The Lake Tahoe region may have the greatest concentration of large xc ski areas in the U.S., with more than 800 km of groomed trails. Most of that is on the north end of the lake, but South Shore has a good network of trails, too. Most also allow snowshoes.

Spooner Lake Cross-Country (775-749-5349, www.spoonerlake.com) on Hwy 28, about a half-mile north of Hwy 50 inthe Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park. For a full page of info click Spooner Lake. With beautiful views of Lake Tahoe, it has more than 80 km of trails, nearly all of which are machine groomed, with one 19 km backcountry trail. Children younger than age 13 xc ski free. Lessons and cross-country ski gear, snowshoe and pulk sled rentals are available; you also can rent a backcountry cabin. CCSAA member Hope

Hope Valley Outdoor Center (530-694-2266, www.hopevalleyoutdoors.com) is near the junction of Highways 89 and 88, about 20 miles outside of South Lake Tahoe where you can walk the Emigrant Trail and enjoy a historic experience shared with the settlers that trekked to California seeking gold. For a full page of info click Hope Valley Outdoor Center. It has about 60 km of marked xc ski trails, 20 miles of which are groomed, and there are lessons and rental gear. Trail fees are by donation. Lodging at Sorensen's Resort (530-694-2203, 800-423-9949, www.sorensensresort.com) that has more than 2 dozen cabins to accommodate a range of guests. There is also a cafe open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner