For many of us winter can be cold, dark, and long and we just want to get through it – but Snow Mountain Ranch wants you to enjoy it!
The Snow Mountain Ranch Nordic Center will be offering FREE introductory snowshoe hikes and Nordic ski tours to four of our favorite destinations at the Ranch on select Saturdays throughout the season. We will provide a brief lesson, a warm fire, s’mores, and hot chocolate! Distances vary and are suited for first-timers to experienced skiers.
Stop by the Nordic Center to rent equipment, and call ahead to reserve your spot: 888-573-9622
These free tours will be held on:
December 17
December 31
January 14
January 28
February 4
February 18
We will meet and start at the Stillwater Picnic Shelter. The destinations are as follows:
- The Rowley Homestead. Short, flat, and easiest. Approximate distance both ways is 2k/.75m . Hot chocolate and a warming fire available. Experience the Rowley Ranch as it was in the winter season and see how tough it may have been to live there year round. Approximate time: 1.25 hrs. Starts at 10:30 am.
- The Gold Mine. Also an easy adventure. Approximate distance both ways is 2.2k/1.4m. Feel the warmth of the earth and see the fog as it seeps from the mine opening on a cold winter day! Approximate time: 1.75 hrs. Starts at 10:00 am.
- The Nordic Yurt. This adventure gets to be a moderate effort because of the length and the slight upgrade on the way there. Approximate distance both ways is 5.8k/3.6m. Hot chocolate, a warming fire, and a heated shelter are available. The Yurt sits in the bottom of the Blue Ridge Valley. Take a break here and enjoy the sun and meadow before putting in the final leg to the Waterfall! The the base of the Blue Ridge Valley can get up to 6’-8’ deep in a big winter. Approximate time: 2.25 hrs. Starts at 9:30 am.
- The Waterfall. If you are fit and a big adventurer this is the destination for you! This requires a moderate to strenuous effort because of the distance and the upgrade for the hike out. Approximate distance both ways is 8k/5.0m. You will be rewarded with some beautiful ice formations from the 15’ drop. Pole Creek and the Waterfall flow all year and they are our most visited hike destinations. Making this adventure in the winter gives you a view that most people don’t get to see! If the sun is out, the ice is even more spectacular! If you need a break or a warm up, stop at the Yurt on the way back and re-energize for the hike back. Approximate time: Up to 3 hrs. Starts at 9:00 am.
These hikes and distances are designed as introductory experiences. The times are based on easy/slow hiking or skiing pace. Times also consider stops and viewing at each destination. Make sure that proper winter clothing is worn for these adventures and that you carry water for the hikes/skis. Winter weather can change quickly. Be prepared and know your equipment. If you do not have your own equipment, snowshoes and skis can be rented at our Nordic Center for this activity. There is no fee for these outings, but you must have a day or trail pass to participate.
