Another fine weekend approaches, and the weather prognosticators are calling for perfect weather for Sacramento and the surrounding areas. What will you do?

Ski resorts in Tahoe are offering learn to ski and board packages for those new to the sport. As mentioned in this column earlier in the week, it's one of the best deals you'll come across if you want to learn to ski or board.

While the weather has been quite soggy for the last few days, things are drying out. This is good news for bike riders. Whether you are a roadie or a mountain bike fan, this is a really good time to ride.

Mountain bike enthusiasts will find that the trails in the surrounding areas are wet, muddy, or still covered with snow. While the more adventuresome may take on trails in these kinds of conditions, it's not a very good idea. Riding wet and slushy trails tends to create ruts and divots. These lead to erosion, which is not a good thing at all.

It's best to find trails that are in the lower elevations. Anywhere around the Placerville and Grass Valley areas, and lower, are a better choice for the fat tires looking for off road riding this weekend.

Road bike fans might consider the Apple Hill area, just above Placerville. While it is Christmas tree season in Apple Hill, the car traffic isn't overly thick as it was during apple season. An added bonus are the autumn colors that are still decorating the area. The liquidambars (sweet gums) are especially beautiful right now. The temperatures are perfect for a ride of any length.

Condsider starting at the Ivy House parking lot on Main Street in Placerville, and head out on the El Dorado Trail. When you get to Jacquier Road, stay on it, and head uphill to Carson Road, and ride Carson Road into Apple Hill. Head back to your car when you're ready.

You get two free hours of parking in this lot, but can buy more if you think your ride will last longer than 2 hours. You could park in the dirt lot off Mosquito Road, which is free and has not time limit. The trail runs right in front of the lot, which is next to the bus station.

If you need directions or information regarding the ride, stop in at the Placerville Bike Shop on Broadway. They know the area very well. If you need anything for your bike, they'll take care of that too.

After riding in the Placerville area, head to Main Street and have a great lunch or post ride coffee and crumpet. It's one of the benefits of riding, right?