Stargazing Snowshoe Tours

Come take advantage of the dark skies in Tahoe this winter with star guide and poet Tony Berendsen during our Star Gazing Snowshoe Tours at Northstar California. Every tour is as different as the starry skies above, however each will include a poem reading, a fun space quiz, a laser tour of the stars and constellations, a telescopic viewing using top of the line Celestron telescopes, and wine and hot cider around a fire pit. All tours will begin promptly at 5:00 p.m. and will depart from the Cross Country, Telemark + Snowshoe Center. Participants are encouraged to load the Big Springs Gondola in the Village by 4:30 p.m. to ensure they arrive on time.

During the 2 - 2.5 hour tour, Tony will lead you through some of our snowshoe trails, including gently rolling terrain, while chatting about the wonders of the sky. Halfway through the hike, you'll find yourselves back at the Cross Country, Telemark + Snowshoe Center for the laser tour, telescope viewing, wine and hot cider around one of our fire pits. After you've had time to relax, the tour will continue with a group snowshoe down the last 1/2 mile to the Village at Northstar™ where the tour will end. Dogs on leashes are welcome!

Saturday, January 5: Quadrantids Meteor Shower
Small particles of the minor planet 2003 EH are swept up by the earth creating a meteor shower. We will discuss meteors, what they are, and where they come from, while we hunt the skies for falling stars.

Saturday, February 9: Jupiter hits a bulls eye
Jupiter, the largest planet in the solar system, passes high over head near Aldebaran, the brightest star in the constellation Taurus, and the bright star cluster Hyades. Learn about our giant planet, and one of the nearest star clusters to the earth.

Saturday, March 2: The Galactic Anti-center
Many have seen the direction to the center of the Milky Way in the summer while looking toward the constellation Sagittarius, but what about the anti-center? Tonight we will find our view into intergalactic space, discuss our location within the Milky Way, and the Cosmos.

Cost

• $50 per adult, ages 13+
• $35 per child, ages 10 - 12. We have limited the ages of children to 10 and above to keep the group moving at a steady pace, and suggest our Family Afternoon Snowshoe Tours for younger children.

Reservations

Reservations can be made through 1.800.466.6784 or through the Cross Country, Telemark + Snowshoe Center at 530.562.3270. Online reservations will be available through the Northstar California website soon. Cancellations must be made 24 hours in advance and reservations are highly recommended since this event sells out on a regular basis. Tours will take place snow or shine and all participants are encouraged to wear warm, waterproof boots and clothing. You are welcome to bring your own snowshoes, or there will be snowshoes available for rent for just $15.