Advertising/Marketing: Ian Balentine ibalentine@mtdemocrat.net
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El Dorado County Adventures is owned and published by the Mountain Democrat. All rights reserved, 2022. Reproduction in any form, in whole or part, without written permission is prohibited. All content included in this magazine was deemed accurate at the time of printing and is subject to change.
A tree of a different Color I
t may be time to dispense with the notion that New England owns a copyright on fall colors. Alluring as those Maine and New Hampshire calendar covers may be, there’s also the California gold rush of color which is even now exploding in the foothills east of Sacramento.
To be fair, some varieties of maple, fruit and nut trees were schlepped by settlers from the northeast to these foothills as part of the western migration. As the new pioneers and ex-gold miners became farmers, ranchers and orchard keepers, they influenced not only the nutrition but the colors of foothill flora.
Bright as a kaleidoscope or muted as rust, Sierra woodland colors swirl like a child’s finger-painting, responsive to the unpredictable fingers of light, water and temperature. Texture and geometry add to the wonder.
Giant pointed pines and broad crowned elders, black oaks, white fir, red aspens and yellow mountain maples mass together in the quest for space-dominance, each competing for the birds and squirrels that assist in seed dispersion.
story : Peter t yner
photography : Krysten Kellum; Pat Dollins
Color is more than pretty
Color is not just pretty, it is critical to survival and growth.
Magma, meteors and microbes meeting sun, temperature and rain produced alpine color through diverse flora. Tectonic upheavals, volcanoes and glaciers fashioned the original brown canvas known as the western slope or foothills, stretching from the peaks of the Sierra Nevada to the tony and historic town of Folsom.
Coated with the gesso of groundcover, nature’s “old master painter” daubed higher elevations of the canvas with massive conifer forests. Dark green cedars, silver tipped red firs, upward reaching spruces, lacy cypresses, blue-green junipers, towering Ponderosa pines, scattered stands of gray hemlock, bright yellow ginko bilabo and majestic redwoods cover the mountains and spill into the foothills.
Fields of tan weeds and tangled brush became populated with soft hued chaparral, blue oaks, red-barked and green-leaved
Manzanita. Swaths of fragile and ephemeral wildflowers sprang up on hillsides and in meadows among ancient granite outcroppings.
Half the year thick snow cloaks the black and gray peaks in a pure white mantle. Fingers of shining ice grip the sides creating the heavenly ski slopes of the Sierra. In the center of the range sits the crown jewel of the west, the deep and blue Lake Tahoe.
starting at the top
Nature prefers to launch its fall color festival first in the higher elevations, such as the Carson Pass, Hope Valley and Monitor Pass areas, which are accessed from Routes 88 and 89 near the lake. Here, quaking aspen flare their gold and orange leaves, evolved to quiver in the slightest breeze.
The azure skies, snowy peaks and dark green conifers of the Tahoe National forest offer a striking portrait of contrasts.
Typically fall colors at the 7,000 foot level peak in early to mid October.
Particularly dramatic stands are found near Carson Pass east of Caples Lake. Hope Valley offers a jaw-dropping palette of fall colors. A few miles north of the Lake’s resort on Highway 89, visitors will find dramatic vistas and ostentatious displays near the summit of Luther Pass.
Arguably the best color in the Tahoe area borders Highway 89 from South Lake Tahoe to Sugar Pine Point State Park.
another level
Fall colors multiply at lower altitudes, too. The native black oak, found throughout the foothills between elevations of about 1,000 and 5,000 feet, features large leaves that turn a brilliant gold. Although its colors are optimum in late October some bright yellow leaves will remain attached to the trees until early December.
The resultant bio-drama of bright gold leaves among dark green Ponderosa pines, and black-streaked incense cedars punctuated by holly-leaf red berries produces stunning photography.
Sacramento has been named “city of trees” second only to Paris, France in sheer number. Highway 50 starts in Sacramento and heads to South Lake Tahoe. Eastbound travelers on the 50 cruise toward Lake Tahoe through the lower elevation towns of Folsom and Cameron Park realize the change in elevation at Placerville. Flaming Chinese pistaches and liquid ambers line the roadway with loud red-orange foliage. Native redbud trees are everywhere as well.
In spring their magenta blossoms seem impossibly brilliant and by October the spray of willow-like branches begin again to turn light yellow or red.
Redbuds were extraordinarily useful to early settlers who found the blossoms a delicious addition to their salads. Early folk healers used the bark to treat common maladies and sometimes even leukemia. Many Native Americans chose the long branches of the California Redbud for their bows.
a Changing Canvas
In the endless ranch lands of Shingle Springs and Cameron Park spotted cows and svelte auburn horses roam verdant fields or stand in dirt corrals observing motorists. Hired goats trim entire fields from tall grass to nubs as fire season approaches.
The front yards of Placerville and Camino often display indigenous dogwoods which bloom in spring with impressive white and pink bracts on gray branches which grow in pleasing horizontal patterns. The pedals
aren’t blossoms but are colorful leaves which hide tiny yellow flowers. In winter new buds appear on complex bare branches in highly symmetrical crowns.
Throughout the freeway landscape redbarked madrona trees increasingly occupy weedy hillsides along with their oil-rich cousins, the Indian manzanita. Shrub oaks and chaparral fight for every square inch of dirt.
The mandate to be colorful is in the DNA of virtually every plant, critical to advancement of its species and the organic blush of foothill flora is no exception.
roCks and water Color the landsCape
Pollock Pines and Kyburz stand miles apart on either side of the midpoint to Lake Tahoe. In that stretch Highway 50 parallels the splashy and rocky American River south fork wending its way to the Coloma sawmill where a few flakes of gold found in the tailrace triggered the world-altering migration of 1849.
Beyond Kyburz lies tiny Strawberry with its friendly lodge and restaurant, a required stop on the forested trek. The Strawberry Lodge commands a stretch of the mountainside and river where nature has produced a speckled behemoth, the 600 foot high granite promontory known as Lover’s Leap. Climbing can be scheduled to one’s ability and experience. Nearby giant gray boulders frame eddies of clear water where visitors can sit and watch 50 million years disappear.
From Folsom to South Lake Tahoe the evolving environment of color and texture, geometry and uniqueness startles and comforts visitors on their colorful day trip.
add the farms and ranChes
But the living tapestry of the Sierra is not complete without the growers. From the pumpkin patches to red grape vineyards, from cherry and apple orchards to Christmas Tree farms, the Apple Hill area of Camino introduces a colorful panorama of tasty farm goods.
Supported by 55 ranches and farms, the popular district showcases apples, plums, peaches, grapes, apricots, melons, berries and the golden crusted pies and turnovers made from these natural treats. Piles of fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, squash and other vegetables await in farm-to-fork bins and table displays up and down Carson Road.
On the other side of the freeway south of Camino, fields of tomatoes, vineyards, livestock and cultivated acres line Pleasant Valley Road, a rural highway bordering the dark and timbered Cosumnes River Valley, an other-worldly locale with quaint bridges and a Hansel-and-Gretel atmosphere.
A few hours of driving from Folsom to Lake Tahoe proves that although the dynamic and visual elements of this region change with the season, the Sierra Nevada and its accouterments remains forever beautiful, free and available to everyone — without blowing the vacation budget on airfare and ho-hum motels.
Visitors planning to visit the lake can contact El Dorado County Visitors Authority, c/o Chamber of Commerce, 542 Main St., Placerville, 95667, 530-621-5885 or call Hope Valley Outdoor Center, 530-694-2266, for firsthand foliage reports, bike rentals and recreation suggestions. %
SALLY LONGJOHNS
tOP 6 Most Haunted Sites in El Dorado County
Looking at the dangling outlaw effigy at the Hangman’s Tree building on Placerville’s Main Street, it is clear that many interesting, adventurous and rugged folks once populated the hills of El Dorado County. Not only was the Gold Rush filled with gunslingers, wicked women and criminals of every stripe – along with the good folk, of course – but some of them might never have left.
photos: SHELLY THORENE
CARy HOuSE HOtEl
300 Main St., Placerville
An elevator that carries ghostly passengers and numerous reports from guests of the hotel convinces ghost hunters this spot is well worth a visit. Stan the long-dead clerk may even offer to carry your bags.
PEARSON’S SODA WORKS
594 Main St., Placerville
Where a bearded man has been seen in the upstairs of the building. Employees call him Charley. Reports, too, have been made regarding a phantom cat.
photo: PAUL COCKRELL
photo: PAUL COCKRELL
3
tHE SEQuOiA mANSiON
(formerly the Bee-Bennett House)
643 Bee St., Placerville
Built in 1853 by Judge Marcus Bennett, the building is said to remain home to a little girl, Molly Bennett, who died after falling down a steep staircase there. A Bennett son also is said to have died at age 4 and is buried in the cemetery across the street. The building was a restaurant for several years, with guests reporting unexplained noises, apparitions, objects moving, lights turning on and off by themselves and water running suddenly, unexplainably from faucets. It is now a wedding venue and home to the Nello Olivo Wine Tasting room in the cellar. The spirits of mischievous children are a common occurrence.
El DORADO COuNty CHAmBER OF COmmERCE BuilDiNg
542 Main St., Placerville
Actually another site where a hangman’s tree saw duty back in the mid1800s. At one time a hotel stood here, but closed for unknown reasons. It also was a veterans’ gathering place and a community center. Reports of pictures falling off walls, toilet flushing upstairs when no one’s there, hearing footsteps and a door opening of its own accord. Passersby report the specter of a bearded man with a top hat on the second story mezzanine where the hanging-branch once was located. A disembodied woman’s voice has been heard emanating from a balcony.
tHE DiAmOND SPRiNgS HOtEl
545 Pleasant Valley Road, Diamond Springs
Built on the site of what was a Miwok tribe crematorium. Some people report hearing noises in the restrooms, feelings of being watched. Food and other items seem to disappear once they are set down. There have been reports of the specter of a “filmy” man who tends to sit in the back booth of the building. Upstairs, children can be heard giggling and running about as if playing. People driving by have reported seeing the apparition of a woman in an upstairs window, peering out.
tHE gEORgEtOWN HOtEl
6260 Main St., Georgetown
Strange noises, said to be haunted by a former owner. Also, the sound of a child bouncing a ball in a hallway, thought to be the ghost of a 3-year-old who died in his sleep. A baby’s laughter is heard, along with footsteps walking down the stairs. There even is a report of a transparent nightgown floating up the stairs to the rooms above.
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HISTORY COMES ALIVE AT
Gold Bug Park
photos: KRYSTEN KELLUM & SHELLY THORENE
Dorado County Adventures
Passing by the golden poppies at the entrance to Placerville’s Gold Bug Park just north of town, one might think the nearly hidden little haven of history doesn’t have all that much to o er. However, park volunteers would have to disagree.
DOCENTS DO THEIR JOB
There are several history-loving volunteers on hand to show folks through Gold Bug Park and visitors are welcome daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guided tours are ideal, since the knowledge imparted by the Gold Bug experts includes questions tossed out by the students and others taking the tour.
POPULAR SITE
What better way to understand the rigors and hardships faced by the Fortyniners than to see the actual pick-marks in the rock walls of the Priest Mine, which lies up Vulture Claim Trail from Gold Bug Mine.
“I wouldn’t have wanted to be a miner,” said a visitor from Southern California a er hearing talk about the dynamite it required to blast through the rock — the job of the “powder monkey” being the most dangerous in the mines. “It looks way too hard.”
Indeed.
A tour through the Gold Bug and Priest mines gives visitors an inkling of what it took to live this tough life, taking a pick to dig and slice through rock for a day’s wages.
The Priest Mine contains carefully chiseled archways likely designed and chopped by miners from Cornwall, England, who had come to this country once the tin mines in their homeland petered out. Chilean miners also lent their expertise in pursuing their own dreams of riches in the Mother Lode.
THE DISCOVERY THAT CHANGED THE WORLD
Once gold was discovered in January 1848 at Coloma, it wasn’t long before some $7,000 worth of gold nuggets was pulled out in two days from Big Canyon Creek that still winds through Gold Bug Park today. That happened FROM
Priest Mine
when gold was $20 an ounce — most recently the price was running upward of $1,700 an ounce.
In other words, that was a lot of gold for two days’ panning in the creek and soon there were more than 240 claims staked in the 60-acre Gold Bug area.
A er the easy pickins’ from panning the creek ran out, the miners turned toward the hard-rock hill where tantalizing veins of gold-bearing quartz beckoned, daring them to take pick and ax to burrow their way to fortune.
The tunnel at the lower Gold Bug Mine goes back 352 feet into the hill, while the Priest Mine is more compact but has a depth of 110 feet, with a 55-foot air sha created by the sweat and toil of the hardy men.
Both mines are fascinating, with the imagination giving life to the driven souls who knew that their future lay just one more swing of the pick, just one more turn of the tunnel.
Unfortunately, because records were destroyed in three di erent res that swept through Placerville over the years, no records are available of just how much gold was taken from the Gold Bug and Priest mines.
THE LINGO
Visitors will be told of the unique mining terms used by those who sought to become rich, words like “dri ” to describe the quartz they chased, “stope” for the wooden steps that aided in seeking the gold at di erent levels in the mine, “powder monkey” for the intrepid miner who handled the dynamite.
It was the powder monkey who was sent back into the mine in the morning a er the charges from the day before had been ignited, blowing chunks of rock o the walls so the hunt for gold could proceed.
The dynamite blasts were counted and sometimes one would not explode — that’s when the powder monkey’s job became extremely dangerous, as he was the guy sent back in to check the faulty charge that could explode at any time.
But hey, that’s why they got an extra 25 cents a day.
MORE TO SEE
A er checking out the mine sha s, a short walk up a hill north of Hattie’s Gi Shop takes visitors to the Joshua Hendy Stamp Mill and Gold Bug’s blacksmith shop, must-sees on any trip to the park.
A quarter-scale replica of the Joshua Hendy Stamp contraption was built by El Dorado High School student Henry Garcia back in 1999, with the young man donating the working model to the park.
“
There’s nothing like the Gold Bug!
SPECIAL PROPERTY
Gold Bug Park belongs to the city of Placerville, the only city in California with its own gold mine. The Gold Bug Park Development Committee was formed in 1980 to protect and present the property for public use and in February 1985 Gold Bug was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It also is registered as a California State Point of Interest.
If you live anywhere near Placerville’s Gold Bug Mine or are visiting the area and haven’t taken the time to explore this historical treasure, do yourself a favor and this time don’t pass the poppies. Pop on in, pick up a gold pan, walk through the mines and marvel at the skill of the miners. This is one bug you’ll want to catch.
For more information visit goldbugpark. org or call 530-642-5207. Self-guided tours are also available.
The Spirit of Winter Awaits… Sierra-at-Tahoe
N estled among the pines above Echo Summit, just 13 miles from the crystal blue waters of South Lake Tahoe, Sierra-at-Tahoe has been a winter-time staple for those living and traveling along the Highway 50 corridor for generations.
But what is it about the unassuming, privately operated mountain that keeps skiers and riders returning season after season, year after year? The Tahoe Basin alone boasts 14 different ski areas and yet the 2,000 acre resort continues to stand out as a place where locals and visitors alike choose to play. As temperatures begin to drop and the local resort begins to gear up for winter, the time is perfect to take a deeper look. At first glance, the most obvious answer is Sierra-atTahoe’s prime location.
{“
Sierra-at-Tahoe’s prime lo cation. The closest resort to Placerville, Sacramento and the Bay Area, Sierra is the first ski area that those coming eastbound on Highway 50 encounter ”
{The closest resort to Placerville, Sacramento and the Bay Area, Sierra is the first ski area that those coming eastbound on Highway 50 encounter. This makes it a logical choice for those looking to forego lodging and come to the mountains for a simple day trip. It’s also worth noting that, thanks to its geographic location and high elevation, Echo Summit historically gets the most snow in all of the Tahoe Basin. Sierra-atTahoe averages 400-inches of snow annually, turning its treecovered slopes into a wintry playground for all to explore. A great deal but
Sierra’s snowy and convenient location isn’t all that sets it apart. Since the mountain first opened for operation in 1946, Sierra-at-Tahoe (then known as Sierra Ski Ranch) has maintained a strong commitment to providing incredible value for its guests.
One of Sierra’s old slogans reads, “Everybody Just Chill,” in an effort to bring people away from the stresses of life and back to the playful nature of skiing and snowboarding. Throughout the resort — from its terrain to its employees to the vibe in the air — a welcoming and laid back atmosphere can be felt, inviting people to let their inhibitions go and truly enjoy their time in the mountains. Whether it’s someone’s first day on the slopes or their 100th, if they are on rental skis or the new year’s top model, all are invited to come and play as they are. The spirit of winter sports is alive, well and thriving at Sierra-at-Tahoe and it shows no signs of changing anytime soon. Easy to get to and thoughtfully priced, the energy and community on its slopes are truly one of a kind. First-timers in jeans share the mountain with Olympic Gold Medalists, high-fiving each other on chairlifts and reveling in the fun of sliding on snow.
A permit is required for each vehicle parked at a Sno-Park site from Nov. 1 to May 30. Permits are sold as day permits or seasonal permits by permit vendors throughout Northern California. Day permits are sold for $5 and are valid for one single day. Season permits are sold for $25 and are valid for the entire Sno-Park season.
Taylor Creek
Taylor Creek parking lot is on the west side of Highway 89, just north of Camp Richardson in El Dorado County. There is cross-country skiing to Fallen Leaf Lake. Limited snowmobiling and snow play. Call USFS at 530-5732600.
Iron Mountain
Iron Mountain parking lot is on the north side of Highway 88 in El Dorado County, at the Mormon Emigrant Trail Road, 40 miles east of Jackson in Amador County. There are extensive snowmobile trails, cross-country trails and snow play areas. Call USFS at 209-295-4251.
Carson Pass
Ranger Station Carson Pass is on the south side of Highway 88 at Carson Pass 60 in Alpine County. It is a popular cross-country ski area with limited snow play. No snowmobiles. Call USFS at 209-295-4251.
Echo Lake
Echo Lake is on the north side of Highway 50 at Echo Lake Road a half mile west of Echo Summit in El Dorado County. Popular cross-country ski area with limited snow play. No snowmobiles and no parking on entry road. Call USFS at 530-543-2600.
Hope Valley
Hope Valley parking lot is on the south side of Highway 88 at Blue Lakes Road 5 miles east of Carson Pass and 2 miles west of Picketts Junction (Highway 88 and 89) in Alpine County. There are snowmobile trails, cross-country skiing, dog sledding and limited snow play. No overnight parking is allowed. Call USFS at 775-884-8101.
information: parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1233
the horse knows the way to carry the sleigh
Borges Carriage and Sleigh Rides
It’s not just the stuff of Christmas songs. Sleigh rides through snow-covered forests really do exist — and at the Nevada State Park at Sand Harbor, the horses also jingle their bells along a snow-covered beach. It’s that irresistible combination of snow, beach and the Sierra Nevada mirrored in crystal clear Lake Tahoe waters that add a definite “wow” to oldfashioned fun with the Borges Family Sleigh Rides.
Since 1969, the Borges family has been providing wintertime “wow” for couples, families and special events such as bachelorette parties and weddings. Starting when Sam Borges built a homemade sleigh to take his four children to school in South Lake Tahoe and expanding to include visitors to the Tahoe area, Borges Carriage and Sleigh Rides has been part of the Tahoe experience for more than 50 years.
The ride
Through the years, Borges Sleigh Rides has moved from a meadow where the Edgewood Golf Course is now located, to a meadow near Bally’s Lake Tahoe Casino Resort, to its current location in Sand Harbor State Park. It’s a great location, with plenty of parking, a Visitor Center and an amazing view of Lake Tahoe and the Sand Harbor beaches.
Guests check in for either a one hour or a 30 minute ride at Borges’ little hut, where they meet their driver and maybe get a cup of hot chocolate. Your driver introduces you to the horse or horses that will pull you on this wonderful adventure. After a blanket is tucked securely around you, the ride begins, whisking you down the beach of Sand Harbor. Lake Tahoe’s mirror-like beauty unfolds before you, the snow-covered mountains surround you and it’s a stunning view. If you’re lucky, you might be out when it’s snowing and big, daisyshaped flakes float down to land lightly on your cheeks. Sleigh rides occur in most weather conditions, whether there is snow on the ground or not; whether flakes are coming down or not. When there is no snow on the ground, the sleighs are adapted to wheels instead of sled runners and the show goes on.
The sleigh turns into the day use
photos :
C ourtesy Borges s leig H & Carriage r i D es
picnic area and then into thick forest — stands of fragrant cedars and jeffrey pines —going the back way around to the huge boulders of the North Beach. Along the way, the driver will entertain you with the history and legends of the area, songs (you’ll be encouraged to join in, even if your singing voice is usually restricted to your car or shower) and stops for photos and selfies.
“This is the prettiest place this side of heaven,” said Dianna Borges, who runs Borges Carriage and Sleigh Rides along with her husband Dwight. “Even when Mother Nature is at her worst, you see the waves on the lake, the sun sparkling on the snow. It’s both marvelous and spiritual.”
Horses
The second most amazing part of the ride, besides the scenery, is probably the huge blonde Belgian horses. Strong and friendly beauties with easy-going temperaments, Belgian draft horses are the choice of the Borges family.
“We found that the Belgians had just the right temperament,” said Dianna. “Easy-going, calm and friendly. They are very social and seem to like getting their pictures taken. They love the pats they get from people and the carrots.”
Sleigh riders may meet Bert and Ernie, the smallest of the amiable horses that willingly pull sleighs and carriages for Borges. Unlike the huge blonde Belgian draft horses who weigh about 2,000 pounds, Bert and Ernie are Halflingers, smaller, 1,000 pound draft horses who pull the lighter sleighs. “Those two are regular cards," said Dianna.
Some people are concerned that the horses are overworked or doing something they are forced to do. “They love the exercise and the interaction with people," said Dianna. “Between the rides, the horses rest. It’s not many employers who allow napping on the job.”
Horsing around
The horses also have a month off in April when the sleigh rides close down and horses and equipment move back to the Borges ranch in Gardnerville, Nev.
“Everyone gets a nice rest and the horses eat and play,” said Dianna. “They miss the work, though; they are always eager to come back to the carriage rides
in the summer.”
Exercise was one of the factors in starting the sleigh rides. The first horse was Little Joe, a pony that David Borges, son of Borges Carriage Rides founders Sam and Rosie Borges, won in a raffle given by a South Lake Tahoe car dealership. As Little Joe grew, Sam Borges used him to give carriage rides for visitors during the summer. But horses need exercise all year around. “Our first sleigh was built by Sam Borges,” said daughter-in-law Dianna. “He copied it from one he saw in a Sears catalog.”
Little Joe ferried Sam and Rosie’s four children to and from school in the sleigh, much to the delight of their friends who often came along. At a suggestion from another parent, Sam approached the Park family who owned much of the Tahoe area to use one of their meadows near Stateline to offer sleigh rides for winter visitors.
Sleighs
Two person sleighs, four person, nine person and even 20 person sleighs meet just about everyone’s needs whether they are in for a romantic ride, family fun, a bachelorette party or even a bit
of corporate team building. Sip hot chocolate with a cozy blanket tucked around you and even the coldest day becomes a magical experience.
The sleighs are hand-built by the Borges or purchased from the Amish. During the spring break, they are put into perfect order by workers on the Gardnerville ranch.
Named by Romantic Travel Guide as “One of the Best Places to Kiss in Northern California,” Borges sleighs have been the location for proposals, weddings and anniversaries.
The drivers
“Our crew is our family,” said Dianna. This is the literal truth as the whole family, Sam and Rosie, their four sons, David, Dwight, Don and Dean and their grandchildren have all worked the sleigh and carriage rides. Youngest son Dwight and his wife Dianna have operated the business for many years and one of their daughters works in the office.
“Crew members start from the ground up, learning to groom and brush the horses first,” said Dianna who fell in love with Dwight during a sleigh ride and
THAI PARADISE ADVENTURES IN EATING
returned the following year to join the business and, later, marry Dwight. “For the whole first year, all I did was walk the horses.” She works in the office, but she also does reupholstering of the sleighs. “We all wear a lot of different hats and we can all do each other’s work.”
It’s a job that carries some wonderful benefits. “No corner office can compare with what we get to see daily,” said Dianna. “It’s important that both crew and horses enjoy what they do — they are more confident and they do better when they enjoy the work. I think that’s one of the reasons we’re so successful as a business. We take each other’s needs into consideration and make sure our customers have a good time.”
“The horse knows the way to carry the sleigh…” sings Dianna. “Really, they do.”
Making reservations
You can make reservations for the summer carriage rides at South Lake Tahoe or the winter sleigh rides at Sand Harbor online at sleighride.com. The summer rides are from May through October and the winter season is from November through March. Reservations are recommended although walk up rides are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Rides are weather dependent, but the sleighs are adapted for most circumtances.
For more information about Borges Sleigh Rides visit the website sleighride. com or call or text (775) 588-2953. You can also learn more about the amazing life of Borges Carriage and Sleigh Rides founder, Sam Borges, who helped to build the Tahoe Keys through the book by Dianna Borges, “Sleigh Rides in Lake Tahoe: Memoirs of Sam Borges” which can be ordered for $10 or purchased at the Borges office in Sand Harbor.
First visited by white men in 1848, Placerville was known as Dry Diggings because the gold laden dirt had to be hauled to the creek to be washed. In 1849, three men were hanged on Main Street and the town became known as Hangtown. By 1854, Hangtown had become the third largest town in California, with the increasing population came a temperance league, a Methodist Episcopal church and agitation for a less morbid name. Placerville had been suggested as early as 1850. It became official when the city was incorporated in 1854.
What is the history?
Because of fires a group met in 1853 and formed the Neptune Hose Company No. 1, a volunteer fire department to protect life and property. In spite of its preparation, 1856 brought three great fires and nine years later a Belltower was erected in the plaza to call volunteer firemen. With gold mining on the wane, things remained fairly quiet in town until 1888, when the railroad arrived. Placerville soon became the hub of business. In the 1960s, the crooked and winding two-lane Highway 50 became a fourlane freeway, making Placerville an easy drive from and to Sacramento and Lake Tahoe.
What’s unique about the area?
Today, historical Downtown Placerville offers visitors a unique place to shop and experience life in an authentic gold rush town.
H angto W n CH ristmas P ara D e
B ell to W er B y P aul C o CK rell
Experience Coloma (Gold Panning)
How did it get its name?
Coloma gets its name from a nearby Southern Maidu village called Culloma.
What’s the history?
Coloma is most noted for being the site where James W. Marshall found gold in the Sierra Nevada foothills, at Sutter’s Mill on January 24, 1848, leading to the California Gold Rush.
In 1890 Marshall was buried on a hill above the park. His statue points to the location where gold was discovered.
What’s unique about the area?
Today, countless prospectors visit the area to try their luck at gold panning.
Of particular note is the rafting industry as the South Fork American River is one of the most popular white-water trips in North America.
Experience Camino (Apple Hill)
How did it get its name?
This area, now known best for its orchards, vineyards and wineries, started in the 1860s as a lumber town when two Scottish brothers, James and John Blair built a sawmill and called the area Camino.
What’s the history?
The successors to the Blairs established a mill and drying yard in Camino and transported lumber over the South Fork of the American River by way of a unique cable tramway. Because of its excellent, fertile soils and pleasant ridge-top climate, the Camino area is known for its apple and stone fruit orchards. In the 1970s wine grape vines were introduced to the area.
What’s unique about the area?
Thousands of people now visit what is known as Apple Hill® to enjoy the fruit harvest and partake in the Christmas tradition of selecting and cutting their holiday Christmas tree.
Experience El Dorado Hills (Town Center)
How did it get its name?
The founders chose the name because the area is located in the foothills of El Dorado County.
What’s the history?
El Dorado Hills was built on land that for years was used to graze cattle and horses. To the north, Green Valley Road was the major route for people and supplies heading to the mines. Immigrants heading to the fertile soils of the valley used a road to the south, near present-day Highway 50. Both routes had numerous inns and waystations. In the 1960s the first residential development occurred, based on a village concept. El Dorado Hills includes the longest surviving section of the Lincoln Highway, the first U.S. transcontinental highway. This section passes through historic Clarksville and is the predecessor of the modern U.S. 50 route.
What’s unique about the area?
El Dorado Hills offers an exquisite upscale shopping and dining experience.
Experience Fair Play (Wineries)
How did it get its name?
The original settlement of Fair Play is attributed to two gentlemen, Charles Staples and N. Sisson, who arrived there around 1853. One day the two apparently fell into a disagreement that grew into what must have been a not-too-gentlemanly fight. The fight ended when some of the other newly arrived residents appealed to them to “play fair.” Thus, we’re told, the town became known as Fair Play.
What’s the history?
The settlement of Fair Play was a result of the discovery of gold in and along many of the nearby streams. This occurred only a few years after gold was discovered in Coloma as newly arriving miners found the good claims taken and set out to search for new, undiscovered deposits. The actual site of the town of Fair Play was about 1/2 half mile east of the southern intersection of Fairplay and Perry Creek roads, just to the north of the Fair Play cemetery. It burned in 1944 and was never rebuilt.
What’s unique about the area?
Fair Play is now known for its world class vineyards and wineries and is such a unique grape growing area that it earned its own American Viticultural Area designation: Fair Play.
Experience Georgetown (Jeepers Jamboree)
How did it get its name?
The first miners on the Georgetown Divide were a party of Oregonians arriving in 1849. A town was soon established and named George’s Town and then Georgetown after either the first miner to pitch a tent at that location, a sailor named George Phipps or a miner named George Ehrenhart.
What’s the history?
On July 14, 1852 a fire started in the Round Tent Saloon and consumed all but two buildings. It was decided to rebuild Georgetown on top of the ridge and to properly lay out the town with wide streets, including one a full 100 feet wide. After several additional fires, including one on July 7, 1856, a brick kiln was soon constructed and many of the destroyed buildings were replaced with brick structures. In the early 20th century, the mines in and around Georgetown began to close, due to the high cost of operation and the lack of cheap power. But, when the Great Depression hit in 1929 , Georgetown began to thrive again with the resurgence of mining. The town that the pioneering citizens of 1852 laid out, with its broad streets, remains today, thoroughly sprinkled with century old buildings and uncountable bits of Gold Rush history.
What’s unique about the area?
For many years the miners called Georgetown Growlersburg after the sound made by the large gold nuggets that “growled” in their pans.
Experience Pollock Pines (Sly Park Lake)
How did it get its name?
Most towns along the Mother Lode were named after early settlers who located there. However, Pollock Pines was named after the people who actually created it, Hiram Robert Pollock, his wife Anna and son Claude Earl.
What’s the history?
On April 4, 1860, at Sportsman’s Hall, William “Sam” Hamilton, the first Pony Express rider eastbound from Sacramento handed the mail to rider Warren Upson who carried it over the Sierra Nevada. Shortly after Pollock’s arrival, he built a box mill. The mill was destroyed by fire in 1932. In 1935 Pollock subdivided the land and sold building lots. They called it Pollock Pines and continued selling lots by subdividing more of the land.
What’s unique about the area?
Pollock Pines today offers commercial centers, services and recreational activities to both residents and visitors.
AMERICAN RIVER CANYON
Bridal Veil Falls
The 67-foot waterfall of Esmeralda Creek spills along the south side of Highway 50. An upper falls is not visible from the highway. There is a turnout to stop on Highway 50 and take photos next to the falls, which is at its best in the winter and spring. Many people like to swim in the summer in a quiet stretch of the South Fork of the American River just below the falls. Location: 19 miles east of Placerville
CAMERON PARK
Cameron Park Lake
Relax by the shore of Cameron Park Lake — take a refreshing walk, try fishing or wade into the lagoon at Cameron Park’s blue jewel. A large gazebo and picnic areas are available to rent and the area also includes a playground and tennis courts.
Location: 2989 Cambridge Road, Cameron Park More information: 530-677-2231; cameronpark. org/cameron_park_lake.html
CAMINO
Some of the members of the Apple Hill Growers Association have pumpkin patches with you-pick pumpkin fields open in the fall and pumpkins for sale.
Location: Farms and ranches
More information: 530-644-7692; applehill.com
EL DORADO COUNTY
Cemeteries
The county of El Dorado oversees the maintenance and operation of 19 cemeteries. However, there are more than 200 cemeteries and burial sites in the county. Most are old pioneer cemeteries and interments have not been performed in these cemeteries in many decades. In addition to the county-operated cemeteries, there are several private, fraternal and religious cemeteries and two cemeteries organized as special districts. The most
noteworthy graveyard in El Dorado County is the Pioneer Cemetery on Highway 49 in Coloma across from Monument Road. Also worth viewing is the still active Union Cemetery on Bee Street in Placerville. Here visitors will find a past editor of the Mountain Democrat and those who died in the 1903 Battle of Manzanita Hill, a shootout between Folsom Prison escapees and Company H, 2nd Regiment of the California National Guard. Historical and genealogical information on individuals buried in El Dorado County is available from the El Dorado County Historical Museum. More information: 530-621-7594
Where to go What to do
Trails
The El Dorado Trail is a multi-use trail for walkers, runners, bicyclists, equestrians and pet owners. Users might be seen on foot, bikes, horses or roller blades. Locals and visitors can enjoy a mile or 10 miles on its paved and unpaved surfaces. Section one is from Mosquito Road in Placerville to Camino Heights, section two is from Mosquito Road to Clay Street in Placerville and section three is from Missouri Flat Road to Oriental Street. The trail is maintained by the city of Placerville and the county of El Dorado with support from Friends of the El Dorado Trail.
More information: eldoradotrail.com; eldoradotrail.com/contact-us/
EL DORADO HILLS
Dry Diggings Distillery
Dry Diggings Distillery, located a couple of minutes off Highway 50, is focused on locally produced farm fruit, grains and wine for its vodka, whiskey, brandy and bourbon. The distillery’s team works with local farmers, vintners and breweries to craft spirits that represent El Dorado County. The tasting room captures the Gold Rush Era and has many unique historical elements. There are tours, tastings and a variety of items for sale. As barrels age and more products become ready for bottling the tasting room experience will change as well. The tours take visitors through the production cycle from field to glass.
Location: 5050 Robert J. Mathews Parkway, El Dorado Hills
More information: 530-313-4000; inquiry.drydiggings@gmail.com
PLACERVILLE
El Dorado County Historical Museum
Located next to the fairgrounds, the museum has innovative displays that will take visitors back in time. Visit the museum to take a tour, view the historical artifacts, or research a family ancestor, land, or building. A unique collection of local historical books is available for sale.
Location: 104 Placerville Drive, Placerville
More information: 530-621-5865
Fountain-Tallman Museum
Built in 1852 the Fountain-Tallman building was originally a soda works factory, providing flavored, carbonated water to the miners. The building survived the great fires of 1856 that effectively leveled Placerville and was the home of the Tallman family. Donated to the El Dorado County Historical Society in 1982, it now houses a large collection of Gold Rush and historical artifacts, along with a selection of books, post cards and souvenirs available for sale.
Location: 524 Main St., Placerville
More information: 530-626-0773
Preferred Lodging of El Dorado County
Hotels & Motels
HOTEL NAME PHONE
CAMERON PARK
Cameron Park Motel 6
Quality Inn And Suites
EL DORADO HILLS
Holiday Inn Express
GEORGETOWN
Rock Creek Inn
KYBURZ
Sierra Inn
PLACERVILLE
Best Western Placerville Inn
Gold Trail Motor Lodge
Historic Cary House Hotel
Mother Lode Motel
National 9 Inn
POLLOCK PINES
Best Western Stage Coach Inn
Westhaven Inn
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE
3 Peaks Resort & Beach Club
7 Seas Inn
Alder Inn
Alpenrose Inn
Alpine Inn & Spas
Ambassador Motor Lodge
Americana Village
Angora Lakes Resort
530-677-7177
530-677-2203
916-358-3100
530-333-4359
530-293-3382
530-622-9100
530-622-2906
530-622-4271
530-622-0895
530-622-3884
530-644-2029
530-644-7800
530-544-4131
530-544-7031
530-544-4485
530-544-2985
530-544-3340
530-544-6461
530-541-8022
530-541-2092
Aston Hotel Lakeland Village 530-541-7711
Avalon Lodge
Basecamp Hotel
Beach Retreat & Lodge @ Tahoe
Beverly Lodge
Big Pines Mountain House of Tahoe
Blue Jay Lodge
Blue Lake Inn
Camp Richardson Historic
Resort & Marina
Forest Suites Resort
Grand Residences by Marriott
Hansens Resort
Heavenly Inn
Hotel Becket
Inn By The Lake
Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel
Marriott’s Timber Lodge
Paradice Motel
Pinewood Inn
POSTMARC Hotel & Spa Suites
Secrets Inn
Sky Lake Lodge
Sunray Tahoe Hotel
Tahoe Beach & Ski Club
Tahoe Chalet Inn
Tahoe Lakeshore Lodge & Spa
530-544-2285
530-208-0180
530-541-6722
530-544-2857
530-541-5155
530-494-4343
530-544-6459
530-541-1801
530-541-6655
530-542-8400
530-544-3361
530-544-6767
530-544-6000
530-542-0330
530-544-5400
530-542-6600
530-544-6800
530-544-3319
530-541-4200
530-544-6767
530-544-0770
530 600-3535
530-541-6220
530-544-3311
530-541-2180
Tahoe Seasons Resort 530-541-6700
Bed & Breakfast
HOTEL
Wedding & Event Specialists
Catering
Capital Sierra Catering
Custom Catering & Event Planning
530-622-9300
capitalsierra.com
The Ring of Fire BBQ
Specializing in true southern BBQ we have 3 tiers of catering to fit every event and budget. Choose from Drop Off, Full Service or the Wedding/Special Event package. Meats including Brisket, Pulled Pork, and Santa Maria Tri-Tip are dry rubbed and gently smoked. Sides and Hors d’oeuvres choices are perfectly paired. Crowd pleasing satisfaction is served up in every bite. (916) 223-1667
theringoffirebbq.com
Beauty & Smiles
Dr. Jeff Little, DDS
You want your smile to be bright and white on your wedding day. Feel confident as the photographer snaps the photos of your special day. We offer easy and fast One Hour Zoom Bleaching. Call us to schedule your appointment.
530-626-9127
jeffl ittledds.com
344 Placerville Dr., #19, Placerville
The Look Salon
Let us help you achieve that wedding day confidence with a full array of hair, skin care and waxing services. From cuts to color & highlights your satisfaction is our top priority. You can rest assured that our experienced stylists will make you look your very best. Voted best salon 10 years in a row!
530-626-3510
thelooksalonplacerville.com
415 Placerville Drive, Ste I, Placerville
Voiteli Wellness Center
Feel and look your best on your big day by a pampering yourself with a massage, facial and infrared sauna. Other services include waxing, sugaring, permanent makeup, and brows & lashes. Offering private group spa services for your bridal party, girls day or corporate event. Call to schedule your day of self-care now.
530-303-3799
voiteliwellness.com
3916 Missouri Flat Road, Placerville
Travel
El Dorado Hills Travel
Count on the experts! 916-933-0476 www.edhtravel.com
Wedding & Event Cakes/Desserts
Sweet Pairings Bakery
All eyes will be on the bride and then they will be on the wedding cake. You can rest assured that your guests won’t be able to stop talking about it for years to come! Prefer cupcakes or a dessert bar? We can do that too. Call & book your cake tasting now. 530-903-3158
sweetpairingsbakery.com
681 Main St., Placerville
Wedding & Event Sites
The Davies Family Inn at Shadow Ridge Ranch
Imagine your dream wedding surrounded by tranquil forest and serene landscape. The rustic elegance of this 1800’s homestead offers a picture perfect setting for your special day. On site lodging will make your experience relaxing and memorable. 530-295-1000 or 530-919-4169 (cell) thedaviesfamilyinn.com
3700 Fort Jim Road, Placerville
The Green Room Social Club
Rent our space on Historic Main St. by the hour or the day. Full Venue Buyout includes bar, lounge, & stage any day or time of the week.
Partial Venue Buyout includes Semi Private Ballroom, Bar or Lounge. Complete your package with a curated menu of seasonal offerings. (530) 344-7490
clubgreenroom.com
251 Main St., Placerville
Celebrating
The Historic Cary House Hotel
A boutique hotel creating historic weddings since 1857. One location for rehearsal, wedding & reception.
300 Main Street, Placerville 530-622-4271
caryhouse.com or www.facebook.com
Roses & Acorns Creekside Weddings at Camp Nauvoo
Stunning outdoor venue situated along Weber creek featuring beautiful meadow, Amish gazebo, lodge, rustic decor and everything to make your special day perfect (available May through October). We offer all types of packages and specialize in camping weddings. 916 207-9441
Pick your picture perfect setting from The Courtyard with seating for 350 or a more intimate setting in The Glasshouse seating up to 85 or The Carriage Room with a built-in stage. No matter which space you choose, you can count on our skilled staff serving your guests a meal to remember. Call now to schedule a personal consultation. 530-621-1003
smithfl athouse.com
2021 Smith Flat Road, Placerville
Bakery
Made from scratch daily
Fresh baked pies • strudels
Caramel apples • turnovers
Apple cider donuts • fruit blossoms
Apple dumplings w/caramel sauce
Cinnamon rolls • crumb cakes & more
FULL MENU DAILY
Apple Ridge BBQ
Smoked pulled pork sandwiches
530-647-0613 • 1800 Larsen Drive, Camino exit 54
Aug. 27 thru Dec. 4
OPEN DAILY! Apple Ridge Farms
(Closed Thanksgiving Day)
Bus and RV parking available
appleridgefarms.com
Flower & Butterfly Trail
Gourmet sausage sandwich with onions/peppers • All beef hot dogs
Hamburgers • Veggie burgers
Grilled chicken sandwiches
Smoked turkey legs (Sat/Sun)
Homemade chili • Salads
French fries • Kids meals
Country Store & Fudge Shop
Homemade jams • Five pepper jelly
Apple butter • pumpkin butter
Fresh made fudge and chocolates
Fresh popped kettle corn
Frozen pies and pastries
Kitchen/Home decor •Apple peelers
Gem Mining
FAMILY FUN
Choose from a variety of mining bags filled with gems, fossils and arrowheads. Use the running sluice box to pan your ore and take home all your found treasures
Fundraisers
Available Year Round. Unbaked frozen pies or our delicious kettle corn make a great and profitable fundraiser for your group. email appleridgepies@gmail.com for more information. 20
September is the perfect time to visit our new flower trail. Thousands of flowers will be in full bloom for that perfect photo. Don’t forget to take a picture with our giant butterfly wings.
Attractions
Farm maze with photo ops- open daily
Nature trail (wear your walking shoes)
Covered seating • picnic area
Photo ops throughout the farm
PUMPKIN PATCH
Opening Saturday, September 24th
ARTISAN CRAFTERS
Visit our website for schedule
Apple Barn
Fresh picked apples -rotating varieties
Frozen pies, strudels and crumb cakes
Fresh pressed apple cider
Our own BBQ sauces
CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE filled with unique holiday and gift items
