i'm looking at a short (2-day) trip to the Sierra for some XC skiing. My goal is to introduce a non-skier (neither XC nor downhill) and have it be a pleasant experience. This could be a step towards creating enough comfort, experience and confidence to get out to Glacier Point with a stay at the "lodge" overnight. That breaks the out-and-back into two days, making it more approachable. Even if that never happens, being able to offer an introduction to winter in the backcountry, without mechanized equipment, noise, crowds and the like would be spectacular.
I am comfortable with downhill and XC skiing, but a master of neither. I've been out to GP on skis and it was magnificent. I'd say it is my favorite time to be there, by far. So quiet, peaceful and providing beautiful views of some of the most iconic elements of YOSE. We have snowshoed together previously to Dewey Pt and Clark Range View Trail, Crane Flat Lookout Trail.
I *thought* I read somewhere that there are tracks set on Tioga Rd east of the closure near Crane Flat. I'm on the nps.gov/yose site and can find nothing at all about that. Even if it were true, I'm wondering where 50 or 300 vehicles would park as occupants disembarked for an adventure.
I'm asking for advice and suggestions for introductory, low-stress, enjoyable venues that would help determine if this is a good activity to continue to develop. I've been to Royal Gorge some time ago, buy my recollection is that many of the trails are narrow and hilly and thus may not be a great introduction for a novice. I've done a bit of research and it seems that Tahoe-Donner offers some XC opportunities, and instruction.
Thanks in advance.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 02/07/2019 08:52AM by ags.