Digital Guidebook
Check-in is available from 4:00 PM.
Please check out by 11:00 AM.
We use a smart lock for contactless check-in. You'll receive your unique door code 24 hours before your arrival via email and text message.
Free parking is available in the driveway for up to 3 vehicles. During winter months, the driveway is plowed after significant snowfall, but we recommend vehicles with AWD/4WD and snow-rated tires.
The chalet is located conveniently off Hwy 4. GPS works well for navigation and there is reasonably good cell phone signal around the cabin. The road is paved all the way to the cabin. If you arrive after sun-down, please drive slowly as you approach the cabin in order to not miss the place. The door number is highlighted with reflective signs for easy visual recognition.
High-speed WiFi is available throughout the chalet.
The chalet is heated with modern and efficient baseboard heaters in all the rooms and bathrooms. The living area and the upper level are heated effectively by a powerful wood fired fireplace, but the A-frame design means the upper levels will be warmer than the lower level.
Step 1: Prepare the Fireplace
The fireplace has 2 air vent controllers. Push the bottom small one fully in and pull the upper one out. This allows air into the firebox and is essential for starting the fire.
Step 2: Gather Your Materials
Fire starter – located in the small tote (with a red cover) by the fireplace. Kindling sticks – available in the aluminum bin with the lid by the firewood rack under the deck. A lighter is available in the same mini tote by the fireplace.
Step 3: Light the Fire
Place the fire starter in the firebox and arrange kindling sticks over it. Use the lighter to ignite the fire starter. Once the kindling catches fire, begin adding wood logs—start with 2 logs. When those have caught fire, add 1–2 more logs as needed.
Step 4: Maintain Airflow
Keep the air controllers in the same position (bottom pushed in, upper pulled out) to allow air to build up the fire and keep it burning strong.
Step 5: Adjust After One Hour
After an hour, reduce airflow into the firebox by pushing both air control handles halfway in. As the room heats up and hot air reaches the ceiling, turn on the ceiling fan to circulate warm air downward. You can also turn on the blower fan to help heat the first floor (entrance level) rooms.
The fully-equipped kitchen includes all the essentials for cooking meals:
The living and bedrooms have smart TV's with the following apps (you will need to log in to your own accounts):
There is a turntable with a few vinyls (carry your favorites with you and feel free to play a good tune), a 5-in-1 game set, many board games.
There is a projector with all the streaming apps that can be used with a pull down projector screen.
Fresh linens and towels are provided for all guests. Extra blankets are in the bedroom closets. Please strip the beds before checkout and leave linens in a pile - this helps our cleaning team.
Trash and recycling bins are located in the garage. Please take all trash to the bins before checkout. Important: Bears are active in the area - never leave trash outside overnight!
A propane BBQ grill is available on the deck. Please clean the grates after use and ensure the propane is turned off. Extra propane tank is in the garage if needed.
Mountain Market - 10 min drive
Great for basics, local products, and last-minute items. Limited hours in off-season.
Sarafina's Italian Kitchen ⭐ Host Favorite
Our top recommendation! A must-visit for delicious Italian cuisine.
Snowshoe Brewing Company - 15 min drive
Local craft brewery serving up great beer and hearty pub fare. Perfect spot to unwind after a day on the mountain.
Kalamata Mediterranean Cuisine
Fresh and flavorful Mediterranean dishes with generous portions. A wonderful option for a relaxed dinner out.
Heart and Soul Country Kitchen
A charming country restaurant serving comforting home-style meals. Great for the whole family.
Bistro Espresso
Your go-to for excellent coffee and all-day breakfast. A perfect start to any morning.
Pine Ridge Trail - 5 min drive to trailhead
Easy 2-mile loop through the forest. Great for families.
Eagle Peak Trail - 15 min drive
Moderate 6-mile round trip with panoramic summit views.
Cascade Falls - 20 min drive
Spectacular waterfall hike, best in spring when snow is melting.
Bear Valley Mountain Resort - 15 min drive
Family-friendly ski resort with terrain for all levels. Equipment rentals available on-site.
Cross-Country Skiing
Several groomed Nordic trails within 20 minutes of the chalet.
Lake Alpine - 20 min drive
Beautiful alpine lake for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Boat rentals available.
North Fork River - 25 min drive
Popular fishing spot. Catch-and-release for trout.
Calaveras Big Trees State Park - 30 min drive
Walk among ancient giant sequoias. North Grove trail is easy and accessible.
Historic Downtown Murphys - 35 min drive
Charming Gold Rush town with wine tasting rooms, shops, and restaurants.
The chalet's location offers incredible dark skies. On clear nights, you can see the Milky Way from the deck! The best viewing is typically 2 hours after sunset. We provide a star chart in the living room cabinet.
Emergency: 911
Local Sheriff (non-emergency): (209) 555-0100
Nearest Hospital: Mark Twain Medical Center - 35 min drive
For urgent property issues (water leak, power outage, heating failure):
Host Phone: (209) 555-0123
Property Manager: (209) 555-0124
For non-urgent questions, please message us through the booking platform.
Smoke detectors are installed throughout the chalet. Fire extinguisher is located in the kitchen. In case of fire, evacuate immediately and call 911. Meeting point is at the end of the driveway.
Occasional power outages may occur during storms. Flashlights are in the kitchen drawer. The heating system will restart automatically when power returns. If power is out for more than 2 hours, please contact us.
Bears, deer, and other wildlife are common in the area. To avoid encounters:
Mountain weather can change quickly. During winter:
Al's Chalet is located in Camp Connell, just 10 minutes from downtown Arnold. You'll have easy access to restaurants, shops, and gas stations while still enjoying a peaceful, secluded setting.
Yes, the road to the chalet is fully paved. During winter months, we recommend AWD/4WD vehicles with snow-rated tires, and chains may be required by Caltrans on Highway 4.
The chalet comfortably accommodates up to 12 guests across 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, making it ideal for families or groups of friends.
Cell service can be limited in the mountains. We provide high-speed WiFi throughout the chalet so you can stay connected. WiFi calling works great as a backup.
No, pets are not allowed.
Our cancellation policy is outlined in your booking confirmation. Please refer to your reservation details or contact us directly for specific questions.
The resort-style pool is a seasonal amenity. Please check with us for current availability based on the time of year you plan to visit.
We recommend warm layers, waterproof boots, and tire chains. The chalet provides linens, towels, heating, and a wood-burning fireplace to keep you cozy. Check our House Guide for a full list of what's provided.
Questions?
If you have any questions before or during your stay, don't hesitate to reach out.
Contact Us