Winter in El Dorado County is a magical season, with sparkling snow, cozy fireside moments, and adventures waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re making turns in fresh powder, sipping world-class wines, or soaking in the serenity of a mountain lodge, you can create your perfect winter escape here.
Craving an adrenaline rush? El Dorado County is your gateway to some of Northern California’s best skiing and snowboarding. Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort offers 2,000 acres of terrain perfect for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. With runs for all abilities, breathtaking views, and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s no wonder this resort is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Heavenly Resort in South Lake Tahoe is ideal for those who are up for the first chair and are still going strong well after the last call. With 4,800 acres full of terrain for beginners and experts alike and the most incredible views of Lake Tahoe, it’s truly (wait for it) heavenly!
Kirkwood Mountain Resort is enchanting, untamed, vast, and secluded. It is known for its deep, dry snow and some of the most varied and demanding terrain in North America.
Maybe you’re up for something less demanding or a bit more fun? Tube Tahoe in downtown Meyers has some of the longest tubing lanes in the area. Adventure Mountain on Echo Summit is the go-to spot for sledding, tubing, and snow play. You’ll also find several SNO-PARKs along Hwy 50 – pick up a pass online or at locations in El Dorado County.
After a day in the snow, there’s no better way to unwind than by sampling some of El Dorado County’s award-winning wines. You’ll find over 70 family-owned wineries here, offering a range of interesting and sometimes lesser-known varietals, all resulting in distinctive mountain-grown wines.
Many tasting rooms transform into warm, inviting retreats during the winter months, complete with roaring fireplaces and picturesque vineyard views. Just off Highway 50, you’ll discover Crystal Basin Cellars, Nello Olivo Wines, and Myka Estates, offering relaxed tasting experiences where chatting with the winemaker is not unusual.
El Dorado County offers a variety of cozy accommodations that will make your winter getaway truly special. For a romantic escape, book a stay at the Miner’s Cabin at Madrone Tree Hill, located on a 50-acre family-owned property among the Apple Hill™-area ranches and wineries. The patio with a firepit is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a glass of wine.
Nearby Ponderosa Ridge A Bed and Breakfast Inn offers a peaceful retreat on an 11-acre property, including a three-acre apple orchard open only to guests. Guests can enjoy homemade country breakfasts made from scratch daily, with fresh baked goods each morning. It’s an ideal base camp for exploring the nearby farms and wineries.
The Harper Micro Motel is a beautifully restored 1940s-era, four-suite motel in Placerville, seconds off Highway 50. It has full modern kitchens, is an easy walk/ride to restaurants, and offers complimentary bikes. The motel provides easy access to Placerville’s Main Street, wineries, and attractions.
Pack your puffer jacket and favorite beanie, remember your sense of adventure, and get ready to ski, sip, and stay in El Dorado County this winter.
