Family Winter Getaway in Calaveras County
Looking for a fun, affordable winter vacation the whole family will love? Calaveras County, California offers snow-covered adventures, cozy small-town charm, and easy access to some of California’s most iconic destinations. Perfectly situated between Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park, & San Francisco, Calaveras makes the ideal winter basecamp for families looking to play, explore, and relax without breaking the bank.
Arrive and Get Cozy
Start your trip by checking into one of Calaveras’ welcoming mountain cabins (Murphys Vacation Rentals, Murphys Vacation Homes, or V Vacation Rentals) or budget-friendly lodges in Arnold, Murphys, or Angels Camp. Enjoy a walk through downtown Murphys or Angels Camp, filled with festive lights, boutique shops, and family-friendly restaurants. Try wood-fired pizza at Firewood or warm up with local hot chocolate at Gold Country Roasters in downtown Murphys! In Angels Camp, find something for everyone at Mike’s Pizza, and in Arnold warm up fireside at Sarafina’s Italian Kitchen – the perfect start to your winter getaway!
If you want to play in the snow but not stay in it, book a cozy room at the Gateway Hotel in the Copperopolis Town Square – a beautiful, family- and pet-friendly getaway. With great food, warm drinks, boutique shopping, and local wine tasting all just steps from your door, you can relax and enjoy the day without getting back in the car
Snow Play and Ski Day
Head up Highway 4 to Bear Valley, where winter magic awaits! Spend the day skiing, snowboarding, or tubing at Bear Valley Resort, or visit the nearby Bear Valley Adventure Company for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Families with younger kids will love the gentle snow play areas and sledding hills all surrounded by stunning Sierra scenery.
Pro tip: Skip the Tahoe crowds and enjoy the same snowy fun at a fraction of the cost. Bear Valley’s relaxed atmosphere and affordable lift tickets make it a perfect fit for families.
Local tip: Bring your own sled and head to Spicer Sno-Park, but don’t forget your parking pass! Grab one online or at Ebbetts Pass Sporting Goods in Arnold – $15 for the day or $40 for the season.
Explore Winter Wonders
After your snow adventure, take a scenic drive to Calaveras Big Trees State Park, where ancient giant sequoias stand tall among the snow. Bundle up for a short winter hike or enjoy a family photo session in this magical, quiet forest.
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The park features winter trails including the North Grove loop (≈1.5 miles) and the Parkway Loop Ski/Snowshoe trail (≈3.5 miles) – both suitable for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Find park & trail information atCalaveras Big Trees Winter Trails & Information
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Lender snowshoes & guidance are available via Sierra Nevada Adventure Co. (SNAC) at their Arnold location (2293 Hwy 4) where they rent skis, snowboards, and snowshoes for adults & kids plus the equipment.
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Dog-friendly note: Dogs on leash are allowed on the Parkway Loop fire-roads but not on the full trails through the grove.
Afterwards, stop by a Heart and Soul in Arnold for a hearty breakfast or lunch or kid-friendly Lube Room Saloon in Dorrington (3 miles east of Calaveras Big Trees) for an amazing burger while the kids enjoy hot cider or cocoa.
Indoor Fun for the Whole Family
Explore local history at the Angels Camp Museum where you will learn about the town’s Gold Rush roots, jump like Mark Twain’s frogs, and enjoy interactive exhibits for kids. Catch a classic or seasonal movie at the Angels Theatre, a cozy, small-town cinema perfect for a winter day – without the crazy movie prices! Try a fun round at Murphys Mini Golf with the whole family. Turn right at the light (yes, there’s only ONE traffic light in Murphys on Highway 4) and park at the El Dorado Bank. You’ll see this adorable, Calaveras-themed, 9-hole golf course that includes super fun ways to play putt-putt, not just the same ol’ same ol’. Indulge in a cozy treat at Aria Bakery or Grounds in downtown both family- and pet-friendly spots perfect for a warm drink or a delicious bite after a day of winter adventures!
Day Trip Options
One of the best parts of visiting Calaveras in winter is its central location – less than three hours from Lake Tahoe and Yosemite National Park. Or, visit Sacramento just a couple hours away at their incredible train museum or tour of California’s beautiful state capital building. Plus, The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and various state beaches are also less than 3 hours away! Extend your stay with a day trip to one of these world-famous spots, then return to your cozy Calaveras base for a peaceful evening away from the crowds!
Have questions? Give us a call at 1-209-736-0049 or email us at info@gocalaveras.com for more information and local tips! We look forward to seeing you!
