New High Sierra winter programs at Clair Tappaan Lodge

"Secrets of Trees"

Saturdays, March 3, 17, and 31, 10 am to 1 pm, meeting in the living room of the Clair Tappaan Lodge in Norden, near Donner Summit and Lake Tahoe.

Join retired ranger Rich Silver on a 2 - 3-hour natural-history snowshoe hike through the forest adjoining Clair Tappaan Lodge at Donner Summit. Weaving stories and facts, Rich will explore secrets the forest holds. The lodge is located on Donner Summit and is surrounded by a mixed conifer forest.

Participants should bring snowshoes, warm clothing, water, lunch, and your curiosity. (Snowshoes can be rented at the lodge.) This is a beginners' hike and is appropriate for ages 7 and older. The charge is $15 for lodge guests or $20 for non-guests (lunch included). Maximum group size is 15.

"Peak Experience"

Saturdays, March 10 and 24, 10 am to 2 pm, meeting in the living room of the Clair Tappaan Lodge in Norden, near Donner Summit and Lake Tahoe.

On alternate Saturdays Rich will lead a four-hour natural-history snowshoe hike exploring our local flora and fauna while sharing stunning views and the values of time spent in nature.

According to Rich, "Throughout history humans have sought the `peak experience'. We will let the cobalt blue of the sky at high altitude, the squeak of snow, and the Sierra itself inspire our hearts as we hike to the top of one of our local peaks."

Bring snowshoes, warm clothing (it can be extremely windy on the summit), water, and your sense of wonder. This is an intermediate hike for those in good physical condition and is appropriate for ages 10 and older. The cost is $15 for lodge guests or $20 for non-guests (lunch is included). Maximum group size is 15.

Historic Clair Tappaan Lodge welcomes Sierra Club members and non-members alike. Rates, which include three hearty meals a day, start at $41 per person per night. Discounts are available for children and groups. The lodge was built by Club volunteers in 1934 and features a comfortable living room, dining room, and cozy library. Sleeping facilities include two-person rooms, family rooms, and dormitories. The lodge is close to skiing, hiking, cycling, snowshoeing, fishing, and all other mountain activities. Room reservations can be made at www.ctl.sierraclub.org or (800) 679-6775.