Calendar of Events
For more details or to reserve lodging or book a workshop, call Sorensen's Resort at 800.423.9949. Find us on Facebook, too!
- Apr 27
- First Day of Fishing
- May 3-5
- Genoa Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival
- May 4
- Spring Birds of Hope Valley
- May 6-9
- Drawing and Watercolor Journaling Class
- May 11
- NEW! Walkabout Northern California: Hiking Inn to Inn
- May 12
- Mother's Day Brunch
- May 18
- Galaxy Slideshow and Starwatch
- May 24-26
- Alex De Grassi Guitar Class/Performance
- Jun 7-9
- Fly Fishing Weekend
- Jun 9
- Friends of Hope Valley BBQ & Benefit
- Jun 16
- Father's Day BBQ
- Jun 24
- Historic Emigrant Trail Tour
- Jun 29
- Alta Alpina Challenge - Riding the Wild Sierra
- Jul 6
- Birding Under Summer Skies
- Jul 7
- Medicinal Plants Walk
- Jul 13
- 33rd Annual "Death Ride" Tour the California Alps
- Jul 18
- Wildflower Identification Class
- Jul 19
- Wildflower Hike
- Jul 27
- Landscape Photography Workshop
- Aug 12
- Historic Emigrant Trail Tour
- Aug 25
- NEW! The Lore and Legend of Silver Mountain City
- Sep 9
- Historic Emigrant Trail Tour
- Sep 15
- NEW! LifeStory Writing 101
- Sep 16-20
- Hope Valley Watercolor Workshop
- Sep 28
- Landscape Photography Workshop
- Oct 7
- Historic Emigrant Trail Tour
- Oct 18
- Fall Colors Hike
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April 27
First Day of FishingBook a fly-fishing lesson with Judy Wickwire of Horse Feathers (by reservation only, 530.694.2399). Make lodging reservations at Sorensen's to celebrate a new season of fun and adventure. Fishing licenses are no longer sold at Sorensen's. Click here for more information on fresh water fishing in California and to purchase a license. For the latest conditions or to book a weekend stay, call Sorensen's Resort at 800.423.9949.
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May 3-5
Genoa Cowboy Poetry and Music FestivalThe Genoa Cowboy Festival is a wonderful blend of beautiful setting, entertainment, heritage and Western culture. Nestled at the base of the Sierra Nevada in the beautiful Carson Valley, historic Genoa is the site of the first ranch in Nevada and still has working cattle ranches literally steps from the town. From its 19th century beginnings, cowboys and ranching have shared work, words and music here. You'd be hard pressed to find a better place to celebrate the unique forms of Cowboy Poetry, Western music and the Western lifestyle. For more info visit cowboypoetrygenoa.com
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May 4
Spring Birds of Hope ValleyDiscover dabblers, divers, and other feathered friends on an early morning walk with guide and historian, William Tweed. Well-renowned writer and former park ranger, William is steeped in the knowledge of the Sierra environment. He worked among the Sierra Nevada's big peaks and big trees for more than thirty years. He is the author of Uncertain Path - A Search for the Future of National Parks. An exciting experience to see what species are coming and going during the annual spring migration in Hope Valley, and what birds will stick around all year. In May, the males will be singing their territorial and nesting songs and will be filling the forest with song.
When: Saturday May 4, 8-11am
Cost: $40 guests / $55 non-lodging guests (includes brunch)
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May 6-9
Drawing and Watercolor Journaling ClassPack your journal, pencil and watercolors and join Joan Hoffmann for outdoor sketching and painting and learn to add color to your journal. No experience necessary. Spend a few days learning to quickly capture what you see. The experience will be valuable and it will enhance your future trips. Treat yourself to a drawing, painting, and journaling getaway. joanhoffmann.com
When: Monday, May 6 - Thursday, May 9
Cost: $175 guests/$225 non-lodging guests
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May 11
NEW! Walkabout Northern California: Hiking Inn to InnImagine the joys of inn-to-inn hiking - leave your car behind, explore California wilderness, and end each day with a great meal, a hot shower, and a comfortable bed. Tom Courtney will introduce you to some of the remarkable multi-day hiking adventures he features in his new guidebook, "Walkabout Northern California: Hiking Inn to Inn." Join Tom for photos and stories on hiking the spectacular Bay Area coastline from the Marin Headlands to Point Reyes National Seashore, traversing the Sierra on a section of the historic Emigrant Trail, and exploring the rugged Mendocino Coast. Find out pointers for planning your next inn-to-inn adventure, including tips on gear and great places to stay. Take a Walkabout California. Savor the journey and the destination. For more info visit walkaboutcalifornia.com.
When: Saturday, May 11, 7:30pm Slide show and presentation
Cost: $10 or more donation. Matched by Sorensen's for the Pacific Crest Trail Association.
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May 18
Galaxy Slideshow and StarwatchJoin Astronomer Adrienne Cool and Ron Marzke, of San Francisco State University, for a fascinating nighttime event and slide show, peering through telescopes to spy planets, stars, and nebulae. The moon will be in its first quarter phase, which will be ideal for stargazing. We'll have hot cocoa and cookies to warm you up. All ages are welcome!
When: Saturday May 18 at sunset (around 8pm)
Cost: $10 adults / $5 kids, all proceeds (matched by Sorensen's) will go to support school science programs in Alpine County.
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May 24-26
Alex De Grassi Guitar WorkshopWorld-renowned acoustic guitarist and recording artist Alex de Grassi will be holding a 3-day workshop at Sorensen's Resort over Memorial Day Weekend: May 24, 25 & 26, 2013. Book your spot now for this exciting opportunity to learn from the author of the acclaimed Alex de Grassi Fingerstyle Guitar Method in a stunning Sierra location, just south of Lake Tahoe. All levels are welcome to participate in a casual atmosphere as Alex offers insight into techniques, arranging, and his extensive performing experience. Instruction will be held in the morning, with a mini-concert/song circle Saturday night, so that participants will have afternoons free for outdoor activities in the beautiful Hope Valley region. For more about Alex visit degrassi.com.
When: May 24, 25, 26 (Friday evening intro; Sat/Sun classes 9am to 1pm. Mini-concert/song circle included in event.)
Cost: $275 guests / $325 non-guests (lodging and/or meals extra)
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June 7-9
Fly Fishing WeekendThis fly fishing seminar will cover the varieties of flies and their uses, equipment options, trout and their habitats, basic casting technique, stream strategies, and landing and releasing fish. The instruction sites will be held at Sorensen's Resort as well as stream side; the field activities will take place at the West Fork of the Carson River and at nearby streams. Proceeds benefit the Sierra Nevada Alliance, a non-profit organization working in the Sierra. For more information and lodging please call Sorensen's at 800.423.9949 or 530.694.2203.
When: Friday June 7 - Sunday June 9
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June 9
Friends of Hope Valley BBQ & BenefitJoin Friends of Hope Valley for a fun filled day as we pitch in to restore Hope Valley's unique and beautiful habitat. Important jobs include planting willows to restore the banks of the West Fork Carson River. Cap off the day with the Back 40 Band, the Ten Dollar Pony Duo and a BBQ fundraiser at Sorensen's. hopevalleyca.com
When: Sunday June 9, 1-6 pm
Cost: $10/person (BBQ extra). All proceeds to be matched by Sorensen's to benefit the Friends of Hope Valley.
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June 24 | August 12 | September 9 | October 7
Historic Emigrant Trail TourIn 1849 gold rushers came by the thousands to California with the dream of getting rich. The 49er Trail passes through Sorensen's Resort, Hope Valley, and over Carson Pass. Join this tour and listen to the many fascinating tales of hardship and toil. See the visible remnants left by tens of thousands of wagon wheels and visit a pioneer grave. Your tour leader and author (Gold Rush Trail and Hiking the Gold Rush Trail available at Sorensen's) Frank Tortorich will provide the stories that will make the experience come alive. The activities start with a free slide show and diary readings the night before and all guests are welcome. The tour is designed for all ages with the walking portions moderate over uneven ground. Some participants may be asked to drive their own car. For Tour reservation and lodging contact Sorensen's Resort at 800.423.9949.
When: June 23rd - 24th | August 11th - 12th | September 8th - 9th | October 6th - 7th. All tours depart at 8:30 am and return before 4:00 pm with lunch at Sorensen's.
Cost: $50 for lodging guest | $70 for non-guest. $25 for children ages 6 -13, under 6 free (lunch extra). Price includes: morning coffee, slide show, lunch, a beverage on the trail, all day tour and handout.
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June 29
Alta Alpina Challenge - Riding the Wild SierraThe Alta Alpina Challenge consists of five cycling ride options: a fun ride, metric century, century, 129 miles, or 198 mile rides through the spectacular scenery of the High Sierra. altaalpina.org/challenge
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July 6
Birding Under Summer SkiesEnjoy a long-weekend for the 4th of July celebration and include a birding tour in your plans. Catch summer birds in their native habitat, which will include a trek toward Indian Creek Reservoir, Turtle Rock and the creeks around the historic town of Markleeville. With informed guide and local birder Jim Woods, plan on having a fun and informative nature day with our local birds as the star of the show.
When: Saturday July 6, 8am - 12pm, includes lunch
Cost: $40 guests/$55 non- lodging guests (includes brunch at Sorensen's)
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July 7
Medicinal Plants WalkEver think of the Sierra as a medicine cabinet? In fact, these mountains are chock-full of surprisingly healthful plants and flowers. Join Dr. Kimball Chatfield, a medicinal plants expert, on an easy walk in the High Sierra. Don't miss this enlightening, informative event.
When: Sunday July 7, 10am - 1pm
Cost: $35/person (Sorensen's bag lunch extra, or bring your own)
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July 13
33rd Annual "Death Ride" Tour the California AlpsRecognized as one of the premier cycling events in the West, cyclists push themselves beyond limits with 129 miles of super scenic biking over 5 passes that include 15,000 feet of climbing. For lodging, camping or dinner reservations, call Sorensen's at 800.423.9949. Or bring your camp chair and umbrella to enjoy the event from our front door! deathride.com
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July 18
Wildflower Identification ClassJoin botanists Karen Wiese and Carl Wishner in learning to identify the 25 most common wildflowers of the Hope Valley and vicinity. This will be a fun and easy field class using Karen's book Sierra Nevada Wildflowers. Suitable for beginners and intermediate wildflower enthusiasts. No experience necessary.
When: Thursday July 18, 9am - 2pm
Cost: $50 guest; $75 non-guest (picnic lunch included)
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July 19
Wildflower HikeOn this moderate, 4-mile hike, you will learn to identify over 30 species of wildflowers, trees and shrubs. We will weave Native American and pioneer uses of the plants as well as identify any birds in our path! Kids are welcome. Folks should bring water, sun protection, camera, and wear sturdy shoes.
When: Friday, July 19, 9am - 3pm
Cost: $50 guest; $75 non-guest (picnic lunch included)
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July 27 | September 28
Landscape Photography Workshop with Terry NathanDo you have Ansel Adams aspirations? Want to be the next Galen Rowell? If that sounds like you, or even if you just want to learn a few tips and tricks of landscape photography, try out this workshop during the spectacular fall season with photographer Terry Nathan. Terry is a professor at UC Davis and teacher at the Davis Art Center. He'll lead you through fieldwork in a variety of beautiful environs and give thorough feedback. terrynathanphoto.com
When: Saturday July 27 and Saturday September 28, 9am - 2pm
Cost: $50 guests | $75 non-guests (lunch not included)
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August 25
NEW! The Lore and Legend of Silver Mountain CityExplore the lore and legend of Alpine County's now-vanished boomtown and original county seat with local historian/author Karen Dustman. Today, just a "ghost of a ghost town", Silver Mountain City was a booming mining camp in 1862, blazing into existence hard on the heels of the nearby Comstock Lode. From speculators to swindlers, mothers to murderers, over a thousand hardy souls once made their home in this rough-and-tumble town that put Alpine County on the map. Enjoy the history of this vanished town and meet the cast of characters who once populated it in this fun and fascinating one-hour seminar. For more info visit karendustman.com
When: Sunday August 25, 2 - 4pm
Cost: $10 lodging guests | $15 non-guests
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September 15
NEW! LifeStory Writing 101Have you always wanted to write your own life story or family history? This 1 hour workshop is a great way to get started! Jumpstart your project with tips for tapping memories and exercises to help you begin. Price includes a helpful workbook to take home with you. Taught by a published author and LifeStory writer who offers a longer version of this workshop at the local college.
When: Sunday September 15, 2 - 4pm
Cost: $25 guests | $35 non-guests
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September 16 - 20
Hope Valley Watercolor Workshop with "Lady" Jill MuellerJoin the excitement of painting on location with Lady Jill Mueller at 7,000 feet in the High Sierra. Your paintings come to life as you come alive to the embracing fall air, aspen groves ablaze with color, with camaraderie in the afternoon around the cafe fire. The class starts Monday morning on location with a demonstration and class participation. Daily classes are from 9 AM to 1 PM. Locations vary, such as Hope, Faith and Charity Valleys, Carson Pass, and Sorensen's Resort. For more info visit ladyjill.com
When: Monday September 16 - Friday September 20, 9am - 1pm
Cost: $345 lodging guest | $395 non-guest (lodging and meals separate)
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October 18
Fall Colors HikeExperience the incredible stretch of glorious aspen groves turning their brilliant gold this fall throughout Hope Valley. Learn the science behind this natural phenomenon on a hike with botanist Karen Weise. Call soon for sign-ups and/or lodging. This popular hike fills up fast! 800.423.9949.
When: Friday Oct 18, 9am - 3pm
Cost: $50 guests | $75 non-guests (includes picnic lunch)
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Some programs offered by Sorensen's Resort are under permit with the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest/Carson Ranger District and by permission of the CA Department of Fish and Game.