Things to do in Arnold
Known as "the gateway to the Sierra Nevada," Arnold sits on scenic Highway 4 and is an easy, 2+ hour drive from San Francisco's East Bay. In winter there's skiing and sledding; in summer there's hiking, biking and fishing...and so much more...
- See the giant sequoias and hike at Big Trees State Park. Visit the wonderful interpretive visitors' center and check out other seasonal activities such as the warming hut with hot chocolate, guided hikes and summer programs for kids.
- Bear Valley has downhill and cross-country skiing in the winter and other events the rest of the year (30 minutes).
- Great sledding just minutes from the cabin - We have sleds and saucers you can borrow. There are also SNO-PARKS for snow play and cross-country skiing at Lake Alpine and Spicer - purchase permits online or at Bear Valley Cross-Country.
- Swimming, fishing and kayaking at White Pines Lake in Arnold (5 min) and Lake Alpine (30 min). Fishing permits and info available at Ebbetts Pass Sporting Goods.
- Fantastic hiking and mountain biking on the newly finished Arnold Rim Trail.
- Explore the spectacular caves of Mercer Caverns and Moaning Cavern Adventure Park, which also offers the option to rappel, zip-lining and a climbing tower.
- Step back in time by panning for gold at Columbia State Park or take a walking tour of historic gold rush town Angels Camp.
- Play a round of golf in the scenic beauty of the Sierras.
-Take a drive up Ebbetts Pass National Scenic Byway.
- It's a short walk to the Snowshoe Brewing Company to enjoy a casual meal and a local microbrew beer. A short drive to a variety of other Arnold restaurants.
- The nearby town of Murphys offers wine tasting, art galleries and great restaurants, including our favorite Grounds.
- In the summer, check with Bistro Espresso (just across the road!) on their outdoor kids' movies and firepit and The Arnold Pantry on their outdoor summer concert series.
- Check out a concert or silent movie night at the Ironstone Vineyard in Murphys.
- Local event calendars: Calaveras County Visitors Bureau, Come to Arnold and Visit Murphys.
