City: Hope Valley, CA

Category: Parks & Recreation

Telephone: (530) 694-2266, (800) 423-9949

Address: 14255 California Highway 88

Description: Nestled in exquisite Hope Valley, this ski area offers an unspoiled mountain experience that’s hard to beat. Environmentalists, including the folks at Sorensen’s Resort just down the road, have worked successfully for years to preserve the pristine nature of this valley. It’s also blessedly tranquil since snowmobiles and other vehicles are prohibited. There’s very little set track, but that’s part of the charm, since you can just head out on your own to explore the marked terrain. Amenities include rental equipment, instruction, and guided tours, including one that traces part of Snowshoe Thompson’s famous route delivering mail to snowbound residents in the 1800s. Dogs are welcome on the trails and there is no fee, but donations are welcome. Sorensen’s offers cozy overnight lodging in unique alpine cabins with names like Dancehall, Tanglewood, and Saint Nick’s. You can even bring the family dog along—pets are welcome in some of the units. A hearty meal near the fire in the country cafe here is a delight after an invigorating day on skis or snowshoes. The resort also sponsors periodic cultural events that showcase the history and natural beauty of the area. Kirkwood ski center is just 20 minutes away, so you can also take advantage of all the amenities offered there. To reach Hope Valley Cross-Country from the Reno/Sparks area, take US 395 south to Minden, and then CA 88 west. It’s about a 90-minute drive when the roads are clear. From South Shore Lake Tahoe, take US 50 west to Myers, and then turn left onto CA 89. Go south for about 12 miles, and turn left again onto CA 88. The cross-country facility is about 0.25 mile past Sorensen’s Resort.