1. Discovering Placerville’s Historic Treasures

Placerville, known for its rich history and picturesque downtown, is an ideal starting point for your weekend escape. Begin your exploration with a visit to the Placerville Downtown Association, where you can immerse yourself in the town’s vibrant atmosphere and explore local shops and eateries. Take a stroll down Historic Main Street, lined with 19th-century buildings and charming storefronts. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the El Dorado County Historical Museum to learn about the region’s Gold Rush heritage.

2. Scenic Drive: From Placerville to Big Sur

Embark on a picturesque journey from Placerville to Big Sur, tracing a route that spans diverse landscapes and scenic highways. Departing from Placerville, you’ll wind through rolling hills and past expansive vineyards of the Sierra Nevada foothills. As you venture westward, the landscape transitions into oak-studded hillsides and eventually the rugged coastline of Big Sur.

Iconic Landmarks: Big Sur is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in California, each offering unique experiences and stunning views:

• Bixby Creek Bridge: One of the most photographed bridges in California, this historic landmark offers incredible views of the rugged coastline.
• McWay Falls: Located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, this picturesque waterfall cascades directly onto the beach, creating a perfect spot for photography.
• Point Sur Lighthouse: Perched on a dramatic volcanic rock, this historic lighthouse offers guided tours that provide insights into its history and the surrounding area’s maritime heritage.

Hiking Trails: Big Sur offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to all levels of hikers:

• Ewoldsen Trail: This moderately difficult trail in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park takes you through lush redwood forests and offers breathtaking coastal views. It’s approximately 4.5 miles long and has some steep sections.
• Andrew Molera Loop Trail: A relatively easy 8.8-mile loop that meanders through meadows, beaches, and bluffs, providing a diverse hiking experience with spectacular ocean views.

Camping and Lodging: Big Sur offers a range of accommodations, from rustic campsites to luxurious lodges:

• Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park: This popular campground offers both tent and RV sites amidst redwoods, with easy access to hiking trails and the Big Sur River. Reservations are recommended well in advance.
• Glen Oaks Big Sur: For a more upscale experience, consider staying at Glen Oaks, which offers cozy cabins and cottages set in the forest, combining rustic charm with modern amenities.

3. Embracing the Majesty of Big Sur

Arriving in Big Sur, you’re greeted by dramatic cliffs and the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean. Here, adventure beckons at every turn. Take in panoramic views from the iconic 17 Mile Drive, a must-see attraction that showcases Big Sur’s breathtaking coastal scenery. Explore more about 17 mile drive tours on hikinginbigsur.com. Don’t forget to explore Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, known for its diverse marine life and scenic hiking trails.

4. Outdoor Adventures in Big Sur

For outdoor enthusiasts, Big Sur offers a plethora of activities. Hike through ancient redwood forests or along rugged coastal trails that reveal secluded beaches and stunning viewpoints. Don’t miss the chance to experience the best whale watching Monterey has to offer with guided tours that guarantee sightings of humpback whales, blue whales, and orcas

5. Cultural and Culinary Delights

After a day of exploration, unwind in Big Sur’s unique blend of cultural and culinary delights. Indulge in fresh seafood at local restaurants like Nepenthe or enjoy a picnic overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Immerse yourself in the arts scene at the Henry Miller Memorial Library, a cultural hub nestled in the redwoods that hosts literary events and concerts throughout the year.

6. Rest and Relaxation

End your day by unwinding in one of Big Sur’s charming accommodations, from cozy cabins nestled in the forest to luxurious seaside retreats. Take in the tranquility of the evening as you reflect on the natural wonders and adventures of the day. Don’t miss the opportunity to stargaze under the clear night skies of Big Sur, where minimal light pollution provides a perfect backdrop for celestial observations.

From the historical charm of Placerville to the natural splendor of Big Sur, this weekend getaway promises unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, embarking on scenic drives, or discovering the coastal treasures of Big Sur, each moment is an opportunity to reconnect with nature and create lasting memories.

Plan your next adventure from Placerville to Big Sur and experience the best of California’s diverse landscapes and cultural treasures.

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1. Monterey Bay: Whale Watching and Marine Life

Monterey Bay is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity and exceptional whale watching opportunities. Join a boat tour to witness humpback whales breaching, blue whales gliding gracefully through the waters, and pods of orcas navigating their way along the coast. The experience is not just about sightseeing; it’s about connecting with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. For detailed tour options check out these best whale watching Monterey tours.

2. Big Sur: Coastal Escapes and Redwood Groves

South of Placerville lies Big Sur, a rugged stretch of coastline where dramatic cliffs meet the Pacific Ocean. Hikers can explore a network of trails that wind through ancient redwood groves and offer breathtaking views of the coastline. For a curated experience, consider guided 17 mile drive tours reviewed by hikinginbigsur.com, which showcase the area’s natural beauty and diverse ecosystems.

3. Yosemite National Park: Granite Peaks and Waterfalls

East of Placerville, Yosemite National Park beckons with its iconic granite cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and towering sequoias. Adventure seekers can challenge themselves with hikes to famous landmarks like Half Dome or Yosemite Falls, each offering unparalleled views and a deep connection to the park’s natural splendor.

4. Lake Tahoe: Alpine Bliss Year-Round

North of Placerville, Lake Tahoe captivates visitors with its crystal-clear waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Winter enthusiasts flock to world-class ski resorts, while summer invites kayakers, paddleboarders, and beachgoers to enjoy the lake’s pristine shores. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Lake Tahoe offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities and natural beauty throughout the year.

5. Joshua Tree National Park: Desert Oasis and Dark Skies

South of Placerville, Joshua Tree National Park is a desert wonderland known for its unique Joshua Trees and surreal rock formations. Visitors can explore hiking trails that wind through the park’s distinctive landscape, perfect for photography, rock climbing, and stargazing under some of the darkest skies in Southern California.

6. Channel Islands National Park: Remote Islands and Marine Sanctuaries

Off the coast of Southern California, Channel Islands National Park awaits exploration. Accessible only by boat, these rugged islands offer pristine landscapes, diverse marine life, and opportunities for kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking. Immerse yourself in the solitude and natural beauty of this unique archipelago, often referred to as the “Galapagos of North America.”

7. Mount Shasta: Alpine Adventures in Northern California

In the northern reaches of California, Mount Shasta stands as a majestic peak offering a variety of outdoor activities amidst stunning alpine scenery. Hikers can traverse trails through old-growth forests and meadows, while climbers can challenge themselves with ascents to the summit, rewarded with panoramic views stretching across multiple states.

8. Redwood National and State Parks: Giants of the Forest

No visit to Northern California is complete without experiencing the awe-inspiring Redwood National and State Parks. Home to the tallest trees on Earth, these ancient forests invite visitors to wander among towering redwoods, explore serene river valleys, and connect with the quiet grandeur of nature’s giants.

9. Lassen Volcanic National Park: Geothermal Wonders and Scenic Trails

Located northeast of Placerville, Lassen Volcanic National Park is a lesser-known gem featuring geothermal marvels such as bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and the remarkable Lassen Peak. The park offers a variety of hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging climbs, all surrounded by diverse landscapes ranging from lush meadows to rugged volcanic terrain. Don’t miss Bumpass Hell, the largest hydrothermal area in the park, showcasing colorful hot springs and hissing vents.

10. El Dorado National Forest: Diverse Landscapes and Outdoor Recreation

Right on Placerville’s doorstep, El Dorado National Forest spans over 600,000 acres and offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and camping amidst its diverse landscapes, which include dense forests, pristine lakes, and alpine meadows. The forest is also home to the Rubicon Trail, a world-renowned off-road adventure route that attracts 4×4 enthusiasts from all over.

Each of these destinations offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities that make them worth exploring. Whether you’re drawn to the majesty of marine life in Monterey Bay, the solitude of hiking among ancient redwoods, or the adventure of summiting a volcanic peak, the natural wonders surrounding Placerville promise unforgettable experiences and a deeper connection with the natural world.

Plan your journey today and discover why these destinations are cherished by outdoor enthusiasts worldwide

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The church is Neo-Gothic Revival, a favorite style for churches built in the Mother Lode from 1850 to 1890. The architect has a real understanding of the Gothic elements that were used in the original Gothic cathedrals in Europe, but did not have European materials available to create the Gothic effect, so he used local wood.

He used the wood to make a light and elegant vaulted roof. The shape of the vaulted roof was created using scissor trusses with a long top cord. By doing this, he created the shape of a vaulted roof, and to ensure a continuous roof appearance, he placed the trusses at three feet on center. To support the trusses, a second wall was built right inside the outer wall, giving the tall windows the appearance of openings in a thick stone wall. The trusses are brought together at the top to form a four-layer vaulted roof over the Sanctuary.

As far as we understand, this type of roof structure has only been used in churches in the United States in New England and the California Mother Lode.

William Patton, architect, was an authority on the architecture of the Anglican Church and a leading architect of his time in California.

Patton was born in England in 1821 and trained in architecture. He sailed around the Horn to San Francisco in the early days of the gold rush and spent several years in the Mother Lode, after which he moved to San Francisco, where he opened an architectural office.

Patton designed many prominent buildings in Alameda and San Francisco, including parts of San Francisco City Hall, of which he was the architect. He moved to San Francisco by the time he designed the Church of Our Savior.

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History

The John Pearson Soda Works building was constructed in several stages: the previous building on this site burned down during the devastating fire that struck much of Placerville in the 1850s. Scottish immigrant John McFarland Pearson built the lower part of the building in 1859 as a commercial ice house. He chose to build in front of the shaft of an inactive mine to use underground rooms and tunnels to store ice at a controlled temperature. In addition, the walls of this section were made 22 inches (0.56 m) thick to keep the ice in the storefront cool. Pearson later expanded his soda water business; his sons added a brick second floor in 1897 for bottling. They added a water elevator to transport the product from each level. The store also sold other products such as eggs and beer.

20th century

The business changed hands several times, although the building remained in the Pearson family for some time. Pearson’s sons sold the business in 1904 to Scherrer Bros. who, in turn, sold it in 1934 to Robert Hook, who turned it into a Coca-Cola Bottling franchise.

The building was occupied by other businesses until the Pearson family sold the building in 1972 to antique collector Roger John Dover, who restored the building over four years, using the lower part as an old-fashioned soda fountain and the upper part as an elegant dining room decorated in the style of the early 20th century. Dover’s daughter successfully listed the building on the National Register of Historic Places. The building also housed a theater, an antique store, a bookstore, a music store, and the Placerville Coffee Shop before it became The Cozmic Café in 2003.

Another soda factory building nearby, the Fountain-Tallman Soda Works, is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

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History

The building was originally constructed as the Confidence Engine Company No. 1 volunteer fire department. The brigade began as the Mountaineer Engine Company on May 22, 1857, but changed its name in June after they purchased a used fire engine named “Confidence” and found they could not remove the engraving. The original engine room was damaged by fire in September 1860, and the current building was constructed in the fall of that year. The fundraising balls held by the company were very popular. In the late 1890s, the building was used for early meetings of the Placerville Seventh-day Adventist Church. The building also served as a police station, jail, and courthouse. When the El Dorado County Fair rotated venues, Confidence Hall was one of its locations in Placerville.

In 1902, the building became the Placerville City Hall. The Placerville City Library, the first public library in the county, was established on the top floor of the building in 1906. The space was used by the Placerville City Clerk’s office and was separated by a gate that opened only after the Clerk finished his work.

An adjacent structure with a wooden balcony, the Jane Stuart Building, was built in 1861 and is listed on the NRHP. Immigrant Jane Stewart financed its construction by driving a herd of horses across the Great Plains and selling them to a local dealer. The two buildings share a common wall, interior corridor, and door, and they were used as an office building for a single tenant. The buildings have an approximate area of 6360 square feet (590 m 2 ), which does not include an unfinished basement and an attic upstairs.

After the city of Placerville moved to a new city hall in 2005, the buildings, which are intended for a wide range of uses, were listed for over $1 million, but remained unsold and were re-evaluated in June 2009 for $799,000.

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The exterior of the building itself impresses with its elegance and attention to detail. A facsimile of the original fence, recreated from old photographs, adds a touch of authenticity to the image. There are many domestic plants and trees on the territory of the house, most of which are original specimens.

The most prominent element of the house is the Gothic-style stick-island dome on the roof. It can be accessed via a hanging circular staircase that leads from the front living room.

The building retains the integrity of its appearance, materials, and interior design, which is rare among late nineteenth-century homes in modern-day Placerville. It embodies the spirit of a bygone era and leaves a lasting impression on all who are fortunate enough to see it with their own eyes.

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Catch the excitement every third Saturday afternoon, between noon and 3 PM, near the iconic Bell Tower. As a cherished tradition on Main Street, Davey’s stagecoach rides offer an immersive encounter with history, transporting passengers back to the era of pioneers and prospectors.

Join in on the adventure and seize the opportunity to ride a genuine stagecoach, completely free of charge! Weather permitting, Davey’s stagecoach operates on select Saturdays throughout the year, excluding June and September. Check out the schedule below to plan your unforgettable journey:

• January 21
• February 18
• March 18
• April 15
• May 20
• No dates in June
• July 15
• August 19
• No dates in September
• October 21
• November 18
• Holidays – TBA!

A true cowboy at heart, Davey Wiser embodies the spirit of the Wild West lifestyle, sharing its essence with eager passengers. As his stagecoach traverses Stagecoach Alley, the captivating sights and sounds of galloping horses and creaking coach doors promise an unforgettable experience.

For a sneak peek into the adventure that awaits, check out Davey’s stagecoach rides on YouTube and witness the thrill firsthand. Don’t miss your chance to step back in time and create lasting memories aboard Davey’s historic stagecoach rides on Main Street.

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The iconic brick building, erected in August 1856 by Joseph Smith and I. H. Nash, bore witness to the evolution of the establishment. Initially known as I. H. Nash Hardware, it underwent several transformations, becoming Sturges and Alderson in 1882, eventually transitioning to Pioneer Hardware.

Despite changing hands six times within its first 50 years, the essence of the store remained unaltered. The original wooden floors, four rolling ladders, and the historic nail bins all stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time, preserving the charm of yesteryears.

In January 1905, McKee and Carr took over the lease from Pioneer Hardware, paving the way for the establishment of Placerville Hardware in 1907. The store flourished under the ownership of Albert and Edna Kyburz, who acquired it in 1946.

A new chapter unfolded in 1952 when George Fausel assumed ownership of Placerville Hardware. For three decades, George, alongside his brothers Elmer and Frank, steered the store toward prosperity. In 1983, David and Dan Fausel, sons of Frank, became partners, inheriting the reins from their uncle, George.

Today, the rich tradition of Placerville Hardware is upheld by David and Deanna Fausel, the current owners. Guided by a legacy spanning three generations, their eldest son, Albert, now oversees the operations of this globally renowned hardware emporium.

For six decades, the Fausel Family has remained steadfast in their commitment to preserving the heritage and integrity of Placerville Hardware, ensuring its enduring legacy for generations to come.

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Located in Placerville, Northern California, the Eddy Arboretum is a unique 100-acre area dedicated to the preservation and study of plant life. The park is surrounded by natural forests and mountain ranges, creating incredible landscapes for visitors.

The main attraction of the Edi Arboretum is its botanical collection of more than 5000 species of plants from all over the world. Here you can see various types of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants that impress with their beauty and diversity. Some of the plants are even rare and exotic, making the park attractive to botanists and nature lovers.

In addition to walking among majestic trees and shrubs, the Edi Arboretum offers a variety of activities and entertainment for visitors of all ages. There are organized guided tours, hiking, biking trails, as well as picnic and recreational areas.

The Edi Arboretum is also actively working on educational programs aimed at promoting environmental awareness and conservation of natural resources. These programs are targeted at pupils, students and the general public, encouraging support for environmental initiatives and preserving nature for future generations.

The Eddy Arboretum in Placerville, California, is not only a place for recreation, but also a special area for the conservation and study of plant life. Its beauty, diversity, and educational programs make it an important resource for nature lovers and environmentalists alike. By visiting this park, you will discover the unsurpassed beauty of nature and enrich your experience in meeting the diversity of the plant world.

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Comprised of more than 50 farms, ranches, wineries and tree farms, the Growers Association is an annual tradition for families from all over Northern California. Most apple farms are open on Labor Day weekend through December. You can find unique farming adventures and locally grown produce in their bucolic backdrops throughout the rest of the year. Christmas tree farms usually open on Thanksgiving weekend, but some will open a week before. In spring and summer, berry and lavender farms open their doors for their seasonal bounty. Wineries are open all year round.

From flowers to berries, pumpkins, and of course apples, the farms of the Apple Hill Growers Association offer a variety of pick-your-own opportunities year-round.

Much of Apple Hill’s history has been preserved. The community has worked hard to protect its history and provide the public with the opportunity to step back in time for at least one day. The visitor’s day will be filled with old-fashioned fun. Plan a picnic on the lush land surrounding these fascinating farms. Their doors are open and the producers have gone to great lengths to ensure your family has a day to remember.

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