As this cool and damp spring comes to an end, the Tahoe Rim Trail Association (TRTA) is gearing up for what we hope will be a sunshine filled 2011 summer hiking season. This June, join the Tahoe Rim Trail Association for FREE guided hikes every Saturday through the end of August. These hikes are great for all abilities (shorter hikes are appropriate for kids). Discover this fun and easy way to exercise, socialize and visit beautiful vistas during the summer months in the Tahoe Basin.

You must register in advance for these summer hikes. Online registration is now required for all TRTA programs and can be completed on the TRTA website at www.tahoerimtrail.org. For more information call 775-298-0012 or email Tom at programs@tahoerimtrail.org.

Saturday, June 11 – Vistas, Lakes and Wildflowers Hiking Series – “Loop Around Spooner Lake”. Enjoy an easy 2 mile guided stroll around Spooner Lake. Our path will pass through beautiful aspen groves with interpretive signs illuminating the area's fascinating history of logging. Explore historic Native American grinding rocks, the dam and the history of the lake. This hike begins at the Spooner North Trailhead at 10 a.m.

Saturday, June 18 – Vistas, Lakes and Wildflowers Hiking Series – “Spooner Summit to Vista”. Join us for this moderately difficult, 6 mile hike to a panoramic vista. Follow the Tahoe Rim Trail as it switchbacks upwards for 3 miles towards our destination, revealing breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and the Carson Valley. This hike begins at Spooner Summit South Trailhead at 10 AM. Remember your lunch!

Saturday, June 25 – Vistas, Lakes and Wildflowers Hiking Series – “Spooner Summit to South Camp Peak”. This fairly steep, difficult hike follows the Tahoe Rim Trail for 10 miles. The trail switchbacks upward through open forests and previously burned and logged trees to reveal panoramic views of Lake Tahoe upon arrival at South Camp Peak. Join us for great exercise and great photo ops! This hike begins at Spooner Summit South Trailhead at 8 a.m.

Thursday, June 30 – Astronomy Family Hike – This easy, 1-2 mile nighttime hike through Tahoe Meadows focuses on exploring the mysteries of the night sky. This is a family friendly hike designed to introduce families to fun topics including stars and constellations. This hike begins at the Tahoe Meadows Trailhead at 7:45 p.m.

Full Moon Hikes – TRTA Members Only

Wednesday, June 15 – Full Moon Hike – Not a member of the TRTA? This is a great opportunity to join! Afterwards, enjoy a 3 mile moonlit tromp through the Tahoe Meadows up to the Tahoe Basin ridge. Expect casually paced hikes for all ages, while slowing down to enjoy the flora and fauna and to explore with your nighttime senses. There is a chance this hike may be on snowshoes!

For further details on what to bring and other dates and locations, visit the Tahoe Rim Trail Association website at www.tahoerimtrail.org.



For more information about the Tahoe Rim Trail Association, call (775) 298-0012 or visit www.tahoerimtrail.org. The Tahoe Rim Trail Association, founded in 1981, is a non-profit organization, which works to enhance, expand, and promote the Tahoe Rim Trail system, practice and encourage stewardship, and promote access to the beauty of the Lake Tahoe region. The Association works in partnership with the USDA Forest Service and Nevada State Parks.