Columnist Barb Henderson: Las Vegas snowfall provides fresh kind of outdoor fun

Barb Henderson

Friday, Jan. 2, 2004 | 10:26 a.m.

Barb Henderson is an outdoors enthusiast, freelance writer and producer/host of outdoors radio television programming. Her column appears Friday in the Sun.

The winter of 2003 will be remembered for those of us who live in Las Vegas because Tuesday arrived with a great surprise.

It was early in the morning when Southern Nevadans first discovered that snow had blanketed the valley while they slept, and several areas in the valley had become a winter wonderland.

The arrival of fresh fallen snow left a glow that embraced us with a southwestern warmth all its own.

While the new dawn embarked its beauty upon us, the spectacular beauty of the outdoors began to take on a new appearance. The tree branches hung from the weight of the snow, the cacti were sprinkled with a white dust, while tiny critters left footprints as they made their journey across the desert floor.

Many of us watched the snow flurries through our windows while we continued to sip on our hot morning coffee, while telephones swiftly carried the exciting news to friends and family -- it was snowing in Las Vegas!

The excitement traveled fast about this magnificent happening. "Oh, my gosh. Look out your window."

The silence of those early hours was quickly replaced by laughter of children as they played in the freshly fallen snow, tossing snowballs and building snowmen. There's truly something wonderful about watching children play in fresh snow.

Perhaps, some of these children were able to wear those new gloves that had just been unwrapped from presents beneath their Christmas tree.

For a few hours, the white stuff found in the valley offered an unique experience for many. After all, it is not very often you hear of people being able to build a snowman in Las Vegas.

While new storm clouds continue to gather, children hope for more snow, while others appreciate the importance of precipitation for the area.

These camps are for boys and girls ages 8-15. Each camp has a special focus and is geared toward a specific age group. Campers will also enjoy traditional camp activities such as hiking, campfires, skits and games.

Camp Lee Canyon is in the Spring Mountain Range, 45 miles from Las Vegas. Cool mountain air, rustic cabins, and the natural beauty of this alpine setting provide an excellent atmosphere for learning and fun.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and experience working with children is preferred. Please call 455-7560 for more information or an application.