Your Online Resource for Hiking, Backpacking, Cross-Country Skiing, and Snowshoeing at Lake Tahoe
During the winter of 2025-26, one of my subscribers asked about my use of the term “backcountry cross-country skiing.” Since that phrase is fairly generic and not used regularly, the person hadn’t heard it before. Therefore, they wanted to know how it differed, for example, from cross-country downhill (XCD) or backcountry touring. I see this…
As Lake Tahoe’s 2025-26 winter comes to a close, I feel compelled to provide an update and reintroduction of myself. You know, since it’s been so long since I’ve posted anything on Tahoe Trail Guide (TTG)! I do share updates through my personal newsletter (JaredManninen.com) and via my YouTube channel. Admittedly, though, I just haven’t…
Jared reflects on his summer of low heart rate training, recognizing initial lofty expectations that shifted to a more realistic approach. Embracing a run-walk-run method, he ultimately learned to enjoy running again. This experience fostered a deeper connection to nature and renewed commitment to sustainable training practices.
After reintroducing running in May 2025, Jared began logging 25 miles weekly as part of a long-term health plan to prepare for cross-country skiing. Embracing a more process-driven approach, Jared focused on maintaining a heart rate of 120-140 bpm while enjoying nature and setting mini-goals for a fulfilling experience.
Jared reflects on his lifelong journey as an endurance athlete, participating in various sports without competitive aspirations. He shares experiences from running marathons, hiking trails, and cross-country skiing, emphasizing the importance of sustainable training practices over sheer intensity. Recently, Jared decided to reintroduce running into his life to promote year-round health.
Cross-country skiing has been a tradition at Lake Tahoe since the 1850s, notably with Snowshoe Thompson’s mail transport. The region offers varied terrain, primarily off-track skiing, especially in South Tahoe, where groomed areas are limited. Safety and preparation are crucial when navigating these snowy trails, highlighting the area’s adventurous spirit.
This article answers your questions about waxing waxless cross-country skis! Pretty obvious considering that title, right? Well, I felt compelled to write this FAQ as a stand-alone article because, over the years, I’ve been frequently asked the same questions about waxing waxless cross-country skis. And I wanted to consolidate all of those questions in one…
Cabin fever can affect the best of us during the winter. So, many people feel an inherent need to get outside and explore the world around them when the snow starts to accumulate. Traveling into the backcountry via cross-country skis can fulfill this desire in so many ways. Whether you’re an athlete who wants a…
“I’m new to cross-country skiing. What type of skis should I buy?” Or, “Since I’m new to cross-country skiing, should I just buy a used set of skis?” People have asked me these questions countless times over the years. As a cross-country ski instructor and xc rental shop employee, it’s my duty to know the…
If you would’ve told me years ago that I was going to own multiple pairs of cross-country skis and sets of skis boots, I would’ve laughed. And then had you told me that I’d also own a full wax kit, wax profile, and loads of cross-country ski clothing, I would’ve laughed even harder. Not because…