FAQs

Question

What's the weather like there at this time of year?

Answer

UPDATE 06/11/2023: We are now within the 14-day weather update range and it looks like we can expect blue skies through the week and into the weekend. Highs will range from 75 to 68 Wed-Sat and lows will range from 53-49. We couldn't have asked for more perfect temps. Keep in mind this is the Sierras and Mother Nature can still throw us some curveballs but things are looking good so far. Don't be afraid of 50 degrees (speaking to you Floridians)!! The dry air here doesn't chill you to the bone like 50 degrees in Florida does. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ During June, Hope Valley has average temperatures of highs in the mid-70s and lows in the 40s. Make a point to check the weather when you get closer to packing- although we expect to have some of the nicest temperatures of the year, this area of the world can throw curveballs...like unexpected snow flurries in June. The key to enjoying time outside in the mountains is layering up! No one around here is going to be offended if you throw on a puffy jacket or beanie with a cocktail dress ;)

Question

How remote is this place (and will there be wifi)?

Answer

Something important to note is that it's unlikely you'll have reliable cell phone service in Hope Valley. Usually we get back in cell range about 15 minutes northeast up towards Gardnerville, or northwest up towards South Lake Tahoe. The Sorensen's cabins do not have wifi in them, but you can always access wifi in the main buildings up front to contact the outside world! We hope that this will be an opportunity to really unplug and enjoy being present :)

Question

What's the deal with the altitude?

Answer

Hope Valley is at 7,300 feet above sea level. For most folks joining- that is a big change for your bodies! Please remember to drink more water than usual and don’t forget sunscreen. Alcohol can dehydrate your body, and it also has a stronger effect at higher elevations, so please be careful and remember to drink water between adult beverages. When possible, giving yourself additional time to get acclimated to the elevation and dryness can help. All of a sudden that flight of stairs seemed intense? That's because the air is thinner and there is less oxygen in it. You might not notice but if you do, give yourself an extra second to catch your breath.

Question

What should I wear?

Answer

For the wedding and reception, we are taking the opportunity to dress it up a bit (cocktail ish)...but we're still in the mountains! Weather can be unpredictable and temps will drop after dark, so please plan to bring extra layers for once the sun goes down. We do recommend shoes that are comfortable and secure as part of the wedding will likely mean navigating uneven terrain. Above all we want folks to be comfortable and feel like themselves, so interpret that as you wish! :)

Question

What should I pack?

Answer

Here are a few things that come to mind, which admittedly range quite a bit given how predictable the weather can be out here! -Bathing suit & towel if you're brave enough to swim -Sunglasses & hat for sun protection -Lip balm (the air is dry out here and you will feel chapped!) -Warm fleece, puffy or other jacket appropriate for weather that could get down into the 40s! -If you're into wearing dresses, leggings or tights to throw on underneath when the sun goes down -Shoes with some tread if you're hoping to do any light hiking. Shoes for the wedding that won't give you trouble on uneven ground.

Question

Where can I get groceries?

Answer

If you're coming from Reno, the easiest thing to do will probably be to stop somewhere in one of the bigger towns before heading south. Reno has a Trader Joe's, Whole Foods and other regional chains like Raley's right off the highway you'll be on headed down to the wedding, so it will be easy to pop on and off. You could also wait til you get a bit farther down, and Carson City also has a Trader Joe's and Raley's. If you're coming from Sacramento, you're best bet might be to stop in Placerville for a grocery store there. If you're looking for a quick forgotten item once you're already out in the Hope Valley area, the Markleeville General Store has a decent range of provisions. You could also pick things up in South Lake Tahoe if you're joining us for the adventures on Thursday or Friday- there is a Whole Foods and Safeway in that area as well.