What’s more romantic than stargazing under a snowy sky? How about a guided, moonlit snowshoe trek through the Cascade Mountains, complete with a crackling bonfire, champagne and sweet treats? Over Valentine’s Day weekend, Wanderlust Tours is offering couples, friends and adventure seekers a chance to celebrate love — and Oregon’s statehood, admitted to the union on Feb. 14, 1859 — in a magical winter setting with Romance on the Snow.
The tours take place on Friday and Saturday, Feb. 14 and 15 from 7 to 11pm. Participants will trek through the snow-covered mountains west of Bend, winding their way to a hand-carved amphitheater, illuminated by the glow of a crackling fire. Along the way, special touches await, like steaming hot cocoa, champagne toasts and locally made desserts.
“We wanted to create an experience that allows people to celebrate both Oregon Statehood Day and Valentine’s Day in a way that combines their love for others — whether friends, family or partners — with their love of place, whether it be stargazing, snowy landscapes or the mountains,” explains Courtney Braun, owner and naturalist guide at Wanderlust Tours.
During the journey, participants will pass through an old-growth hemlock forest, pausing to admire towering trees, wind-sculpted snowdrifts and animal tracks imprinted in the powder. If luck is on their side, they may even spot a pine marten or a rare Sierra Nevada red fox.
“The atmosphere of the evening is magical — twinkling tea lights, glowing bonfire, shimmering snow, the Milky Way stretching overhead and delicious treats,” Braun says.
While the naturalist guides love sharing knowledge of the wilderness, the tour is also an opportunity for connection. “The Valentine’s weekend snowshoe tour is a chance to appreciate partnership, friendship and the simple joy of being together in nature,” Braun adds.
Whether coming with a loved one, a group of friends or solo, guests are encouraged to embrace the stillness of the forest and dress in layers for the adventure. And for those looking to warm up even more, the bonfire will feature a special treat: Hazelnut Espresso Vodka from Crater Lake Spirits.
Valentine’s Weekend: Romance on the Snow
Fri., Feb. 14 and Sat., Feb. 15, 7-11pm
Wanderlust Tours
61535 S Hwy 97, Ste. 13, Bend
wanderlusttours.com/valentines-weekend
$150 per person
This article appears in The Source Weekly February 6, 2025.
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