In the heart of California’s historic Gold Country lies a hidden treasure for beer enthusiasts – the El Dorado Ale Trail. This scenic trail takes you to many of El Dorado County’s craft breweries, each offering distinctive brews, settings, and experiences. Nearly all are dog-friendly.
1. Mraz Brewing: Crafting Excellence in Every Sip
The adventure begins at Mraz Brewing. Known for its innovative and diverse beer selection, it combines traditional brewing techniques with a modern twist. From hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts, Mraz Brewing has something for every palate, making it a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts.
2. Cool Beerwerks: Where Cool Brews Meet Warm Hospitality
As you continue your journey, Cool Beerwerks welcomes you with its laid-back atmosphere and a wide range of handcrafted beers. It focuses on quality and creativity, from refreshing lagers to bold ales. Pair your favorite brew with delicious pub fare and enjoy the hospitality that makes Cool Beerwerks a standout on the El Dorado Ale Trail.
3. Barmhaus Brewing Co.: Elevating the Craft Beer Experience
Barmhaus Brewing Co. reflects the passion and dedication of its brewers. With a commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, this brewery creates beers that showcase the region’s character. Explore their ever-changing lineup, which includes a variety of styles, ensuring a delicious surprise on every visit.
4. Gold Hill Vineyard and Brewery: Where Wine and Beer Converge
Gold Hill Vineyard and Brewery offers a unique fusion of two beloved beverages – wine and beer. Situated in a picturesque vineyard, this establishment allows visitors to savor finely crafted wines and artisanal beers. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors showcasing El Dorado’s brewing and winemaking prowess.
5. Camerado Brewing: Community and Craft Collide
At Camerado Brewing Co in Cameron Park, the focus is not just on beer but on building a community of beer lovers. This family-friendly brewery, one of the newer additions to El Dorado County, creates a welcoming environment where patrons can enjoy a wide range of beers.
6. Moonraker Millhouse: Brewing Excellence in Every Batch
Moonraker Millhouse is a destination for beer aficionados seeking bold and adventurous brews. With a commitment to quality and experimentation, Moonraker Millhouse pushes the boundaries of traditional brewing. Indulge in their expertly crafted beers, and you’ll understand why this brewery stands out on the El Dorado Ale Trail.
7. GearTooth AleWerks: Gear Up for Unforgettable Brews
GearTooth AleWerks brings a mechanical theme to the El Dorado Ale Trail, offering a memorable experience. This brewery’s lineup features meticulously crafted beers, each with its own distinct personality. Taste your way through their beers, and you’ll discover the creativity that goes into every pint.
8. El Dorado Brewing Company: A Taste of Tradition
El Dorado Brewing Company is a Diamond Springs-based brewery that has been around since 1991. You’ll find a range of beers with names inspired by local history and characters, including the Crystal Range IPA and Lovers Leap Pale Ale.
9. Solid Ground Brewing: Crafting Beers with a Purpose
Solid Ground Brewing is a “dynamic craft fermentation facility producing beer, wine, and cider.” This translates into a rotating tap list of seasonal brews that reflect the best of the region. It also boasts a creative food menu featuring favorites like the buttermilk fried chicken sandwich and Solid Ground burger, featuring meat from a local butcher.
10. Field Number Fifteen Winery and Brewery: Where Grapes Meet Grains
Blurring the lines between winemaking and brewing, Field Number Fifteen offers a unique experience for visitors. Focusing on small-batch production, it showcases the best of both worlds – exquisite wines and finely crafted beers. Explore the diverse flavors that emerge when grapes meet grains at Field Number Fifteen.
11. Holly’s Hill Vineyards and Brewery: Elevating the Art of Brewing and Winemaking
Holly’s Hill Vineyards and Brewery is a destination catering to beer and wine enthusiasts. Originally started as a winery, it introduced craft beer to its lineup in 2023. Surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, Holly’s Hill is a beautiful setting for sipping expertly crafted beers and wines. It also hosts food pairing events that showcase its award-winning beverages.
12. Hwy 50 Brewery: A Pit Stop for Craft Beer Enthusiasts
As you near the end of your El Dorado Ale Trail adventure, Hwy 50 Brewery welcomes weary travelers with open arms and a refreshing lineup of craft beers. Treat yourself to a fresh pizza or other snack from its food menu and enjoy the views from the outdoor dog-friendly patio.
13. Jack Russell Farm Brewery: A Rustic Retreat for Beer Lover
Our journey concludes at Jack Russell Farm Brewery, a rustic retreat that captures the essence of El Dorado’s countryside. Set on a picturesque farm in Camino, this brewery invites visitors to savor handcrafted beers in a relaxed and pastoral setting. From hoppy ales to farmhouse saisons, Jack Russell Farm Brewery offers a fitting end to our El Dorado Ale Trail expedition.
The El Dorado Ale Trail weaves through a tapestry of craft breweries, each contributing a unique thread to the rich fabric of the region’s brewing culture. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or a casual sipper, the El Dorado Ale Trail promises a journey of discovery, flavor, and good memories.
