Reservations for the Winter Trek Program open on Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Take Your Students to New Heights with Winter Trek at Heavenly Mountain Resort
For residents of the Reno-Tahoe region, winter is a time to embrace the beauty of the Sierra Nevada, and few experiences highlight this better than the Winter Trek Conservation Education Program. Starting January 28, 2025, fifth graders will have the opportunity to explore the magic of winter at Heavenly Mountain Resort—an adventure that combines education, conservation, and breathtaking alpine views.
A Life-Changing Adventure for Youth
Back in 2016-2017, I had the privilege of participating in this program as a volunteer with local students. Guiding them through snowy trails on top of Heavenly Resort, surrounded by deep powder and sweeping views from the gondola, was unforgettable. It’s one thing to admire Tahoe’s beauty; it’s another to see the wonder through the eyes of kids experiencing snowshoeing and mountain exploration for the first time.
But it’s not just the scenery that makes Winter Trek special. This program opens doors for our youth, teaching them about water conservation, land stewardship, and the delicate ecology of the Lake Tahoe Basin. As a community, this is our chance to inspire the next generation to appreciate and protect this beautiful place we call home.
What to Expect
Winter Trek takes place at 9,100 feet, accessible via Heavenly’s iconic gondola. Over the course of a three-hour field trip, students will:
- Embark on a physical education snowshoeing adventure.
- Learn about fire and forest ecology.
- Gain insight into the importance of water conservation.
- Discover the natural wonders of the Lake Tahoe Basin.
The program is led by dedicated Forest Service rangers and community volunteers—people passionate about sharing their love for Tahoe’s environment with the next generation.
How to Get Involved
If you’re a teacher, parent, or community member in the Reno-Tahoe region, don’t let your students miss out on this incredible opportunity. Reservations for the Winter Trek Program open on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, and spaces fill up fast. To secure a spot, visit the 2025 Winter Trek Program Reservation Form webpage.
Interested in volunteering? This is a fantastic way to give back to your community while enjoying Tahoe’s winter splendor. Volunteers help guide students through their snowshoeing adventure and assist with educational activities.
Make a Difference in Our Community
Winter Trek isn’t just about snowshoeing and scenic gondola rides; it’s about creating lasting memories and inspiring stewardship in the next generation. As someone who has seen firsthand how this program impacts local youth, I can’t recommend it enough. Let’s ensure every fifth grader in our community has the chance to experience this one-of-a-kind program.
For questions, contact Adilene De La Torre at adilene.delatorre@usda.gov. For more details, including forms and materials, visit the Winter Trek Fifth-Grade Conservation Education Program webpage.
Let’s keep the spirit of Tahoe alive—one trek at a time!
