Читать книгу Tahoe Rim Trail. The Official Guide for Hikers, Mountain Bikers and Equestrians онлайн

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Lee of the Mountains: Away from the Wind and the Rain

The farther east you travel away from the western face of the mountains, the less likely it becomes that snow will fall. The mountains block and capture the snow and rain, leaving little moisture for the areas to the east. Consequently, the area around Serene Lakes on Donner Summit gets more snow than almost anywhere else in the United States, while just 40 miles to the east, and behind several mountains, Reno frequently receives less precipitation than any other major city in the United States.

The Wind, It Doth Blow

Winter winds create huge snowdrifts that resemble desert sand dunes. What does this mean to a hiker? There are areas where these winter dunes take longer to melt (most commonly on the lee side of ridgetops where cornices form) than other snow-packed areas do. These cornices can last well into the summer, while all around them wildflowers grow.

Winter Wonderland

The winter landscape of the Sierra Nevada is both serene and pristine, with a beauty that you rarely find in the summer. In the winter, a soft white blanket covers the world with cold sparkles reflecting the blue sky. Walking or skiing through new fallen snow, you will find the rarest of gifts—peace and true quiet. In addition to the heavy snowfall in winter, you will also have some sunny winter days that provide wonderful opportunities to get out and enjoy all that deep white powder.