The soft crunch of snow under your boots. The feel of tacky dirt on a mountain bike trail. The High Sierra is one of those unique places where you can enjoy winter however you want. Whether you’re climbing boulders in a t-shirt or shredding powder on the slopes, there’s always a way to experience the mountains your way. No matter what adventure you choose, though, one thing remains the same—there’s nothing like a hot drink to warm you up after a day of exploring. Here are some drinks to try and our favorite spots to sip them throughout the High Sierra.
Hinterhaus Spiced Toddy @ Hinterhaus Distilling
Arnold
Nothing says winter like a warm Toddy and Hinterhaus Distilling in Arnold, California has one you need to try. Located on Highway 4 near the High Sierra’s hidden ski resort, Bear Valley, this award-winning distillery has earned honors like ‘Best of the USA Vodka’ at the 2024 World Vodka Awards. It was also featured on the cover of American Whiskey Magazine’s January 2025 issue.
Their Toddy features the award-winning Calaveras Cask Finish Bourbon Whiskey and spiced digestif, Anorak. Not a Toddy fan? Try the Calaveras Irishman, their twist on Irish Coffee.
A Smokey ole’ Fashioned @ The Cellar Bar at Chateau du Sureau
Oakhurst
If you’re craving a touch of old-world European charm during your visit to Yosemite, a stop at the Cellar Bar at Chateau du Sureau is a must. Set on a peaceful nine-acre property amidst oak and pine forests, it feels like a French countryside estate. Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, the Cellar Bar’s most popular warm winter drink is worth the detour.
Their signature ‘Cherry Wood Old Fashioned’ is more than just a drink—it’s a multi sensory experience. Made with Buffalo Trace bourbon, a rich orange oleo, angostura bitters, and topped with cherry wood smoke, it’s served covered and released in front of you, creating a mesmerizing puff of smoke as the drink arrives.
Hot Chocolate @ CoffeeBar
Palisades Tahoe & Truckee
Heading to the slopes with the kids? Then hot chocolate isn’t just a treat—it’s a must to make the day extra special as part of your apres activities. While you sip on a single-origin espresso creation, your little ones can enjoy their own version of a craft beverage… but for kids and with cocoa! What makes this hot chocolate stand out is the use of local, award-winning Dorinda’s chocolate syrup, mixed with vanilla, your choice of milk (dairy or almond milk works best), and a sprinkle of cocoa sugar on top. It’s so good, it’ll knock your fuzzy socks off! Once you’re recharged, you can head out to explore the many adventures that North Lake Tahoe and its surrounding areas have to offer.
Sticks Coffee
Mariposa
When winter settles into the Sierra, Sticks Coffee delivers comfort in a cup. Their signature Happy Camper latte is topped with whipped cream, roasted marshmallows, chocolate, and graham cracker, capturing campfire nights and sweet mountain memories with every sip.
For something unexpected, try the Sticks Latte, infused with fennel and warm spices. Surprisingly delicious and deeply comforting, it’s earned a loyal following. Pair your drink with a fresh-baked scone, cookie, or seasonal cake, and it’s easy to see why, as food writer Ron Stern notes in his article, “Sticks Coffee is full of unexpected surprises.”
Mariposa practically runs on coffee. There are plenty of local roasters and cafes ready to serve you the perfect cup. Stop by Mariposa’s Pony Expresso for a perfectly pulled espresso, or check out Mariposa Coffee Company’s unique air roasting process, which enhances flavor, smoothness, and consistency.
Lavender Mocha @ Black Sheep Coffee Roasters
Bishop
In the High Sierra’s ‘warm winter wonderland,’ this season has every outdoor activity you can dream of. As the lower elevations start to transition into spring, a local favorite hits the scene—the Lavender Mocha at Black Sheep Coffee Roasters. With its chocolatey brown and floral notes, it’s like the snowmelt on the roadside, and it’s quickly become a must-try. Made with lavender syrup crafted from lavender blossoms, honey, and hot water, this drink is the perfect sip for the season to welcome the coming of spring! As locals say, it’s like a “hug in a mug!”
The Chip Shot @ Sierra-at-Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe
After the Caldor Fire, Sierra-at-Tahoe may look a bit different, but its spirit is still alive and shining—especially at the Corkscrew Bar. What’s a great bar without a great bartender? At Sierra, that name is Tony Dove, the “People’s Bartender.” True to form, Tony mixed up a special one-of-a-kind drink, the Chip Shot. Originally from Edgewood Golf Club, this drink is a cozy mashup of hot toddy, hot chocolate, and coffee—perfect for those chilly powder days. It’s a creative blend of Bailey’s Irish Cream, Tuaca, coffee, and house-made whipped cream. Remember this recipe so you can ask for it, even if the menu doesn’t say it. To dive into more of the south shore’s dining experiences, explore Visit Lake Tahoe’s dining page.
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