Arnold, California

You can experience the history of the logging industry in the Sierra Nevada as it evolved from its inception in the 1800s. Its history extends to before the discovery of gold until present day, allowing for a wealth of knowledge. Become versed in the local cultural, environmental, and even economic impact of the logging communities nestled along the Sierra Nevada, a region alive with history.

Giant sequoia trees and mixed conifer forests draw countless nature enthusiasts each year. Calaveras has been a State Park since 1931, when it became apparent that the beautiful North Grove needed preserving. The Grove features the wondrous 'Discovery Tree,' also known as the 'Big Stump,' which was the first Sierra redwood noted by Augustus T. Dowd in 1852. Guided tours are offered on Saturdays.

Stanislas National Forest, located fewer than two miles from Arnold, is nature at its most pristine. Camping, fishing, and traveling along the Stanislaus River are quite popular. People also take to hiking and horseback riding as additional activities.

There are several wineries in Calaveras County and in Northern California, many of them located just off of the scenic State Highway 4. Wine tasting tours are available. Excitation awaits your palate at the Foothills, where wine is always in season.

Take a trip back in time to California's Gold Rush era with a half hour drive from Arnold to Columbia, where the business district has been preserved. Travel back in time to the 1850s, where miners jostled with entrepreneurs and town residents. Ride a 100 year-old stagecoach, pan for gold, and explore the working businesses of Columbia, California.

Find out why Americans made the westward trek to California when you learn to pan for gold yourself. You and your group will be supplied with all the tools you'll need to pan, you will also be taught the ancient method. Prospecting is certainly an adventure to be shared among the masses.

White Pines Park and Lake, adjacent to the town of Arnold on scenic Ebbetts Pass, provide families with a multitude of outdoor recreational opportunities. The lake itself is quite the hidden gem: plan a picnic by the lakeside for a lazy Sunday. For those seeking an active weekend, take to White Pines Community Park for BBQs, paths, a playground, a group area, a beach, and a softball field.

Hike, mountain bike or ride horseback through the Sierra Nevada Mountains utilizing this trail system that continues to grow to connect the communities along Ebbetts Pass. Discover the stunning vistas and panoramic views of Mt. Diablo in the East Bay Area, to snowy Mt. Lyell on the eastern slopes of the Sierras near Yosemite. Descend into canyons of streams and enjoy the shade of cedar, pine, fir, and oak forests.

Rides on steam locomotives are available on the weekends, as well as guided and self-guided tours, which will help you explore the shops and roundhouse. They have been in continuous operation since 1897. Come and explore the home of the 'Movie Star Locomotive' Sierra No. 3.

A magnificent part of California's natural history since its discovery in 1885, Mercer Caverns is home to a wealthy variety of natural cave formations. Visitors are invited to take a tour of the caverns and view a variety of stalactites, stalagmites, draperies, columns, flowstone, helictites, and soda straws. Gaze upon delicate aragonite crystal formations at one of the cavern's deepest points, for which Mercer Caverns won a Grand Prize at the 1900 Paris World Exposition.

Take a guided tour of Moaning Cavern or get a rush from the rope rappel or caving adventures. Zip lines, climbing and searching for gold and gemstones are other activities offered. Embark on an underground walking tour, or race to the top of a 32-foot tall custom climbing tower with 10 routes and an automatic belay system.