Activities & Recreation

Wine Tasting & Local Vineyards

The rolling hills immediately east of Coloma are home to over 20 fine and distinctive wineries. Meet the winemakers and sample their award-winning wines. Most wineries have picnic areas and areopen 7 days a week for tours and tasting. Maps are available at the Inn.

Whitewater Rafting

One of the nation's most popular rivers for white water rafting, the South Fork of the American River, flows right past Coloma. Ideal for beginners and intermediates, this Class III river offers both excitement and challenge as you enjoy the spectacular scenery along either the Upper of Lower Gorge runs. Both are full day activities and include a picnic lunch at the river's edge.

Nature Hikes

Day hikes are plentiful within the State Park. The Monroe Ridge Trail features vistas of the historic towns of Coloma and Lotus. The shorter Monument Trail meanders through oaks and pines to the Marshall Monument and picnic area. The American River Nature Center, 1/2 block from the Inn, offers natural history programs, exhibits and guided tours. Coloma is known for excellent wildlife viewing, and field guides and binoculars are available for our guests.

History

The Inn is surrounded by the 300-acre Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park. It was here in 1848 at Sutter's Mill that James Marshall initiated the Gold Rush with the single sentence, "Boys, I believe I've found gold!" By 1852 Coloma was a town of 12,000 miners and merchants. Today you can visit the blacksmith, gunsmith, the old school house, the Chinese store, stamp mills and the excellent gold rush museum.

Gardens

The natural beauty of the Coloma Valley can be experienced right on the historic grounds of the Inn. Wonderful old fruit trees such as persimmon, apple, pear, and cherry all offer spring blossoms as well as beautiful Fall color. Lush vines cover the pergola overlooking the pond and provides the ideal spot for a cup of morning coffee. The rose garden is a mix of both heritage and hybrid varieties. And don't miss the lilac hedge in spring!

Antiques

Eight miles from Coloma, the historic town of Placerville (old Hangtown) offers a Main Street haven for antique collectors and browsers. From Gold Rush collectibles to fine Victorian furniture, these shops are known for their small-town prices. A sprinkle of coffee houses, book stores and art galleries round out an afternoon on Main Street.