Gear Guides & Industry News

The Best Skis for Sierra Nevada Conditions

A Sierra Skier’s Guide to Heavy Snow, Big Terrain, and Real-World Tradeoffs Skiing in the Sierra Nevada is about adaptability. A single day can include chalky groomers, wind-buffed ridgelines, tracked powder, and dense afternoon snow that reminds you why “Sierra cement” became part of the vocabulary. Skiers on enjoy the ride at Palisades This guide [...]

By Charlie Pankey

Hiking/Backpacking

5 Sierra Trails Perfect for Fall Backpacking

When most people think of backpacking in the Sierra, they picture the big summer push: long days, dry boots, and miles of trail under a hot sun. But if you’ve ever shouldered a pack in September or October, you know the truth — fall is the Sierra’s quiet masterpiece. The bugs are gone, the crowds [...]

By Charlie Pankey

Backpacking

Chasing 100 Miles in the Sierra: A Summer of Wilderness, Discovery & Legacy

Early in the year, I gave myself a goal that felt both ambitious and deeply personal: hike more than one hundred miles of Sierra Nevada backcountry as part of the Outdoor Vitals 100-Mile Challenge. On paper, it sounded straightforward enough. I’ve come close to that kind of mileage in past seasons, but I never really [...]

By Charlie Pankey

Recreation

What First-Timers Need to Know About Mountaineering

Embarking on your first mountaineering trip? This guide provides key tips on physical prep, essential gear, and the basic skills needed for your climb.

By Casey Cartwright

RV Maintenance Tips for Cold Climates and Winter Camping

Keep your RV running smoothly in cold weather. Learn essential winter maintenance tips for water systems, batteries, and heating to ensure safe camping.

By Casey Cartwright

Fishing and Hunting

6 Items You Must Wear When Fishing in the Wintertime

Cold weather doesn’t mean that the angling adventures have to end. Collect these six must-have items to wear when fishing in the winter for a great experience.

By Casey Cartwright

Heavenly Resort

Heavenly Mountain Resort Celebrates 70 Years of Fun in Tahoe

A Legacy of Views, Adventure, and Sierra Community Heavenly Mountain Resort is turning 70 this winter, and Lake Tahoe’s most iconic ski destination isn’t slowing down. Since opening in December 1955 with a single chairlift and one remarkable viewpoint above Lake Tahoe, Heavenly has grown into a 4,800-acre, two-state resort known for big terrain, big [...]

By Charlie Pankey

Backcountry Skiing

Kings Canyon supplies winter outings fit for kings.

When snow blankets the Sierra Nevada, adventure need not hibernate. Those seeking winter wonder without the crowds and traffic of Lake Tahoe can find an attractive alternative at Kings Canyon National Park. The park’s Grant Grove area provides striking scenery, moderate terrain and rewarding day trips for beginning and advanced cross-country skiers and snowshoers.  Grant [...]

By Matt Johanson