Tahoe Traditions: Chickadee Ridge

Discovering the enchantment of winter in Reno-Tahoe has been an absolute delight! One of my cherished traditions involves a short drive to Chickadee Ridge, a winter wonderland where I can indulge my inner Disney princess.

Chickadee Ridge Snowshoeing Extravaganza: Venturing through the snow-laden trails surrounded by majestic trees, I find solace in the serenity of Chickadee Ridge. The highlight is the opportunity to channel my inner Snow White as I snowshoe through the landscape, hand-feeding chickadees with black sunflower seeds- they are not a fan of the others. The avian companionship adds a touch of magic to the experience, and visiting during the week ensures a more intimate connection with nature, away from the bustling crowds.

Snowy Slopes and Sledding: For a dose of classic winter fun, Mount Rose Meadows is a nearby haven for sledding enthusiasts. The crisp mountain air and the thrill of speeding down the slopes make for unforgettable moments. It's crucial, however, to uphold the spirit of respect for the environment and neighbors by packing out every bit of trash. Even the smallest piece of plastic can leave a lasting impact on the pristine winter landscape and its inhabitants.  Tahoe is a treasure and we must treat it as such.

Treading Lightly: As we revel in the winter festivities, maintaining quiet noise levels will ensure opportunities to locate hungry chickadees!  Noise will scare them off and you will miss their signals.  Also, this area is unique as it is one of the few places I have heard the tinkling of snow.  That sound is magical and it is rare.  Take time to pause.  Notice the sun glistening through the trees and casting light on the pogonip.  Breathe in the cold air.  Use all your senses to soak it in the experience.  Respecting nature and our neighbors ensures that these beautiful experiences endure for generations. 

The hike has a small elevation gain.  Follow the trail along the tree-line along the meadow, there are several stops where the birds like to roost.  Eventually the trail will fork- stay to the right and continue up the gently sloping ridge.  The elevation is not so bad but the altitude ensures you know you are climbing. Hang in there because the views are unparalleled for the effort.  When you reach the top, there are plenty of places to find solace as you look for fluffy friends to feed. You will likely come across a variety of other birds including magpies and the beautiful, yet bossy, stellar jays.

Be Prepared: Pack a thermos of hot chocolate, relax and enjoy the view.  Sometimes the chickadees aren't hungry and that's okay.  It is still a beautiful hike.  Download or screenshot the trail map on Alltrails before you set out- cell service can be sketchy!  Dress for the occasion: you will be hiking in the winter.  I have given away my "emergency hand warmers" every time I have hiked this trail in the winter and these have always been given to children who were crying because their hands were cold and they were not dressed for the occasion.   Sunblock and chapstick!  Yes, it is needed year-round.  You are in high elevation so make sure you hydrate.  Charge those cellphone batteries because you will want to take pictures of "Big Blue" and those birds!  You will have  the best Christmas card photos ever- promise!

The drive up to Mount Rose is not for the meek.  It has many switchbacks up an exposed drive so please check for chain controls before you set out and respect those plows and parking regs. It's okay to go slow, just pull off to the side at designated pull off's to let folks pass who are trying to get to work or the slopes pass.  Beware of pogonip (frozen fog)!  Although it is a beautiful phenomenon that is unique to the western US, it can make for treacherous travel conditions and can occur quickly.  

The Post-Game: Looking for a nice post-hike drink and nosh?  Head into Incline Village and hit up Happy Tiers Bakery for the best cinnamon roll ever (and I grew up in Amish country).  Is craft beer more your style?  You can't go wrong with the awesome IPAs and plates at Alibi Ale Works or the delicious burgers at Incline Burger, my favorite burger in the area!  Looking for a drink and nosh on the other side of the mountain?  Schussboom Brewing Co. and Whispering Vine in Reno can't be beat!  (website links at end of post; I am not affiliated with any of these businesses.  These are ones I happened upon and repeatedly earn my business because they consistently offer top quality food and drink).

Reno-Tahoe's winter landscape offers a myriad of activities that define the magic of the season. From the tranquility of Chickadee Ridge to the exhilaration of sledding in Mount Rose Meadows, each adventure leaves an indelible mark on my Christmas bucket list. As we partake in these winter wonders, let's remember to be stewards of the environment, preserving the magic for future generations to come!  

Happy solstice, friends! 

Helpful links:

trail map: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/nevada/chickadee-ridge--2

Alibi Ale Works: https://alibialeworks.com/incline-public-house/

Inclined Burgers: https://inclinedburgersandbrew.com/

Happy Tier Bakery: https://www.happytiersbakery.com/

Schussboom Brewing: https://www.schussboombrewing.com/