Hike stories by readers welcome

The hiking story in today's G.O. came from Karen Ostrow of Stateline. Karen and her spouse, Bob, are longtime residents of Nevada, who now spend half of the year in their home in New Zealand. They, along with their many friends, spend the summers hiking and biking here, then doing the same thing in New Zealand in summer there.

They are perhaps typical of the many Nevadans who take to the mountains in the summer (and winter if they stay here). It's a pleasure when Karen calls and says she has another hiking story for us. Her friend, Robin Rittenhouse of South Lake Tahoe, takes the photos.

We hope other outdoor folks who have stories to share with us will do the same. No need to worry about grammar or construction. We'll take care of the technical aspects. Just send us your outdoor stories and photos. We can't guarantee publication as space is obviously limited. But you'll never know if you don't send your stories along. E-mail is sbauman@nevadaapppeal.com. For U.S. mail, it's Sam Bauman, Nevada Appeal, 580 Mallory Way, Carson City, 89701. Or if you're in the neighborhood, drop the materials off at the front desk. We'll get in touch with you with any questions.

Northstar clinics

Northstar-at-Tahoe has teamed up with the North American Ski Training Center to teach rock climbing and mountain biking clinics. Courses are designed for adults over the age of 18 with beginner to advanced skills. Upcoming courses include mountain biking Saturday and Sept. 23 and rock climbing Sunday and Sept. 24.

TRAPEZE FUN?

Thrill seekers and aspiring circus performers can take to the air at Trapeze Arts' Flying Trapeze at Squaw Valley. Suitable for people of all ages and levels of athletic ability, lessons are available daily through Sept. 4.

HEAVENLY HIKES

Heavenly's Adventure Peak at the top of the Gondola is the base camp for three short day hikes rated "easier," "more difficult" and "most difficult," just like ski trails. The hikes range from one to nearly four miles round trip, and all three boast spectacular vistas. Stoke up at the Adventure Peak Grill at the top of the Gondola. There's live music on weekends.