Just over three hours from the Bay Area, Wylder Hotel Hope Valley sits in the often-overlooked Alpine County, just south of Lake Tahoe. It’s the perfect spot for your next off-the-grid family glamping vacation with cabins, campsites and yurts for families of all sizes. They just underwent some major renovations and we’ve got the scoop on what you can expect when you book your next family vacation there.
Bunk up in style.
Wylder Hotel Hope Valley has tons of different lodging options for families. From cabins that sleep up to eight people to campsites, yurts and even a vintage Spartan, you'll find something that suits your family's travel style, for sure. Cabins share outdoor spaces with hammocks, swings, picnic tables and fire pits. Enjoy your morning coffee as the sun peeks through the trees.
The cabins have everything (and we mean EVERYTHING) you'll need.
We definitely recommend that you choose one of the cabins for your family's stay at Wylder Hope Valley. They come with a totally-renovated kitchen with mini fridge, wine storage, oven, gas range and all the pots, pans, dishes and silverware you'll need. Bring your family's favorite eats with you or purchase some snacks from the on-site general store. There's even a French press and tea kettle to get your mornings off on the right foot.
Hikes for days.
Wylder Hope Valley is overwhelmingly gorgeous and you can set out on an outdoor adventure right from the property. Head up the mountain behind the property and you'll find hiking trails that turn into snowshoeing trails in the winter. You'll find wildflowers galore, rushing waterfalls and views like no other.
Bring your swimsuits and fishing poles.
Near the Wylder campground and general store you'll find access to the West Form Carson River. There's shallow water for swimming and deeper spots for fishing. The general store has all the fishing gear you'll need minus the rods (coming soon!) so if you need bait or hooks, they've got you covered. Bring your swimsuits, inner tubes and towels for an afternoon of cool relaxation.
On-site dining has options for everyone.
Make it easy on yourself and grab a meal at the on-site Sorensen's Cafe during your stay. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner (with kids' menus available), you'll definitely want to try out their famous beef burgundy stew and berry cobbler. Dine outdoors in the garden or enjoy your meal delivered to your cabin.
To-go breakfast burritos, pie and beer/wine are available at the general store. You can also take the short drive to nearby Markleeville if you want to pick up frozen pizza or other food for the kids.
Let the kids swing while you enjoy a relaxed meal.
Just above the outdoor garden dining area is this totally cool, rustic swing set that the kids will love. Send them up there while you enjoy a glass of wine in peace. Dogs are also welcome on the property in certain cabins and you can get a water bowl if Fido is joining you for dinner.
You'll find tons of nearby adventures.
We definitely recommend checking out the nearby lakes, rivers and towns during your stay in Hope Valley. Markleeville is just a 15-minute drive away. There you can enjoy the hot spring-fed pool at Grover Hot Springs State Park (be sure to book your spot before you head over as they are limiting the number of visitors).
South Lake Tahoe is just under 30 minutes away. Or head to nearby Caples Lake to rent a boat or kayaks for the day.
A great spot for a day of fishing and swimming can be found right near Wylder, just past the intersection off 88/89. Look for the small parking lot at the wildlife viewing area. You'll be able to walk along paved paths to the river where there are shady spots for picnicking, deep holes for fishing and tons of opportunities for bird watching.
Your safety is their number one concern.
Wylder Hotel Hope Valley is the perfect option for a social distance-friendly vacation for Bay Area families. Masks were worn by both employee and guests during our recent visit and social distancing protocols were in place.
Book your stay at Wylder today!
Whether you are looking for a summer vacation destination or winter spot for snowshoeing and cross country skiiing, Wylder Hotel Hope Valley is the spot for you. It's close enough of a drive to make it an easy long weekend trip from the Bay Area, but you'll feel miles away for your busy life, for sure.
Wylder Hotel Hope Valley
Hope Valley, CA
Online: wylderhotels.com
—photos and story by Kate Loweth
Editor’s note: This visit was paid for by Wylder Hotel but all the opinions belong to the writer.
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