Dec. 11, 2012 — Winter is upon us, and although we’re saturated with rain at the moment, the snow will be coming down before we know it. For some, winter is their favorite time to be outdoors. The air is crisp and cool, and snow has a way of making everything seem cleaner and quieter.

There’s nothing in the world like a bright moon, white snow and no other sound in the world except for snow dropping from branches.

Coppervale Ski area and Willard Hill are within easy driving distance and Lassen County also has great options for snowshoeing and cross country skiing. And, of course, there’s Willard Hill for sledding. In Susanville, trails such as the Bizz Johnson or those at The Susanville Ranch Park offer a quick escape for city residents.

A short drive into the mountains will bring you to even more pristine landscapes to explore, but travel responsibly. It’s easy to get lost in the snow, so keep to marked trails and roads designated for snowshoeing or cross country skiing.

Buddying up with others is also recommended.

The website treadlightly.org has a good list of travel tips and suggestions when traveling into snowy mountains.

Some of the basic considerations are don’t damage existing ski tracks if traveling by foot or snowshoe. Keep to the right and yield to downhill traffic.

Dressing in layers is a good idea. Invest in quality socks and use protective headgear.

Winter sports can be enjoyed with others. Consider hooking up with a group or organization such as Lassen Land and Trails Trust (LLTT).

LLTT will be offering an adventure outing January 26. The excursions are tailored to the speed and stamina of the participants, either a daylong 13-mile cross country ski trip to Butte Lake or a half-day easy snowshoe hike. The hike will end with some of LLTT’s hearty homemade soup and some great bread.

Local Bureau of Land Management and National Forest information offices are good resources for maps and trail information.

So this winter, pull out your snowshoes and cross country skis and get ready to enjoy our beautiful outdoors.