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Community Corner

Preparing for the Family Trip to the Mountains

Several steps must be taken for a fun family trip to the snow. San Rafael businesses offer exactly what each family needs.

As members of a community who don’t deal with snowflakes on a weekly, monthly or even yearly basis, the idea of the weekend snow trip is exhilarating. We residents of San Rafael are fortunate to have the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountain Range a mere three-and-a-half-hour drive from our doorsteps. Growing up in the Sacramento Valley, my family went to Tahoe often although, as the prices for gear and lift tickets went sky high, my time in the snow was limited to sledding hills and snowshoeing through the golf courses of Tahoe City.

Nevertheless, it’s a popular way to spend winter weekends and is well enjoyed by many residents. The elusiveness of snow weather will long be the norm for Marin County folks and their children. This year will be the first for my very own 2 year old, as our planned trip last year was cut short due to a small issue with heating in the family cabin.  

Snow is a magical phenomenon, especially during the holiday season. Those of us on the west coast sing songs about “White Christmas” or Sleigh Bells Ringing” more out of habit than knowledge and so it’s a fun idea to take the family to the snow white for a weekend or even a week.

Businesses in San Rafael have been helping residents prepare for holiday trips, quick weekend trips and snow week trips for quite some time and are ready to greet your family this year as well.

If you can’t stand the thought of buying yet ANOTHER full price snowsuit for your growing toddlers, be sure to check out the selection at a wonderful consignment shop on Fourth Street. Their prices and practically brand new selection will be sure to have something for your sprout.

Folks wanting to get a great price on great gear should check out on Francisco Boulevard East, offering the latest styles and a great staff who can fit the entire family into the perfect equipment.

If the SUV tires aren’t up to par, be sure to consider a new pair for the winter. The last thing anybody wants is to be stuck on the summit, with no chains and no snow tires. is the perfect spot to update your rubber, and the staff is very knowledgeable. You'll leave feeling ready to tackle the mountain.

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