The Hidden Gems of Tahoe Skiing

by Elisabeth Korb

While Lake Tahoe boasts 15 downhill resorts over 700 kilometers of groomed cross-country trails, there are two resorts that offer up the best of both worlds: Kirkwood and Northstar-at-Tahoe. So whether you're a divided family (Nordic-striding adults with terrain park–loving teens) or perhaps just want a break from the hoards sliding down the slopes over the holidays, a stride along scenic cross-country terrain is closer to your favorite resort than you think.

Kirkwood Cross Country and Snowshoe Center

With a base elevation of 7,800 feet, Kirkwood's cross-country center offers some of the best snow in the region. Striding atop ridges, through expansive meadows, along creeks and beneath towering lava cliffs, Nordic skiers of all levels will enjoy Kirkwood's 80 kilometers of groomed trails. Dogs are allowed on two trails, and there's even a special Kiddie Kilometer, where life-sized cutouts of forest critters teach kids about animal tracks. Take a break by the wood-burning stove in the day lodge or at one of three charming trailside warming huts. Best of all, if you already have a Kirkwood downhill season pass, you can upgrade it to include the cross-country center for only $59.

Eight-time cross-country World Masters champion Debbi Waldear oversees the center's operations, so you're sure to get first-rate instruction and service. There are lessons and equipment rentals for classic, skating and backcountry skiing, as well as snowshoe rentals and numerous special events.

Each month, join Kirkwood guides for a full-moon snowshoe trek up the High Trail ridge for just $25. For daytime hikers, the Snowshoe Shuffle, $30, takes participants toward the Sierra Crest while they learn about the area's history and geology along the way.

Kirkwood Cross-Country Events:

Northstar-at-Tahoe Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe Center

Just off the Northstar gondola, Northstar's mid-mountain cross-country center provides a gateway to 40 kilometers of groomed trails. Wind through the pines, and the view opens up to beautiful vistas of Sawmill Lake and Lake Tahoe. Back by popular demand this winter are the resort's full-moon snowshoe tours, with hot cocoa and music, and nature experts leading the way.

A few upgrades and additions step up the fun here as well. You'll find all-new Rossignol rental gear, plus gentler grading on the trails for a smoother slide. Also new this winter is geocaching, a GPS treasure hunt in which guests can search for six hidden caches throughout the 40 groomed kilometers of the trail system. Coordinate sheets, trail passes and snowshoes are available at the cross-country center and the North Face retail store in the Village. Guests can also rent GPS devices at the North Face.

Northstar Cross-Country Events:

For more resort events, visit festivalsoftahoe.com. Contact the Kirkwood Cross Country and Snowshoe Center at (209) 258-7248 or www.kirkwood.com or Northstar's Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe Center at (530) 562-2475 or www.northstarattahoe.com.