Things to do / Travel Guide
The Cascade Mountains is a large network of both volcanic and non-volcanic mountain ranges spanning from British Columbia, Canada, through the state of Washington, and on down through California. Known for the famous Mt. St. Helen's eruption in 1980, the Cascades is a constantly alive series of mountain ranges with minor eruptions. There are amazing glaciers and snow coverage in the winter at stunning heights that even the most advanced skier is hard pressed to challenge.
From the developed areas to the backcountry, the Southern Cascades provide a winter wonderland for those willing to work at getting to it.
Skiing in and around Mount Shasta
Mount Shasta is the fifth highest peak in California, and is home to 4 named glaciers. It is also the site of the popular Avalanche Gulch, where hikers go in all seasons to get to the fantastic views up top of the Trinity Alps and Lassen Peak.
Two of the glaciers, Hotlum and Wintun, form a ridge that backcountry skiers and snowboarders have to hike up to the 14,132 foot summit to reach. Once there, they experience what just may be one of the best ski and snowboard descents in California. There are no chairlifts, or in fact any type of facilities at all, here at the ridge, so visitors must be in good physical condition, able to carry their own base camp and ski or snowboard gear to attempt to ride Mount Shasta. Intermediate and advanced riders will delight in the bowls and the steep pitch. So if you're truly ready for backcountry skiing, Mount Shasta is waiting to be conquered.
The town of Mount Shasta is the home base for all your civilized needs, such as gas stations, a grocery store, and a local watering hole or two for a drink to quench your thirst and fill your belly.
Skiing in and around the Siskiyou Range
Mount Ashland is a perfect example of a mountain range that has been developed into a full fledged ski area that services both singles and families looking for a winter vacation. It provides convenient facilities and accommodates all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
With its 300 plus inches of annual snowfall, snow is not lacking, and blankets the 7,500 foot summit. There are twenty three trails that range from gentle beginner's terrain to steep chutes and powder bowls to slice into. The three terrain parks designed to entertain snowboarders, and the family learning area are Mount Ashland staples. A luxury coach bus transports riders from the parking lot to the front of the base lodge, saving time and aggravation. The laid back atmosphere of this community owned ski area, is a good reason Mount Ashland's a popular stop on trip planners itineraries.
Try the national forests for an amazing network of backcountry and cross-country skiing options. Bring along a topographical map, or pick one up at the many outdoor shops that cater to the visitors who flock here for all seasons, and get the lowdown on where the best trails are being traveled by the locals that are off the beaten path.
Ski and stay packages are available on and off site, with various hotels, motels, and cabins located in town or slopeside. Bistros, cafes, and many restaurant choices are available, from quick peck stops to fine sit down dining, to make sure noone stays hungry. Visitors should also be aware that the Siskiyou Range is located halfway between San Francisco and Portland, Oregon. Each of these cities, located at an approximate 300 mile distance, can offer big city lodging and nightlife.
Pending any major volcanic eruptions or catastrophic avalanches, the Southern Cascade Mountains will remain high on visitors' wish lists for their next winter vacations, and its not hard to see why with the many options available.
Ski Resorts in Crater Lake, Mt. Shasta, Southern Cascades of California and Oregon
Skiing
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