Trail Blazer Summer 2023

TRAILS FOR ALL

The TRTA is making the trail cleaner, more accessible, and more welcoming.

Eye rolls and a pejorative “uhh.” That was the usual response I received from others this winter as I gleefully recited the latest forecast details about yet another atmospheric river flowing towards the Sierra bringing multiple feet of snow. I relished in my sometimes twice-per-day snow blowing and shoveling. Each shovel of snow flung wildly overhead, making me thankful for the moisture the West desperately needs. A shovel full of soon-to-be liquid gold.

The Trail Blazer is the official publication of the Tahoe Rim Trail Association, a 501(c)3 non-profit whose mission is to maintain and enhance the Tahoe Rim Trail system, practice and inspire stewardship, and preserve access to the natural beauty of the Lake Tahoe Region.

STAFF

Executive Director

Morgan Steel

Deputy Director

by Morgan Steel Executive Director

Drought has been a massive factor impacting the Tahoe Rim Trail Association’s (TRTA) work over the past three years. We’ve seen significant increases in tree mortality, threats to fish and wildlife, and impacts on recreational users as water sources dried out unseasonably early. We also experienced the first and, in quick succession, the second wildfire to crest over the Sierra, which burned sections of the Tahoe Rim Trail and connector trails. These issues made 2022–2023’s winter, the second snowiest on record for the Sierra Nevada, a welcomed change. Unfortunately, this dramatic shift between superlatives from driest to snowiest has clearly not been all sunshine and rainbows. Our work on the Tahoe Rim Trail and trail users’ expectations will need adjustments.

Generally, TRTA staff plan on getting on the trail in late May at lower elevations to implement field trainings, get a sense of how the trail fared over the winter, and kick off the field season. We anticipate pushing all of this back into June and, depending on what weather conditions are like in late spring, potentially even into July. Our trail construction and guided hiking season will be significantly condensed as our window between spring melt and winter’s first significant snowstorm shrinks this year. Several of our major construction projects slated for 2023, especially those at higher elevations and on the west side of the trail, are being moved into August and September, when we anticipate job sites becoming accessible. We expect to address significant trail damage from high wind events, snow load, rain events, and snow melt. With our guided hiking programs, creative scheduling is happening across the board to adjust for snow-covered trail conditions.

For our trail users, the best advice I can provide is to expect and plan for snow. This means knowing how to navigate through snow, carrying microspikes or crampons to reduce the risk of falls and slides, considering the best time and conditions for crossing dangerous side slopes and streams, and identifying possible exit points if the trail is too risky. I expect most of the trail to be snow-free by mid-August. The east side of the trail and locations at lake level near Van Sickle Bi-State Park and Tahoe City will melt out first, likely in June. North-facing aspects of the trail, especially on the west side of the trail that receive the highest snowfall totals will hold on to snow late into the summer, maybe not melting at all this summer. A warmerthan-average summer, additional late spring snowfall, rain events, etc., can all impact these predictions.

While concerns over long-term drought and the West’s insatiable demand for water have not diminished with one big winter, we are relishing in spring snow exploration and look forward to another wonderful year on the Tahoe Rim Trail. We hope you’ll join us.

Thank you for being an integral part of our trails community. I look forward to seeing you on the trail this summer. In the meantime, I’ll keep my quixotic hopes of a few more late spring pow days to myself.

With Gratitude,

Lindsey Schultz

Communications Director

Anthony Porter

Development Director

Veronica Palmer

Director of Operations

Tommy Rosenbluth

Finance & Admin Manager

Judi Van Fleet

Trail Operations Manager

Kristine Koran

Youth Programs Manager

Julia Kaseta

Outreach Coordinator

Kate Gallaugher

Program Coordinator

Kaden Barmore

Operations Coordinator

Michelle Edmonson

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President Justin Knowles

Executive VP Tricia Tong

Treasurer Larry Sites

Secretary Michelle Glickert

VP of Trail Ops Bryan Wright

VP of Trail Use Sharell Katibah

Board Members

Marissa Fox, Tom Fullerton, John McCall, Theresa Papandrea, Faye Provenza, & Robin Soran

Tahoe Rim Trail Association

The Tahoe Rim Trail Association works in partnership with the USDA Forest Service and Nevada Division of State Parks

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

There are simply not enough consonants and vowels in the name DAVE to accommodate the superlatives and adjectives needed to describe Dave Schnake’s importance to the Tahoe Rim Trail Association. Dave’s board term with the TRTA expired this spring, so we’ve picked our top four below to celebrate all that Dave has given to the TRTA as a board member for the past ten years. Thank you for your service, Dave!

Dedicated A ffable Veracious

When Dave joined the board in 2013, he signed on for a three-year term. Ten years later, he has served in almost every leadership position on the board, including our Vice President of Trail Operations, Treasurer, and Board President from 2018 through 2021.

If you arrive at a workday and Dave is your crew leader, you are in for a great day. Dave is always eager to teach new folks the joys of trail building which often manifests in dirty front teeth, the result of smiling through a dusty workday. He extends this same good-natured affect to all his work with the TRTA.

Not all of the days of a trail organization are sunshine and chainsaws. In the ten years Dave has been on the board, we have navigated tricky situations. Sage Dave always told it like it was, even if that wasn’t always the answer we wanted. Dave had difficult conversations on behalf of the TRTA and could be counted on to treat everyone involved with respect.

E ffective

When Dave embarked on the role of Board President, he likely didn’t expect the calamity that would come over the course of his presidency. In true Dave fashion, as the world shut down around us due to a global pandemic, he adeptly guided our organization through the ups and downs, evaluating options, implementing changes, and creating solutions that ensured the best result for the trail, staff, partners, and volunteers.

The Dirt On Trail Operations

TRT Kiosks: Welcome to Tahoe’s Long Trail

It’s no secret that outdoor recreation tourism is a major foundation of the Tahoe Region’s five-billion-dollarplus economy. Visitation impacts Tahoe’s trails, the environment, and the surrounding communities. As tourism expands globally and northern California and Nevada populations continue to grow, how outdoor recreation and tourism are managed needs to change. The Tahoe Rim Trail Association is learning and leading on this front. We aim to create a culture that welcomes everyone and where all different types of users can safely and enjoyably use the trail together. We also plan to prioritize sustainable recreation practices to limit each user’s impact on the landscape.

by Tommy Rosenbluth Director of Operations

One of our solutions is to enhance and renovate kiosks at all 16 major trailheads of the Tahoe Rim Trail system. This will chart a sustainable recreation future to cope with the increase in users. Phase One of this large infrastructure project is underway with Nevada-side trailhead locations: Mt. Rose, Tahoe Meadows, Kingsbury North, Kingsbury South, Spooner North, Spooner South, and Upper Van Sickle.

When you go to a restaurant, you are greeted by the décor outside and the host inside, both give you an impression of what to expect. Likewise, kiosks are essential trail system infrastructure that give a window into what to expect on your adventure. That means they must be welcoming and inclusive to all yet detailed enough to guide you to numerous outdoor experiences, from lush meadows to alpine lakes.

When you arrive at our new TRT kiosks, we want to set the stage for the inspiring and world-class trail experience you are about

to embark on. Our new kiosks are elegant and concise, with easy-to-understand information for enjoyable trail experiences. So simple, in fact, one picture on your phone captures all of the information our old trail brochures covered. That’s right. These newly designed TRT kiosks will reduce the need for paper brochures. Did you know that paper accounts for around 26% of landfill waste and 33% of municipal waste? With all the paper we waste each year, we can build a 12-foot-high wall of paper from California to New York! The TRTA can contribute to a more eco-friendly future by reducing the need for more paper brochures, which often, due to extreme weather and improper wilderness ethics, become part of trash piles at trailheads.

Reducing paper waste sounds good, but what makes these new TRT kiosks fresh and new? Well, first we’re providing the information in both English and Spanish. Additionally, a QR code on each kiosk will take you to a TRTA webpage with more detailed information about the segment of the TRT system you are about to embark on, all of which can be translated into multiple languages. Second, we partnered with the Washoe Tribe to update the language and names on our kiosks. Trails flow and live through indigenous territories and are guides for many histories, people, animals, and entities, living and non-living. To acknowledge this history of stewardship, at the top of each TRT kiosk, you’ll find the following statement: “You are on the homelands of the Washoe Tribe of NV and CA.” This statement uses the present tense to remind us that the Washoe People are still living and working on lands in the Tahoe Basin and are co-stewards of the landscape.

You can expect these updated kiosks in late summer and early fall. Content for these panels was created with common questions from trail users in mind. Notable features include citing where reliable water sources are located, mile markers to show distances to points of interest, trail segment highlights, and trail profiles to prepare you for elevation changes. Panels will also include a context map of the entire system with mileages between each segment, trail etiquette information, accessibility information (typical grade, trail width, surface), and details about the

TRTA and how to get involved. Perhaps most importantly, we included a large detailed map with contour lines, connector trails, trail infrastructure, common points of interest, trail use restrictions, bike bypasses, and other essential information clearly labeled. This will hopefully make you say, “This has everything I need to know. I don’t need to open an app or pull out my paper map.”

The content on the kiosk panels isn’t the only major change. They will be engineered with aluminum and steel materials, designed and built to last for the next ten years plus, and be more recognizable as TRT system kiosks with a prominent TRT logo at the top.

The frames will also be engineered to handle adverse weather conditions, with segmented panels that can be more easily replaced as the trail evolves.

Phase One is setting the table nicely for the aesthetic and information we envision in the future, and that will be part of Phase Two of this project as we expand this update to major trailhead kiosks on the California side. Once complete, we will have a cohesive trailhead infrastructure to better equip trail users with updated information connected to online resources on our website, which can be modified anytime. These first impressions of the TRT system at

major access points will convey to trail users that the TRTA is a leader in the Tahoe Basin in sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation. So, as you plan your next adventure on the Tahoe Rim Trail, watch for these new informational resources. Take a picture, and bon voyage. Thank

you to our grantors and donors for making this important project happen!

TRAILS ARE FOR EVERYONE

Will You Step Up To Help?

by Kate Gallaugher Outreach Coordinator

The idea that Lake Tahoe, with its abundant natural beauty, world-class ski slopes, and proximity to California’s largest metropolitan areas, is “overtrafficked” is no secret. Locals, visitors, and environmental agencies could have told you that even before Tahoe made the popular travel guide Fodor’s “No List” of places not to travel to in 2023. The Tahoe Rim Trail is one of many shared spaces in

Lake Tahoe that has begun to reflect the burdens of this increased traffic. Here at the TRTA, we’ve written about it before; it’s even been broadcast on the national news. The trail has experienced wildfires and worsened pollution, impacting wildlife and trail users.

As lake levels bounce back after record-breaking snow and rainfall this year, we’re optimistic that a green summer with fewer wildfires is in store for the Basin. This also likely equates to an uptick in visitors interested in capturing another great summer in Tahoe. To address these changes in recreation, visitation, climate, and the ecosystem and better balance accessibility with the preservation of

nature, the TRTA is expanding our work and implementing short-term and long-term solutions.

Short-term, the TRTA is in its third year of the Taskforce Trailhead program, recently rebranded and broadened to the Trail Ambassador program. The program focuses on educating the growing number of trail users on how to have a sustainable experience on the trail by following Leave No Trace Principles. The program places volunteers and staff at trailheads during the summer to intercept and educate trail users as they set off on their trail adventures. These Trail Ambassadors are trained in Leave-NoTrace ethics and use the “authority of the resource,” a respectful method of relaying facts instead of reprimands to trail users to explain why specific actions taken while on the trail are not good for the environment or the trail. With the support of additional volunteers, we hope to grow the program to explore further on the trail to greet users at especially sensitive locations, such as alpine lakes, meadows, and high-use recreation sites. Proper education and responsible recreation can do a great deal to protect the trail and reduce the incidences of wildfires and pollution.

Longer-term, we are investing in data. Data that can then inform solutions to mitigate waste, wildlife impacts, and damage to the trail and landscape. For years, the TRTA has collected data gathered from trail counters placed along the trail. The resulting Visitor Use Monitoring reports highlight trends on

the trail, especially a rapidly growing number of trail users. In 2023 we are taking this data collection to the next level to capture more qualitative data on our users that will inform questions about reservation systems, carrying capacities, solitude thresholds, etc. We need to know more about our users. Are they day hikers, backpackers, thru-hikers, bikers, runners, or equestrians? What is their experience level with Leave-No-Trace ethics and overall competence in the outdoors? What locations along the trail do they visit?

To find answers to these questions, a trailwide survey will be conducted at trailheads and along the trail throughout the summer. Volunteers will be essential to the success of this survey and can sign up to help this summer through the TRTA website.

The TRTA staff will also closely monitor popular camping destinations throughout the summer to gather more data on where damage, waste, and wildlife impacts have increased over the past several years. Staff will patrol campsites to collect data and inform campers of proper camping etiquette (tents placed 200 feet from water sources, trash and food items properly packed in and out, etc.).

While an increase in tourism has been rough on the environment of the Tahoe region, the TRTA is hoping to change the tide. With help from a growing number of Trail Ambassadors helping with outreach and data collection, the TRTA hopes to educate as many people as there are on the trail this summer. If every trail user became a trail steward, the healthier our Tahoe trails would be.

INTERESTED IN JOINING OUR EFFORTS?

Enroll to become a Trail Ambassador on our website: tahoerimtrail.org/ volunteer/trailambassador/

Ambassador Training: June 10th

Ambassador Days: most weekends throughout the summer

Surveys: July 8th, July 29th, August 12th

Brockway Trailhead full of empty water caches. Trail Ambassadors at Spooner South.

A Trail Ambassador speaking to trail users at Van Sickle Trailhead.

by Julia Kaseta Youth Programs Manager

ne of the Tahoe Rim Trail system’s most loved trails can be found where the hustle and bustle meets the serene sounds of nature. The Van Sickle Connector Trial in Van Sickle BiState Park is best known for its one-sizefits-all features that provide adventure for novice hikers and thrill-seeking bikers alike. The trailhead’s proximity to the communities and casino corridor of the California-Nevada state line draws in local families and tourists seeking a peaceful, yet rewarding adventure. This summer, a new type of adventure

Ois coming to this easy-to-access scenic trail, created by the community, for the community.

In 2023, the TRTA’s first-ever Story Walk will line the tread of this popular, family-friendly trail. The colorful cover illustrated by Wá∙šiw (Washoe) Tribe member, Billyhawk Enos, will welcome explorers onto the path and under the pine-covered canopy. As the trail weaves between a jungle of coniferous trees, colorful imagery and linguistic prose will guide the way. Every 200 feet or so, the story will “turn a page” with inspirational trail signs that dive deeper into The Wá∙šiw Legend of How People of the Valley Got Fire. As the signs read the area’s cultural history, simultaneously, the land will tell its story to those who are attentive. This eight-sign circuit will lead learners to a rocky outcrop where the forest transitions

to new life and panoramic views of Lake Tahoe. This vista affords visitors a reflection point and a 360-degree view of the land’s natural and cultural stories. To the north, Lake Tahoe’s piercing blue waters hide evidence of a complex and cold geologic history that took place thousands of years ago. To the south, burnt snags and lush green shrubs express how nature mends itself after a human-caused wildfire in 2002. In all directions, less than two centuries ago, indigenous peoples once sat, worked, and also soaked in the iconic views that assume all attention. Together, this place and story host an immersive educational experience for families to learn the importance of protecting the ancestral lands that carry the history, culture, and language of Tahoe’s primary stewards.

Where t he Sto

This project, new to the Tahoe Rim Trail system, is part of a nationwide movement to engage youth and families in the outdoors while enhancing literacy. The display features a Wá∙šiw story retold and translated by Lisa Enos, Herman Filmore, and Melba Rakow, for Wá∙šiw, English, and Spanish readers of all ages to enjoy. Not only is the story a traditional legend of the Wá∙šiw people, each page includes the Symbols Key Reference to Linguistic Orthography that allows readers to learn more about the Tribe’s spoken language. This key, along with the story’s Wá∙šiw and direct English translations, are especially important for teaching current day Wá∙šiw peoples and young students tasked to carry on their indigenous language for generations to come.

For those looking to discover the natural beauty and history beyond the homes and

hotels that share a backyard, look no further. This self-guided experience is a perfect adventure for families of different languages, shapes, and sizes. Take part in honoring and protecting the culture, language, and land of Tahoe’s native peoples by following Leave No Trace principles during your visit to the Story Walk. Thanks to the collaboration and support of the Wá∙šiw Tribe, El Dorado County Library- South Lake Tahoe Branch, California Tahoe Conservancy, and Tahoe Fund, the project embodies a story, history, and aspiration to make Tahoe trails more inclusive to the diverse communities and cultures of the place we all call home.

or y Ignites

TAHOE RIM TRAIL PHOTO CONTEST

Our annual TRTA photo contest is open! Is your camera full of photos from your treks on the TRT? Submit them to our contest by visiting tahoerimtrail.org/trta-photo-contest/. We are accepting photos showcasing the TRT in all seasons and with all types of recreationists. The contest will remain open until September 30th. Thirteen winning photos will be selected to be featured in our 2024 TRTA calendar. Winning photographers will receive a free calendar and a TRTA prize.

Trail in the rocky burn area in Van Sickle Bi-State Park.

Views we love

Individuals, families, and organizations can help to ensure the continuing legacy of the Tahoe Rim Trail by adopting their own vista or mile! Donors can be stewards of the trail by giving back to something they love – the trail and the Lake Tahoe Basin. Here are this season’s adopted vista and their special dedications. If you are interested in learning more about this program email Veronica Palmer, veronicap@tahoerimtrail.org or visit tahoerimtrail.org/adopt-vista-adopt-mile/

Aaron Fox Vista

“We dedicated this vista to our late father to honor our memories of growing up outdoors with him. The love for the planet, respect for the environment, and peacefulness in the wilderness that he taught us will stay with us forever. We are so thankful to have such a strong community that came together to make this possible.”

—Sydney Fox

Galena Meadow Vista

The Galena Meadow Vista was adopted this spring in loving memory of Bob Susskind by his family. A long time resident of Reno, Bob loved these mountains and found peace, strength, and inspiration hiking these trails. He will always be remembered for how deeply he enjoyed these beautiful views, sparkling waters, and clear air, often with a canine friend. He was happiest here, and they honor him hoping that many others may enjoy what he so valued.

Hearts Wide Open Vista

Dori King’s first true backpacking experience was in August 2022 through the TRTA’s guided Thru Hike, an experience that touched her deeply. She was inspired to plan another thru hike—solo in 8 days—just two months later. Upon hearing of her plans, Brett Hubbard generously offered to support her endeavor and met her along the route twice for resupply and company. She was so grateful for Brett’s selfless assistance and knew giving back to the TRTA would be the most meaningful way to honor and thank him. She chose the Hearts Wide Open Vista because of the vast beauty of Lake Aloha—and all the alpine lakes in Desolation Wilderness generally. She named it for a saying she heard Brett utter when surrounded by the pure magnificence of nature: “My heart is wide open.”

BACKPACKING COURSES & GUIDED HIKES

BACKPACKING 101

JULY 14–16

What could be better than spending the night in the great outdoors? Picture beautiful views of Tahoe, the cool mountain air, and a canvas of stars above. If this sounds ideal, but maybe you don’t know where to begin, we have good news!

The TRTA is hosting our annual Backpacking 101 course this July. Get hands-on experience with our professional guides on an overnight trip that will teach you everything you need to know to get started in the backcountry! Spend a day in the classroom reviewing fundamentals and gear. Then head out into the backcountry overnight to implement what you just learned.

Backpacking 201

AUGUST 25–27

To kick it up a notch, check out Backpacking 201 for an advanced class.

Guided Day Hikes

JUNE–OCTOBER

Join us from June through October for one of our easy-to-moderate day hikes for all ages and skill levels, highlighting the natural world around Lake Tahoe. Our knowledgeable team and partners will lead you on themed hikes along the Tahoe Rim Trail. From taking in the wildflowers of Page Meadows to checking out the birds at Spooner, these hikes will show you the best Tahoe offers!

For more information about any of these hikes, trips, or courses, email kadenb@tahoerimtrail.org or visit tahoerimtrail.org.

TRTA EVENTS

JUNE 3: National Trails Day: Cleanup and BBQ

JUNE 8: Geology Hike with TINS

JUNE 15: Alumni Hike

JUNE 17: Members Only Stargazing

JUNE 24: Nature Writing Hike

JUNE 24: Pride Hike

JULY 13: Wildflowers Hike with TINS

JULY 20: Alumni Hike

AUGUST 1-31: Raise the Rim Trail-a-Thon Challenge

AUGUST 10: Wildflower Hike with TINS

AUGUST 12: Members Only Stargazing

AUGUST 17: Alumni Hike

SEPTEMBER 10: Fall Birdwatching with TINS

SEPTEMBER 21: Alumni Hike

OCTOBER 8: TRTA Volunteer Party

THE COMPASS

Wandering trails can afford spectacular vistas, boundless sky, crystal clear lakes, abundant wildlife, great fellowship, an achy back, short breaths, and wobbly legs. Backcountry exploration offers many majestic sights, but tackling long treks without getting into shape can ruin a great walk, ride, climb, etc. The older I get, the more I realize that staying trail-ready means working to keep fit. To do that, I’m learning that I need a quality exercise regimen. Today, I’m sharing that journey with you to inspire your trail fit journey.

has been training college athletes for the past 20 years at the Division 1 level, which propelled him into sports psychology and strength conditioning for college athletes. In 2017, he brought that expertise to Tahoe to support this unique mountain community. He has a passion for blending mental and physical performance within an athlete’s unique training environment. He stresses mental training skills such as goal setting, imagery, and self-talk.

by Lindsey Schultz Deputy Director

Hiking, running, or mountain biking are cyclical activities meaning that the same muscles repeatedly move in the same pattern. Varying your training by including lateral, rotational, and single-

GETTING INTO TRAIL SHAPE

I’ve never been a gym person or even a daily exerciser. Sure, I’ll take the dog for a long walk and am occasionally dragged to the climbing gym by my spouse (which I always enjoy). Still, like many other working professionals, I have primarily become a weekend warrior. My late 30s came and went, leaving me with more wisdom and patience but also new body aches, bulges, and feeling the strain for days from “off the couch” hikes. This year, I decided to take the advice I provide to TRTA hiking program participants and get serious about my fitness well before trails are snow-free by training for the upcoming trail season.

My alarm goes off at 4:15 AM. After peeling myself out of bed and packing my work bag, I head outside, de-ice my windshield, and shovel out my truck. I don’t want to be late! This winter, I committed to a membership at the Barton Center for Orthopedics & Wellness, a gym in South Lake Tahoe, with access to classes and a personal trainer two to three times a week. 5 AM is my sweet spot. I arrive at the Performance Center with minutes to spare through the cold, icy Tahoe roads. I’m greeted by old-school hip-hop, a smile from my trainer Ryan Carr, and one or two other early birds like me.

After ten weeks, I am hooked, motivated, and feeling better than ever. I was taught the importance of body mechanics, body weight strengthening, steady cardio building, and what excercises I can do at home. With this new inspiration and energy, I’m excited to share these tips with my community, including you!

I asked the Barton Performance coach team to help break down how to train for the upcoming trail season. One in particular, Ryan,

leg movements helps engage different muscle groups, keeping ligaments, joints, and muscles sharp. Adding a few simple body weight or weight room exercises can help you stabilize and strengthen your legs, hips, and core and take your fitness and trail adventures to the next level.

On the next two pages are ten things you can do at home by using your own body weight to get ready for the trail season. Don’t forget to engage your core muscles during each exercise! You can ramp up these exercises by gradually adding weight, reps, or speed.

After my workout, feeling sweaty and invigorated proves I’ve done the work. After a quick hop in the shower, I get dressed for work and head into the office by 7 AM. By now, I’m feeling fresh, grounded, and focused. I’m 16 split squats closer to my summer beast mode goals.

Thank you Ryan and the Barton Performance Team for your community support and expertise. I can’t possibly include all the great information from my interview with Ryan here. I invite you to take a look at our full Q&A at tahoerimtrail.org/stories/getting-into-trailshape, where Ryan and the team go into more detail on how to protect your back, ankles, knees, and feet and how to build your mental fitness for your upcoming trail adventures.

See you on the trail! Lindsey

Lower Body Strength Circuit

SPLIT SQUAT

SPLIT SQUATS: Start in a split leg position, with one leg forward and one leg back. Flex your knees and lower your hips until the back knee is just above the floor. Stand back up and return to the starting position. Repeat as desired, then switch legs. Suggest 10 reps each leg

WALL SIT

WALL SIT: Place your feet shoulder-width apart, about two feet from the wall. Slide your back down the wall while keeping your core engaged and lower back on the wall. Bend your legs to 90-degree angle. Hold for the desired length of time. Suggest 5 reps of 15–30 second holds

AIR SQUAT

SINGLE LEG REACH BRIDGE SIDE LUNGE

SINGLE LEG REACH: Stand in athletic posture on one foot. Place hands on the thigh of your lifted leg and slowly reach toward your knee. After a pause, return to the starting position. Repeat. Suggest 10 reps each leg

AIR SQUATS: Stand with feet hip distance apart and pointed forward. With your weight on your heels, squat back so your hips are lower than your knees without leaning forward. Hold for a few seconds. Then push through heels and use glutes to return to a standing position. Suggest 20 reps

ALTERNATING SIDE LUNGES: Stand tall with feet hip distance apart, step out to the side with one leg, bend your knee, and push your hips back. Return to the start position and repeat on the other side. Suggest 10 reps each side

BRIDGES: Lie on your back with knees bent. Tighten the muscles in your stomach. Raise your hips off the floor until they align with your knees and shoulders. Hold for three deep breaths. Suggest 5 reps

Upper Body & Core Strength Circuit

Training your core will reduce lower back pain, help with the load of a pack, improve balance, and make you more efficient on both up and downhill hiking or biking.

SIDE PLANK PUSH-UP

SIDE PLANK: Lie on your right side with your legs straight and feet stacked. With your neck neutral, brace your core. Lift your hips off the floor and support your weight on your elbow and the side of your right foot. Hold for a count of 10. Switch to your left side. Suggest 5 reps

PUSH-UPS: Begin on all fours, or on your knees, with your hands slightly wider than your shoulders. Straighten your arms and legs. Engage your core and lower your body until your chest nearly touches the floor. Pause, then push back up. Suggest 3 sets of 10

PUSH-UP PLANK ROMANIAN DEADLIFT

PLANK TO PUSH-UP: Begin on all fours in a forearm plank with your elbows dropped to the floor. Engage your core to keep your hips as still as possible. Push up onto your hands, then lower back down to your forearms, one arm at a time. Repeat with alternating arms. Suggest 3 sets of 10

SINGLE LEG ROMANIAN DEADLIFT: Stand in athletic posture on one foot with your arms in front of you (I’m using a water bottle to keep my arms in position), toes pointed straight forward, neutral spine, and abs are drawn in. Flex the hip, hinge your torso down, and keep your legs slightly bent. Do not round your back. Extend your free leg backward for balance as you reach for your opposite foot toward the floor. After a pause, slowly return to the starting position. Suggest 5 reps each side

This targets not just your back and core, but your hamstrings, calves, and butt for a whole body, complete, functional exercise that will make you feel your body working all over.

Visit tahoerimtrail.org/volunteer

ONLY A FEW SPOTS LEFT!

Backcountry Wildernesss Camps

Multi-day backpacking trailwork camps

July 10-13

August 14-17

Trail Workdays

No experience necessary!

June 3 to October 15 (weather dependent)

Most Tuesdays or Saturdays

Weekend Warrior Camp

Help maintain the trail and camp at Mt Rose

August 24 - 27

Trail Ambasador Days

Educating and assisting users at the trailheads

Most weekends throughout the summer and early fall

TASTE OF THE TRT:

This 4-day guided adventure provides an intermediate backpacking experience for all Kingsbury to Tahoe Meadows July 9–12

TRT THRU-HIKE

Spend 15 days backpacking the entire TRT on this guided adventure August 5–19

Act now to reserve a spot in one of our most popular summer programs: Sign up on our website: tahoerimtrail.org/guided-hikes/

RAISE RIM THE

ARE YOU PLANNING A TAHOE RIM TRAIL ADVENTURE THIS SUMMER? Sign up for Raise the Rim this August and you can win prizes while you hike or bike! This fun trail-a-thon challenge allows your supporters and sponsors to help fund trail preservation, while you win great prizes! Turn your “miles in boots” into “piles of loot”!

Check out our website for more information: tahoerimtrail.org/raise-the-rim.

ACTIVE CREW LEADERS

Aaron Daniel

Amanda Moreland

Bill Doherty

Bruce Levy

Bryan Wright

Charlene Summers

Cheryl Bailey

Chris Strohm

Chuck McVicker

Clay Grubb

Dave Schnake

Dave Stevenson

Donald Bailey

Donna Maher

Douglas Johnson

Edward Smith

Jackie Ferek

Jamie Nowitzky

Jim Crompton

Jim Large

John Clausen

John Kennedy

John McCall

John McKenna

Larry Davis

Mark Wynne-Willson

Mike Kuckenmeister

Patrick Pevey

Paul Sinnott

Peter Doenges

Phil Brisack

Randy Collins

Robert Anderson

Samuel Limerick

Shannon Foley

William Hager

ACTIVE TRTA GUIDES ACTIVE TRAIL ANGELS

Alan Catron

Anna Lijphart

Barb Todd

Carl Woods

Colleen Gervasi

Debbie Matuk

Ellen Fletcher

Ellen Goldsmith

George Olesinski

George Prince

Ita Abarzua-Kostan

Jamie Nowitzky

Jan Nishikawa

Jennifer Coon

Jim McNamara

Jim Mrazek

Jo Ann Cobb

John Ferguson

John Regin

Joseph Salonga

Karin Regnstrom

Kate Huckbody

LaTrenda Easton

Laurie Buffington

Lizzie Flower

Loretta Low

Matthew Taylor

Maureen Welsh

Michael Kreisel

Michelle Beaupied

Raelynn Noel

Sharell Katibah

Tom Fullerton

Tricia Tong

Carole Newman

Don Claybough

Donna Woods

Fred Zapponi

Kats Kitagawa

Mary Zapponi

Mike Welsh

Pauline Kitagawa

Ro Martinoni

Kate Hebert #2880

Amanda Ryan

Chris Calderon

Denise Beardslee

Eric Nedervold

Jennifer Dier

Kelly Gant

Terry Strait

Gayle Bowers

Cindy Martin

Heather Thornton

Ken Beck

Marlene Ciatti

Alex Ridgway

Cyndee Bosworth

David Parker

Dorian King

Kristen Sorensen

Olivia Snell

Raabith Khan

Teresa Somers

Laura Franklin

Patrick Coghlan

Colleen Wallace Barnum

Cheryl Surface

Eli Hughes

Bridgett Lenox

Terry Bliss

Michael and Ben Fazio

Jerome Oppenheim

Stacey Larson

Marvin Cassler

James Siders

Jennifer Gilardi

Larry Abramson

Brian Fay

Gail Dyer

Caleb Silvergleid

Stefan Schuster

Pamela Bugbee

Wesley Tite

Shannon McCormick

Jackson Truckle

Alejandro Ãvalos

Dylan Jones

Christopher Nelson

Todd Freitas

Andrew Dobrowski

Michael Dobrowski

Kiersten Downing

John Coones

Thomas Flynn

Meridith Karppinen

Chelsea Saul

Inger Appanaitis

Austin Spear

Maxwell Wiegant

Retura Claar

Abigail Henderson

Emily Frey

Jennifer Seymour

Britany Fauscette

Clark Adams

Todd Herman

Matthew Wagner

George Olesinski

Sally Battista

Libby Luoma

Seth Barton

Geoffrey Luoma

Randy Stephenson

Lauren Adams

Fran Hull

Kevin Hull

Heather Carpinella

Gary McKinney

Albert Jiang

Michael McChesney

Alvin Izuno

Angela Schnuerch

Regina Livesay

Kathleen Madding

Welcome to the 165 Mile Club! A big round of applause to 2022’s 165 Mile Club finishers who used two legs or four and took days, months, or years to finish. Tackle the TRT through segments, overnights, or any combination of the above! Then commemorate your experience by going to tahoerimtrail.org/165-mile-club to learn more and apply today!

Glenn Gritzner

Dominic Hatch

Kara Girard

Aidan Fossan

Zoe Fossan

Michael Fossan

Kris Fossan

Rodger LaBrash

Erin Perry

Ryan Baker-Branstetter

Andrew Parker

Maya Longtin

Mike Ryan

Erielle Cushing

Doug McPartland

Ian Jean

Dianna King

Donna Overland

Dan Irwin

Larry (Lawrence) Douglas

Connie Douglas

Catherine Lan

Harry Barnett

Chad Carvin

Roger Lloyd

Julia Chambers

Kristin Frontiera

Claudia Hanson

Wendy Kronkhyte

Sue “Glacier” Farley

Ginger Dog #142

Bonita Bartley Rogers

Charles Kranitzky

Britton Maier

Michael Aspiras

Peter Tuhus

Kim Fennell

Steven Hartman

Bill Moton

Nancy Meredith

Kelly Hood

Mitch Baertlein

Ryan Averill

Sammy Ziadeh

Nancy Barna

Aaron Dannenbaum

Bill Keaggy

Mike Brown

Catharine Allor

Jeff Quasney

Wrigley in Spirit Dog

Jeffrey Tarizzo

Ryatt Kopp

Mickenna Richards

Katie Esposito

Michael Findley

Tonya Charles

Neil Lake

Joseph Page

Curtis Ferlisi

Judith May

Eli Dog

Rob May

Claire Wright

Emily Monday

Donna Stambaugh

Mark Stambaugh

Don Organ

Ed and Karen Schelegle

Ryan Lee

Hanns Lee

Valerie Soon

Chandler Forrest

Dan Gonzales

Courtenay Wallpe

Zapchary Wallpe

Ruby Bell

Kimberlee Loudon

Debi MacKay

Debra Vanberg

Greg Wilson

Hannah Rohloff

Jacqueline Hill

Mike Morcom

Thursday Sadler

Luis Mendez

Mary Walkiewicz

Sarah Probert

Randell Dickey

Jenny Lo

Josh Hobson

Lindsay McConnon

Sara MacDonald

Peter Dinno

Michael Enrico

Cody Ochoa

Whitney Potter

Quinn Potter

Jamie Phillips

Wendy Campbell Smith

Christy Blouin Mank

Mike Barna

Mary Scott

Donna Fischer

Sean Martin

Molly Kirkpatrick

Bryce Meredith

Zephyr Dog

Aaron Del Monte

Armineh Turgeon

Jeremy Turgeon

Sean Chambers

Jhakarin Leelhasuwan

Jessica Bradley

Michele Tassinari

Karen Henderson

Cali Dog

Dianne Eckert #3074

Benny Dog #147

“The trail provides the strength and courage we need to survive. Those tough climbs and uphill battles are representations of challenges we face in life. The pain and growth never end but in those struggles is where the beauty lies. The sunsets/sunrises, the animals, flowers, and alpine lakes. There is always beauty along the journey.”

Business Members

TRTA Business Members are essential partners that help us fulfill our mission. These partners help ensure the Tahoe Rim Trail remains just as phenomenal in the future as it is today and help us inspire the next generation of environmental stewards. For more information on becoming a Business Member, contact Veronica at veronicap@tahoerimtrail.org.

FREEL PEAK $10,000+

MT. ROSE $5,000–$9,999

MT. TALLAC $2,500–$4,999

MT. BALDY $1,000–$2,499

Prophet Sticks #2923, Sacramento, CA