This Week in the Sierra- By Charlie at Sierra Rec


A weekend in the Sierra

12 MIN READ

A Wild Week: Rafting, Interviews & New Sierra Stories Ahead

Hey friends,

This week was one for the books. While juggling summer issue planning and keeping Sierra Rec Magazine rolling, I also had the chance to sit down with some incredible people for the Sierra Rec Now Podcast — including a deep dive into family backpacking with Sierra Summit Expeditions and a preview of summer fun at Carson Valley Inn.

But the highlight? Finally checking off an adventure that’s been sitting in my backyard for 17 years.

On Tuesday, I joined Tributary Whitewater Tours for their first overnight float of the season on the East Fork of the Carson River — a 21-mile spring break adventure I never knew I needed. Alongside my buddy Tom and three awesome families (with ten kids between the ages of 5 and 13!), we floated through jaw-dropping canyons, soaked in hot springs, and rediscovered just how incredible the Carson Valley landscape really is.

Massive shoutout to Jeremiah and Eva from Tributary for the hospitality, good food, and insight along the way. I’ll be sharing the full story soon, but here’s your reminder: sometimes the best adventures are the ones waiting just downriver.

Scroll down for this week’s new stories, updates, and events worth planning for. Thanks for being here!

See you out there,
– Charlie

Kickoff Earth Week at the South Tahoe

Published on April 17, 2025

Sierra REC Magazine
Kickoff Earth Week at the South Tahoe

Earth Day Festival in South Lake Tahoe Saturday, April 19 South Lake Tahoe, CA (April 15, 2025) – The annual South Tahoe Earth Day festivities are returning to Lake Tahoe Community College on Saturday, April 19 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Featuring more than 20 educational booths, it is an opportunity for adults and […]

The post Kickoff Earth Week at the South Tahoe appeared first on Sierra REC Magazine.
Charlie Pankey

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Discovering the Joy of Backpacking in Tahoe National Forest with Sierra Summit Expeditions

Published on April 14, 2025

Sierra REC Magazine
Discovering the Joy of Backpacking in Tahoe National Forest with Sierra Summit Expeditions

By Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine Backpacking might sound intimidating to someone new to the outdoors, but for James O’Neill and Kelsey Bollman of Sierra Summit Expeditions, it’s all about helping people fall in love with the backcountry—without the stress. In this week’s Sierra Rec Now podcast episode, we sat down with James and […]

The post Discovering the Joy of Backpacking in Tahoe National Forest with Sierra Summit Expeditions appeared first on Sierra REC Magazine.
Charlie Pankey

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Strawberry Music Festival Returns to the Sierra

Published on April 11, 2025

Sierra REC Magazine
Strawberry Music Festival Returns to the Sierra

Spring 2025 Lineup Announced for Strawberry Festival in Grass Valley May 21–26, 2025 | Nevada County Fairgrounds, Grass Valley, CA Get ready to dance beneath the pines! The iconic Strawberry Music Festival is making its much-anticipated return this spring, bringing together world-class Americana, folk, and roots artists for a six-day musical campout in the heart […]

The post Strawberry Music Festival Returns to the Sierra appeared first on Sierra REC Magazine.
Charlie Pankey

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Celebrateour National Parks

They’re more than beautiful places. National parks protect ecosystems, preserve cultural heritage, and absorb CO₂. And on April 19, you can visit them for free. Yosemite, Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Lassen Volcanic, Death Valley and More. Learn More about park adventures with Sierra Rec Guides

2895 San Juan Circle, Minden, NV 89423
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