Unique things to do in Sierra Nevada
AIRBNB EXPERIENCES

Unique things to do in Sierra Nevada

Book unforgettable activities hosted by locals on Airbnb.

Top-rated activities

Experience Llamas
We strive to integrate the natural wisdom of the llama with the cultural heritage of this intelligent creature by relating knowledge of the Andean cosmology and the Andean spiritual path. Here you will have the opportunity to meet, greet, interact with and communicate with our specially trained llama friends. This Experience is about llamas for wellness and educational proposes. We do believe in llamas as healers and messengers of Mother Nature (Pachamama). We want you to experience their medicine and help us on their training too. Safety is always top priority for guests and the llamas, so our program will be different on a winter day after a rainy week than it will be on a hot August afternoon. Please wear comfortable shoes and country clothing. We will put you into situations where you will be able to understand who these llamas are, personally discovering the different personalities that make up our herd. Other things to note We will introduce you to our "Speechless Brothers". Be prepared to learn all about llamas. They are smart, clean and personable. Let them know you are as well.
Intimately experience a biodiverse farm
We'll start by foraging through the farm to make a diverse "goat salad." We'll walk through the garden, stop to admire the beehives, and then feed and pet our mini horses, adorable Babydoll sheep, and silly goats. Once our animals have had their salads, The Farmhouse Kitchen at The Nest Box (MEHKO permit #PT0501239) will treat you to a light seasonal farm picnic. Following your fresh farm treats, we'll step in with the chickens and ducks. We'll feed them organic hen scratch and farm greens, if available. We'll watch them happily scratch around and quack and coo, and you can hold and pet them if you’d like too. While they’re scratching around, we’ll step into the coops to check for eggs, then we'll visit with our rambunctious pigs and Harper, our sweet Jersey cow. We'll finish our experience with a calm and relaxing visit with our bunnies and guinea pigs. We'll feed and pet these sweet and soft fur balls. All along the experience, you will learn fun facts about our diverse plant and animal family, and you’ll leave with a seasonal farm gift. Other things to note: Wear comfortable closed-toed walking shoes and clothes you don't mind possibly getting a bit dirty. Boots and long pants are ideal. *Great for teams and team-building too!
Gold Panning Crystal Sift@Real Gold Mine
Thanks for looking at my listing! We will meet at my gem and mineral shop Yosemite Crystals in downtown Mariposa, and then caravan (drive your own car about 4.5 miles to my private patented gold rush mine/private property. The creek is located very close to the entrance of the property. No hiking Some years our spring-fed creek runs year round. Other years when the creek dries up (as do most california creeks which are seasonal) we bring the river to you by running the same sluice boxes with pumps in water troughs. Crystals are in the creek and you KEEP WHAT YOU FIND GOLD/CRYSTALS!!!! We even give u a gold vial to keep your gold in! Part of the reason i have almost 200 five star reviews is because my goal is 100 transparency and satisfaction! We supply all the tools and pans and you get to keep all the gold you find! My goal is to teach you how to prospect/pan/hrlp you find amazing crystals in the creek.. so you can go off and be able to find gold anywhere. For many this is a bucket-list experience and I get that too...I always tell people that I wish I was able to learn how to pan for gold on a real gold mine in gold country! I love meeting new people and look forward to meeting your group for the 2 HOUR TOUR! Feel free to contact me with questions before booking! Daniel
Set Sail on Lake Tahoe - Private
We can go sailing on my 25 foot sailboat to my favorite spots! This experience is for 3 hours. Our typical sail is Valhalla (South Lake Tahoe) to Emerald Bay, and back. We can sail to the emerald bay where you can view the vikingsholm and the teahouse on top of fannette island from the sailboat. Very comfortable! This is a private sailing experience for you, meaning you will have the entire boat to your party. Have as much fun as you want! Sailing etiquette highly supports tipping the skipper! Come onboard for an awesome experience! Other things to note: Weather and wind permitting: if there are thunder storms or strong winds, we can not sail. (Which you will be 100% refunded) Safety First! Your experience includes unlimited beverages, alcoholic and nonalcoholic! If you’d like to tell me your preferences after booking, I’ll make sure there’s plenty on ice. (Please please please do not wait until the last minute or the day before the experience to tell me your drink preferences!) A charcuterie board is available for an additional $20. You are also more than welcome to bring anything you would like to eat or a drink on board. Please no stepping on the cushions! Please No Spray sunscreen onboard. (Spray sunscreen coats the fiberglass decks and cushions, making it very slippery and dangerous) Pets are not allowed onboard due to safety reasons.
Walking Ancient Pathways
Join us as we explore ancient Native American trails, camps, and villages, and search for new, previously undiscovered sites. We will be hiking a mostly-level 3-5 mile trip, navigating the low altitude grasslands of the Sierra Nevada foothills near Cool, California. The trip leader will discuss the history and natural world of this area, sharing his knowledge of the local Native Americans, as well as the flora, fauna, and geology of the area. Our trip will also explore new areas, if desired, in search for previously unknown, undocumented cultural resources. Any new sites will be passed along to the North Central Information Center for historical preservation. This is your chance to find history! After the hike, participants will receive a detailed map and photos, if desired, from the trip. This is a kid-friendly, dog-friendly walk, so plan on taking your time! Other things to note This is a hike in the mountains, so plan accordingly. We will be hiking off the trail, so be sure you're comfortable doing so. To stay on the trail is to limit yourself.

Loved by locals

Party with the animals at Bluebird Farm
At Bluebird Farm we offer an intimate family-friendly experience for all ages. When you arrive we will say hello, go over the farm rules, give a quick tour of the property and amenities then the fun begins. There's no strict timeline, you can enjoy the 3 hours at your own pace. You can meet all the animals like our alpaca, Scottish Highland cows and calf, horses, goats, mini horses and mini donkeys. We have a small critter corner where you can hang with a bunny, ducks, a tortoise, guinea pigs and chickens. Mini horse rides are available for kids (75lb weight limit) and a hayride is available for everyone! ***mini horse rides and hay ride NOT included on discounted weekday tours*** Kids can roam and use their imagination at the outdoor play area. There's a mini farmers market, play house, flower shop, garage with power wheels, mini garden, mud kitchen, sandbox and swings. Make sure to bring your own lunch and snacks. Between the activities you can sit down at the picnic tables and enjoy your lunch under the oak trees. There's an outdoor hand washing station and bathroom available. We ask you please wash your hands before and after petting and feeding the animals.
Social Gathering of Special Needs- Full experience
My inclusive experience is focused on creating awareness on how to spend a quality time with individual with special needs and their families. My experience consists of activities designed to encourage development of vocational skills such as cooking and cleaning, as well as develop other practical skills including social, daily living and functional skills. Check-in and prepare for a snack while we wait for everybody to arrive. We will prepare small snacks for throughout the day, and then will setup the table, which includes arranging placemats, plates, cups for water, spoons, etc. Participants will then rinse their dishes and silverware, load the dishwasher, and clean up. We will then participate in a mindfulness activity such as meditation or yoga. We will eat our snack and prepare for dinner which includes measuring and proportioning ingredients, washing and cutting fruits and vegetables, then rinsing dishes and silverware, loading the dishwasher, and cleaning up. While dinner is cooking, we will participate in a guided group activity outside, weather permitting. To end the day, we talk about our experiences before we part ways.
Back-to-Eden Farm & Animal Experience
We will meet at the drive-way and proceed to: 1. Visit with our adorable goats, pet, let them nibble from your hand and take them on a little walk. 2. Visit and feed the cows, be surprised by how their tongue feels when they take the hay off your hand and perhaps watch their calves nurse (seasonal) 3. Visit with our talkative geese and photoshoot with "Good Boy" our handsome male goose (depending on his mood) 4. Visit and feed our beautiful variety chickens and collect eggs. (chicks-seasonal) 5. Visit and feed the ducks, watch them swim and frolic play 6. Visit with our soft and gentle rabbits and cuddle them. 7. Visit with our adorable young and gentle alpacas We do birthday/baby shower parties...etc here as well as homestay here as well: For stay at our guest houses after the tour: https://airbnb.com/h/back-to-eden-guest-house https://airbnb.com/h/havilahland-guest-house
Intuitive Energy Healing Beside a Gorgeous Lake
You will experience an intuitive energy healing session that incorporates Reiki, chakra balancing, guided imagery, sound healing with a Tibetan singing bowl, and receive a personalized message intuited from your energy body and auric field Come with an open heart, open mind and and be ready for a high-vibe experience! We'll meet at Folsom lake and walk about 5-10 mins to be near the water. If you have limited mobility issues please feel free to contact me to discuss if we can meet at a different location with less walking Please bring: A blanket, towel, or yoga mat for sitting on the ground. Or if you prefer, bring a folding chair Sunscreen and/or a hat Water Wear comfortable shoes for walking to our spot **Please note, rain cancels the event**
Paint & Sip at Cool River Pizza in Rocklin
You will walk into the restaurant where the painting party is being held and will be directed to our art space. The table will be set with everything you need to create your masterpiece: tabletop easel, brushes, water cup, palette of paints, and an apron to protect your clothing. You will meet your talented instructor, who will make you feel at ease and welcome at this venue! Guests can order drinks, appetizers, and even a full meal to enjoy during the class from our excellent wait-staff at the venue. Once settled in your prime painting position, class will begin. Our master Artist will walk you through the steps of the painting from beginning to end. You will start with the background, working from the top of the canvas down. Then you will add in your foreground subject matter. We will offer tips and tricks for your color-mixing, blending, and brushstroke techniques throughout the class. Finally you will add in finishing touches and details, and sign your one-of-a-kind masterpiece. At the end of class, we will take photos of you & your group for an added memory of your fun time with Painting & Vino! No experience necessary! Just come willing to try something new and have a great time! We will be using Acrylic paint, this can stain clothing, Aprons are provided. *Wine is not included in ticket price.

All activities near Sierra Nevada

Blossom Peak Ranch Experience
Come join us for a unique and interactive farm tour experience. Guest will have the opportunity to meet and interact with rescue animals on our farm. We are located in the quaint town of Three Rivers California, just a few minutes from Sequoia National Park. Take a break from a day of hiking or fishing and enjoy the peace, quiet, and lots of relaxing cuddles. Guests will be given ample time to pet, feed and interact with our friendly animals in a beautiful, scenic setting at the foot of Blossom Peak. We have many horses that would love a grooming and treats. Pet and hold our friendly chickens. Our goats love attention and will enjoy a little play time or just a few cuddles and treats. We even have cows that loves a scratch behind the ears or to sit in your lap. Occasionally, we have baby animals that might need bottle feeding or extra care (Currently have bottle baby goats!! 02/24). We hope you leave with lots of pictures, smiles, and a love for our animals. We do our best to make this experience as enjoyable as possible for all ages! All proceeds go directly to our animals care. Please think twice before booking if you do not enjoy close encounters with animals. We have a hand washing station for the end of your visit. No restrooms available. No pets. Closed toe shoes required. Horseback riding on property available upon request.
Private Tour of Sequoia National Park
TOUR PRICE COVERS YOUR WHOLE GROUP - Book for "one" but feel free to bring up to 9 additional participants on your private tour Explore the Giant Forest grove of Sequoias with your own private guide! Visit General Sherman, the largest tree in the world, and then step away from the crowds and let your curiosity run free at Crescent Meadow in Sequoia National Park. On the way, pass through famous Tunnel Log. Finish the day on the top of Moro Rock for an incredible view! Tour destinations and mileage can be adapted to meet the needs of your group. This moderate, family-friendly hike will reward you with the jaw-dropping sights and lasting inspiration to make your National Park adventure a memorable success. Bring your own lunch and drinking water. Your guide will bring the local knowledge to enrich the experience and the route expertise so all you have to do is relax! Tour includes access to binoculars, field guide, first-aid kit, guide certified in wilderness first-aid, trekking poles upon request and pre-trip advise to help make your trip seamless. What if the weather is bad? The weather changes rapidly in Sequoia and Kings Canyon, so come prepared for a wide variety of conditions and be ready to hit the trail if you're up for it! However if weather, road or trail conditions prevent us from exploring safely we will change plans.
Party with the animals at Bluebird Farm
At Bluebird Farm we offer an intimate family-friendly experience for all ages. When you arrive we will say hello, go over the farm rules, give a quick tour of the property and amenities then the fun begins. There's no strict timeline, you can enjoy the 3 hours at your own pace. You can meet all the animals like our alpaca, Scottish Highland cows and calf, horses, goats, mini horses and mini donkeys. We have a small critter corner where you can hang with a bunny, ducks, a tortoise, guinea pigs and chickens. Mini horse rides are available for kids (75lb weight limit) and a hayride is available for everyone! ***mini horse rides and hay ride NOT included on discounted weekday tours*** Kids can roam and use their imagination at the outdoor play area. There's a mini farmers market, play house, flower shop, garage with power wheels, mini garden, mud kitchen, sandbox and swings. Make sure to bring your own lunch and snacks. Between the activities you can sit down at the picnic tables and enjoy your lunch under the oak trees. There's an outdoor hand washing station and bathroom available. We ask you please wash your hands before and after petting and feeding the animals.
Taste Lake Tahoe with Private Chef Lily
Enjoy your very own private chef experience at your place! Learn the secrets hidden within each dish, and enjoy a delicious multi-course meal. Get ready to discover the taste of Lake Tahoe without leaving your own dining room! I will arrive 90 minutes before your preferred dining time in order to begin working my magic. I won't arrive empty-handed! No-no, I will show up at your doorstep equipped with every ingredient needed in order to prepare your meal. Eat, share, drink, laugh, and explore Lake Tahoe's dining scene from your own table. Oh and don’t worry about tidying up, everything will be left spotless for you to continue to enjoy! My menus are an exhibition of my life as a chef mixed with my heritage and my passion for fresh ingredients! To have a closer look at my menus, send me a direct message and I will send them your way! Please note that to book an experience there is a minimum of 2 guests required.
Private sound healing journey into tranquility & bliss
Take a time out from the hustle and gift your mind-body-spirit with a sonic tune-up. In this private session we will come together in my sanctuary space and sink into deep relaxation with multi-dimensional healing tones. I use many instruments, such as planetary gongs, crystal singing bowls, Tibetan singing bowls, drums, rattles, chimes, pyramids, nature sounds, tuning forks and voice. There is nothing to do but show up and receive. Sound healing is an ancient practice that transmits vibrational patterns to entrain the body's frequencies into a more coherent state, transmuting those that are not in our highest health. Healing can occur on a cellular level: structuring internal waters, moving stagnant energy, balancing brain hemispheres, aligning chakra centers, calming anxiety, quieting the monkey mind - all providing better sleep and more vitality. We enter into a journey deep within and a state of awareness that lifts resistance to healing that we might be subconsciously carrying. As I play, I integrate loving intention, reiki healing energy and light language. The session will close with warm tea to ground you. You'll leave feeling recalibrated, rejuvenated and blissed out. It's truly a unique and powerful experience. Dates / times are flexible, so if you'd like to adjust the time or request a date that you don't see here, I may be able to accommodate.
Fly Fishing for Beginners
Join Robert our talented fishing instructor as he takes you through the beginning lessons of Fly Fishing in the Sierra Nevadas. Located on the shore of Bass Lake, California. Our class starts off with a few stories leading into our beginning lessons. Lessons include equipment breakdown, knot knowledge, two different casting techniques, how to hook a fish and fishing ecology. After the lessons are complete we will begin to apply them to the water. This class is not a guide service. Fishing license is required to fish on bass lake but class does not require a Fishing Licenses. Fishing licenses are available online and at a few local shops in area.
Central Coast Scenery and Secret Spots
Experience some of the best scenery and secret spots of the Central Coast so often missed by the unguided visitor. The coast north of Cambria has over 9,000 years of human history(!). We will start by considering and honoring this earliest human history at a little-known neighborhood Native grinding rock. Locals pass this spot daily with no knowledge of this "secret spot". We'll then "convoy" drive up the coast looking for wildlife including sea otters, harbor seals, elephants seals, elk, raptors, and perhaps a glimpse of coyotes, wild pig, bobcat and even some zebra! We'll park at the trail head of your choice and I'll lead a 60- 90 minute hike for you: Hike 1 - a mellow waltz at the elephant seal lookout with amazing coastal views of marine life and Piedras Blancas Lighthouse. Hike 2 - A "secret beach" hike. Just 300 yards down a dirt path lies one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Big Sur, and we'll likely have it to ourselves... Hike 3 - Spectacular "hidden" scenic overlook with spectacular beachscapes and classic Big Sur mountain views. Hike 4 - A HARD Big Sur hill climb, 1 hour straight up into the mountains culminating with an amazing coastal and mountain view and a 500+ year old native grinding rock. After hike we'll drive back to Cambria spotting more wildlife - recommendations for restaurants, and further travel plans gladly provided!
Hike to Breathtaking Views Over Cayucos
We will start at the bottom of the hill, before entering private property. The land owner is VERY friendly and loves sharing his property with people that can enjoy and respect his land. I will guide you on the hike while talking about my knowledge of the area. The views from the top are the best aerial view of the town. I can also be your personal photographer and carry your water and snack. I will carry a backpack and bring some extra drinking water. I also carry a limited amount of security and first aid supplies, just in case. PLEASE MESSAGE ME IF IT SAYS THE DATE IS UNAVAILABLE. I MAY BE ABLE TO CORRECT THE CALENDAR. I often bring my 5 year old son who can hike this hill faster than most of us. He is very well behaved and won’t slow us down. (Most of my reviews are actually about him.) Other things to note: Remember that we will be in the wilderness. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and I usually wear long pants. Please check the weather forecast before booking. Sometimes it’s windy, sometimes it’s foggy but still a good hike. Hike is rain dependent and I will refund for rain if requested (not wind or fog) although I am happy to hike in the rain as well. While this technically private property, it's known to locals so there's always a chance we may see 1 or 2 other people up there.
Gourmet Picnic Experience
Our location places in the white oak lined fields of Ahwahnee Regional Park in Ahwahnee, California. With a beautiful California Sierra Nevadas in the back drop we provide the ultimate gourmet picnic experience. Chef Robert's menu paints a culinary journey which includes our artisan cheese plate, seasonal tea sandwiches and seasonal fruit pastry. Our seasonally inspired dishes are sourced from the greatest central California farmers markets and local producers. Our unique picnic experience setting conducts our guests to feel elegant, comfortable and relaxed. This experience is great for traveling groups celebrating birthdays, engagements or perfect for a romantic getaways. *Special menus are available for any dietary needs. *Guest are welcome to bring additional food and beverages if needed. Once you arrive your only job is to relax, have fun and leave with wonderful memories of the beautiful Ahwahnee area
Enjoy Lake Tahoe with Private Chef Chris
Enjoy your very own private chef experience at your place! Learn the secrets hidden within each dish, and enjoy a delicious multi-course meal. Get ready to discover the taste of Lake Tahoe without leaving your own dining room! I will arrive 90 minutes before your preferred dining time in order to begin working my magic. I won't arrive empty-handed! No-no, I will show up at your doorstep equipped with every ingredient needed in order to prepare your meal. Feel free to put your apron on and cook some of the dishes with me! I am eager to share with you the secrets behind my recipes and Lake Tahoe local hidden treasures. Not in the mood? Well then lay down, relax, enjoy a few appetizers and allow me and my team to take care of you. Eat, share, drink, laugh, and explore Lake Tahoe dining scene from your own table. Oh and don’t worry about tidying up, everything will be left spotless for you to continue to enjoy! To have a closer look at my menus check out the What's Included section below. Take advantage of our group discounts! ★ 15% OFF — groups from 4 to 5 guests ★ 20% OFF — groups of +6 guests Please note that to book an experience there is a minimum of 2 guests required.
Paint & Sip at Back Forty Texas BBQ
You will walk into the restaurant where the painting party is being held and will be directed to our art space. The table will be set with everything you need to create your masterpiece: tabletop easel, brushes, water cup, palette of paints, and an apron to protect your clothing. You will meet your talented instructor, who will make you feel at ease and welcome at this venue! Guests can order drinks, appetizers, and even a full meal to enjoy during the class from our excellent wait-staff at the venue. Once settled in your prime painting position, class will begin. Our master Artist will walk you through the steps of the painting from beginning to end. You will start with the background, working from the top of the canvas down. Then you will add in your foreground subject matter. We will offer tips and tricks for your color-mixing, blending, and brushstroke techniques throughout the class. Finally you will add in finishing touches and details, and sign your one-of-a-kind masterpiece. At the end of class, we will take photos of you & your group for an added memory of your fun time with Painting & Vino! No experience necessary! Just come willing to try something new and have a great time! We will be using Acrylic paint, this can stain clothing, Aprons are provided. *Wine is not included in ticket price.
Magical Story Wine Tasting Experience in Amador
We are Story Winery, located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Our winery consists of an 1865 former gold miner bunk/treehouse turned tasting room. It is surrounded by old and beautiful vineyards, planted in 1894, and the thing we are known for other than our award-winning wines, the awe-inspiring canyon views is something your heart will not easily forget. You are welcome to bring a picnic-style lunch and enjoy it with some of our award-winning wine. Other than our ancient/old vines, we also have been noted in various press releases such as Sacramento Magazine for utilizing the ancient UNESCO recognized Georgian Claypot (Qvevri) Method of winemaking used for 8,000 years in the Republic of Georgia where the owner originally hails from. On top of rare Georgian grape varietals, and high-quality local varietals being made in the Oldworld Qvevri method, Story features more than 20 other local varietals (many of them award winners) Amador is famous for, such as old-vine zinfandels, barbera, syrah, and much more! We can't wait to host you so come check out Story Winery and write your own magical story!
Birdwatching Adventure - Cosumnes River
Join me and explore the unique birds that call California home! Whether you are new to birding or it is one of your biggest passions, I can help you find these interesting and beautiful creatures, but also teach you about the life histories, needs, and conservation efforts along the way. Our morning excursion begins in riparian and primarily wooded habitat for passerines and migrant bird species, with a mid-morning snack break, then on to managed wetlands and open fields, where we'll look for hawks, grassland birds, and waterfowl. This will give us a broad picture of the bird species found on this beautiful preserve. As part of my commitment to conservation, I will donate $10 per person of your fee to a carbon offset company. This will not be a strenuous morning, but please come prepared to walk 1.5 miles on flat walkways. I will have bird identification books. Don't forget your binoculars!
Social Gathering of Special Needs- Full experience
My inclusive experience is focused on creating awareness on how to spend a quality time with individual with special needs and their families. My experience consists of activities designed to encourage development of vocational skills such as cooking and cleaning, as well as develop other practical skills including social, daily living and functional skills. Check-in and prepare for a snack while we wait for everybody to arrive. We will prepare small snacks for throughout the day, and then will setup the table, which includes arranging placemats, plates, cups for water, spoons, etc. Participants will then rinse their dishes and silverware, load the dishwasher, and clean up. We will then participate in a mindfulness activity such as meditation or yoga. We will eat our snack and prepare for dinner which includes measuring and proportioning ingredients, washing and cutting fruits and vegetables, then rinsing dishes and silverware, loading the dishwasher, and cleaning up. While dinner is cooking, we will participate in a guided group activity outside, weather permitting. To end the day, we talk about our experiences before we part ways.
Wine Country Sightseeing Ride
Explore the lush wine country of Paso Robles in a new, exciting way on this unique tour in a vintage sidecar. Hop aboard at Cass Winery and begin your Paso Robles scenic adventure. Cruise through the winecountry and soak up its charm and small town vibe. Take in the lively nature as you learn more about this prosperous wine region. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture on this family-friendly tour that lets you take in the rolling hills covered in vineyards. Enjoy visiting sites such as Scuptera Wine Estates (Sculpterra features a fine portfolio of ultra-premium wines and fine art with an exquisite sculpture garden mural) before returning to the Cass Winery at the end of your tour.