Built in 1852 by John and Rebecca Gardner, The Dorrington Hotel was a stagecoach stop on the Big Trees Carson Valley Road, which was a toll road from 1862-1910.  The hotel served as a depot for stockmen and as a summer resort. Noted for its ice cold spring, it was called Cold Spring Ranch until a post office was established.

Rebecca's maiden name was submitted to the postal department and the town has been known as Dorrington since 1902.

Over the years occupants of the historic Inn have often had reason to believe in the old but persistent legend that Rebecca's ghost still haunts the old hostelry.

The hotel continues to serve overnight guests in its beautifully restored historic rooms, and meals in the downstairs 1852 Restaurant.