Trail Blazer Winter 2024 by Tahoe Rim Trail Association

WINTER 2024 EDITION

being in

nature nature is human

VIEW FROM THE RIM

elcome to our latest edition of the Trail Blazer. If you’re an avid connoisseur of our Trail Blazer, you’ll likely notice a different tone with this edition. As we embarked on our written journey to celebrate another great trail season and the trails that connect us with the natural world, we ended up with more personal accounts of a summer well spent. A summer leaning into our human nature, our desire to be outside. In a world where screens often dominate our chaotic daily lives, time in nature, whether it be Tahoe’s backcountry or an by Morgan Steel urban park, can be a transformative experience. Trails offer us a Executive Director chance to sustainably explore outdoor spaces, escape the noise, breathe fresh air, and reconnect with our true selves. The Tahoe Rim Trail Association is dedicated to providing world-class trails, ensuring trails remain accessible for all, and facilitating trail experiences so that everyone can have these transformative experiences. Woven through the pages of our winter Trail Blazer are our community’s stories of engaging with the Tahoe Rim Trail as trail users, volunteers, staff, and board members. We hope you enjoy reading our perspectives and are inspired as the seasons change to explore, protect, and cherish the invaluable trails that wind through our landscape. Our community of volunteers, donors, and partners play a vital role in the success of the Tahoe Rim Trail Association, and we want to keep you informed about the positive impact we are making together. As we reflect on the importance of our trails, let’s also remember the responsibility that comes with our love for the outdoors. Conservation, sustainability, and responsible recreation are at the core of our work. It’s up to us to ensure that the experience available to us today to enjoy the Tahoe Rim Trail will be there for future generations. We invite you to join us on this journey. Whether you are a new trail user, experienced outdoor athlete, nature bather, dedicated volunteer, or a passionate supporter, together we can continue to make a difference. Our trails are a testament to the beauty of nature, and the Tahoe Rim Trail Association is a testament to the power of community. Happy Trails,

Tahoe Rim Trail Association 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 Lindsey Schultz Communications Director Anthony Porter Development Director Veronica Palmer Finance & Admin Manager Judi Van Fleet Development Coordinator Brooke Clayton Outreach Coordinator Delaney Diamond

BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Justin Knowles Executive Vice President Tricia Tong Treasurer Larry Stites Vice President of Trail Ops Bryan Wright Vice President of Trail Use Sharell Katibah Board Members Tom Fullerton, John McCall, Theresa Papandrea, Faye Provenza, & Robin Soran

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

@tahoerimtrail 2

TRAIL BLAZER | Winter 2024 | Tahoe Rim Trail Association

@tahoerimtrailassociation

CONTENTS

View from the Rim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 VOLUNTEERING Volunteer Spotlight: Faye Provenza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 FEATURE Reflections on Human Nature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 THE DIRT Bridging the Gap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

OUTDOOR PROGRAMS Laughter and Firsts with the Latino Leadership Council . . 12 DEDICATIONS Views We Love . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 NEWS & FUN Out of the Woods and Into the Weeds: The TRTA’s Strategic Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 A Trail Blazing Crossword Puzzle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Upcoming Events and Registration Dates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

THE COMPASS Taking the First Step . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

t’s not every day that an organization gets a “Faye” on their volunteer team, and the Tahoe Rim Trail Association couldn’t be more grateful. Dr. Faye Provenza was recruited for the TRTA Board of Directors as a medical advisor for our field programs. Little did we know, we were getting another Tahoe Rim Trail champion both in and out of the field. As a Nevada native and lifelong adventurer, Faye is no stranger to being awestruck in the outdoors. Faye stated, “The view of the lake and surrounding mountains took my breath away.” While her career often kept her working long hours in the Emergency Room, you could still find her climbing a cliff on a sunny day. After retiring, she saw the TRTA as a way to combine her love for the outdoors with her medical expertise and joined the Board of Directors in September 2022. While learning the ins and outs of the TRTA, Faye familiarized herself with committees, attended trail-building workdays, and guided hikes. Within her first year as a TRTA volunteer, Faye went through Guide Training and officially graduated from Guide in Training to Guide last August. She has contributed more than 180 volunteer hours to date supporting all things TRTA, even handwriting thank you cards in impressive calligraphy. Our community members like Faye, who selflessly dedicate their time and energy to the TRTA, play a vital role in conserving our natural spaces for future generations. Her commitment to combining her love for the outdoors with her medical knowledge showcases the power of what an individual can do to make a difference in their community. Thank you, Faye! You are truly doing your part in preserving the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe. We are so lucky to have you as part of the TRTA family.

TRAIL BLAZER | Winter 2024 | Tahoe Rim Trail Association

reflections on

human

nature

hen I first sat down to write this story, it felt like my mind was an empty room, walls as bare as the page before me. It was my first week of work at by Brooke Clayton the Tahoe Rim Development Coordinator Trail Association, and I was excited to take on this article as my first assignment. I had been working as a ski patroller for the last two years, and while I couldn’t wait to do some writing, I found myself wholly uninspired by the office walls around me. Then, all at once, it was obvious what to do. I still didn’t know what to write but felt confident that the first step to inspiration was out of the door and into nature. Research from organizations like the American Psychological Association tries to

quantify what many of us know intuitively: time in nature can improve attention and mood, lower stress, and reduce the risk for psychiatric disorders. For me, fresh air always brings fresh ideas. Rumor had it that a trail at the back of the TRTA’s parking lot led to a secluded creek. Before even leaving the asphalt, I was already feeling better. A smile spread across my lips as I wished bon voyage to the woman putting a bear canister in her trunk that she’d just rented from the office. We’d talked through the weather forecast with her, which called for rain and maybe even snow over 8,000 ft: a more austere trip than many, but also one of the last chances to get into the backcountry before winter rolls into the Sierra. She thanked me for the well wishes, and the joyous anticipation on her face reminded me why I wanted to work with the TRTA in the first place. As I stepped out of the parking lot and onto a trail I’d never walked before, I focused on

the sound of my feet on the earth and the wind in the trees, and the chatter in my mind started to fade. Science has been seeking an explanation for nature’s positive impact on human emotion and cognition for decades. In fact, the three leading theories on this topic emerged before the turn of the century and are still applied in today’s scientific studies. Attention Restoration Theory (ART) was established in 1989 at Cambridge and focused on the way that nature engages with humankind’s “involuntary attention,” providing mental stimulus that isn’t as taxing as “directed attention.” Directed attention can only be sustained for so long, and the effort of doing so leads to negative mental states. The Journal of Park and Recreation Administration used ART as a framework to study the “auditory experience” of visiting a park, concluding that “natural sounds, specifically birdsong and wind, can provide relief from mental fatigue.”

Brooke on the trail

Nature engages with humankind’s involuntary attention, providing mental stimulus that isn’t as taxing as directed attention.

A peripheral part of my mind enjoyed the task of trying to distinguish the sound of wind from the sound of water as I walked. My parents used to joke that they named me Brooke after a babbling brook because I never stopped talking. Yet something settled inside me when I eventually saw the creek. I was happy to be quiet for a while. In 2010, Japanese researchers focused specifically on the sound of running water to test another framework for understanding the impact of nature on human well-being: StressReduction Theory. Introduced in 1991, this theory posits that evolutionarily beneficial environments, like a water source, can decrease blood pressure (i.e., stress). The third theory behind nature’s mental health benefits, introduced in 1993, is called biophilia. It proposes that because our ancestors developed a relationship with

nature to survive, it eventually became a biological imperative. In short: being in nature is human nature. Even the semantics of this word have a certain romanticism. ‘Philia’ means ‘love of’ in Greek. Biophilia, then, is an innate ‘love of life.’ As I ran my fingers over the delicate fronds of lady ferns on the water’s edge and watched yellow leaves fall to the ground, I was immersed in a sense of belonging and comfort. I gave my face a splash with the cool water and started to walk back to that blank page, finally inspired to fill it. One of the important messages behind the research I found is that it doesn’t really matter how you get outside. Whether it’s a quick walk, horseback ride, bike, or overnight trip—what ultimately brings people together is the feeling we get in nature. When individuals decide to impact the TRTA

TRAIL BLAZER | Winter 2024 | Tahoe Rim Trail Association

as volunteers, donors, or members; it reminds us how much the trail itself has impacted us all. Regardless of the science behind it, we can’t thank you enough for spreading the love you’ve felt out there on the Tahoe Rim Trail.

References

Abbott, L. C., Taff, D., Newman, P., Benfield, J. A., & Mowen, A. J. (2016). The influence of natural sounds on attention restoration. Journal of Park and Recreation Administration, 34(3). https://doi. org/10.18666/jpra-2016-v34-i3-6893 Capaldi, C., Passmore, H.-A., Nisbet, E., Zelenski, J., & Dopko, R. (2015). Flourishing in nature: A review of the benefits of connecting with nature and its application as a wellbeing intervention. International Journal of Wellbeing, 5(4). https://doi. org/10.5502/ijw.v5i4.449

THANK YOU!

YOUR PURCHASE OF PLANT BASED FUEL HELPS IMPACT NEW AND EXISTING TRAILS

NEW TAHOE RIM TRAIL CALENDAR!

Get ready for 2024 with scenic views of your favorite trail from the TRTA’s annual photo contest. Thanks to everyone who submitted entries! Visit our website to view all of the winning photos and learn about next year’s photo contest! To purchase the new calendar, visit TahoeRimTrail.org/shop. Learn more about our 1,000 Miles of Trail mission at TahoeTrailBar.com

Photo contest finalist’s submission of Marlette Lake. ! Michael Read

TRAIL BLAZER | Winter 2024 | Tahoe Rim Trail Association

The Dirt On Trail Operations Bridging the Gap

t was a day like any other, as the TRTA trail crew trekked up a forested mountainside to get to their destination. I was by Anthony Porter following from the Communications Director back as a witness to their workday, hearing the clanking of tools and banter between old friends. The morning sunbeams shined through the gaps in the Jeffrey pines looming overhead as we followed the winding path, snaking upwards to a place this trail crew knew all too well. With each step they took, the tools and equipment seemed to get heavier, but this was nothing new to this group. Adjusting the straps on their bags, they tightened the grip on their rock bars and kept moving up the hill. I was equipped with nothing more than a camera and notepad, and an obligatory hard hat. As the trail started to level out, a faint rushing sound of moving water came into earshot, and the crew members shared a smile with each other. We had arrived. The high-water flow from an exquisite 2023 winter left its mark on Big Meadow. Although

the rushing waters which had flooded much of the open space had receded, there remained a single reminder of the snow that blanketed the region. The Big Meadow bridge, which was created not only to help trail users but to minimize human effects on the stream, was splintered in half. The flooded meadow held the wooden bridge underwater for many weeks, with horses, bikes, and hikers relying on the dwindling strength of the bridge to safely cross the stream. The bridge had been incrementally showing signs of wear and damage over the years, and the winter of 2023 was its breaking point. As the trail crew arrived, they found a past labor of love dilapidated and unfortunately beyond repair.

Time to build a new bridge. This stream crossing is by no means a daring walk across a giant chasm, but it still is an obstacle for trail users. Without this bridge, the stream would be impacted by foot, tire, and hoof traffic and would limit access to the gorgeous meadow, making this bridge an important feature of the landscape. The story of the old Big Meadow bridge started just before the Tahoe Rim Trail Association was established. The bridge had been rebuilt in the

A happy trail crew on construction day

TRAIL BLAZER | Winter 2024 | Tahoe Rim Trail Association

past, initially built in the late 1970’s, helping travelers navigate through a meadow of unique beauty. A combination of United States Forest Service workers, passionate volunteers, and many other entities have played a role in bridge restoration. The Big Meadow bridge is a minor Tahoe legacy, one that the TRTA is happy to carry into the future. Whether you are a biker, hiker, or equestrian rider (or even a fish in the stream below), this bridge is a reminder: throughout time, there have always been people who care for this place. “I think many people are surprised that we’re all volunteers,” Bryan Wright told me as we discussed his work on the trail, “…interactions with (trail) users are overwhelmingly positive”. He is a part of a dedicated group of crew leaders that support trail construction around the TRT. “They’re exceptional humans!” He smiled as he looked out at the work crew who were taking a needed water break in the shade. “I’m grateful for my life and I feel lucky to be able to work with them. It’s been a huge positive for my physical and emotional health.” I stood at the stream as the crew deliberated on the original plan for constructing the new bridge. “The initial intent was to build a complete structure using dimensional lumber,” Bryan said. The crew would have to bring hundreds of pounds of gear up to the meadow for construction and the idea of adding fifteen to twenty-foot long beams to the list of equipment that would be hand carried up switchbacks became less appealing as the construction date neared. On top of that, these large beams that would span across the stream, were on backorder. After a massive winter, our short construction window was disappearing and the TRTA was determined to replace the bridge this season. Luckily, there was a backup plan! Working with our partners at the Forest Service, Don Bailey and Chris Strohm (fellow TRTA crew leaders) spent time redesigning a structure using standing dead trees at the worksite that

Big Meadow bridge during the spring floods

Construction of the new Big Meadow bridge

A comparison of the old bridge (left) and the new bridge (right) our Forest Service partners would topple. Bryan emphasized that this process highlights how trail work is not simply a single person pointing in a direction and expecting things to happen. It is a collaborative process, with many ideas flowing back and forth. The new bridge is better for that back and forth, fortified by locally sourced materials. The past Big Meadow bridge builders would be proud. When I arrived at the worksite, the downed dead trees laid by the stream, waiting patiently to become the new foundation of the bridge. Preparing the logs by removing bark and limbs was difficult in the backcountry. There were no mill saws or revolutionary pocketsized debarking machines. Instead, Bryan produced an old-fashioned draw knife from his bag, sat on one end, and got to work. The next day, the crew trekked up the path,

same as before, but with less equipment, as they had stashed a majority of the supplies in the willows, covering the tools with a tarp. Today’s first task was to move the downed logs about 25 feet to their final resting place as the foundation of the bridge. A simple task, considering the logs are round, and one could roll them over to the desired spot. However, the path is narrow, full of reeds, and slightly downhill to the destination. After consulting the team, straps were woven around the logs to be hoisted by the entire crew to meet the log’s desired location. A litter team of six crew members was led by the two in the front, communicating directions with each step taken. Upon a gentle placement of all three logs into position, a collective sigh was released from everyone present. “If I said that log was under 350 pounds, I’d be a liar,”

huffed a resting crew member. The following days were comprised of drilling, form-fitting, and finalizing the project. The trail crew added additional steps, creating a raised walkway to account for a variety of snowpack height and meadow flooding. The trail crew can look back at the endeavor with pride. They left with aching backs, dirty faces, and the satisfaction of a job well done. The Big Meadow bridge is a strong symbol of what the TRTA stands for. They both give access to the true beauty of Tahoe. They help preserve the land we all cherish. But most of all, it is a message to all who use the trail: You are not alone; there are others who love this place, and we’re not going anywhere.

TRAIL BLAZER | Winter 2024 | Tahoe Rim Trail Association

THE COMPASS

Taking the First Step U

sing the trails in Lake Tahoe unlocks something in each Sitting in a conference room on a sunny July day, person. Some visitors see a valuable opportunity to Rachel found herself part of a diverse group ready to explore a new world, while some residents may use the trails learn the basics of sleeping outside. The class started with to decompress after a long day behind a desk. No matter a breakdown of the primary systems, diving deep into the reason, being outdoors is an acquired skill, one that by Kaden Barmore each one to examine the options available for one’s style. the TRTA facilitates each year through its guided programs. “Everyone was a gear junkie,” says Rachel. The flashy new Backpacking 101 is our introductory course that we aim to provide the gear was intimidating, but Rachel’s mind was put at ease by the guide’s inspiration and tools for participants to start their journey with overnights and participant’s reassurance and helpfulness. “The guides made sure in the backcountry. “Backpacking 101 is a gateway for thru-hiking,” says to go through all of the different options of equipment, which was Rachel, a South Lake Tahoe local and participant in this year’s Backpacking way better than spending hours online.” From looking at ultralight 101 course. Before this summer, Rachel had never been backpacking, kits that the guides had spent years perfecting to instructor Matt’s although her interest in exploring the Tahoe Basin was always on her more traditional “big bag”, they made sure to go over everything, mind. Being an avid day hiker who regularly takes adventures with her emphasizing to “hike your own hike.” The day ended with a quick dogs, she decided she was finally ready to take the next step and jump into shakedown of everyone’s gear, commiserating about pack weights, a full overnight expedition in the wilderness. Armed with borrowed gear, and some last-minute questions. Rachel signed up for the TRTA’s Backpacking 101, hoping to gain the skills The following day, they hit the trail. Heading north towards Showers and know-how to spend a night in Tahoe’s backcountry. Lake, the group put their new skills to the test. From getting eaten TRTA thru hikers at Relay Peak

TRAIL BLAZER | Winter 2024 | Tahoe Rim Trail Association

Backpacking 101 orientation

Finishers of the Thru Hike

alive by mosquitos at Meiss Meadow to overcoming snow and river else’s. “Backpacking 101 was my introduction to ultralight,” she said. crossings, this quick overnight trip was a crash course in everything “It helped me be more methodical and taught me tricks to cut down that could happen on a backpacking trip. In camp, Rachel and the weight; ounces turn to pounds, and pounds turn to frowns.” The hike group experienced the campsite selection process, water purification, set off. Fifteen days and one hundred and seventy-four miles later, and cooking. Rachel’s favorite part was seeing all of the different Rachel joined the 165 Mile Club to a chorus of “Chariots of Fire”, a TRTA shelter and water purification options in action. “I loved the tent tour. ritual for crossing the finish line on the final day. Being able to get in each one helped me visualize sleeping after a long Rachel attributes Backpacking 101, her relationship with the guides, hike.” After a dinner of an assortment of the finest dehydrated dishes and the friends she made in the class for giving her the confidence to during sunset, it was time to settle in for the night. The following day jump from one night in the backcountry into hiking the entire Tahoe began with a breakfast of oatmeal and coffee in the crisp mountain air. Rim Trail. “Backpacking 101 prepares you with not only gear but also They broke camp and started hiking back backcountry skills for longer trips.” Rachel to the trailhead. still keeps in close contact with her fellow “The different demographics within backpacking friends, who have all been While learning the basics of surviving the class were inspiring to see… and thriving in the woods was on-par for equally enticed to join the backpacking what she expected to learn on the course, community. and meeting people at the same Rachel didn’t expect to fall in love with the It can be daunting trying to break into experience level was really nice.” community. “The different demographics a new sport. Not only are there financial, within the class were inspiring to see… skill, and access barriers to overcome, but and meeting people at the same experience level was really nice.” there is also fear. Wandering into the backcountry for a couple of days The program was doing what was intended, which was to open the for the first time can be intimidating. Not only is this scary, but it can door to getting a variety of people to come together through outdoor also be dangerous if someone does not have the proper training and recreation. equipment. The TRTA’s guided hiking programs allow people to get out Over the course of the program, Rachel also found a connection on the trail and experience the backcountry while having professional with the guides. “They were real people; you could see yourself in each guides to educate and inspire along the way. Our courses provide a of them.” Two guides, Maureen (Mo) and LaTrenda, inspired Rachel. sandbox for new recreationists to experiment and discover what works “Mo kept pushing me and following up with where I was going to for them while having a safety net if something goes wrong. Paired with hike after the class ended.” This is where she discovered that Mo was the organization’s ability to loan equipment, suggest locations, and guiding the TRTA’s upcoming Thru Hike. “LaTrenda gave me all of the provide coaching, the courses make the backcountry more accessible. information about the thru-hike and broke it down day by day.” Both Rachel found the skills, confidence, and community to thru-hike guides encouraged her to give it a shot. After all, if you want to get into the entire trail. She started out completely new to backpacking and is backpacking, there is no better way than jumping in headfirst. After now enjoying the backcountry with new friends she made through the numerous emails, tons of research, a couple of calls to the office, and TRTA’s backpacking programs. Enabling more people to feel capable a reevaluation of her gear, Rachel went all in and joined the Thru-Hike. in the outdoors is a unique opportunity for the TRTA to create a more Rolling up to the Thru-Hike launch, Rachel had the lightest pack of sustainable user base, increase the range of trail users, and educate the group, a svelte 18 pounds. Her bag was half the size as anyone more people to be environmental stewards. TRAIL BLAZER | Winter 2024 | Tahoe Rim Trail Association

Laughter & Firsts with the Latino Leadership Council BY MCKAYLA BULL

Youth Backcountry Camp leaders from left to right: Axel, Hninn Ei, McKayla, and Amy Líderes del Youth Backcountry Camp de izquierda a derecha: Axel, Hninn Ei, McKayla, y Amy

Did You Know? The TRTA believes that any kid who wants to attend one of our camps should be able to, regardless of financial or other barriers. Thanks to our members, donors, and grantors, we’ve made that vision a reality. The TRTA’s Youth Backcountry Camp (YBCC) Program provides scholarships for trips as well as group programming tailored to youth service organizations, offered completely free to get more kids engaged in the outdoors and reaping the benefits of time spent in nature. Thank you for helping us create a new generation of leaders! Learn more about YBCC at tahoerimtrail.org/youth-programs/.

en teenagers circled up with 60-liter backpacks, their best wicking layers, four days’ worth of food, and an assortment of backcountry gear. Not a cell phone, iPad, Apple Watch, or Xbox in sight. Axel and Amy, adult chaperones from the Latino Leadership Council, kindly translated my introduction about backcountry equipment, packing, and expectations for this four-day backpacking trip we were about to embark on. When groups sign on to participate in the Tahoe Rim Trail Association’s 4-day Youth Backcountry Camp, their goal is to provide a unique opportunity to connect with nature, build character, and learn valuable new skills. This particular trip was a testament to how that goal is accomplished. Students introduced themselves one by one, some in English and others in Spanish, stating where they were from and sharing personal goals for their Youth Backcountry Camp experience with the Tahoe Rim Trail Association. “I’m from Colombia. My goal for the trip is to learn how to cook outside!” “I’m from Venezuela. I came to the States when I was six. And… I want to make friends and have fun.” “I was born in Sacramento and my family is from Mexico. My goal is to learn how to read maps and not get lost.” Soon after introductions, this diverse group of kids, ranging in age from 12 to 17, set off at the Big Meadow Trailhead with an openness to experience new things, learn about nature, and laugh through the challenges—all in their native and learned languages. Trail games and chatter resonated as campers climbed a rocky, steep ascent, traveled across a lush green meadow, and ascended up the mountain

TRAIL BLAZER | Winter 2024 | Tahoe Rim Trail Association

for a mile of uninterrupted elevation gain. The reverberating question of “how much further?” was inspired by the backpacks that felt heavier with every step. To the surprise of many, a mound of snow welcomed the group to their break spot at the top of the mountain. These wide-eyed adventurers felt an undeniable magnetic pull to play in this remnant of winter. Tired faces quickly morphed into grins as the malleable snow mound reinvigorated the group energy level. They entertained a wholesome snowball fight, built mini-snowmen, and dug out backcountry “freezers” to cool their Nalgene water bottles. For one young man who recently emigrated from Venezuela, seeing snow for the very first time confirmed that the challenging climb was worth the reward. The growing pains of that first day’s trek and intensive skill-building curriculum were shadowed with laughter and jokes by this resilient bunch. As the group grew in their stamina and skills, their joy did as well. As the days progressed, campers became proficient in stashing bear canisters after dinner, lugging 30-pound packs throughout the backcountry, cowboy camping under a seemingly telescopic view of the Milky Way, and every test and trial inbetween. Their masterful backcountry cooking skills inspired a pita pizza cook-off, with laughter that will remain etched in their memories. Their encouragement for one another to leap into a jarringly cold lake with screams of surprise at the alpine temperatures created memories they’ll carry for years to come. Opening their hearts and minds led them to experience the joys of so many firsts in those four jam-packed days on the trail. Although they all came from different places with different goals, each teen left with bags full of dirty clothes and accomplishments.

risas y primicias con el Concilio de Liderazgo Latino POR MCKAYLA BULL

iez adolescentes en círculo con mochilas de 60 litros, sus mejores capas, comida para cuatro días y un surtido de equipo de travesía. Ni un celular, ni un iPad, ni un Apple Watch, ni una Xbox a la vista. Axel y Amy, acompañantes adultos del Concilio de Liderazgo Latino, tradujeron amablemente mi introducción sobre el equipo de montaña, el equipaje y las expectativas para este viaje de cuatro días en el que estábamos a punto de embarcarnos. Cuando los grupos se inscriben para participar en el campamento juvenil de travesía de cuatro días de Tahoe Rim Trail Association, su objetivo es ofrecer una oportunidad única para conectar con la naturaleza, forjar el carácter y aprender nuevas y valiosas habilidades. Este viaje en particular fue un testimonio de cómo se logra ese objetivo. Los estudiantes se presentaron uno a uno, algunos en inglés y otros en español, indicando de dónde eran y compartiendo sus objetivos personales para su experiencia en el Campamento Juvenil de Backcountry con Tahoe Rim Trail Association. “Soy de Colombia. Mi objetivo para el viaje es aprender a cocinar al aire libre.” “Soy de Venezuela. Llegué a los Estados Unidos cuando tenía seis años. Y... quiero hacer amigos y divertirme.” “Nací en Sacramento y mi familia es de México. Mi objetivo es aprender a leer mapas y no perderme.” Poco después de las presentaciones, este grupo de niños diversos, entre las edades de 12 y los 17 años, se puso en marcha en la entrada del sendero Big Meadow con la disposición de experimentar cosas nuevas, aprender sobre la naturaleza y reírse de los desafíos, todo ello en sus lenguas maternas y aprendidas. Los juegos del sendero y las charlas resonaban mientras los campistas subían por un ascenso rocoso y empinado, atravesaban una pradera verde y exuberante y ascendían por la montaña

durante una milla de desnivel ininterrumpido. La reverberante pregunta de “¿cuánto falta?” se inspiró en las mochilas que se sentían más pesadas a cada paso. Para sorpresa de muchos, un montículo de nieve dio la bienvenida al grupo a su lugar de descanso en la cima de la montaña. Estos aventureros de ojos abiertos sintieron una innegable atracción magnética por jugar en este vestigio del invierno. Los rostros cansados se transformaron rápidamente en sonrisas cuando el maleable montículo de nieve revitalizó el nivel de energía del grupo. Se divirtieron con una sana guerra de bolas de nieve, construyeron mini-hombres de nieve y excavaron “congeladores” en el campo para enfriar sus botellas de agua Nalgene. Para un joven recién emigrado de Venezuela, ver la nieve por primera vez le confirmó que la difícil ascensión merecía la recompensa. Los dolores de crecimiento de ese primer día de caminata y el plan de estudios intensivo de desarrollo de habilidades fueron ensombrecidos con risas y bromas por este grupo resistente. A medida que el grupo crecía en resistencia y destreza, también lo hacía su alegría. A medida que pasaban los días, los campistas aprendieron a esconder bidones para osos después de cenar, a cargar mochilas de 10 kilos por el campo, a acampar como vaqueros bajo una vista aparentemente telescópica de la Vía Láctea y a realizar todas las pruebas y ensayos posibles. Sus habilidades en la cocina inspiró un concurso de pizzas de pita, con risas que quedarán grabadas en su memoria. Cuando se animaron mutuamente a saltar a un lago sorprendentemente frío, crearon recuerdos que conservarán durante años. Abrir sus corazones y sus mentes les llevó a experimentar la alegría de tantas primeras veces en esos cuatro días repletos de camino. Aunque todos venían de lugares distintos y con distintos objetivos, cada adolescente se marchó con bolsas llenas de ropa sucia y logros.

Young backpackers from the Latino Leadership Council on their first hike Jóvenes mochileros del Consejo de Liderazgo Latino en su primera caminata

A teen from Latino Leadership Council smiling with a mini snowman Un adolescente del Consejo de Liderazgo Latino sonriendo con un muñeco de nieve

TRAIL BLAZER | Winter 2024 | Tahoe Rim Trail Association

Out of the Woods and Into the Weeds: The TRTA’s Strategic Plan

very year, about this time, as our field season winds to a close, our staff team reflects on what a crazy year it has been and the major challenges we encountered. by Morgan Steel Executive Director We discuss the unforeseen forces that derail our perfectly planned out summer, scheduled and organized down to the minute to facilitate our three-ring circus of a year. Those things

we didn’t plan for that prove the year will not be a “normal” year for the TRTA. Some are internal challenges while others ripple worldwide—I’m talking to you COVID-19! Inevitably, our conversation turns to the realization that no year is normal, and while some year’s calamities are truly unimaginable (think Caldor Fire), every year we experience challenges, trials, and tribulations we didn’t expect as internal and external factors roil the Tahoe Rim Trail. Guiding us through these changes and challenges is our strategic plan, essentially the blueprint for our operations. Our strategic

Guides and participants on a Taste of the TRT hike this past summer.

TRAIL BLAZER | Winter 2024 | Tahoe Rim Trail Association

plan is a forward-looking document that serves as a road map for the future of the Tahoe Rim Trail Association. It outlines our mission, vision, and values while establishing clear objectives and priorities for the coming years. Generally, our strategic plans have a three to five-year horizon along with a road map for longer-term projects. In late 2022, the board and staff embarked on an update to the Tahoe Rim Trail Association’s strategic plan. After a few significantly “not normal” years, the timing felt especially propitious. Creating a new strategic plan was an exciting and essential

A perfect winter snowshoe on the Tahoe Rim Trail. ! Sharell Katibah

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endeavor that allowed us to evaluate past challenges, think about what may still be in store for us, and dream big to shape the future of our organization and the outdoor experiences we offer to our community. As we navigated this journey, we recognized the need to adapt to changing landscapes, emerging trends, and evolving environmental considerations. Our strategic plan will serve as our roadmap, guiding us towards the maintenance and enhancement of our trail system, the promotion of outdoor recreation, the inclusion of all in the benefits of time spent outdoors, and the preservation of our natural resources. The plan also includes internal processes to sustain an effective nonprofit organization with the infrastructure, staffing, funding, volunteers, and board to implement our vision. With a focus on innovation, inclusivity, and long-term sustainability, the strategic plan we’ve created will strengthen our association and enrich all those who enjoy our trails, and the critters and landscape our trail system protects. Our strategic plan focuses on six main goals: 1. Maintain and enhance the trail and infrastructure to minimize the impact of trail users and provide a world-class trail experience. Each

year more than half a million users visit the Tahoe Rim Trail. We aim to provide these users with a world-class trail experience that delivers the resources needed for users to have an enjoyable and sustainable experience on the trail. In addition to our core function of maintaining our 200-mile trail system, other highlights under this goal include improving infrastructure, building new trail, and improving wayfinding. Protect Tahoe’s natural resources. We seek to provide quality recreational experiences while ensuring that our trails limit their impact on the landscape, flora, and fauna that make the Tahoe Basin and Tahoe Rim Trail experience extraordinary. We’ll be monitoring and managing visitor use, coordinating with partners, and advocating for the trail under this goal. Engage the public to create lifelong stewards of outdoor spaces and nature. Without having a public actively engaging in the outdoors, who will be our advocates for protecting natural resources and preserving recreational infrastructure? With this goal, we aim to engage the young and young at heart in

nature. We plan to expand our audience, educate trail users, and welcome youth into the wild! 4. Diversify the TRTA’s programs to expand the organization’s reach and create an accessible and inclusive environment for all trail users. We are prioritizing reducing barriers to experiencing the outdoors by focusing on building the next generation of conservation staff and outdoor enthusiasts, increasing research and analysis on demographics and trends, providing multilingual/cultural resources and programming, and ensuring trail access for users with differing ability levels. 5. Position the TRTA as a leading advocate for outdoor recreation in the Tahoe Region. The Tahoe Rim Trail Association has a 40-year history in the Tahoe Basin, leading the growth of sustainable recreation. Strategies under this goal include engaging in planning and development processes around the Basin and serving as the destination for all things Tahoe Rim Trail related. 6. Cultivate the human and financial resources needed to implement the mission of the TRTA. Big dreams take big resources. Our tactics under this goal focus on the internal processes of our organization required to ensure we continue to thrive as a well-supported, effectively managed, and impactful nonprofit. These include supporting our staff, evaluating how we manage this staff in a high cost of living area, supporting and growing our volunteer capacity, revamping our fundraising strategies, supporting an engaged and educated board of directors, and maintaining strong internal systems and controls. While our strategic plan cannot predict the future, we feel confident that it will help us navigate the next “not normal” situation the trail and the Tahoe Rim Trail Association faces. This comprehensive roadmap outlines our organization’s key priorities and innovative approaches to address challenges, fostering resilience and success in an ever-changing landscape.

TRAIL BLAZER | Winter 2024 | Tahoe Rim Trail Association

Views we love

Everything the Light Touches Vista

ndividuals, families, and organizations can help to ensure the continuing legacy of the Tahoe Rim Trail by adopting their own vista or mile! Donors have the opportunity to be stewards of the trail by giving back to something they love—the trail and the Lake Tahoe Basin. Here are this season’s adopters and what the trail means to them. If you are interested in learning more about this program, email Veronica, veronicap@tahoerimtrail.org or visit: tahoerimtrail.org/adopt-vista-adopt-mile/

TRAIL BLAZER | Winter 2024 | Tahoe Rim Trail Association

Aspen and Nola’s Happy Place

“This summer I did the entire TRT as day hikes. Broken up over 11 days it ended up being 190 miles and 31,368 ft. of elevation. Anything over 20 miles I did solo, but shorter segments I did with friends, family, and the dogs. What amazed me was how many new and amazing areas I discovered doing the entire rim. The views on the north rim are hard to beat, the high Sierra meadows on the south end are amazing, the west side is dominated by Desolation Wilderness (which, in my opinion, actually isn’t the best part of the trail), and my home stretch of the east side allows views of the lake and the Carson Valley. It is remarkable to see such different landscapes. Our family loves to hike, and we take visitors on various hikes around Tahoe. The TRT overlaps with many of these trails, and we are amazed at how well-kept the trails are for everyone to enjoy.” —Alex Henderson

Adventure Butts Vista

Adventure Butts

“I adopted this vista in honor of my two young nieces, Grey and Echo. Their beautiful, adventurous spirits thrive in the outdoors, and their propensity for wearing princess dresses while sitting in mud puddles or digging grubs out of dead trees seemed so in tune with the alluring nature of Echo Lakes. I was motivated to adopt this vista on Grey and Echo’s behalf because I want to ensure the preservation of unique, beautiful, and untamed natural spaces for them to experience.” —Dori King

Everything the Light Touches

“This vista was adopted for my dog, BrakePad, a 6.5lb miniature longhair dachshund whom I often describe as “my ride or die, my light and life.” The view from this vista reminds me of the scene from The Lion King where Mufasa tells his son, Simba, that “everything the light touches is our kingdom” — which, as far as BrakePad is concerned, is how she views the world.” —Dori King TRAIL BLAZER | Winter 2024 | Tahoe Rim Trail Association

TRAIL BLAZING CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Finish the Crossword? Send a picture of your completed puzzle to info@tahoerimtrail.org and receive a 15% discount code for Tahoe Rim Trail merchandise.

3. 5. 6. 9. 10. 12. 14. 16. 18.

ACROSS No Trace Cleaning water A helper of the TRTA Hawaiian lake in Desolation Wilderness Acronym for a very long western trail Not the frontcounty, but... Poles & fly Mt. Rose & Desolation Hiking equipment measured in liters

TRAIL BLAZER | Winter 2024 | Tahoe Rim Trail Association

1. 2. 4. 7. 8. 11. 12. 13. 15. 17.

DOWN Both a megafauna and a city The main species of pine found in the Tahoe Basin A foreign friend of mile The species of bear found in Lake Tahoe Ringed tail, bandit mask Horse, Big, Tahoe, Page, High A superhero dressed as a nocturnal pollinator Springtime color palette associated with flowers A fast-moving bird of prey Above sea level

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+

TRTA EVENT HIGHLIGHTS February 4–5: Snow Camping 101, South Lake Tahoe February 24: Winter Navigation Course, TRTA office February 28: Thru Hike Registration, 10:00 am March 6: Youth Backcountry Camp Registration, 10:00 am March 20: Segment Hike Registration, 10:00 am April 3: Taste of the TRT Registration, 10:00 am April & June: Wilderness First Aid Courses

MT. ROSE $5,000–$9,999

Check our website for our full event listing.

MT. TALLAC $2,500–$4,999

MT. BALDY $1,000–$2,499

TRAIL BLAZER | Winter 2024 | Tahoe Rim Trail Association

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Trail Blazer The Official Publication of the Tahoe Rim Trail Association

ONE TRAIL. ONE FUTURE. Support the the Tahoe Tahoe Rim Rim Trail Trail this this Support year-end by making an additional year-end by making a donation donation using the envelope. enclosed using the enclosed envelope.

Your gift will make a difference as Your gift to will make athe difference we work protect trail you as we work to protect the trail you use and love. use and love.

Donate over over $100 $100 Donate and receive receive aa and TRT gift! keychain! TRT THANKS FOR YOUR HELP! THANKS FOR YOUR HELP!