Wander through some of the biggest trees on the planet. Just 3-miles from the heart of Arnold you’ll find
Calaveras Big Trees State Park, where you’re able to see not one, but two groves of the world-famous Giant Sequoias up-close-and-personal. Visitors can hike, picnic, or even camp, among the park’s magnificent sequoias which can be as much as 30-feet wide and tower more than 300-feet above ground. It’s a mind-blowing experience to step foot beneath these giant trees knowing that their canopy holds its own ecosystem.
Sample the local brew. Every good mountain town needs a brewery and Arnold’s got
Snowshoe Brewing Company. This family-friendly brewpub specializes in handcrafted ales and gives a nod to the local area with beers like Snoweizen, Lodgepole IPA and Snowshoe Thompson Pale Ale. Belly up to the bar for a beer sampler, served on what else but a snowshoe-shaped tasting paddle. Hungry? There’s something for everyone on Snowshoe’s extensive, family-friendly menu.
Find “The Outhouse.” We’re not talking about that kind of outhouse!
The Outhouse Collection (“The Outhouse” as locals call it) is a unique boutique in Arnold where you can get your hands on interesting gifts and treasures for your home, a special kiddo in your life or maybe even an aspiring chef you know. Plan on getting lost in this store for a while, but make sure to save some energy for another eclectic Arnold boutique worth checking out—
Fine-Things, located in the Cedar Center. This neat little store has an ever-changing inventory of gifts, jewelry and home accessories.
Stand on “Top of the World.” There’s only one way to get to the top of the world from Arnold, and that’s via the
Arnold Rim Trail (ART), a 17-mile wooded trail system that links the communities of Arnold to Hathaway Pines. Head to the trailhead at the Sierra Nevada Logging Museum and hike approximately 2.5 miles (one-way) through beautiful pine forest to a stunning ridge and overlook known as, Top of the World. Linger as long as you like, or perhaps enjoy a picnic here, as you take in sweeping views of the Sierra in all directions.
Step into the past at the Logging Museum. As you wrap up a hike along the Arnold Rim Trail, it’s hard to ignore the massive logging equipment that’s on display in front of the
Sierra Nevada Logging Museum, one of Arnold’s (er, excuse us, White Pines‘) true hidden gems. While portions of the museum are outside, don’t miss the opportunity to step inside for incredible exhibits and a real glimpse at the area’s rich logging history.
Be transported to Italy. The setting at
Sarafina’s Italian Kitchen might scream cozy log cabin (that’s part of its charm), but when you sit down for a classic Italian dinner here with good friends or family you’ll be temporarily whisked away to Italy…or at least your taste buds will be. This stellar restaurant is definitely not a secret and tables can be hard to come by, so reservations are a must.
Get geared up. Whether it’s the middle of the summer and you’re looking for a boat or paddleboard to take out on
White Pines Lake, or there’s a fresh layer of snow and you’d love to strap on some snowshoes and make some fresh tracks along the Arnold Rim Trail,
Sierra Nevada Adventure Company (SNAC) should be your first stop. This local outfitter and outdoor store has a variety of rental options and can always point you in the direction of a great adventure.
Insider Tip: Stop at the new
Ebbetts Pass Visitor Center for trail maps, info on the latest events in Arnold, or for more ideas on how to enjoy your vacation in the area.
WHERE TO STAY IN ARNOLD
B&B’s, Inns and Lodges
Vacation Rentals
