Twain Harte

Located just 20 miles away, Pinecrest Lake has something for everyone! Relax on the beach, hike, fish, swim or rent a boat / kayak/ or paddleboard.   Bike rentals are also available. During the summer, there are many Ranger program offerings, as well as movies under the stars.  In the winter the beach is a perfect place to play in the snow. 

As an iconic National Park, Yosemite should be on every travelers "MUST VISIT" list.  Thousands-of-foot-tall granite cliffs, towering waterfalls, and millennia-old Giant Sequoias are just some of the wonders Yosemite offers. What makes Yosemite particularly worth visiting is that it truly has something to offer to everyone. There is always something new and captivating to experience during each season.  It is essential to visit the parks website for road conditions and reservation requirements.  

Located near Dodge Ridge Ski Area and the popular resort of Pinecrest, historic Aspen Meadow is the gateway to one of California’s most breathtaking wilderness areas. Towering granite peaks, long alpine meadows, stunning lakes and abundant wildlife are yours to explore – from the back of a horse! Aspen Meadow Pack Station is open seven days a week, and operates June through September depending on snowfall. Aspen Meadow Pack Station has been guiding riders, hunters and anglers to the Emigrant Wilderness area for more than 80 years.   Aspen Meadow offers guided one-hour rides, two-hour rides, half-day rides and all-day rides. They have riding horses suited to all ages and ranges of riding experience. Rides are taken between the hours of 8:00 am and 4:00 pm daily. Please reserve your horseback ride by calling (209) 965-3402. 

Looking for a great way to enjoy some family fun time?  Try Leland Snow! You can buy food & beverages at the snack bar, or take your own. They have a great patio to watch your kids play or jump in a tube and join in.  Spend a few hours or the day.  Make sure to check the website for hours, rates, & availability.  

During the winter months ice skating is available at the Long Barn Lodge. Check their website for times and pricing.   Appointments can be booked for skating lessons.

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the Goldrush era!  Pan for gold.  Ride the stagecoach.  Or sit in the bar and order a sarsaparilla.  The park often has season celebrations, parades and ghost tours.  Visit the park's website for current events, hours and weather conditions. 

During the winter Dodge Ridge is open for all of your skiing, snowboarding, and tubing adventures.  As the weather turns warmer they offer bike trails, disk golf course, and yoga.  You can even ride the chair lift to the top of the mountain and hike down.  Dodge Ridge offers a variety of family events, as well as musical performers.  Check the website for current conditions & evvents.

"Downtown Sonora has a rich history with a modern flair.  The Downtown is alive with unique boutiques & galleries, fabulous restaurants & trendy drinking establishments, and fun-filled events & festivals.  Visitors and locals are drawn to this golden treasure to enjoy its rich heritage, historic charm and small town appeal."  Check the website for updates on seasonal farmer's markets and events.

Gold miners first explored Moaning Caverns in the 1840’s and 1850’s. Today, visitors enter by descending a metal spiral staircase for cave tours and family adventure!  Need some extra adventure in your life?  Try the half day Expedition Tour! Each of their "guided cave tours leads you deep within the heart of Moaning Caverns. Travel underground on one of our tours and you’ll find ancient rock formations, a bit of history and unforgettable adventure."  Book ahead to ensure availability. 

 Railtown 1897 State Historic Park is located in Jamestown, California, history comes to life with vintage steam trains, a working roundhouse, and the timeless Sierra Railway Shops, a designated California Historical Landmark.  During April through September Excursion train rides are offered.  October features "Skeleton Crew" rides.  While during November & December they offer "Polar Express" adventures.  Please check the website for information and tickets.