Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! When winter arrives in the Sierra Nevada, Calaveras County turns into a sparkling alpine wonderland that’s perfect for families, couples, and anyone craving fresh mountain air. Whether you’re looking to snowshoe through quiet forests, ski world-class slopes, or simply enjoy a cozy cabin view, we’ve gathered the best ways to enjoy winter along the Ebbetts Pass National Scenic Byway.
Skiing & Snowboarding: Family (and Budget) Friendly at Bear Valley Resort
If your ideal winter day includes carving fresh turns, soaring down snowy slopes, and soaking in breathtaking High Sierra views, then Bear Valley Resort is ready to welcome you with open arms. Known for its friendly, laid-back vibe and wonderfully uncrowded slopes compared to Tahoe, this mountain gem is a favorite for families and groups with all different skill levels. With 10 lifts, more than 75 trails, 1,680 skiable acres, and a thrilling 1,900-foot vertical drop, Bear Valley offers terrain for every type of skier and rider, whether you’re stepping into skis for the first time or chasing double-black-diamond excitement. Planning ahead pays off: book your lessons early for the best rates, and consider renting your gear in Calaveras if you want to try equipment before buying. And don’t forget to check current snow conditions. Seriously, Bear Valley feels absolutely magical on those fresh powder days!
Snowmobiling: Big Fun for All Ages
Looking for the perfect mix of excitement and ease? Find winter adventure in Calaveras that kids, teens, parents, and even grandparents can enjoy together. Wide-open groomed trails and jaw-dropping High Sierra scenery, every ride feels like a new family memory in the making. As the only snowmobile rental operator along Highway 4, Bear Valley Snowmobile lets you dive straight into winter adventure with ready-to-ride machines at USFS Sno-Parks, breathtaking routes near Lake Alpine and Spicer Reservoir, and guided tours through the serene Stanislaus National Forest. Bringing your own sled? Just check the USFS Snow Vehicle Use Map before you go, and get ready for an unforgettable day in the snow.
Sledding & Snow Tubing: Smiles for the Whole Family
Winter joy doesn’t get more classic than sledding, and Calaveras County offers endless places for families to laugh, play, and make snowy memories together. Little ones love the gentle hills at Calaveras Big Trees State Park, where a $10 entry fee gives you access to restrooms, a fascinating Visitor Center, and a cozy warming hut staffed by friendly docents. For even more snow play, the three Highway 4 SNO-PARKS – Spicer, Round Valley, and Lake Alpine – offer wide-open areas for sledding and tubing, with Lake Alpine especially popular for its long, fast runs; just remember to bring snacks, water, and a thermos of hot cocoa, as these sites have vault toilets but no services, and require a $15/day or $40/season permit. Families also love the groomed sledding and tubing hills at Bear Valley Adventure Company, complete with picnic tables, benches, and nearby hot food and drinks at Meadow Café. For a quieter local favorite, White Pines Lake near Arnold offers charming slopes away from the highway, perfect for snowman building, snowball battles, and enjoying a beautiful Sierra Nevada winter day, while keeping a safe distance from the frozen lake.
Snowshoeing: A Peaceful Way to Enjoy Winter
If you can walk, you can snowshoe! And, snowshoeing is one of Calaveras County’s most accessible and family-friendly winter adventures. Snowshoeing lets you slow down, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and enjoy the serene beauty of the snowy Sierra Nevada at your own pace, all while spotting wildlife and listening to the gentle hush of the forest. Some of the best spots to snowshoe include the towering giant sequoias of Calaveras Big Trees State Park, the carefully groomed trails of Bear Valley perfect for both beginners and seasoned explorers, and the peaceful backcountry roads of Stanislaus National Forest, where untouched snow makes every step feel like a fresh discovery. With all these locations just a short drive from one another, you can easily plan a day filled with multiple winter adventures.
Cross-Country Skiing: Your Portal to Winter Peace
Cross-country skiing is a wonderful way to explore Calaveras County’s snowy landscapes at a relaxed pace, offering one of winter’s best low-impact workouts and a beautiful opportunity to spend time with family, friends, or simply enjoy the quiet of the forest on your own. From the peaceful 17-mile Arnold Rim Trail and the expansive Bear Valley Adventure Company trails with its 35 trails, 40 miles (65 km) of groomed track, lessons, rentals, and routes for both beginners and seasoned skiers to the serene sequoia-lined paths of Calaveras Big Trees State Park and the wide-open backcountry accessed via Stanislaus National Forest roads, the region offers endless variety for every skill level. Cross-country enthusiasts can also enjoy convenient access from all three Highway 4 SNO-PARKS with a valid permit, making it easy to start your snowy adventure wherever the day takes you.
Snow Gear & Winter Supplies: Get Your Gear from Those Who Know
Before heading into the snow, make sure you’re fully equipped by stopping at one of Calaveras County’s trusted winter gear shops. In Arnold, the Sierra Nevada Adventure Company (SNAC) and Ebbetts Pass Sporting Goods offer a wide selection of snow equipment, rentals, and outdoor essentials to help you gear up for your mountain adventure. If you’re continuing up Highway 4, the Bear Valley Adventure Company provides additional rentals, cross-country ski gear, and expert advice, making it easy to find everything you need for a perfect winter day in the Sierra Nevada.
Know Before You Go: Road & Weather Conditions
A snowy escape to Calaveras County is truly magical, but a little preparation goes a long way to ensure your adventure is safe, smooth, and stress-free. Before you hit the Sierra Nevada slopes, always carry tire chains and check current road conditions at roads.dot.ca.gov, and remember to drive slowly on icy mountain roads. Follow all guidance from the US Forest Service, BLM, and local law enforcement, and review the USFS “Know Before You Go” tips to make sure you have the right gear, supplies, and expectations for your trip. With just a bit of planning, you can focus on making warm, lasting winter memories while enjoying everything this snowy wonderland has to offer.
Need a Place to Stay?
Throughout Calaveras, you will find excellent lodging options to meet your needs – whether for a romantic getaway or a big family get-together! Explore winter charm, delicious dining, and shopping in these welcoming towns: Arnold | Angels Camp | Copperopolis | Mokelumne Hill | Murphys | San Andreas |
