Activities in Pinecrest

Let Your Memories Come Alive

Summer Fun

               Pinecrest Lake Resort in Pinecrest, California has  activities for all ages. In the summertime, Pinecrest Lake is proof positive that there is a child in all of us.

           The Pinecrest Lake Marina  at Pinecrest Lake, has boat rentals for fishing, kayaking, paddle boating, or partyboats to keep the whole family occupied. The marina carries some fishing supplies to keep the angler fully stocked. In addition, Pinecrest Lake Resort is home to two championship tennis courts for those aspiring to be the next superstar. Reservations for tennis can be made by calling (209)965-3411. 

            Close by, Aspen Meadow Pack Station and Kennedy Meadows offer horseback riding for families and individuals.  A new addition in 2005, The Pinecrest Hub, a bicycle rental and repair shop, has bikes, strollers, and bike trailers for people of all ages and sizes. Take a relaxing spin on a classic cruiser or mountain bike. Save time and space by renting your bike at the Pinecrest Hub. Open May-September.

           Many individuals find peace and serenity in the hiking trails which surround Pinecrest. The National Pinecrest Recreation loop, is the trail circling Pinecrest Lake. This trail is a moderate hike, possible for most individuals in fair physical condition. The trail is approx four miles and takes 1 1/2 -2 hours to complete. Make sure to bring plenty of water! Branching off of the lake trail are trails to Cleo's bath and Catfish lake. Cleo's bath is a series of natural pools along the river which feeds Pinecrest Lake. These pools are accessible from the lake trail, turn left at the sign directing you to Cleo's bath. This hike is strenuous, requires stable footwear, much climbing over rocks, and stable footing. Advisable only for those in good physical condition. Be advised that there are no facilities on the lake trail or the trail to Cleo's. This hike takes 2 1/2-3 hours in one direction from the marina. You may consider taking a boat across the lake to make the hike a little less time consuming.  The hike to Catfish lake is a little easier, and takes you to a meadow/ marsh once said to be home to catfish. Take the trail to Catfish lake past the dam, this hike will take about 45 minutes to an hour from the turn off at the lake trail. You can come back the same way you entered, or at the trail head, finish the walk around the lake. For more information and maps please contact the Forest Service.

                For those interested in a more relaxing approach, spend the day at the beach. There are quaint coves or larger beach areas within a short walk of the marina. Pick up lunch from the Pinecrest Snack Bar, serving delicious burgers and fries, don't forget to pick up your soft serve ice cream in the afternoon! Have a wonderful visit to Pinecrest.

            If your are interested in a short day trip, visit Columbia State Historic park in Columbia, California. Featuring a working blacksmith shop, candle making and hand made candy store along with other mining era shops. Open all year. Take highway 108 to Sonora, turn left onto Washington Street. Follow until Columbia exit. About 45 minutes from Pinecrest. For a more adult trip, go wine tasting in Murphy's. Our neighboring county, Calaveras is home to many up and coming wineries, such as Ironstone and Black Sheep Vineyards. Follow directions to Columbia, continue on to Murphy's.

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photo courtesy Heidi Lupo
















photo courtesy Heidi Lupo
Winter Memories

          Icicles, snowmen, rosy cheeks warm hot chocolate. Pinecrest is the place to make it all happen.

          In the winter time Pinecrest is home to Dodge Ridge, a major California ski resort. Pinecrest Lake Resort is the closest AAA approved lodging to Dodge Ridge.  Visit their website to find updates on rates and hours of operations. Discounted lift tickets for Dodge Ridge are available at Save Mart locations throughout California. Ski, Snowboard and snowshoe rentals are available at Dodge Ridge Ski Area and Heidi's Ski Shop  (209)965-3450.

                For those interested in snow play, the closest designated snow play area is Leland High Sierra Snow Play.. They are located up highway 108 approximately six miles from Pinecrest. Contact them at (209) 965-4719.

               Outdoor ice skating is available at nearby Long Barn Ice Skating rink. Hours are dependent upon the weather,      (209)586-3533.

Local Area Information

 

 
photo courtesy Michael Deason

 

 

 

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