I still laugh the first time I took my kids to the snow. We still joke about that day. My ten-year-old son, all energy and full of mischief, relentlessly pelted me with snowballs. When I finally captured him, which was not easy, we both fell face-first into the powder. Meanwhile, my five-year-old daughter, always the curious one, couldn’t resist eating the snow, twigs and all!
Since that unforgettable day, we’ve made it a tradition to visit the snow at least once every winter, creating new memories each time. Although heading east in winter does take some planning, it is doable. While many families think of Lake Tahoe for snow adventures, luckily, within a four-hour drive from our Monterey home, we can still find that winter wonderland—minus the crowds and hassle.
CALAVERAS BIG TREES STATE PARK
For families with young kids or anyone looking for a low-key snow adventure, Calaveras Big Trees State Park is an ideal destination. Just steps from the visitor center you’ll find gentle hills perfect for sledding, building snowmen, or making snow angels. If you’re in the mood for a short hike, the North Grove Trail offers a scenic, 1.5-mile loop through towering sequoias. It’s an easy, family-friendly hike, and if your little ones get tired, you can pull them along on their sleds, giving them a break while they enjoy the crisp winter air and a snack along the way.
Every winter, this park continues to deliver that magical experience of being surrounded by giant sequoias blanketed in snow. Add to that the cozy warming hut, where you can sip hot chocolate or cider by a crackling fire, and you’ve got the perfect spot for a day of winter fun. Pro tip: The warming hut is open only on weekends and holidays, and be sure to bring cash for purchases.
When you’re ready to refuel, the nearby town of Arnold has some great spots. Start your day with a delicious coffee and breakfast at Bistro Espresso, a local favorite, and end it with a hearty meal at Snowshoe Brewery, where the whole family can enjoy a casual, cozy dinner with options ranging from burgers to more upscale pub fare.
- Lodging Options: Arnold Black Bear Inn, Bear Valley Mountain Resort
- Other Sno-Parks: Spicer Sno-Park, Round Valley Sno-Park
- Gear Rentals: Ebbetts Pass Sporting Goods, Sierra Nevada Adventure Company
EBBETTS PASS SNOW PLAY
I’ve always loved the Shaver Lake and Huntington Lake area, but while we usually visit during the summer, this spot truly shines in winter too. With five sno-parks in the area, there’s something for everyone—from little ones who want to try their hand at sledding to older kids and adults craving more thrilling tubing adventures. If you’re looking to step it up, China Peak Mountain Resort is the place to be. This family-friendly resort offers everything you need for a fun day in the snow, from ski and snowboard rentals to lessons for beginners. The best part is that it is much less crowded than other resorts, so you can spend more time on the slopes and less time in line.
What really makes this area special, though, is the charm of Shaver Lake. It’s one of those places where you feel like you’ve stepped back in time and is small and quaint. We always start our day with a visit to Shaver Coffee & Deli; they have the best coffee, and the breakfast sandwiches are a must-try. The real treat, though, is their monkey bread. Who doesn’t need a little sugar to power the day in the snow? After a day in Shaver, my kids must go to The Hungry Hut. Known for its delicious burgers, fries, and killer milkshakes, it’s the perfect way to wrap up your snow adventure.
- Lodging Options: China Peak Resort, private cabin rental
- Sno-Parks: Coyote, Tamarack, Eastwood, Round Valley
- Gear Rentals: Shaver Lake Sports Inc., REI in Fresno
HIGHWAY 41, OUTSIDE YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK
While many flock to Yosemite for its winter splendor, you don’t need to venture all the way into the park to enjoy the snow. Just outside the park along Highway 41 is one of the best spots, Goat Meadow Snow Play Area, a popular destination for snow fun. It’s a perfect place to go sledding, tubing, or just play in the snow, but it’s a no-frills area—there is no equipment rental, so you’ll need to bring your own sleds or tubes. There’s also only a porta potty available, so come prepared for a simple outdoor experience without the crowds!
If you’re looking for a bit more luxury, head to Tenaya Lodge, located just a few miles away. In the winter, the lodge is beautifully decorated with a giant Douglas fir tree and festive lights, making it the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit. Tenaya offers private sledding slopes, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and even has its own ice skating for the family. For extra holiday cheer, there are seasonal activities like an Elf on the Shelf scavenger hunt, gingerbread house decorating, and even an ornament-making workshop. It’s the ultimate place to enjoy all things winter while staying cozy indoors.
- Lodging Options: Tenaya Lodge, Wawona Hotel, cabins and smaller resorts nearby
- Sno-Parks: Badger Pass Ski Area and Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
- Gear Rentals: Tenaya Lodge and Badger Pass Ski Area
Winter doesn’t have to put an end to your family’s adventures—it’s just the beginning of a new season of fun! Whether you’re dreaming of ice skating, building a snowman, or sledding down hills, there’s no shortage of winter magic just waiting for you to explore. It’s easy to see the joy in kids’ faces when they step into the snow, but I can tell you that the snow has a way of bringing out the little kid in all of us—teens and adults alike. For me, every year is a chance to relive that epic “faceplant” moment with my son and to create new winter memories with my daughter as we find fresh trails to explore. So, don’t wait—take the trip, embrace the season, and make memories that will warm your heart for years to come. Happy Winter Adventures!
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