Tahoe Rim Trail. Tim Hauserman

warm. Wear a sturdy pair of waterproof boots with two pairs of socks: a thin inner layer of socks made of synthetic fiber and a thicker outer layer of wool or synthetic fiber. Wear water-resistant pants, such as those designed for cross-country skiing; over them, wear a waterproof shell if you are snowshoeing or traveling through deep snow. A hat is essential, whether it is a baseball cap on a warm day or a warm fleece hat on a cold day.

      And don’t forget gloves; the style depends on the conditions and activity you are doing. If it is warm and you will be strenuously cross-country skiing, lightweight ski gloves are fine. If you are out hiking or snowshoeing on a cold snowy day, bring a thicker, warmer pair of gloves.

      The Great Ski Race

When (and Where) to Go

      Winter to Spring

      For those who love the snow and winter sports, there are a number of places that are especially attractive and challenging for winter activities. Here are a few of the best spots:

      Page Meadows

      The easiest way to access Page Meadows in winter is through the Talmont Estates subdivision. From Tahoe City, go 2 miles south on Highway 89 to Pine Avenue. Turn right, and then right again on Tahoe Park Heights. Go to the top of the hill, and take Big Pine, the middle of three roads. Follow Big Pine to Silvertip and turn left. There is limited parking available at the end of Silvertip. From the end of the road, head west a few hundred yards to the first of several meadows. The area around Page Meadows is especially popular for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The terrain is mostly level, perfect for beginners. The meadows are beautiful on a sunny day or at night when the moon is full.

      Tahoe Meadows

      Located on the south side of Highway 431, the meadow is great for a beginner on either skis or snowshoes. From Incline Village, drive 7 miles up Highway 431, the Mt. Rose Highway. Here, you will see a large treeless area on your right. Park along the road. Both the large open meadow and its surrounding forest are popular for winter sports; in fact, on a weekend you might find this area too crowded. Head south up through the trees to a saddle for extraordinary lake views. You could well be dazzled by lodgepole and whitebark pines covered with hoarfrost.