The Sierra Nevada House has its roots in the early gold mining days, when John Sutter first built a small fort where the Sacramento and American Rivers meet. The year was 1839, and the Sierra Nevada Mountains were considered a wild area, and the home of the Miwok and Maidu Indians. John Sutter was a Swiss pioneer who would change the history of the area with his discovery of gold.
With that discovery, mining towns and mining claims sprang up quickly, covering the foothills of the Sierra Nevadas. By 1848, nearly 4000 people lived in the area, and with the influx of people came the inevitable businesses, both good and bad. Along with stately banks and fine hotels came the saloons and brothels. The residents of Coloma Valley needed to live and also needed to be entertained.
One of the finest hotels built in the area was the Sierra Nevada House. It was located next to the Wells Fargo Depot and just down the river from Sutter’s Mill. Many people stayed at the Sierra Nevada House, including miners and tradesmen. It was owned and operated by a businessman named Robert Chalmers. The hotel was destroyed by fire in 1902. When it was rebuilt, it was used as a silent movie house, and a community hall. In 1925, it was again destroyed by fire. However, it was again rebuilt and has been restored to its original glory as a genuine piece of the historic Old West.
Today, the Sierra Nevada House is a beautifully restored lodge and restaurant. It is found in Coloma, at the corner of Lotus Road and Highway 49. The attractive and unique accommodations provide a romantic getaway in one of their six well-appointed rooms, which include a bridal suite. Each room has history attached to it. The rooms are reasonably priced, beginning at $89.00 a night.
There are several choices for dining, including the restaurant, Buford’s Bar and the River Café. Each one offers great choices, and the bar has an authentic Old West feel. Hours are Wednesday through Sunday from noon to closing, with dinner served at five.
There are many things to do in this area of the Sierra Nevada foothills. Visitors can tour several local wineries, to taste great wines and learn about the wine making process. There are local historical sites to visit, and include interesting museums and sites about the California Gold Rush, as well as Native American history. For visitors that want to enjoy the great outdoors, there are miles of footpaths, enchanting picnic spots and river kayaking adventures.
The Sierra Nevada House is the perfect weekend getaway. El Dorado County offers plenty of things to do and see, and the accommodations at the Sierra Nevada House make it the prefect place to find a little peace and quiet and learn about a slice of California history.
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