Outdoors

Trail Mix: Nation’s Christmas Tree ceremony Sunday at Kings Canyon

Fresh snow in the forecast will make for a winter wonderland Sunday for the 90th annual Trek to the Nation’s Christmas Tree at Kings Canyon National Park.

The Christmas Tree ceremony is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. and will include jubilation singers, the Sanger High School Choir and a memorial wreath that will be placed at General Grant Tree, in honor of the men and women of the Armed Forces.

Entrance fees will be waived for the day at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. In addition, chartered buses to the park from Sanger may be available with a fee and by reservation at 559-875-4575.

China Peak – The ski resort at Huntington Lake will reopen Saturday and Sunday with Chair 2 to the top, Chair 6 to mid-mountain and a moving carpet for beginners.

The good news is that snow is in the forecast this week. More snow means more open lifts, with China Peak saying it is close to opening chairs 1, 4 and 7. For the latest conditions, go to www.skichinapeak.com/latest.aspx.

Jingle Bell Run – The annual holiday tradition returns for a fourth year Saturday, with thousands expected to festively trot along Fresno’s Christmas Tree Lane.

The event features a 5K run and 2-mile walk, along Van Ness Avenue. The run starts at 9 a.m., with the walk shortly after.

Cost is $40 for participants 10 and older and $25 for children 9 and under. Sign up online at www.fresnojinglebellrun.com. There is no day-of registration and the event will take place rain or shine.

Visalia will host its Jingle Bell Run on Sunday down Candy Cane Lane (Main Street). For details and to sign up, visit www.visaliajinglebellrun.com.

Both races benefit Toys for Tots. Bring a toy to donate and receive a free Santa hat.

Bike basics – The Fresno REI Outdoor School will host a free 90-minute presentation on routine bike maintenance. No need for your bike, as it will be demonstration only. The class is at 6 p.m. Tuesday.

Space is limited. Reserve your spot at www.rei.com/fresno.

Cyclocross – The Central California Off-Road Cyclists will host their last race of the Homegrown Cyclocross Series on Sunday at Woodward Park.

Sign-ups begin at 9:15 a.m., with the first race at 10. There are categories for men, women, juniors, beginners and experts. Cost is $20 for men and women, $15 for juniors.

The Fresno County Cyclocross Race is set for Dec. 20 at Lost Lake Recreation Area.

This story was originally published December 9, 2015 at 5:58 PM with the headline "Trail Mix: Nation’s Christmas Tree ceremony Sunday at Kings Canyon."

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