Things To Do
Charles B. Mitchell Vineyards
Located next door to the Ranch is Charles B. Mitchell winery. Enjoy a tasting while exploring the vineyard. There are dozens of other wineries near the Ranch as well!
Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park
Visit the site of the first documented gold discovery in California, which sparked the 1849 Gold Rush! Located just 45 minutes from the Ranch, Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park features scenic hiking trails and a museum highlighting the area’s Indigenous peoples, the pioneers who discovered gold, and the mass migration of “49ers” who followed in hopes of striking it rich.
Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park
Indian Grinding Rock SHP, created in 1968, is home to the Chaw'se Regional Indian Museum, North America's largest collection of bedrock mortars, and California's largest roundhouse still used by Native American's today.
Black Chasm Cavern National Natural Landmark
Also about 45 minutes from the Ranch is Black Chasm Cavern National Natural Landmark. Nestled in the town of Volcano at 15701 Pioneer Volcano Rd. right outside of Pine Grove, off of Hwy 88. Guests will view three chambers in the upper levels of this vertical cave where the most spectacular formations grow. A beautiful blue lake is located in the second chamber about 80 feet below the viewing platform. The cave is vertically oriented with 3 platforms and 5 flights of stairs. An experienced Cavern Naturalist will guide each group into the cave and explain the varied features of Black Chasm as well as the science of Speleology as it pertains to this remarkable cavern.
Downtown Placerville
Although the gold rush is long over, there is a “wealth” of adventure and activity to be found in Placerville, the heart of the historic Mother Lode. Centrally located in the Sierra Nevada foothills between the Sacramento Valley and Lake Tahoe basin, Placerville is a popular locale situated just off Highways 50 & 49. With its historical landmarks, downtown ambiance with a plethora of shopping and dining experiences, various hotel/motel and bed/breakfast accommodations, local wineries and farms, and an abundance of local recreational activities, Placerville has something for everyone.
Cedar Park Trail
Enjoy this 1.1-mile loop trail near Pollock Pines, California. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 24 min to complete. This trail is great for hiking and walking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Sly Park Recreation Area
The trails around Jenkinson Lake can be visited on horseback, mountain bike, and foot. This guide, however, is going to focus on hiking. The full route, if you go all the way around, is just over 8 miles. With the continuous ups and downs it can feel like a lot further though. The total elevation change is insignificant but the small "whoopdedoos" can amount to hundreds and even thousands of feet perceived elevation change. Good physical endurance is a must if you're going to make it all the way.