The possibilities are practically limitless. All it takes is a little planning.
Perhaps you've always wanted to explore the winter world on snowshoes. Or take a week-long backpacking trip in the Sierra Nevada. Or finish your first triathlon, ride your first century or catch your first 5-pound rainbow trout.
When you let the outdoors spark your motivation, nothing is out of bounds.
New Year's is a great time to start thinking ahead. I've already spent one evening studying topographic maps of the seldom-visited Glacier Ridge section of Sequoia National Park. That's where you'll find me in late July.
Here's a month-by-month rundown of what's possible in 2008:
JANUARY
Some people are afraid to try cross-country skiing because they think it's too difficult. Shatter that myth once and for all by signing up for the Introduction to Cross-Country Skiing seminar (Jan. 26), sponsored by the Sequoia Natural History Association.
Skis, boots, poles and expert instruction are provided for $46, along with an afternoon tour in the Giant Forest area. There's no better way to enjoy winter in the Sierra. Details: www.sequoiahistory.org.
FEBRUARY
Winter in Yosemite National Park is known as the "secret season" because most people stay away. Don't be one of them.
Instead, join the Yosemite Association for a guided snowshoe trek to Dewey Point (Feb. 16). Naturalist Pete Devine will lead the 4-mile stomp to this dramatic viewpoint on the brink of Yosemite Valley across from El Capitan. Cost is $82 and snowshoes are provided. Details: www.yosemite.org.
MARCH
Have you ever driven on Auberry Road, glanced over at Table Mountain and wondered what's on top? Find out for yourself at the annual McKenzie Preserve Open House (March 15-16), hosted by the Sierra Foothill Conservancy.
Hikers can follow the Discovery Trail through oak woodlands studded with wildflowers or climb to the volcanic mesa, formed by ancient lava flows, for expansive views of the San Joaquin River drainage. No reservations are required. Details: www.sierrafoothill.org.
APRIL
A relatively tame course, seasonable temperatures and a fun atmosphere make the Millerton Lake Triathlon (April 19) well suited for everyone from novice triathletes to Ironman wannabes.
Participants swim 400 yards (wetsuits allowed), cycle for 12 miles and finish with a 3-mile run. The distances are challenging without being overwhelming for folks willing to put in a little training.
Details: www.sierramultisport.com.
MAY
California's Central Coast has been called the world's largest fish trap. Come see for yourself in May when rockfishing season gets underway.
Two charter services -- Virg's Landing of Morro Bay and Patriot Sportfishing of Avila Beach -- offer daily boats that run about $65 for an 8-hour trip. The thrill of battling a 15-pound lingcod is included.
Details: www.morrobaysportfishing.com or www.patriotsportfishing.com
JUNE
There's no better way to enjoy the Sierra's largest free-flowing waterway than to take a rafting trip on the Kings River. And June typically offers the best combination of flow levels and water temperatures.
The 9.5-mile stretch between Garnet Dike and Kirch Flat is rated Class III, perfect for intermediate paddlers and first-timers with an experienced guide. Three rafting companies offer Kings River trips, including locally owned Kings River Expeditions. Details: www.kingsriver.com.
JULY
Ah, summertime in the Sierra. July is perfect for that extended camping trip you've been dreaming about.
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