One of the best things about the Sierra Nevada mountains (and there are plenty of great things!) is the proximity to so much to do year-round. As we roll into March the arrival of spring is in the air at Reverie Retreat, but just short drive away at Royal Gorge, there is plenty of snow, especially after the blizzard that parked itself there last weekend.
March, as one of the highest precipitation months of the year, is usually a fantastic time to enjoy the last vestiges of winter with some cross-country skiing. With the days growing longer and the temperatures beginning to warm to spring-skiing conditions, we went up to Royal Gorge to enjoy the stunning trails and sunny skies. One of the things we love about Royal Gorge is no matter how many people are there, it never feels crowded. Once you get away from the main lodge you see very few people on the trails. With 6000 acres and 160 kilometers of trails, it’s easy to find peace and solitude.
Depending on how far you ski out, the views are absolutely stunning. One trip we skied up to Lyle’s Lookout to admire the view while we ate our lunch. Skiing down a steeper hill is always an adventure on cross-country skis but we managed to get back down the hill without taking our skis off and walking!
We have our own equipment, but it’s easy to rent equipment at the main lodge. They also offer group and private lessons for beginners or if you want to brush up on your skills. There are two kinds of cross-country skiing. Classic, which is probably what most people think of when they think of cross-country, is easily recognizable by the diagonal stride technique used, that looks like you’re walking on skis. Skate skiing is more like ice skating. This would probably be easy for anyone who has ice skated to pick up, but Tamara and I have always stuck to Classic.
Cross-country skiing is nothing like Alpine/downhill skiing. For me it feels more like hiking, although with less impact on your body. But like with hiking, after 6+ hours of skiing we have used a lot of calories and worked up a major appetite. One of our favorite stops on the way back to Reverie Retreat is Burgers and Cream in Auburn. It’s pretty close off the freeway (I-80) so it’s a quick stop for a late lunch or early dinner on the way home. My favorite is The Spicy Johnny burger which has ghost pepper jack cheese and sriracha sauce on it – Yum! They also have fabulous milkshakes if you are feeling super indulgent.
Back at Reverie Retreat, tired and satiated, there’s nothing better than a soak in the hot tub while watching the sunset.
Royal Gorge is about an hour and half drive from Reverie Retreat. Day tickets are $50, equipment rental is $40, private lesson is $85/hour , and rental+ group lesson is $110. They also offer snowshoe rentals and trails.