Location: Kirkwood.

Distance: Trail lengths range from approximately two to seven miles.

Difficulty Level: Beginner to advanced.

Know Before You Go: These trails are meant for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Rentals are available at the shop, and day passes are priced according to age (free for children 12 and under and seniors over 75, $25 for teens 13-18, $55 for adults, and $32 for seniors 65-74). Be sure to stay on marked trails, especially considering the delicate terrain following the Caldor Fire. Dress in warm layers, bring plenty of water, pack a space blanket as part of your first aid kit, and Leave No Trace.

Why We Love It: The area boasts three different trail systems that cater to a variety of skill levels and preferences:

Kirkwood Meadow is the most beginner friendly, with a scenic, two-mile loop that is ideal for a relaxed outing.

Caples Creek offers the greatest diversity in terrain, plus opportunities to see active wildlife: beavers, waterfowl, and even some predatory birds alongside picturesque ponds.

Schneider Camp provides the most elevation gain and views of Desolation Wilderness, Carson Spur, and Caples Lake.

Fuel Up: The quaint, cottage-like ambiance of The Getaway Café (tahoegetawaycafe.com) holds a special charm, and their classic American breakfasts—everything from savory eggs benedict to coconut-crusted French toast, plus boozy brunch beverages—are on point. It’s a perfect place for a pre-hike meal before turning off Hwy 50 toward Kirkwood.

For more information, visit kirkwood.com/explore-the-resort/activities-and-events/cross-country.aspx.

Photo ©inthasone - stock.adobe.com. Kirkwood Cross Country Ski & Snowshoe Center photos courtesy of Kirkwood Mountain Resort. The Getaway Café photos courtesy of The Getaway Café.

Handling Hypothermia

We hope you never find yourself in this situation, but if faced with hypothermia, here is what you should do:

• Remove wet clothing, even if it’s from exertion/sweating.

• Find shelter from the wind in a warm place.

• Cover yourself with a space blanket and any other blankets or warm layers you can find.

• Isolate yourself from the ground by using a backpack or anything else you might have with you.

• Fuel your body by eating sugary foods to help fuel the shivering (your body’s best way to warm itself) and avoid exhaustion.

• Consume warm liquids, if possible.

• Call 9-1-1 for emergency support.

Hypothermia is a very serious condition that can be fatal and should be treated by a professional as quickly as possible. Always leave word about where you’re going so someone will call for help in the event you’re lost and out of cellular range. 

by Ryan Martinez
Do you have a favorite trail in the region you’d like to see featured? Tell us all about it by emailing [email protected].