Skinny-Ski Crane Flat
Yosemite's backcountry is one of the world's great cross-country skiing destinations, and Crane Flat — a broad meadow with miles of unbroken snow in all directions — is one of its three winter hubs. At about 6,000 feet, it requires better snow cover than the higher-elevation Tuolumne Meadows and Badger Pass areas, but when the weather's right Crane Pass offers an exceptionally diverse array of backcountry trails for all levels of skiers. Among the highlights: Tuolumne Grove, where the frozen silence of winter lends a deeper dignity to a forest of immense giant sequoias; the Crane Flat Meadow Loop, which gives a gentle roller-coaster ride that novice skiers can handle; and Crane Flat Lookout, a fire-lookout station offering up eye-popping views in every direction. Make sure to check with park rangers before you set out — winter in Yosemite is beautiful, but ruthless; the wise skier prepares accordingly.