1. The snow is falling, and Dodge Ridge Ski Area is calling! Catch the winter wave and hit the slopes in the High Sierra. Be a part of the many generations of skiers and snowboarders that have been enjoying Dodge Ridge since its opening in 1950.
2. Take in a live theatre production at the Sierra Repertory Theatre, where local entertainment thrives. This year’s lineup of classic shows are full of captivating fun for everyone.
3. Step back in time at Columbia State Historic Park, for gold panning, stagecoach rides and shopping in Gold Rush-era shops.
4. Take a trip to the High Sierra and have yourself a real snow day at Leland High Sierra Snowplay. Grab your tube, or rent one, and go riding down one of many groomed runs.
5. Paint a masterpiece at a Brush and Cork class. Sip wine and let the artistry sweep you away in this step by step interactive class.
6. Get cozy and rest your head in a historic Gold Rush-era inn featuring modern touches of comfort.
7. Warm your belly and sip your way through Gold Country in Jamestown at three locally raved tasting rooms. Be on the search for the perfect bottle of wine to enjoy on a chilly winter’s night.
8. Good times and good LUCK! Enjoy casino games and entertainment at Black Oak Casino Resort and Chicken Ranch Casino.
9. Sweet treat shopping in Tuolumne County is a MUST at Nelson’s Candy Kitchen in Columbia State Historic Park. Peek into the front window to view their incredible team, hard at work, making fresh candies by hand.
10. Increase your elevation, bundle up and lace up for some fun at Long Barn Lodge Ice Skating Rink and Event Center. This High Sierra rink is the perfect place to encounter true mountain vibes in action.
11. Try sweet local hard cider at Indigeny Reserve in Sonora. You won’t be able to get enough of the seasonal flavors: pumpkin spice cider and cranberry cider, as well as a variety of fun flavored spirits.
12. Go on an underground, Gold Country excursion at Mercer Caverns just outside of Tuolumne County in Vallecito. Take the cave tour and explore beneath the earth’s surface.
13. Indulge your sweet tooth at Cover’s Apple Ranch, where they specialize in delicious pies and cider. Stop by the petting zoo, while you’re there, and say hello to the happy farm animals.
14. Make historic discoveries and support local with a day of antique shopping in the historic towns of Sonora, Jamestown, and Columbia. Keep your eyes peeled for the perfect memento to capture your adventure.
15. Sip hot mochas and take in the sights of indigenous foliage at Mountain Sage Cafe and Nursery. Wander the grounds and discover a beautifully lit-up tree house, fit for all ages.
16. Check out The Harte of the Kitchen in the little mountain town of Twain Harte on Thursdays for their weekly Sip & Snacks. Try their delicious goodies made in house, and take the recipes home with you.
17. Weather permitting, hit the trail in snowshoes and head to Yosemite National Park’s Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. Snowshoe rentals available on your way into the park at Yosemite Adventure Supplies in Groveland.
18. Escape the crowds of Yosemite, awaken your sense of adventure, and experience the park in a unique way – from the sky! Take off at the Columbia Airport and view Yosemite National Park and its unmistakable icons from the air with Yosemite Flight Tours.
19. Go for a drive to the High Sierra and make your destination Pinecrest Lake. Transformed by snow, this National Forest lake is full of winter views and opportunities to go walking in a winter wonderland.
20. Take in the High Sierra sights with a mountain getaway cabin stay. Make memories that will last a lifetime and start new traditions with loved ones on a bucket list worthy winter trip.