Discovering Arnold: A Perfect Family Road Trip Getaway
The Sierra foothills offer a peaceful escape for families looking to break from the Bay Area’s hustle and bustle. You’ve come to the right place if you’re searching for fun things to do in Arnold with your family. You’ll find this charming community just a short 10-minute drive from our family-friendly rental cabins in Dorrington. Arnold offers a variety of fun activities ranging from outdoor adventures to peaceful retreats, making it perfect for families looking for excitement, relaxation, and quality time together.
The area provides a wide range of activities for children of all ages, from exploring the state park to swimming in scenic lakes and immersing themselves in the rich culture and natural history of the Sierra Nevada. Whether planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, here are some of the best family-friendly activities in Arnold and its neighboring towns that promise to create lasting memories for everyone. And if you don’t have kids? No worries! These experiences are just as enjoyable for adults wanting to reconnect with nature or unwind.
Calaveras Big Trees State Park: A Journey Through Time
One of Arnold’s most famous attractions is Calaveras Big Trees State Park, home to two groves of ancient giant sequoias. These awe-inspiring trees are the largest in the world and are found exclusively in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Visiting this park offers a unique opportunity to stand among these natural giants and marvel at their towering presence.
Calaveras Big Trees State Park has a rich history. Since its establishment in 1852, it has been California’s oldest continuously operated tourist attraction. 
The park spans over 6,500 acres and features numerous trails, recreational areas, and, of course, the iconic sequoia groves. Walking among these majestic trees makes you feel profoundly connected to the past and the natural world.
For families, the park offers a variety of activities that are both educational and fun. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the history and ecology of the sequoias. At the same time, the on-site museum boasts interactive exhibits that introduce kids to the local wildlife, including mountain lions, black bears, and bobcats. These hands-on experiences spark curiosity and foster a love of nature in young minds. And for those who simply want to explore, the park’s extensive network of trails invites you to wander at your own pace, taking in the serene beauty of the Sierra Nevada landscape.
Arnold Rim Trail: Adventures for All Ages
Our family’s go-to hike is the Arnold Rim Trail, an easily accessible network of trails for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The trail stretches along the Ebbetts Pass National Scenic Byway and winds through the stunning scenery of the Stanislaus National Forest, offering numerous opportunities for exploration and adventure.
The Arnold Rim Trail is versatile, catering to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. If you’re up for a hike, the trail offers several paths that lead to breathtaking viewpoints, including a magnificent waterfall that provides a perfect spot for a family picnic. Along the way, you’ll find peaceful lakes where you can relax, enjoy birdwatching, or simply take in the tranquility of the forest.
One of the great things about the Arnold Rim Trail is its accessibility. The trailhead is easy to reach, and the paths vary in difficulty, so even young children or those new to hiking can enjoy a day on the trail. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll to admire the wildflowers or a more challenging hike to reach the waterfall, the Arnold Rim Trail provides the perfect backdrop for family bonding in nature.
Stanislaus River: Humbling Beauty
With big mountains come big rivers, and the Stanislaus River is a fantastic place to spend time outdoors. There is something for everyone along the Stanislaus River, including scenic walking trails, camping, and fishing. Just minutes from our Dorrington cabins, there is free river access along Boards Crossing Road at Sourgrass Recreation Area in the summer, spring, and fall. We love to sit on the rocks by the river and marvel at the humbling beauty of the rushing whitewater.
Lake Alpine: A Serene Mountain Retreat
Lake Alpine, located at an elevation of 7,350 feet, is a true mountain gem. It offers 180 acres of sparkling water surrounded by stunning alpine scenery. This peaceful lake is a favorite spot for anglers, boaters, campers, hikers, and swimmers. The mild summer temperatures make it an ideal destination for outdoor activities without the crowds often found at more popular lakes.
The lake’s campgrounds accommodate both tents and RVs, and the Lake Alpine Lodge offers additional accommodations, along with a store, restaurant, and boat rentals. Boating is a popular activity here from Memorial Day to mid-October, with various watercraft available for rent. Fishing enthusiasts will find excellent opportunities to catch rainbow trout, while those looking to relax can enjoy picnicking, swimming, or simply soaking in the beauty of the lake.
For families wanting to explore the area further, the website Ebbetts Pass Adventures provides more detailed information on making the most of your time at Lake Alpine.
Angels Camp Museum and Carriage House: Step Back in Time
Head to the Angels Camp Museum and Carriage House for a dose of history. Located on three acres of the historic Angels Quartz Mine, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the Gold Rush era with its extensive collection of carriages, carts, and wagons. The exhibits here vividly remind visitors of a time when horses were essential for transportation and trade.
Among the museum’s highlights are two steam traction engines affectionately named “Just Jenny” and “Ol’ Beth.” These engines and other artifacts offer a tangible connection to the past and are a favorite among visitors.
The museum’s beautifully landscaped historical park features indoor and outdoor exhibits, including a doctor’s office, the Mark Twain Exhibit, and ranching and artisan crafts displays. Visitors can also see mining equipment, such as a Pelton water wheel and a working model of a stamp mill.
Bring a picnic and enjoy your lunch under the shade of native oak trees. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Altaville Schoolhouse, one of the state’s oldest and best-preserved little red schoolhouses.
Along those lines, Columbia State Historic Park is a preserved Gold Rush settlement that offers a glimpse into a different era. During the summer, enjoy reenactments, tours, and theatrical performances.
The Sierra Nevada Logging Museum is a bit closer to home in Arnold. Open seasonally, visitors learn about the rich history of logging, from the people to the equipment. It is a worthy tribute to the industry that was so important to the area.
Town of Murphys: A Charming Mountain Community
Nearby Murphys, about 20 minutes from Arnold, is an old gold rush town that has evolved into a thriving mountain community known for its outdoor adventures, boutique shopping, and arts and culture. Whether you’re stopping by on your way to or from the Arnold Rim Trail or planning a full day of exploration, Murphys has something for everyone.
Murphys is renowned for its vineyards but offers plenty of family-friendly activities, too. Kids will love the Murphys Community Park, which features a children’s playground, a wishing well, and a beautiful creek running through it — the creek is perfect for safely splashing around! The town has also recently introduced an adorable, inexpensive mini-golf course, operating on an honor system, perfect for a quick, fun round.
Stroll along historic Main Street to explore the charming shops, art galleries, and museums, or grab a bite to eat at one of the many cozy cafés. Murphys is a delightful spot to experience the best of Sierra Nevada’s small-town charm.
Mercer Caverns
Just outside Murphys is Mercer Caverns, one of the first of the many caves in the area to be discovered and opened to the public. When it was first opened in 1885, it was known for the six skeletons found in the cave, later identified as being over 1,500 years old. Because of this, the cave was initially named New Calaveras, which means “New Place of Skulls. 
Mercer Caverns is one of the most accessible caves in the Arnold area and is known for its impressive stalagmites, stalactites, and aragonites–a rare cave formation caused by proximity to marine environments.
Winter Activities: Embrace the Snowy Wonderland
When winter blankets the Sierra Nevada mountains in snow, Arnold transforms into a magical wonderland. It offers a variety of winter activities that are perfect for families. Whether you’re into skiing, sledding, or snowshoeing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Bear Valley Ski Resort: Just a short drive from Arnold, Bear Valley Ski Resort is a fantastic destination for families who love skiing or snowboarding. The resort offers a variety of slopes suitable for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. 
Bear Valley is an excellent place for kids to learn to ski or snowboard. It has friendly instructors and newly renovated facilities. There are plenty of advanced runs to keep experienced skiers and boarders entertained all winter long.
Sno-Parks for Sledding: For a more laid-back winter activity, the nearby sno-parks are perfect for sledding and playing in the snow. These designated areas provide safe and fun environments for families to enjoy the snow together. We offer our guests a free parking pass for these sno-parks, ensuring hassle-free access.
If you need additional passes, they can be purchased locally. Bring some sleds (also provided at the cabins) and warm clothes, and get ready for a day of laughter and excitement as you zoom down the snowy hills.
Bear Valley Adventure Company: If cross-country skiing or snowshoeing is more your style, Bear Valley Adventure Company offers miles of groomed trails that wind through the stunning winter landscape. The company provides rentals and lessons, making it easy for families to get started, whether they are seasoned pros or trying these activities for the first time. The serene trails offer a peaceful way to explore the snowy wilderness and enjoy the beauty of the Sierra Nevada in winter.
Unwind, Explore, and Connect in Arnold
Arnold, California, is more than just a destination; it’s a place where families can reconnect with each other and with nature. From towering sequoias to scenic trails, from interactive museums to exhilarating outdoor adventures, everyone will find fun things to do in Arnold are the surrounding area. Whether you’re exploring the wonders of Calaveras Big Trees State Park, embarking on a journey along the Arnold Rim Trail, or discovering the hidden gems of the Sierra Nevada, your family is sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
So, pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to experience all that Arnold has to offer. And remember, our cozy cabins in Dorrington are just minutes away, providing the perfect home base for your family’s mountain getaway. Whether you’re visiting in the warmth of summer or the snowy magic of winter, Arnold and its surrounding areas promise an unforgettable escape into nature, history, and adventure. We can’t wait to welcome you!
