TDXC Winter Speaker Series

This January, warm up your evenings at the Alder Creek Adventure Center with a FREE Winter Speaker Series featuring snow sports enthusiasts, athletes and adventure voices you’ll want to hear. Each event offers a different topic, ranging from life on the World Cup circuit and weather forecasting to bucket-list expedition planning and the rich history behind Tahoe Donner Cross Country.

Whether you’re a lifelong local, a weekend warrior or simply curious about the mountains that inspire us, these talks are designed to be welcoming, engaging and full of Tahoe stoke. Come connect with fellow community members, ask questions and leave with new inspiration for your own winter adventures. The Alder Creek Cafe + Trailside Bar will be serving happy hour drink specials during each event, with the Après menu available until 5:30, making it the perfect way to kick off your weekend. Free to attend – everyone welcome.

Speaker Series Lineup

Saturday, Jan. 10:
TDXC at 40: Stories, Trails + Olympic Roots With Glenn Jobe and Peter Werbel

In celebration of Tahoe Donner Cross Country’s 40th Anniversary, join founders Glenn Jobe and Peter Werbel for a special evening exploring the history behind TDXC – from the land and trail system to the people who helped shape it. Hear their personal stories, Olympic cross country connections, and how the center grew into the beloved community cornerstone it is today. A must-attend for anyone who loves our trails and wants to know the deeper story behind them.

**Après menu + Taco Special (chicken, shrimp or roasted cauliflower) available until 5:30.

Friday, Jan. 16:
Mindy Benton: Traveling the World With Nordic Skis

TDXC instructor with 25+ years of experience and participant in the American Birkbeiner Race and Worldloppet International XC Ski Federation, Mindy Benton, shares her adventures in long-distance Nordic skiing both nationally and around the globe.

**Après menu + Coconut Curry (chicken or veggie) Rice Bowl Special available until 5:30.

Friday, Jan. 23
Between the Lines: Grooming the TDXC Trails With Per Hurtig + Bryant Bergot

Long-time groomers and XC Skiers Per Hurtig and Bryant Bergot discuss the weather and snow conditions, skill and precision required for grooming the expansive TDXC trails system, as well as share stories of their winter exploits. Additionally, they’ll highlight features on the new PistonBully 400 Snowcat grooming machine!

**Après menu + Thai Noodle Bowl Special available until 5:30.

Friday, Jan. 30
Caroline Pemberton — Backyard to Base Camp: Live Q&A

Read Caroline’s feature in the January 2026 issue of Tahoe Donner News + Life – then join her in person for an inspiring, informal evening of connection and adventure. Not sure how to start planning your bucket-list trip? Caroline will share practical advice and lessons learned from her work alongside her husband, world-renowned guide Mike Hamill (six-time Everest summiteer and author of Climbing the Seven Summits), and from helping thousands of climbers prepare for life-changing journeys. Come for stories, inspiration, and real takeaways to help plan your own next big adventure.

**Après menu + Fire Cracker Shrimp Special available until 5:30.

15275 Alder Creek Rd.
Truckee, CA 96161
(530) 587-9484
xc@tahoedonner.com

Photo Credit: John McGahan