The forest roads and summer trails around the property turn into snowshoe and cross-country ski routes once the snow settles. The lake loop is the gentle option; the rim country above it goes on as far as you have daylight for.

Winter is the easiest season to read this landscape. Tracks tell you everything, elk and mule deer move to lower ground, and flocks of wild turkeys walk the property all season looking for leftovers.

Red Canyon Overlook, two miles away, is worth the trip in winter for the contrast of white rim against red rock and dark water. Note that some area roads, including the Sheep Creek Geologic Loop, typically close once the snow arrives.

Several Ponderosa units have wood-burning stoves, every cabin has a covered porch and an outdoor fire ring, and we supply complimentary firewood daily. A book, a fire and a window full of snowy pines is a legitimate itinerary.