The largest snowfall in 40 years (nearly 60 feet) didn't stop us.
The near-record snowfall, going back almost as far as our marriage, made this trip particularly memorable. Given that there was virtually no access to camping in any of the forests, we opted for an RV Park (our option of last "resort" - pun intended). Having access to an electrical connection, with the temperature in the low teens at night, was also a consideration.

This is the Pioneer Monument at Donner Memorial State Park. This memorial statue of the pioneer family was unveiled on this spot on June 6, 1918, its figures standing atop a stone pedestal 22 feet high, the same depth as the Donner Party's snow back in 1846.
We began our first day snowshoeing around the Donner Lake area. It is an easy trail, even when traversing through deep, virgin snow.

Sal needed to get a few hours of work done, so she spent the afternoon back at her favorite office/Coffeebar while I hung out in the cool, little town of Truckee, CA for the day.
We ended the day with our formal anniversary celebration at one of our longtime favorite restaurants, Moody's Bistro, where we have actually celebrated several anniversary meals in the past.
After a long day, it always feels good to get cozy as we settle into our warm, comfy van on cold winter's night (12°F)

This is something that we have always wanted to explore. We got up early the next day to embark on an epic snowshoe hike up to the historic train tunnels. It was like being on a private tour of a mile-long art gallery with dramatic, natural ice sculptures and colorful wall art.
This is a very popular hangout in the summer months but we were mostly alone during our excursion.
It was quite magical!

Back to our comfy, white van for a hot, homecooked meal and a Netflix movie before calling it a night.
For our last day, we got up early again to break new trail along Cold Creek, which runs through the Coldstream Canyon. Have I mentioned that it was COLD?
We are looking forward to next year's anniversary adventure! If you have any suggestions, leave them in the comments. We would love to hear from you!
I love the photos/details
in the blog! It’s as if I’m along for the adventure! Onward to the next one!
I like it.