There’s something about winter that rekindles the romance in everyone’s heart. Maybe it’s the fast-paced holidays are long gone. Or that the chilly evenings make you want to cozy up with your partner under a blanket. And if you need a reason for romance, Valentine’s Day is fast approaching. To help you create the perfect romantic getaway, here’s a few Valentine’s Day trip ideas for you.
Bishop
The cozy town of Bishop and its big backyard is the perfect Valentine’s getaway for those that can’t decide if they want to be in the snow or in a t-shirt strolling through scenic vistas. You and your loved ones are the central characters of a choose your own adventure book when visiting Bishop in the winter. Enjoy casting a fishing line in the Lower Owens River. Take on complex bouldering routes. Or just soak away the stresses of life at Keough’s Hot Springs. Then finish it off with some of the finest dining in the Eastern Sierra at Convict Lake Resort. It’s truly A Smorgasbord Of Love On Valentine’s Day In Bishop.
Lake Tahoe
Jewels and romance go together like peanut butter and jelly. And there isn’t a finer jewel then the Sierra’s crowning one – Lake Tahoe. Surrounded by alabaster white peaks and the cobalt waters of Big Blue, it’s like being in a real-life postcard. Go snowshoeing along the shore or anywhere in the basin. Cozy on up by a roaring fire as you sip on a hot toddy or hot cocoa. Toast to the two of you in style at the exclusive après spot Tōst at Northstar California Resort. Or sample the abundant cuisine options by reserving a Valentine’s dinner at iconic romantic spots such as Evans American Gourmet Café or Friday’s Station at the top of Harrah’s Lake Tahoe. This is but a drop in the deep waters of Lake Tahoe of how you and your loved one can connect on your Valentine’s Day getaway.
Truckee
Located a stone’s throw from the shores of Lake Tahoe, you’ll find the enchanting town of Truckee. In addition to hitting the slopes, there’s a lot to see, do, and enjoy with your significant other on Valentine’s Day. Start the day off right with a finely crafted cappuccino at CoffeeBar. Depending on your mood, book a couple’s massage or bring out your inner child and go sledding. Finally, finish the day off on a pair of snowshoes for a guided sunset tour with Tahoe Adventure Company. It wouldn’t be Cupid’s Day without a dinner out. Splurge a little and enjoy the award-winning menu by chef Jacob Burton at Stella’s. And the best part? All of these places are part of Truckee’s Sustainable gift card meaning you can be romantic AND help the community as well as the environment.
Yosemite
Visitors may flock to Yosemite National Park in the summer, but winter might be the best kept secret on when to visit. As snow blankets the upper elevations and occasionally the valley itself, it transforms the landscape into an intimate winter wonderland especially around Valentine’s Day. Pick from a variety of dining options from artisanal brick-oven pizzas to barbecue classics at Tenaya at Yosemite or a mouthwatering meal at Fredericks’s of Savourys. Take in the unique seasonal sights such as the Snow Cone on Upper Yosemite Falls. Lace up a pair of skates and enjoy the near century old tradition of gliding on the rink at Curry Village. The experience is complete with striking views of Half Dome. These romantic ideas in Yosemite for Valentine’s Day are perfect not just for this one day but the entire season.
Arnold
Those seeking a quiet slice of the High Sierra, consider a Valentine’s getaway to the town of Arnold. A perfect basecamp to experience what Calaveras County has to offer. Take in the location where European settlers first discovered the mighty giant Sequoia trees on a pair of snowshoes or cross-country skis. Head up higher to Ebbetts Pass for a guided snowmobile adventure or get your powder fix at Bear Valley Resort. Venture into the foothills and peruse the shops in the quaint town of Copper Valley. After a nice hike, spend the afternoon wine tasting the award-winning bounty from the region in Murphys. And finish it off with dinner at Sarafina’s Italian Kitchen where you can walk back to your lodging at the Arnold Black Bear Inn.
Benton Hot Springs
For an out-of-the box Valentine’s Day, Benton Hot Springs is paradise. In its heyday in the late 19th century, as many as 5,000 residents lived here. Back then, it connected visitors to the boomtowns of Aurora and Bodie. Today, it’s primary attraction is the Inn at Benton Hot Springs. Stay in one of their rooms furnished in the luxurious style of the Gold Rush era. Or, setup camp right next to one of the eleven hot tubs filled with hot natural mineral waters.
Don’t miss out on a stroll through the past on a self-guided Historic Benton walking tour. Bring your road bike to enjoy arguably one of the best road biking routes in the country – Benton Crossing Road. This 30-mile undulating smooth piece of pavement provides unobstructed views of the Eastern Sierra. And if the weather allows, take the backroads of Chidago Canyon providing a close-up view of unique rock formations and White Mountains in the distance.
The High Sierra might be known for its adventurous spirit, but as you can see, it also has a romantic soul at its core.
Author: Alex Silgalis
Alex founded Local Freshies® in 2014 to be the #1 website providing the “local scoop” on where to eat, drink & play in mountain towns throughout North America. When he’s not writing and executing marketing strategies for small businesses & agencies, he’s in search of the deepest snow in the winter and tackiest dirt in the summer.
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