 15.5 mi.groomed trails, lessons, rentals, guided tours
13 mi groomed trails and one ungroomed trail at 5200-5600'. 30% advanced, 30% intermediate and 40 % beginner. Power tilled track and skating lanes. Base lodge, warming hut and shuttle service. Snowshoes with rentals. Open 9-4 daily.

Prices: Trail pass $11 all-day, $8 half-day;ages 8-12 and seniors, $7 all-day, $5 half day; ages 7 and under $3.
Location: I-5, 4 hours, N of Sacramento off SR 89, 10 mi E of Mt. Shasta. 104 Siskiyou Ave., Mt Shasta, Ca. 96067. (530)-926-8610 SnowPhone (530)-926-8686
Discount: Adult and children's all-day lift ticket.

Trinity Alps (Cross-Country)
  • Unlimited mi. ungroomed trails.
On Weaver Bally Mountain, 3500-7000'; Scott Mountain, 5300-6800'. No developed ski area. Skiing is free on all forest service land. For additional ski information, contact the Trinity County Chamber of Commerce, P. O. Box 517, Weaverville, CA 96093. (530) 623-6101 or (800) 487-4648.

NORTH LAKE TAHOE


Diamond Peak
  • Lessons, rentals, lodging
Intensive instruction in cross-country, telemark and ski mountaineering and survival techniques from the Donner Spitz Hutte on old Hwy 40 at Norden. A teaching area with beginner to advanced instruction and backcountry skiing. Skiers' Bunk and Breakfast and private rooms available.

Specials: Weekend packages include 2 nights of European hut-style lodging, meals and 2 days of instruction in cross-country or telemark skiing and lift tickets, $182-$202. $25/night for lodging and breakfast. Midweek 5-day package includes instruction in 3 ski ski disciplines (cross-country, metal-edged Nordic downhill and back country), $498. Overnight treks with lessons in routefinding and ski camping, trans-Sierra treks in the spring. Telemark, alpine touring, snowboarding and cross-country rental equipment available.
Location: On Old US 40 off I-80 at Norden/soda spring exit. P. O. Box 8, Norden, CA 95724. (530) 426-9108 or 1-888-asi-peak.

Clair Tappaan Lodge
  • 7 mi. set track, lessons, rentals

A Sierra Club operation for over 60 years. 7,000' elevation. Intermediate trails. Track fee:$7 donation requested; ages 12 and under, $3.50. Rentals and lessons. Limited parking. Machine groomed packed powder.

Specials: Lessons (all ages), $14 for 2 hours everyday but Friday. Telemark and ski skating. Dining available if reservations made before noon.
Location: Old US 40 off I-80 near Donner Summit (Soda Springs exit). P. O. Box 36, Norden, CA 95724. (916) 426-3632.

Diamond Peak Cross-Country & Snowshoe Center

  • 22 mi. groomed trails, guided tours, lessons, rentals

16 groomed and marked trails. 30% advanced, 50% intermediate and 20% beginner. Views of Lake Tahoe. Groomed track for skating. Day lodge with rental shop, lessons and skating clinics. Ski rentals $20; snowshoes $10. Open da ily 9-4 during ski season.

Specials: First-time beginners package ages 7 and up $34, includes one hour group lesson, rentals and trail pass, all-day rental, 11 am daily.
Prices: Adult trail pass, $14 all-day, $11 half-day; ages 6-12 and 60-69, $9 all-day, $7 half-day; ages 5 and under and 70 and over, free. Twilight fee (2:30pm), $6.
Location: off SR 431 (Mount Rose Highway) 4 mi NE of InclineVillage. Incline Village, NV 89451 (775) 832-1177.
Discount: Adult all-day lift ticket.

Northstar-at-Tahoe Cross Country and Telemark Ski Center

  • 40.5 mi. set track, lessons, rentals, lodgings

Groomed, patrolled trails adjacent to the downhill ski area, groomed skating lanes throughout. Trail fee $16, age 5-12 $9, including unlimited use of Big Springs gondola from village to day lodge adjacent to Cross-Country Center. Telemark, adults. $46; ages 5-12 $10. Trail passes available at Cross-Country Center or in the village area. Trail map, Half-day (12:30p.m) trail pass $12, ages 5-12, $7.

Specials: Lessons $22, rentals $16,(track, skating or telemark). Meals at Cross-Country Center and day lodge. Accommodations at Northstar complex. Hours 8:30-4 daily.
Location: At Northstar on SR 267 between Truckee and North Lake Tahoe. Big Springs Gondola provides access to Cross-Country Center. P. O. Box 129, Truckee, CA 96160 (530) 562-2475.

North Tahoe Regional Park Winter Activity Area

  • Over 200 acres of wooded park
Assorted snow play, both structured and supervised. Parking fee $3. Heated restrooms, groomed sled runs, sled, saucer & tube rentals. 8 miles of groomed trails, $3 trail fee. The trails are open for mixed use, including cross-country skiing, snow hiking and snowmobiles. Snowmobile concession with groomed track and rentals available. Located at the end of National Avenue off SR 28 in Tahoe Vista. Office located at I 875 National Ave. Tahoe Vista, Ca 96148. (530) 546-4212 Snow phone (530) 564-5043.

Royal Gorge Cross-Country Ski Resort
  • 190 mi. set track, lessons, rentals

88 trails on 9,172 acres. 18% advanced, 50% intermediate and 32% beginner. 13.2 mile inn-to inn ski trail. 4 surface lifts to practice downhill cross-country and provide easier access to trails. Day lodge with café, bar, rental and retail shop. Trail map. 10 warming huts, 4 trailside cafes. Trail fee $17.50 midweek/low season, $21.50 weekend/high season. Rentals $17.50 Certified instructors. Lessons, $34, including trail pass. European-style wilderness lodge. Lessons, sauna, hot tub, night touring.

Specials: Rental, lesson and trail pass package, $42. Wilderness weekend package $298; 2-day midweek package $218, 5-day mid-week package $545. Hours: 8:30 -5 weekends an holidays, 9-5 weekdays.
Location: On Pahatsi Road in Soda Springs, 1 mi. from I-80. P.O. Box 1100, Soda Springs, Ca 95728. (530) 426-3871.
Discount: Adult all-day and half-day lift ticket (weekdays). (Some holiday periods excluded.)

Spooner Lake Cross-Country Ski Area

  • 55 mi. groomed trails, lessons, rentals
22 trails on 9,000 acres. Long backcountry loops groomed for skating and classic training. Beginning terrain around Spooner Lake and Meadow. Day Lodge with rentals, lunch, snacks and lessons. Rentals $14.

Specials: Discount after 1 p.m. on rentals and trail fees.
Prices: Adult trail fee, $15 (week-ends and holidays); students ages 16-22 with valid I.D., $9; ages 7-15, $3 daily; over age 60, $5 daily.
Season: November through mid-April. Hours 9-5 Mon-Fri., 8:30-5:30 Sat-Sun.
Location: ½ mi N of US 50 on Highway 28 on the Nevada side. P. O. Box 11, Glenbrook, NV 89413. (702) 749-5349. Snow phone (702) 88708844.

Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Area
  • 42 mi. groomed track, lessons, rentals

35 trails on 4,200 acres. Track fee: adults, $16; ages 10-12, $9: ages 13-17 and 60-69, $14; and under 10, free. Rentals: adults $15; ages 12 and under $9; ages 6 and under and 70 and over, free. Night skiing Wednesday and Saturday 5-8. Café. Lodging at Tahoe Donner.

Specials: Learn-to-Ski package, adults $35;ages 7-12 and 60-69, $29.
Hours: 8:30-5 daily.
Location: In Tahoe Donner near Truckee. Donner State Park Exit off I-80; left on Donner Pass Road, left on Northwoods Blvd. Follow signs to Tahoe Donner Cross-Country. 15275 Alder Oak Road, Truckee, CA 96161. (530) 587-9484. Snow phone (530) 587-9494.

Tahoe National Forest

  • Marked trails
The forest service has marked ski trails 17 miles E of Nevada City, near the Alpha Omega Rest Stop on SR 20. 120 miles of groomed trails for snowmobiles can be accessed from Little Truckee Summit on SR 89, Prosser Trailhead on SR 89, Bassets Station on SR 49 and Yuba Pass on SR 49. Marked ski trails are available in the Yuba Pass area and 40 miles of trails at China Wall trailhead on the Foresthill Divide Road, 15 miles NE of Foresthill.

3 Snow Park sites are located in Tahoe National Forest: Donner Summit, Donner Lake and Yuba Pass. Write Tahoe National Forest, 631 Coyote Street, Nevada City, CA 95959-2250, for "Winter Recreation in the Tahoe National Forest", which includes a map indicating cross-country ski trails and snowmobile routes, or pick up a copy at U. S. Forest Service offices in the area. Open weekdays 8-4:30. (530) 265-4531.

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE

Bear River Lake Resort
  • 75 mi. groomed trails, lodging
Snowmobiling in the Eldorado National Forest. Elevation at resort 5,840'. Routes unmarked, but groomed weekly and after major snowfalls. $5 parking fee per car. Café at resort serves light meals and cocktails, 7am-10pm Fri, Sat and Sun.; closed Mon.-Thu. Lodging. Limited RV parking.

Location: 42 miles E of Jackson, 3 miles off SR 88; follow signs to Bear River Reservoir. 40800 Highway 88, Pioneer, CA 95666 (209) 295-4868.

Eldorado National Forest
  • 40 mi. marked ski trails

Several marked cross-country ski trails near US 50 and SR 88 in the Eldorado National Forest located in 5 area. For trail maps and brochures, mail requests to 3070 Camino Heights, Camino, Ca 95709. For information, phone (916) 644-6048.

Amador Ranger District: 17.5 miles of marked trails at 4 different areas along SR 88. Lumberyard Trail, .5 mile, is 35 miles E of Jackson. Leek Springs Loop, (10 miles), begins at the intersection of the Mormon Emigrant Trail and Highway 88, 45 miles E of Jackson; advised for intermediate and advanced skiers. For information phone 209-295-4251.

Loon Lake Winter Recreation Area: 10 miles of marked trails, rated according to difficulty at 6,410 feet, 45 mile NE of Placerville; advised for beginners to expert ski mountaineers. Access for overnight backpacking/ski trips into Desolation wilderness. A warming hut, Loon Lake Chalet, is open weekdays 10-3, December 1-April 30. Restrooms and water are available, but no food. From US 50 E of Placerville, N on Ice House Road at Riverton for 30 miles to Loon Lake. Note: Because of the remoteness of this area, visitors must be alert to changing weather conditions and have some knowledge of winter backcountry hazards. Ice House Road is plowed only on weekdays and may be closed during storms. Wilderness permits are required for both day use and overnight camping in Desolation Wilderness. For information, phone (530).

Strawberry Canyon trailhead is about ¼ mile W of Strawberry along US 50, at 42 Mile Picnic Area. An 11-mile trail system for beginner and intermediate skiers above the American River. Station Creek Trail, 1.5 miles, is for beginners. Strawberry Ridge Loop, 5 miles, and Cody Creek Loop, 4.5 miles, are for beginners and intermediate skiers.

The Echo Summit Cross Country Ski Trail System features two ski trails and two loop trails, 3.2 miles of posted trails. From Placerville eastbound on US 50, travel 2.8 miles past the Sierra-at Tahoe sign towards Echo Summit. Turn right onto the Echo Summit Road. Benwood Meadow Ski Trail (.6 mile), elevation 7400-7500', access from the southeast corner of the Snow Park. This trail follows one of the ski runs, then follows fairly gentle terrain. The trail provides access to two loop trails. Rock Garden Loop (.9 mile), elevation 7400', starts about 400' down the Benwood Meadow Ski Trail to the left. This loop trail proceeds to a rocky shelf above the Truckee River, then rejoins the Benwood Meadow Trail about .25 miles south of the starting point. Frog Pond Loop (1 mile), elevation 7500'. This loop shares a portion of its route with the Rock Garden Loop. Starts to the left about .4 miles south on the Benwood Meadow Ski Trail, loops around Frog pond, and will tie back into the Benwood Meadow Trails on the right after it swings by Benwood Meadow. Upper Benwood Meadow (most difficult) (.7 mile), elevation 7500-7800'. This trail takes off to the right just before arriving at the Benwood Meadow, and proceeds up a steep incline into a rocky basin that contains Upper Benwood Meadow. This trail is the most challenging trail in the Echo Summit Trail System.

The Echo Lakes Basin Johnson Pass cross-country ski trail system features 3 loop trails and one trail that leads to Echo Lakes Sno-Park. There are 3.1 miles of trails that are posted. The trails start at the Johnson Pass. To get to the trails from US 50 east, drive 1.5 miles past the Sierra-at Tahoe sign towards Echo Summit. Turn left onto the road that has the Echo Lakes sign. This is the Johnson Pass Road. Drive 0.5 miles until reaching the Sno Park on the south side of the road. Little shorty Loop (easiest) (.4 mile), elevation 7300'. This loop can be accessed from the southeast corner of the Echo Lakes Sno-Park and starts bout 100 feet south of the parking lot down a main stem trail that leads to the other two loop trails. Blue diamonds and blue and yellow signs with yellow arrows provide guidance through the high elevation forest. Big Shorty Loop (.7 mile), elevation 7300'. Starts 200 feet south of the junction with the Little Shorty Loop , and proceeds through and around a small basin. This trail will eventually lead back to the main stem trail, but it will be farther south than where the trail first connects to the main stem. Ridge Loop (more difficult), 1.1 miles, elevation 7300-7400'. This trail involves some steeper terrain. This trail will provide an opportunity to see trees in a variety of sizes. Echo Lakes Ski Trail (easier). 1.1 miles (one-way) elevation 7300'. This trail follows the Echo Lakes Road. The terrain is fairly gentle, with views of the glacier-created Echo Lakes.

Hope Valley Cross-Country Ski Center at Sorensen's Resort

  • 60 mi. trails, lessons, rentals, lodging

10 miles of marked and groomed trails, 50 miles of marked trails at 7,000 feet on the edge of Hope Valley. Trails lead to Hope Valley, Burnside Lake and points south and west. Backcountry tours. Children's ski program, ski school (all levels). Adult rentals $12-$16 all day, $9-$12 half-day. Childrens rentals $8 all-day, $5 half-day. No fee if providing own skis, but donations accepted. Touring and backcountry equipment. Lodging in 29 housekeeping cabins, sauna. Country café serving breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. No smoking.

Specials: Lessons and rental specials offered.
Location: 16 mi. S of Lake Tahoe on SP 88, ¾ mi E of SR 89. Hope Valley, Ca 96120. P.O. Box 11129, Tahoe Paradise, CA 96155. (530) 694-2203/694-2266 or (800) 423-9949 (reservations).

Kirkwood Cross-Country

  • 48 mi. set track, lessons, rentals, guided tours
Primarily intermediate level machine-groomed and patrolled trails. Trailside warming huts. Trail fee $15. Beginner lessons including trail pass, $35. Full ski shop and rental department. Technique clinics and camps. Open 9-5 daily.

Specials: Beginners special: $35 (includes trail pass, equipment rental and lessons). Free skate lessons weekends, 9:30.
Location: SR 88 near Carson Pass. P. O. Box 1, Kirkwood, Ca 95646. (209) 258-7248/258-6000. Snow Phone (209) 258-3000. (800) 967-8500 (reservations).
Discount: Adult all-day lift ticket. Adult ski lessons. (Monday-Friday). Not valid Dec. 25-Jan1.)

Lake Tahoe Basin (USFS)
  • Marked and unmarked trails

Free public trails for all levels of Nordic skiers can be found in the Lake Tahoe Basin and Eldorado National Forest, ranging in elevation from 6,000 to 8,000 feet. Most follow unplowed forest service roads. Fallen Leaf Lake, the west shore of Lake Tahoe, the Echo lakes, Maris Peak and Toiyabe National Forest, located SE of Lake Tahoe Basin, are just a few of the areas where these trails are located. A Sno-Park permit is required Nov 1 through May 31 in order to access many of these areas. Permit fee $5 per day, $25 per season. Free maps of the trails and other details are available from the USDA Forest Service , Lake Tahoe Basin management Unit, 870 Emerald Bay Road, Suite 1, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150. (530) 573-2694.

CENTRAL ZONE

Bear Valley Cross-Country

  • 35 mi. groomed trails, lessons, rentals, guided tours

At 7,000 feet, extensive groomed trail system for all ages and abilities. Trailside huts ski school, restaurant and lodge. Trail fee $17; ages 13-17, $11; 9-12, $8; 8 and under, free; 60 to 69, $11; 70 and over free. Rentals $16. Snowshoeing $12; ages 12 and under $8 and children's sledding hill (ages 4-10), $6 sled rentals.

Specials: Beginner special, adult, $38; ages 9-12, $28; mid-week packages, ski/skating clinics and family ski days.
Location: SR 4, Box 5120, Bear Valley, CA 95223. (209) 753-2834.
AAA Map: Bay and Mountain Section.
Discount: Adult all-day cross-country trail pass and adult all-day cross-country rental (weekdays). (Some holiday periods excluded.)

Calaveras Big Trees State Park

  • 4.5 mi. trails

This state park on SR 4 has a 1-mile nature trail looping through the north grove, and a 3 ½ mile loop trail along park roads in the south grove. Primarily beginner to intermediate terrain. 12 winter campsites available. Visitor center open weekends 11-3. Because of low elevation (5000'), check snow conditions in advance. Trail map $1. Day use fee per car, $5; ages 62 and over, $4, P. O. Box 120, Arnold, Ca 95223. (209) 795-2334.
AAA Map: Bay and Mountain Section.

Goat Meadow (USFS)

  • 18 mi. marked trails

Sierra National Forest maintains a system of marked ski trails just south of Yosemite National Park from ½ mile to 13 miles in length, through forests at 5,000 to 7,000 feet, for beginner to advanced skiers, 1 trail extends 3 miles into the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias in Yosemite. Trail map available weekdays at the ranger station.

Location: Access road N of Fish Camp on SR 41/ 43060 SR 41, Oakhurst, CA 93644 (ranger station) (209) 683-4665.
AAA Map: Bay Mountain Section.

Hume Lake

  • 18 mi. marked trails
Sequoia National Forest has marked 3 trails in the Hume Lake Ranger District, near Kings Canyon National Park. Reached via SR 180 and the Generals Highway, they include: Cherry Gap, 3 miles long, for intermediate skiers; Quail Flat, 3.5 miles long, for beginner and intermediate skiers; and the Big Meadows system, 12.5 miles long, for beginner and intermediate skiers. Cleared parking areas at Cherry Gap, Quail Flat, and Big Meadows Road off Generals Highway. Hume Lake Ranger District, 35860 E. Kings Canyon Road, Dunlap, CA 93621. Phone (559) 338-2251
AAA Map: Death Valley and Southern Nevada section.
  • 6.5 mi. marked trails
2 intermittently groomed trails in the Mono Lake Ranger District of Inyo National Forest, volcanic areas E of the Sierra. Obsidian Dome Trail, 4 miles long at 8000', begins at the junction of Glass Flow Road and US 395 near Deadman Summit. Junction Nordic Trail, 2.5 miles long, begins at the southern junction of SR 158 and US 395. No dogs, hiking, or snowshoes allowed on groomed Nordic trails. No motorized vehicles. For information, contact Inyo National Forest, Mono Lake Ranger District, P. O Box 429, Lee Vining, CA 93541. (760) 647-3000.

McGee Creek Cross-Country
  • 5 mi. groomed skiing, 50 mi. mapped backcountry trails, lessons
Prices:  Tours and classes, $40 and up.
Season: December 15 through April 20. Tours until June.
Location: McGee Creek Inn, 12 miles S of Mammoth Lakes on US 395 at McGee Creek exit P.O. BOX 174, Crowley Lake, CA 93546. (760) 935-4228.

Montecito-Sequoia Cross-Country Ski and Winter Sports Center
  • 50 mi. of groomed trails, 124 mi of backcountry

Nestled between Kings Canyon and Sequoia Nat'l Parks, 10 miles south of Grant Grove, off Hwy 180. Offer beginner lessons or intermediate to advances lessons in diagonal stride, skate skiing Snow tubing, showshoeing, ice skating and on your own snowboarding.Ski school and rental shop. Children's activities daily (5-11 yrs) for over night guests.

Specials: Includes meals, lodging, trail pass, beverage/snack bar. $83-159 per person.
Location: 8000 Generals Highway, P. O Box 858, Kings Canyon National Park, Ca 93633. 65 mi E of Fresno via SR 180 in Sequoia National Park. (650) 967-8612 or (800) 227-9900.

Shady Rest (USFS)

  • 12 mi. marked trails
Inyo National Forest maintains 4 trails of the Shady Rest-Mammoth Knolls Trail System, the longest of which is 7 miles to the Inyo Craters. Trail maps available. Two trailheads serve the Shady Rest system, One at the USFS Visitor Center, on SR 203 between US 395 and the town of Mammoth Lakes. The other is known as the Shady Rest Trailhead, located off Highway 203 directly opposite McDonald's Visitor center open Monday-Sunday 8 to 5. Winter tent camping at Shady Rest campground and at winterized RV campground across the highway. Earthquake Fault Trail is a 4 ½ mile USFS marked route to the Inyo Craters from the Earthquake Fault access road off the road to Mammoth Mountain Ski Area. For information, contact Mammoth Ranger District, P. O. Box 148, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546. (760) 924-5500. 24-hour recorded information on current conditions, (760)934-1094.
AAA Map: Death Valley & and Southern Nevada Section.

Stanislaus National Forest
  • Marked ski trails
Several marked trails are maintained by the Stanislaus National Forest along SR 4 and SR 108, from short, easy trails for beginners to longer, steeper trails for intermediate and advanced skiers. Backcountry ski opportunities also exist for more advances skiers. Many follow unplowed U. S. Forest Service roads. On SR 108, the extensive, well-marked Gooseberry and Crabtree trail systems are near Dodge Ridge Ski Area. On SR 4, there are several trailheads along the highway and beyond the snowgate at the end of the road. For trail maps write Supervisor, Stanislaus National forest, 19777 Greenley Road, Sonora, CA 95370. (209) 532-3671. For current conditions, phone (209) 795-1381 (Calaveras Ranger District) for SR 4, and (209) 965-3434 (summit Ranger District) for SR 108.
AAA Map: Death Valley and Southern Nevada Section

Yosemite Cross-Country Ski Center
  • 90 mi. trails, 21 mi. set track, lessons, rentals
Groomed track from Badger Pass to Glacier Point. Main ski school and rental shop at Badger Pass. Rental shop in Curry Village open when snow conditions are good in Yosemite Valley. Trail use free. All day lesson/tours $35, rentals $15. Beginners package $40, including morning and afternoon lessons and rental. Telemark, snowshoes and skating rental equipment. Packages available, some with mid-week lodging in Yosemite Valley. Free bus from Yosemite Valley to Badger Pass.

Specials: Glacier Point package, four-day mid-week (includes lessons, rental, tour, and overnight accommodations at new Glacier Point winter lodge), $170.
Location: At Badger Pass on Glacier Point Rd. in Yosemite National Park. Yosemite Concession Services Corp., Yosemite National Park , CA 95389. (209) 372-8444.
AAA Map: Bay and Mountain Section.

SOUTH ZONE
All ski areas in the South Zone are found on CSAA's Southern California Section map.

Mount Pinos Cross-Country
  • 50 mi. marked trails, rentals
New Forest Service passes now required for recreation, including cross-country skiing. Daily pass, $5 per vehicle, annual pass $30.

Season: December 15 through April 1.
Location: 20 mi. W of Gorman off I-5 at Frazier Park exit (via Mount Pinos Rd). 34580 Lockwood Valley Rd., Frazier park, CA 93225. (805) 245-3438. Snow phone (805) 245-3449.

Palm Springs Nordic Ski Center

Elevation 8516-10,804'. Ski school. Rentals (cross-country), snack bar, warming hut. Open November 15 through April 15 (snow permitting), Hours 10-5 weekdays, 8-5 weekends. Round-trip tram fare: adults $16.95; ages 3-12 $12.95. Located 7 mi NW of Palm Springs, off SR 111 at the top of Palm Springs, Aerial Tramway. 1 Tramway Rd., Palm Springs, CA 92262. (619) 327-6002.

Snowdrift Winter Playground

Elevation 6470'. Beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs. Rentals, snow tubing area, snack bar (weekends and holidays only). Open November through April (conditions permitting), Hours 10-4 weekdays, 9-5 weekends and holidays. $4 charge for parking. Located 4 mi E of Running Springs on SR 18. P. O. Box 252, Running Springs, CA 93282. (909) 867-2640.

Other Winter Sports
  • Ice Skating
  • Saucers
  • Sleigh Rides
  • Snowmobiles
  • Snow Play Areas
  • Toboggans
  • Tubes


UTAH

Best Western Ruby's Inn
  • 30 mi marked trails
  • Rentals
  • Tours.
Elevation 7600. All groomed trails around Bryce Canyon National Park, with signed trails inside the park. Rentals $10 all-day, $7.50 half-day. Contact hotel for specials. Restaurant, snack bar, lodging. 114 mi NE of St George via I-15, exit 16 to HWY 9, US 89 N and SR 12, next to Bryce Canyon National Park. P. O. Box 1 Bryce, UT 84764. (435) 834-5341.

Brian Head Resort Cross-Country

Salt Lake City via I-15 to SR 143, then 15 mi S to Brian Head Hotel. P. O. Box 190065, 223 Hunter Ridge, Brian Head, UT 84719-0065. (801) 677-2012 or (800) BIKE -SKI (245-3754). Snow phone (435) 27-BRIAN (27426).

Dinosaurland Travel Region
  • 8 marked trails
  • Snowmobile rentals
  • Ski hut rentals
Free public trails; maps available. Rentals available from Red Canyon Lodge (435) 889-3759, Flaming Gorge Lodge (435) 889-3773 and Vernal Athletic Club (435) 789-5816. For addittional information, contact Ashley National Forest, 355 No. Vernal Ave., Vernal, UT 84078, (435) 789-1181; Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. P. O. Box 278 Manila, UT 84046, (435) 784-3445; Dinosaurland Travel Board, 25 East Main, Vernal, UT 84078, (435) 789-6932. Free area information and vacation packet (800) 477-5558.

Little Brush Creek Loop Trail, 22 mi N of Vernal on US 191; blue/white trailhead sign. Mileage route is 2.5 mi, gradual to moderate ascent and descent. Advised for beginners and intermediate skiers. Closed to snowmobiles. Elevation: 8200-8500'. Bassett Springs Loop Trail, 24 mi N of Vernal on US 191, route begins across from the highway to the west; blue/white trailhead sign. Mileage route is 4 mi, moderate to steep ascent and steep descent. Advised for advanced skiers. Closed to snowmobiles, marked with blue signs and blue flagging. Elevation 8300-8800'. Grizzly Ridge Yurt Trail, 24 mi N of Vernal trail leaves Bassett Springs Loop Trail, 1 mi from its trail-head. Mileage route is 1.86 mi with loop trail 2.86 mi from its trail-head. Trail has a moderate to steep ascent and ends at the Grizzly Ridge Yurt (ski hut available for rental-contact the Vernal Dist. office). Advised for intermediate skiers. Closed to snowmobile; marked with blue signs. Elevation: 8400-9200'. Grizzly Ridge Loop Trail, 26 mi N of Vernal. Look for the blue and white trailhead sign. Mileage route is 2.5 mi, gradual to moderate ascent and moderate to steep descent. Advised for intermediate skiers. Closed to snow-mobiles; marked with blue signs and blue flagging. Elevation 8400-8800'. Swett Ranch Loop route begins at Greendale Rest Area. .5 mi W of highway junction44/191, 28 mi N of Vernal. Mileage route is 7 mi. round trip, advised for intermediate skiers. Trail follows a forest service toad. Terrain is relatively flat with change in slopes with one steep section on the NW corner of the trail. Closed to snowmobiles; marked by blue diamonds. Elevation 6720-7400'. Canyon Rim Trail (two trails) at Greendaly Rest Area, 28 mi N of Vernal and at Red Canyon Lodge, 33 mi N of Vernal off SR 44 and Red Canyon Rd. Mileage route is 6.25 mi one way, advised for beginners and intermediate skiers. Trail travels along relatively flat Canyon Rim Trail and Red Canyon Rd. with a short, steep drop into Skull Creek at mid-trail. Closed to snowmobiles, except for the Red Canyon Rd; marked by blue diamonds. Elevation 7200-7450'. Lake Creek Loop Trail, 3.5 mi W of highway junction 44/191, opposite the Red Canyon Rd. Mileage route is 3-3/4 mi round trip, advised for beginners. Terrain is flat with open timber and meadows and a slight increase in slope. Closed to snowmobiles; marked by blue diamonds. Elevation 7600-7840'. Elk Park Trail, 10.5 mi W of highway junction 44/191. Mileage route is 5.5 mi round trip to Elk Park, advised for beginner skiers. Trail is mostly level and travels on a roadbed through open timber stands. This road used by snowmobilers but Elk Park closed to snowmobiles. Elevation 7820-8020'. Dowd Mountain Trail, located at the base of Dowd Mountain Rd, just off SR 44, opposite Dowd Springs Picnic Area, 50.5 mi N of Vernal on SR 44. Mileage route consists of 10-mi loop and is varied, difficult in places and is strenuous. Terrain varies from flat and open to steep and rocky. Trail is considered intermediate to advances. Recommended to be skied in a counterclockwise direction. Route is marked 7560-7980'. 12 snowmobile trails ranging in length from 8 to 60 miles, at elevations up to 11,000'.

Homestead Cross-Country Ski Area
  • 9 mi marked trails
  • Rental
  • Tours

6 miles of marked and groomed trails. Ski school, lessons; trail maps available. Fee $6, children 43. Ski lessons. Open mid-December through mid March. Hours 8-5. Located 18 mi S Park City, UT84049. (435) 654-1102 or (800) 327-7220.

Solitude Ski Resort Cross-Country

Elevation 7988-10.035'. Lessons and trail maps available. Day and overnight tours. Restaurant, cafeteria, snack bar, lodging and day lodge. Trail fee: ages 11-69, $10 all-day; under age 11 and over age 69, free. Open November through April, 9-4 daily. Located 23 mi SE of Salt Lake City. 12000 Big Cottonwood Canyon, Solitude, UT 84121. (801) 534-1400.

Sundance Nordic Center

  • 17 mi. marked trails
  • Rentals
  • Tours
  • Snowshoeing
  • Telemarking

Elevation 6100'. Groomed trails, with maps available. Hours 9-6 daily. Trail fee $9 all-day, $6 half-day. Twilight skiing (5-9pm). Rentals $12-$20 all-day, $9-$20 half-day. Private lessons $25, learn-to-ski package $30. Located 15 mi N of Provo on SR 92 off US 189 at the north.

White Pine Touring

  • 10 mi. marked trails
  • Rentals
  • Guided tours
Elevation 6900-7200'. Ski school and ski racing. Adult pass $9 all-day, $7 half-day; ages 12 and under and 65 and over, free. Open mid-November through April 1, 9-6 daily. Located 27 mi E of Salt Lake City in Park City. P. O. Box 680068, Park City, UT 84068. (435) 615-5858,649-8710 (summer).

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

Bear River Lake Resort
Over 75 miles of groomed snowmobile trail. General store, snack bar, cocktails, weekend lodging. 42 miles E of Jackson, 3 miles off SR 88; follow signs to Bear River Reservoir. 40800 Highway 88, Pioneer, CA 95666. (209) 295-4868

Borges Sleigh Rides

30-minute narrated rides in a "one horse open sleigh" daily, snow permitting. Adults $15, couple$30, ages 2 to 10 and under $7.50. Open 10am until dark. On US 50 next to Caesar's Tahoe. P.O. Box 5905, Lake Tahoe, NV. 89449. (775) 588-2953 or (800)726-7433

CONTOUR SIERRA TUBING CENTER

Family-owned tubing center. Lift-served tubing lanes, groomed for varying abilities. $10, 2hours; includes use of tube. Fri-Mon 10-4; open holidays. I-80 E. near Donner Summit; exit at Kingvale (west). 530) 587-7291

GRANLIBAKKEN

Snow play area adjacent to ski hill. Admission $4. Saucer rental $3 Open daily 9-4. On Granlibakken Rd. 1 mi. S of Tahoe City off SR 89 P.O. Box 6329, Tahoe City, CA 96145 (530) 544-3361

HANSEN'S RESORT

Tube and Saucer hill. Packed runs, banked turns, all equipment furnished. 3-hour session $12 per person, $6 per person per hour. 1360 Ski Run Blvd. off US 50 near Stateline, 3 blocks from Heavenly Valley P.O,.Box 316, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96156 (530) 546-9909

HIGH SIERRA SNOWMOBILING

Snowmobiling track and rentals, $40 per half hour at Old Brockway Golf Course, SR 28 at SR 267, Kings Beach, CA 96143. (916) 546-9909

HUSKY EXPRESS DOG SLED TOURS

Dog sled rides of approximately one hour in scenic Hope Valley, 25 miles south of South Lake Tahoe. Adults $60, small children $25. Each sled holds two adults and one or two children. Picnic tours, mushers courses, telemark and avalanche courses at a backcountry ski hut, ski expeditions, snowshoeing and dog-sled supported ski expeditions available. Weight limit per sled. 375lbs. Reservations required. Husky Express/.Sierra Ski Touring , P.O. Box 176 Gardnerville, NV 89410 (775) 782-3047
DISCOUNT:Sled dog rides (Holiday weekends and Christmas holidays excluded).

LAKE TAHOE WINTER SPORTS CENTER
Guided snowmobile tours over 28 miles of groomed trails. $79 single, $109 double. Reservations required for tours. Open 8-6 daily, Thanksgiving through April. 1 mile W of airport. 3071 US 50, P.O. Box 11521, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96155. (530) 577-2940.

LASSEN NATIONAL FOREST

Snowmobile trails in six areas within the forest. Ashpan: hat Creek Ranger District, 9 mi. SW of junction SR 44 and SR 89. 39 miles of trails, warming hut, parking. Free. Swain Mountain: Almanor Ranger district, about 9 mi. N of County Road A-21 and SR 36. 47 miles of trails, parking. Free. Jonesville: Alamanor Ranger District, 2 mi. E of Cherry Hill Campground on Butte Meadows. 43 miles of trails, parking. Free. Fredonyer: Eagle Lake Ranger District off SR 36, 10mi W of Susanville. 80 miles of trails, parking. Free. Morgan Summit: 5 mi. E of Mineral on SR 36. 77 miles of trails, parking, warming hut. Free. Bogard Rest Stop: 30 miles W of Susanville on SR 44 75 miles of trails, parking. Free 55 S Sacramento Street, Susanville, CA 96130 (916) 257-2151.

SORENSEN'S RESORT
Snow play for lodging guests only. Saucers and toboggans (long sleds) at no charge Ski tours available. On SR 88,3/4 mi. E of junction of SR 89. 1455 SR 88, Hope Valley, CA.96120. (530) 694-2203.

T.C. SNO-MO'S
Guided wilderness snowmobile tours. 22miles, 1 ½ to 2 hours. Single rider $64, double $85. Downtown Tahoe City. (530) 581-3906

 ZEPHYR COVE SNOWMOBILE

20 hour guided snowmobile tours. Single rider $89, double $119. Tours daily 10 am, 12 noon, 2 pm and 4 pm, November 15-April 15 (instruction included). Clothing rental available. At Zephyr Cove Resort, 4 miles N of Stateline, on US 50. P.O. Box 1667, Zephyr Cove, NV 89448. (775) 588-3833.

CENTRAL CALIFORNIA

Bear Valley Kids Sledding Hill
Sledding hill designed for children ages 4 to 10 years. Admission $6 (including sled rental-children can share). On SR 4, P.O. Box 512 0 Bear Valley, CA 95223. (209) 753-2834.

HUME LAKE
Sequoia National Forest has 4 marked snowmobile trails in the Hume Lake Ranger District, near Kings Canyon National Park. They are reached via SR 180 and the Generals Highway: Cherry Gap, 4 miles long, Quail Flat, 5 miles long and a 10.4 mile route that connects with the 8.8 mile route at Big Meadow. Cleared parking areas are available at Cherry Gap off SR 180, and Quail Flat and Big Meadow Road off General's Highway. Cross-country ski trails also are accessible from these parking areas. Hume Lake Ranger District. 25860 E. Kings Canyon Road, Dunlap, CA 93621. Phone (559) 338-2251.

SEQUOIA-KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK

Snow Play area at Azalea Campground and Big Stump picnic area in Grant Grove and at Wolverton near Lodgepole and Giant Forest. Warming hut. Inner tubes and saucers. Daily, dawn to dusk, form approximately December-April. (559) 561-3341 or (559) 255-5500.

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK
Outdoor ice rink at Curry Village. Admission: Adults $5, child $4.50 per session (4 hour sessions). Skate rentals $2.00. Warming hut, snacks. Yosemite Concession Services Corp., Yosemite National Park, CA 95389. (209) 372-1000.

UTAH

BEAVER CREEK LODGE AND SNOWMOBILE RENTALS

Snowmobile rentals. Guided tours available for the price of one machine. Free lessons. Rentals: (2-hour) $39 weekday, $45 weekend; (4-hour) $69 weekday, $79 weekend; (8-hour) $89 weekday, $119 weekend. Winter season December through April, 9-5 daily. Located 25 mi. N of Logan at milepost 400 on US 89, next to Beaver Mountain Ski resort P. O. Box 277, Garden City, UT 84028. (435) 946-3400.

HIGH ADVENTURE RENTALS AND TOURS

Snowmobile and clothing rentals, guided rides. Rentals: daily $109; hourly $30 (first hour), $15 each additional hour; daily double rider $15, hourly $5. Guided tours per machine $129. On-site rental. Drivers must be 16 years of age with a valid drivers license. West of Ogden. (801) 782-7860 (reservations).

HOMESTEAD RESORT SNOWMOBILE TOURS

One-hour guided tour $40, two-hour, $65; each additional passenger $25; children under 8 free with paying adult. Half-day tour w/lunch $100 full day tour w/lunch, $145 (per person). Winter season mid-November through March, 9-5 daily. 51 mi SE of Salt Lake City via I-80 and US 40 S; 700 N Homestead Dr., P. O. Box 99, Midway, UT 84049. (435) 654-1102 or (800) 327-7220

ICE SHEET, THE

Site of the 2002 Winter Olympic Games curling competition. Skating offered year round. "Learn to Skate" lesson program available. Entire ice sheet rental $125 per hour. Located at Weber State University, 4390 Harrison Blvd, Ogden, UT 84403. (801) 399-8750 or (800) 515-2002.

PARK CITY POWDER CATS

Backcountry skiing for all abilities, operating at Thousand Peaks Ranch. Free Transportation to and from the Park City are; lunch and powder skis provided. Open mid-December through mid-April, 7:30-5 daily. Meet at Yarrow Hotel, 1700 Park Avenue. P. O. Box 2340, Park City, UT 84060. (435) 649-6583 or (800) 635-4719.

SNOW CANYON SNOW CAT SKIING

Elevation 6000-9200'. 24,000 acres, longest run 2 miles. 33% expert, 33% advanced and 33% intermediate. Enclosed and heated snow cat (10 passengers), $205 per person per day, lessons and lunch included. Wide powder skis and snowboarding, with rentals and lessons available. Lodging can be arranged. Special snow cat, $1650 per day (maximum 10 passengers). Located 50 mi. N of Salt Lake City in the Wasatch Mountains. Contact Snow Canyon Snow Cat Skiing P. O. Box 680972, Park City, UT 84068. (435) 649-1674.

SNOWMOBILE ADVENTURES

Rentals and guided tours. Snowmobile rentals: single all-day, $95, single half-day, $65; double all-day, $110, double half-day, $85. Guide service $50 (helmets provided). Clothing rental available. 1240 Harrop St, Ogden, UT 84404. (801) 394-5448 or 392-1783.

SUMMIT RENTAL

Snowmobile rentals, all-day and half-day. Snowmobile tours. Open late November -mid March 9-5 daily. 1361 South 300 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84115. (801) 949-4386

UTAH WINTER SPORT PARK