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Stay l Play l Dine l Shop l Explore
Discover Groveland & Yosemite Via California Highway 120
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YOSEMITE
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Groveland
The Iron Door Saloon
The 120 Gateway to Yosemite National Park
yosemite120gateway.com
Yosemite Adventures
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Discover Yosemite
Living History Day
Rainbow Pools Cover: Brad Perks ‘Half-Dome Reflections’
Fall/Winter 2011 1
www.yosemite120gateway.com
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Groveland
Groveland Family Medical Center Dr. Steven Shield • Erik Rhode-Moe, PA 18661 Highway 120 • Groveland, CA 95321 Phone 209-962-7121 • Fax 209-962-0665
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Groveland
Established as mining camps in 1852, Groveland and the nearby town of Big Oak Flat were once thriving California Gold Rush towns. After the decline in gold production, the historic town of Groveland made its mark offering hospitality to weary travelers coming to and from Yosemite National Park. Located only 26 miles from the northern entrance to the Park on Highway 120, today Groveland is the most convenient
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CONCEPT, DESIGN & PRODUCTION Paul Bell ADVERTISING SALES Paul Bell Sonora Chamber of Commerce GROVELAND ADVERTISING SALES Paul Pieretti, Lakeside Marketing 209.962.4143 EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Paul Bell John DeGrazio Helga Anker The Groveland Hotel Mountain Sage Nursery The Iron Door Saloon Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum Groveland Community Services District PHOTOGRAPHS John DeGrazio Marcus Berg Brad Perks Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum Paul Bell The Groveland Hotel COVER PHOTOGRAPH ‘Half-Dome Reflections’ by noted landscape and commercial photographer, Brad Perks: www.bradperks.com.
DISCOVER GROVELAND is a joint publication of The Sonora Chamber of Commerce and Paul Bell l Marketing Solutions, supported by sponsors and advertisers in an ongoing effort to promote Groveland and Tuolumne County. Every effort has been made to insure that all information contained herein is accurate at the time of publication, but neither entity assumes any responsibility for errors, omissions and changes.
THE The
gateway for tourists coming from the San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento, Stockton, or Modesto. Although Groveland boasts a population of approximately 3,000 full-time residents, this number often triples during the summer months. Visitors are attracted to both the magnificent beauty of our area, as well as the many recreational opportunities offered
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SONORA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Sonora Chamber of Commerce is a membership organization representing the business community of Tuolumne County. The Sonora Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to raising the awareness of Tuolumne County through . tourism, and markets the area as a tourism destination. PAUL BELL l MARKETING SOLUTIONS
PO Box 5572, Sonora, CA 95370 Telephone: 209.588.9205 eS
www.paulbell.biz/info@paulbell.biz
nearby. Our quiet hilltop community has managed to retain much of its old west charm, and still boasts the oldest continuously operating saloon in California. Travelers enjoy playing golf at Pine Mountain Lake’s 18-hole golf course, taking in the sun at one of the numerous recreational lakes nearby, fishing, hiking, and of course sightseeing.
Please visit www.gcsd.org/community.html
Pictured: Jack Kelley of San Jose, Ca., circa 1925, stands proudly on “Overhanging Rock, Glacier Point” Yosemite National Park.
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An interactive event for the whole family with music, entertainment, food, storytelling, history and fun. 5 RAINBOW POOLS
Discover this hidden treasure along the Highway 120 Gateway to Yosemite National Park. 5 THE YOSEMITE FIRE FALL
A short history of the famous nightly display and the inspiration for a Groveland business. 6 GROVELAND LIFE
Eye of the Beholder/Precision Optical Mountain Sage Nursery The Iron Door Saloon and Grill 6 REGIONAL THEATRE
Stage 3 Theatre Company presents Tuesdays with Morrie, Over the River and Through the Woods, plus a New Years Eve Celebration Event. 8 YOSEMITE ADVENTURES
Y*explore founder, John DeGrazio takes you on a year-round photo and hiking expedition through Yosemite National Park, in all seasons. 10 BEST HOUSE ON THE HILL
The historic Groveland Hotel combines lodging, dining and entertainment along Tuolumne County’s Highway 120 Gateway to Yosemite National Park. 13 MARY LAVERONI REMEMBERED
Voice of Commerce, Culture & Community P.O. Box 884, Sonora, CA 95370 Tel/Fax: 209-588-9625 WEBSITE: www.sonorachamber.org E-MAIL: hscc@um.att.com
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Helga Anker offers her personal memories of a generous woman highly regarded by the community and to be honored with the Irving J. Symons Award in October. (See page 4) 14 DISCOVER YOSEMITE
Use this self-guided tour for your Yosemite Discovery. 16 RAILTOWN 1897 STATE HISTORIC PARK
This historic Tuolumne County jewel offers something for the entire family all year long.
“Sometimes I do get to places just when God’s ready to have somebody click the shutter.”
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osemite National Park Celebrated its 120th Birthday this year with a unique companion in California’s history: California’s State Route 120, Tuolumne County’s Scenic Gateway to the northern entrance to Yosemite National Park. Naturalist John Muir & Robert Underwood Johnson, editor of Century Magazine, lobbied the US Congress for the Act that created Yosemite National Park on October 1, 1890. During the Gold Rush, SR 120 was originally known as Big Oak Flat Road, after the village of Big Oak Flat through which it passes in the Sierra foothills. It was a pack trail from Stockton which became popular with prospectors about 1849. By 1874 it was a wagon road, which extended to the Yosemite Valley. From the San Francisco Bay Area and Central California, Highway 120 is also the fastest route to Yosemite and one of Tuolumne County’s best kept secrets! Visit the Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau for detailed travel, lodging and event information at: www.yosemitegoldcountry.org
— Ansel Adams
Full Service Grocery Store • Farm Fresh Produce USDA Choice Beef • Fast, Friendly Service www.yosemite120gateway.com
19000 N. Main Street • Groveland, CA 95321 phone • 209.962.7452 fax • 209.962.6507
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Groveland
Community Events
Living History Day
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Saturday • October 1, 2011 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free Admission • Family Event Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum 18990 Highway 120, Groveland grovelandmuseum.org • 209.962-7425 Come out for a day of fun, entertainment, food, visiting with friends, and experiencing first hand the skills of early America. The Southern Tuolumne County Historical Society will present a Living History Day in the courtyard of the Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum in downtown Groveland on October 1, 2011.
This interactive living history day will encourage attendees to participate and try their hand at gold panning, candle dipping, weaving, spinning, quilting, rope making, washing clothes on a washboard, pine needle basketry and butter churning. Demonstrations in soap making, knitting, felting and rug braiding will be offered. Early American crafts will be sold by some of the participants. A featured highlight will be a burro pulling a large stone around the arrastra (a primitive grinding and pulverizing mill) to crush gold ore for panning. There will also be food, music and storytelling.The museum will be open on Living History Day, so if you have not been there before or have not seen the newest exhibits, plan to spend a while. This is a fun event for the whole family with no admission charge.
Mary Laveroni Honored Sonora Regional Medical Center
Presents Joie de Vie Gala Sunday, October 16, 2011 Ironstone Vineyards, 1894 Six Mile Road Murphys, CA 95247 (209) 536-5029 The 11th annual Joie de Vie Gala, a benefit for the Cancer Patient Support Fund, will
www.pinemountaincustomrentals.com www.yosemite120gateway.com
Groveland be held on Sunday, October 16, 2011 at Ironstone Vineyards. The Gala will include a dinner and entertainment and a silent auction featuring items such as art, dinners, services and vacation opportunities. Mary Laveroni, longtime resident of Groveland will be recognized posthumously with the 2011 Irving J. Symons Award for her outstanding, long-term service to the community. Laveroni, who passed away in May of this year, was instrumental in the development of the Groveland Family Medical Center at 18661 Highway 120. (Please see the Voices article about Mary Laveroni on page 13.) The more than $57,000 raised from the 2010 Joie de Vie Gala is assisting cancer patients with personal expenses not covered by insurance, such as childcare, transportation to treatment, housecleaning, household expenses and emergency medication. Mark you calendar now for this very special event. Call 209-536-5029 for additional information on this fun and lively evening, raising money for a great cause.
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oie de Vie
GALA
October 16th, 2011
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Rainbow Pools
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sign for Rainbow Pools, but if you miss it, drive across the bridge until you see the turnoff for Cherry Lake and then turn around there. In the days of stagecoach transport the pools were a scheduled stop and picnic area. John Cox was a toll collector on the road for about 20 years until tolls were eliminated in 1915. Cox1, a former Conn your way to or from Yosemfederate soldier, had built a cabin on the ite National Park along Highway site of the rocks above the falls from 120 you’ll find Rainbow Pools as which he took a daily ‘bathing’ plunge. it crosses over the South Fork Tuolumne Mrs. Nellie Bartlett and her brother WilRiver bridge at just about the half-way liam Wilson leased the cabin and site in point from Groveland, 13.5 miles. 1924. They continued to add buildings to When traveling east on the highway you’ll the site until it became the Fall Inn, which pass the View Point Rim of the World park- was built over the falls where the covered ing area above the Tuolumne River canyon. bridge had been.They later renamed it the About 1.5 miles further east, you’ll see the Cliff House. It was a popular resort well highway making a sweeping turn into a into the 1930s. It burned to the bedrock bridge overpass.The entrance is on the right in 1939. The property was rebuilt and exas you start to cross the bridge. There is a panded to include modern motel cabins. Another fire destroyed the Cliff House in 1958 and it was never rebuilt. t 9:00 each evening in When we were trying to Rainbow Pools exists Camp Curry, the crowd come up with a clever name today, as before, as a popuwhich had gathered for our new coffee lar swimming hole inviting for the nightly camproasting adventure locals and travelers during fire program, would we reached out to the summer months, to fall silent. A man the town and had a would call out to contest to see who take a cooling dip or adthe top of Glacier could come up with venturous plunge. You can Point “Let the Fire the best name. picnic above in the desigFall!” A faint renated area or day camp by One of our very ply could be heard best customers Bun- the Pools edge. from the top of the ny Rose (owner of You can see the occasionmountain. Then a Away in the Woods) al diver make the sign of the great bonfire of red came up with the brilliant fir bark would be pushed cross just before they take name of Firefall. So as they evenly over the edge of the say the rest is history. their ‘leap of faith’ plunge in cliff, appearing to the onthe deep waters below the lookers below as a glowing cliffs. It does take an advenwaterfall of sparks and fire. Firefall Coffee Roasting Co. turous sort but there seem The spectacle was the YoGroveland, CA to be plenty of brave plungsemite Fire Fall, a nightly tra(209) 962-7704 ers on any given day. It’s fun dition in Yosemite National www.firefallcoffee.com just to wade into the water Park for some 88 years.
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History of the Firefall in Yosemite
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watch the exhibition for the afternoon.. There are restrooms, tables but parking is limited. Rainbow Pools is open all year. 1 Reference material: The Big Oak Flat Road (1955) by Irene D. Paden and Margaret E. Schlichtmann Photos at top: D. Kassler Collection
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groveland life
Groveland
fashion, home & garden, food & drink Great Live Theatre In Historic Downtown Sonora
Eyes of the Beholder
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ocated in the heart of Downtown Groveland, Precision Optics offers high quality eyewear at an affordable price, with thousands of designer frames and sunglasses from which to choose. Simply bring in your prescription and pay 40%60% less than you might at your doctor’s office. Precision Optics also has a large selection of non-prescription fashion and sport sunglasses. Stacy Hancock, Owner and Licensed Optician, has over 20 years experience in her field. She offers all the newest technologies and prides herself on friendly customer service. Insurance is welcomed. WANT FREE GLASSES? Host an Eyewear Party! Stacy will come to your home or office with hundreds of frames and sunglasses from which to choose. Enjoy a unique eyewear experience with your friends and family, while earning yourself free glasses. Contact Stacy for more details. Precision Optics 18729 Hwy 120, Unit A Groveland, CA 95321 (209)962-1972 stacysglasses@aol.com
mix for anyone. They feature live music, coffee (organic), tea, light breakfast fare, pastries and smoothies. During the spring and summer months they offer an outdoor concert series Live at the Sage. Obviously, not just a nursery, they have a small bookshop, free internet service, local retail items and even offer visitors information for your trip into the Yosemite Valley or the surrounding area. If you’re a returning visitor or visiting Yosemite for the first time, Mountain Sage is worthy of a stop before heading onward.You can explore the books whether you’re a photographer, hiker, naturalist or tourist. You won’t find a place like Mountain Sage for some time to come. Mountain Sage Nursery 18653 Main Street, Groveland, CA 95321 (209) 962-7455 www.mountainsagemusic.org
TheheIron Door Saloon Historic Iron Door Saloon
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in Groveland, was built during the California Gold Rush circa 1852. It was known then as the Granite Store, referring to its construction using solid granite blocks.
Just steps from Shopping • Dining • Lodging
2011 Season
Tuesdays
With
Morrie
By Jeffrey Hatcher & Mitch Albom
September 9 - October 9
Over the River and Through the Woods By Joe DePietro
November 11 - December 18
New Years Eve Party December 31st
Stage 3 Theatre Company 208 S. Green St., Sonora, CA
209-536-1778 www.stage3.org
Mountain Sage Nursery ant to relax in the hammock gar-
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den? Peruse the Sierra Native plant selection? Learn what plants Groveland deer don’t eat? Stop by to listen to live local bluegrass in the amphitheater? This is just the place for you! This unique business offers an eclectic
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from all over the world, passing through on their way to Yosemite. Children are welcome to peruse the unique collection of artifacts. There’s live music every weekend of the year with a good variety of musical groups and styles and dancing is a favorite activity. The Iron Door Saloon staff is thoroughly knowledgeable of the camp grounds, hotels and motels in the area, along with hikes and trails, rivers and lakes
The Iron Door Saloon, circa 1920
The sidewalls are made of schist rock and mortar and the roof consists of three feet of sod, covered by tin. James Tannahill was the stores original owner and served the Groveland community as the first Postmaster from 1863 to 1880, running the post office inside the store. Although, liquor was served in those early days, the establishment became known as a saloon in 1896, renamed Jake’s Place by Giacomo DeFarrari. In 1937 a second story was added and cards, billiards and pool were offered for an evenings diversion. In 1938 George and Mary Laveroni acquired the long-established saloon is formally rechristened it The Iron Door Saloon. The name referred to the hefty iron doors which were common fire prevention features during the period. The iron doors you see today are the true and original. Inside, you will be treated to a page from history. In addition to some stray bullet holes, you’ll find the finest looking back bar in the Yosemite area, historic pictures of Hetch Hetchy in preO’Shaughnessy Dam days, and many antique gold mining, timber and farm implements of the old West. Bettike Barsotti and her husband Peter bought the Iron Door Saloon in 1985 and were chagrined that they couldn’t bring their 4 children into the saloon as, at the time anyone under the age of 21 years were not allowed on the premises. Right away the Barsotti’s were on a mission to open up the Iron Door to people of all ages and to build their dream of transforming the Iron Door Saloon into a place that families, as well as visitors from around the world and people from all walks of life, would feel welcome. Today you’ll see historic pictures of John Muir, the founder of the Sierra Club, and spectacular scenery of Yosemite Valley. There is a tribute to Black Bart, the famous Gentleman Stage Coach Robber, and a natural history museum of indigenous animal species of the Sierra and their status in the wild. The Iron Door Saloon receives guests
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The
that should not be missed if you are to get the full experience of these most beautiful mountains. The Iron Door Saloon is always happy to steer you to where the fish are biting, where the eagles are flying, or to those little known streams for a quiet afternoon away from it all.
The Iron Door Saloon & Grill 18761 Main Street Groveland, CA 95321-9444 (209) 962-6244 www.iron-door-saloon.com
Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum Presents the 5th Annual
L IVING H ISTORY D AY Exhibits • Storytelling • Music • Food • Family Event
F A M I LY P A R T I C I PA T I O N A C T I V I T I E S
GOLD PANNING • CANDLE DIPPING • WEAVING • SPINNING QUILTING • WASHING CLOTHES ON A WASHBOARD ROPE-MAKING • • PINE NEEDLE BASKETRY • BUTTER CHURNING
D E M O N S T R AT I O N S
Soap Making • Knitting • Felting • Rug Braiding Burro Crushing Ore with Arrastra
E A R LY A M E R I C A N C R A F T S STORYTELLING MUSIC & FOOD FREE ADMISSION Information: 209.962-7425 www.grovelandmuseum.org
Hardluck Lin & Mark Twain
Saturday October 1, 2011 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Groveland-Yosemite Gateway Museum S PECIAL E VENING P ARTNER E VENT • W I T H M A R K T WA I N 6 :00 -9 :00 P M
• DINNER
he Groveland Hotel’s Cellar Door Restaurant invites you to experiT ence an authentic 1840’s dinner served at public tables plenteous and inviting. Rustic, provincial food prepared with local fresh ingredients.
49.00 *PP
$
I N F O & R E S E R VAT I O N S : 209.962.4000 O R 800.273.3314
20% of all Dinner Sales will be Donated to the Southern Tuolumne County Historical Society *Price Per Person, Sales Tax & Gratuity Included
Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum at 18990 Highway 120
All event details subject to change without notice. www.yosemite120gateway.com
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Groveland
yosemite adventures Exploring Yosemite in Every Season By John DeGrazio, Y explore Yosemite Adventures.
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s blankets of snow fell from the sky, we waited in the meadow and asked ourselves why we were there. Why can’t we do this on a warm, sunny day? We sunk deeper with every step as the pace of the storm reached its zenith. It was cold, but our heads, hands, and feet were warm and dry. Suddenly, as if in a movie, the storm had subsided and flurries fell innocuously to the ground.
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ossamer clouds hovered over Yosemite Valley as the late afternoon sun lit the granite peaks. It was a sublime moment that illustrated the reason photographers have been coming to this park since 1859. It was our moment, and we were rewarded for braving the elements. Yosemite is open all year, and this moment of serenity encouraged us to continue our search for adventures in all seasons.
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xperienced travelers visit the Tioga Pass one last time before its seasonal closure to photograph the enchanting Aspens of the Eastern Sierra.
Winter
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learing winter storms have been inspiring artists like Ansel Adams for decades. Catching the perfect light as it slices through the clouds and shines on the face of Yosemite’s granite monoliths is the ultimate reward during these precipitous moments. Road access is not available to high country destinations, but there is plenty to do in and around the Valley, Crane Flat, all three giant sequoia groves, and sections of Glacier Point Road. All you need is a pair of winter boots, snowshoes, or cross country skis.
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Autumn
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elcome changes in Yosemite appear as the leaves turn and summer crowds disappear. Golden leaves of Black Oaks dominate the valley as the red and yellow foliage of the Dogwoods highlight the banks of the Merced. The river’s stillness provides exciting opportunities for reflective images of the valley’s iconic landmarks.
any Nordic skiers venture out on ambitious treks covering vast swaths of snow covered terrain in Yosemite’s high country. Downhill skiers are also treated to one of California’s oldest ski resorts at Badger Pass.
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f you enjoy hiking but don’t like post-holing through waist high snow drifts, then snowshoeing is for you. A winter visit to The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is a perfect alternative to fighting off crowds during busy summer months. Gazing over Yosemite’s South Rim on a pair of snowshoes is a spectacular reward for a challenging adventure.
Spring
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s the snow melts, Yosemite’s booming waterfalls take center stage. John Muir’s “incomparable valley” features lush green meadows and seven major waterfalls within seven miles. Hiking to the base of these falls to witness the power of nature is an enlightening experience.
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pring is also prime season for rock climbers who flock to El Capitan and other ‘big walls’ www.yosemite120gateway.com
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where crowds gather to watch their every move. Those without equipment can climb to the top of Vernal, Nevada, or Yosemite Falls and feel the ground shake as millions of gallons of water crash below. Spring also signifies the reawakening of Yosemite’s wildlife, and there is no greater experience than observing a mother bear and her cubs as she introduces them to their new environment.
Summer
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osemite’s meadows are filled with radiant displays of wildflowers in summer. Photographers are inspired to capture the elegance of every species from dogwood blooms along the Merced River in May to the miniature varieties of lupine and monkey flowers seen along the hundreds of miles of trails throughout the park.
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he opening of the Half Dome cables always draws hordes of ambitious hikers as many attempt to reach its summit. Some extensively train while others plod along the Mist Trail regardless of their abilities. Despite the New York subway at rush hour conditions on the cables, many who have been to the top will attest that the views are worth the wait
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ummer is also the time for the High Country. As the masses crowd the Valley, the open expanses of Yosemite’s back country are enjoyed by hikers and backpackers who seek a more peaceful experience. Adventurists cherish the dramatic landscapes and abundant opportunities for wildlife encounters while remembering to pack necessities like bear canisters and insect repellent. Yosemite National Park is open throughout the year. Be sure to bring your imagination along with your camera, and you can experience its wonders in every season.
Y* explore A Different Perspective www.yexplore.com
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ohn DeGrazio is the founder and lead naturalist guide for Y explore Yosemite Adventures. hey offer professionally guided hiking tours and photography workshops in Yosemite National Park while encouraging park visitors to connect with the natural world of Yosemite through outdoor experiences that deliver unique photographic opportunities and lasting memories.
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isit John online at yexplore.com or call him at (800) 886-8009 for additional information All photographs in this article were provided by John DeGrazio. Email: tours@yexplore.com
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Groveland
The Best House on the Hill
features in 1835.The Larkin’s design combined Spanish Colonial building methods with New England architectural styles. riginally built in 1849 as an adobe The Groveland Hotel may well be the trading post, the Groveland Hotel only such structure to exist or survive in has endured 162 years of rich, California the Sierra Nevada mountain range. 10 history. Over the years it has served as Grover and Peggy a gambling house, saloon, ranger station, Mosley purchased business offices and a hotel. the vacant and disDuring the Gold Rush it was popularly tressed hotel while known as the ‘best house on the hill.’ it was under foreBuilt in the mid-nineteenth century archi- closure in 1990. The tectural style known as Monterey Colo- interior finishes had nial, it incorporates a two-story structure been damaged or with surrounding covered porches, a hip removed over the roof, and adobe walls. Thomas Larkin years and the repopularized the style when he moved maining adobe walls from New England to Monterey, Califor- hosted only families nia and built the Larkin House with these of feral cats. The Mosleys undertook the daunting task of completely renovating the entire property that included an adjacent Queen Anne Victorian building. Over the course of 2 years and an initial expenditure in the neighborhood of six-figures, they were able to complete the restoration. Today the Groveland Hotel at Yosemite National Park thrives as a full service hotel, featuring 17 award winning guest rooms, each decorated with proud Victorian embellishments and European antiques celebrating the earlier era. Accommodations feature down comforters, featherbeds (that you’ll never want to get out of…), cozy bathrobes and private baths. Subtle modern touches have been added to the rooms for guest convenience as well: TV. Hi-
area lodging
A Brief History
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speed/wireless internet access (at no additional charge), in-room telephone with voicemail, a coffee grinder and brewer, an IPOD Station and an alarm clock. Individual suites and rooms are clearly described for guests with adjectives such as; Truly Decadent, Decadent, Luxury, Extremely Nice and Really Nice. Peggy’s personal touches, such as her adoptable Teddy Bears in every room will not escape your notice as her inspired affinity for Yosemite as a California destination. This is a major consideration during all seasons. The Hotel is located
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YOSEMITE
Pictured Above:The laveroni Room;The Iron Door Room;The Tony Smith Room
on the most direct, scenic route to Yosemite National Park from the San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento via Highway 120. Yosemite National Park’s year-round northern entrance is a half hour (or 24 picturesque miles) from the Groveland Hotel. Staff pride is clearly evident as you enter the hotel. Ask for directions, sites to
a savvy entrepreneur, she’s also an experienced pilot), rock climbers, honeymooners and pet owners as a Pet Friendly hotel. Rates range seasonally from $145 - $349. Room and Suite rates are based on double occupancy and include an Innkeepers Breakfast Buffet.
Spa Services Heal your mind, body and spirit with the Hotel’s rejuvenating spa services.They
They serve a wonderful California cheese plate which is served with house-made cranberry pecan bread, local honey-balsamic syrup and crackers. Most of the herbs used in the dishes are from the hotel’s own garden. Chef Mike Pritchard and his staff prepare produce fresh from a nearby distributor and also makes daily trips to local farms. Chef, Mike Pritchard
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see, shops or activities in the area or just if you can take a peek at the Humes High School photo of Peggy and Elvis, and you’ll be treated warmly. Even ask about the resident ghost Lyle. Genuine Southern hospitality is one of Peggy and Grover’s most important amenities the owners and staff openly share with guests from around the globe, with all budgets – families, road-weary tourists, business executives, aviation enthusiasts (Peggy is not only
now offer a variety of experiences in the privacy of the guests room or with local professional therapists in their studios. They integrate their intuitive skills with the healing properties of the highest quality essential oils. Treatments are available in one hour and one and one half hour sessions. Couples massage treatments are also available.
The Cellar Door Restaurant The Cellar Door Restaurant is a casual, yet, fine dining experience, with a full bar and extensive award winning wine cellar. They take advantage of California-fresh seasonal ingredients. Menu choices include crisp salads, fresh fish, pasta, meltin-your-mouth steaks and daily specials, all created with fresh seasonal ingredients.
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Chef Mike and Peggy take great pride in using local produce in the restaurant. After dinner, delight in a delectable dessert while reliving your Yosemite adventure. In the late summer of 2011, the Cellar Door Restaurant was honored with the 2011 Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence. Although the Groveland Hotel’s fine dining establishment has been recognized by Wine Spectator over the past ten years, this is the first time that
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Groveland
they have received this esteemed secondtier award. The Cellar Door Restaurant is one of only 833 restaurants to receive the Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence. When asked about the recognition, Peggy responded, “The award is exciting and rewarding since it is the culmination of 19 years of creating a collection of wines that not only complement the Chef’s Menus, but offers a wide variety of options of wines to provide many selections for our guests, who are from around the world – many visiting Yosemite. Our philosophy for wine has been, it has to be fun and enjoyable – not stuffy and unapproachable.” One example of her philosophy is the Wine Discovery, an opportunity to experiment with their Wine Sampler offerings, or choose from an extensive list of over 600 wines. The Cellar Door Restaurant is one of only 6 establishments in the California Central Valley and Sierra Foothills to achieve this level of distinction from Wine Spectator.
LET ME HELP MAKE YOUR DREAM
HOME
YOUR REALITY!
Paul Pie re tti
Yosemite Gateway Properties Discover Groveland Today! 18731 Main St. • P.O. Box 606 Groveland CA 95321 License #01836458 yosemitegatewayproperties.com paulupnorth@aol.com
209.962.4143 • 209.962.7129
Yosemite Courtyard Cabaret!
From late May thru early September, the Groveland Hotel presents a series of outdoor concerts in the Garden Patio 2012 season and is renamed the Yosemite Courtyard Cabaret. It’s an eclectic mix appealand a ing to just about anyone who craves a fine dinner followed by a little music and glass of wine or beer on warm sumwww.groveland.com mery evening at the edge of Yosemite National Park. Performances have included tributes to Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, Johnny Cash, the Beatles and even Led Zeppelin. 2012 will feature local area bands that includes Blues, Zydeco, Country/Bluegrass and Rhythm and Blues. Visit groveland.com in early spring to see the spring and summer lineup.
dinner show
The Groveland Hotel & Cellar Door Restaurant 18767 Main Street Groveland, CA, 95321 800-273-3314 www.groveland.com www.yosemite120gateway.com
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Mary Laveroni
YOSEMITE
(December 3, 1913 – May 21, 2011)
got involved in was the formation of the Southern Tuolumne County Historical Society, which was led by Mary, Avis Gookin and Wally. For years Mary, her sister Tay and some of her friends got the newsletter ready for ary Webb Laveroni moved to our mailing. At that time it was a most tedious community in the 1930s when job since the Groveland Post Office reshe married George Laveroni quired the newsletters to come “bundled” who came from an old Tuolumne County into zones. There were three zones in Pine Mountain Lake alone; Big pioneer family. Oak Flat was a zone and “out Although not born here, of area” was another zone. in her long life she became Together they tirelessly sorta leader and a pillar of our ed the newsletters so all the community. It was with both members could receive inforpassion and consistency that mation about our growing Soshe worked for our area, ciety. Mary was a hard worker, Southern Tuolumne County. patient, and had no ego when it came to performing menial I first met Mary 55 years yet necessary tasks. ago. She was very beautiful, very kind and very patient. Mary was highly civic mindWe renewed our friendship in ed, always interested and in1986 when my husband Wally Mary receiving recognition in volved in things that matand I returned to this commu- August of 2003 for her contri- tered in our area. She made to the Groveland-Big nity “for good.” (Wally was a butions sure Groveland had good, Oak Flat community. Mary Southern Tuolumne County na- Laveroni Community Park was fresh water from the Hetch tive, coming from a family that renamed in Mary’s honor as Hetchy Reservoir through had deep roots in the area.) part of the fiftieth anniversary the Groveland Community One of the first projects we celebration of the park. The Laveroni Family has a long history in the area dating back 150 years. Mary’s late husband George Laveroni ran a lumber mill and hardware store.There is a model of the Sawmill on display at the Groveland Museum and is well worth a visit to discover the history of the region.
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www.yosemite120gateway.com
voices Services District (GCSD) serving as a director for over a quarter of a century, 26 years to be exact. Mary also served on the Big Oak FlatGroveland School Board and chaired the Southern Tuolumne County Planning Commission. There are many more accomplishments, but I feel the biggest one was her donation of land and financing for Groveland Family Clinic (Operated by Sonora Regional Medical Center, Adventist Health). I wonder what would be our access to health care if it were not for Mary’s generosity. Aside from her civic accomplishments, everyone knew what a fine human being Mary was. She was a true lady. The gentlest person I ever met, always greeting friends at her door with a smile and offers of food and drink. Mary was preceded in death by her husband George. She will be missed by her two children, four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. A light in the community has been lost with Mary’s passing. We all miss her very much. —Helga Anker This article appears courtesy of the Southern Tuolumne County Historical Society and first 13 appeared in their Fall 2011 Newsletter.
DISCOVER
Discover Visiting The Yo-Semite Valley
Yosemite
Groveland
Legend
Historical Interest
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Picnic Area Photo Op Seating Area Walking Activity
e recommend this self-guided tour to adults and children 12 years and Restrooms older with the consideration for older Available adults or those with some mobility disFood/Bev. abilities, the distances, though modest Naturalist John Muir Available might be difficult for some. One or two miles might be involved in and out of the Getting Ready tart your day with either a light or hearty cover of trees during warm, hot or even breakfast. Dress for weather and terrain rainy weather in late fall. wearing comfortable walking shoes. Bottled A driving and walking tour, including trav- water is essential in warmer weather and el time from Sonora or Groveland, will av- even in cold weather. erage 7 to 10 hours depending on unforeConsider preparing a picnic basket for seen travel delays. You can arrange for a your travelling party prior to your departure. special Family or Group Tour from Sonora If you’re leaving from Sonora allow 45-60 or Groveland by contacting LINKLINE Bus minutes to travel via 108 and turn off at the Charters and Tours. Call 209.694.8747 for 120 exit about 10 miles from Sonora. information and pricing. There is a shortcut from Jamestown. You can save a bit of time by taking Seco Street, 14 You don’t need reservations to visit or just off of Main Street, to Algerine Road to enter Yosemite National Park, but reserva- Jacksonville Road which dead ends at Hightions for lodging or camping are essential if way 120 just past the northern end of Don you plan to spend the night in the park. Pedro Reservoir. Check a map before you take this route, however. The park entrance fee applies to all visitors. If you arrive in your private (non-com- Groveland mercial) car, minivan, pickup truck, or RV, Start timing your trip here the entrance fee is $20.00 US per car. This s you travel through Groveland via Caliis valid for unlimited entries to Yosemite fornia State Route 120,Tuolumne Counfor seven days, and includes all occupants ty’s Scenic Gateway to of the car. Visitors receive a large readable the ‘Big Valley’ reveals map at entry to the park. Visit www.nps. the most relaxing engov/yose for detailed park information try into the Park. Spend a little time in The walk through Cook’s Meadow lasts Groveland and you’ll a bit over an hour.. Once you arrive on the discover places like valley floor, the Yosemite Visitor’s Center, the Iron Door Saloon, Yosemite Museum, the Ansel Adams Galthe oldest continulery, the Nature Center at Happy Isles are ously operated saloon all worth a visit. There are also options, for in California. It began sightseeing on rainy days, Take advantage serving liquor in 1852 of the free shuttle to the famous Ahwahas the Granite Store. nee Hotel, well worth a visit. There’s a great deal of history in this litIn September and October the weath- tle town and it’s worth discovering. You’ll er should be beautiful and comfortably in be sure to find all the makings a fine picthe mid to high 70’s or a little warmer or nic here, the park is 26 miles to the park entrance. cooler.
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Rainbow Pools
About 15 minutes from Groveland 13.5 miles from the Groveland Hotel and Iron Door Saloon, is Rainbow Pools. It’s just below a sweeping curved highway bridge and is well worth even a brief stop. You might also stop at Vista Point, which is about 1 /12 miles west of Rainbow Pools and a good marker warning for the turnoff to the Pools.
Smith Station Road
30 minutes from Groveland t the intersection of Smith Station Road, and Highway 120 is the recently dedicated (June 5, 2010) John Muir Highway. There is now an annual celebration, the John Muir Festival, held in early June, recognizing the designation. Muir entered the Yosemite Valley via this route from Coulterville during his second trek in 1869. From this point on you’ll discover what he discovered and was determined to protect for generations to come.
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Cra n e F l a t Be a r s
45 minutes from Groveland f you’re lucky there will be an opportunity to see bears in the meadow off to the right or to the left of Highway 120 at the forest edge. American black bears are not black but brown or even blond or reddish brown and you can distinguish their age by color. This is the Highway 120/Tioga Pass Road open only in summer. Nearby Crane Flat is the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias
Call us about www.yosemite120gateway.com our Yosemite Shuttle Bus & Tours
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209.694.8747
DISCOVER
YOSEMITE
Valley View From Tunnel Overlook
and is worth another summer visit for a 1 to 2 hour hike.
B r i d a l Ve i l Fa l l s
About 1 hour from Groveland
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ou will stop briefly to officially enter the park, and will be provided a map of Yosemite for the tour. Shortly thereafter you’ll be inclined to gasp as you approach Bridal Veil Falls. There is a picnic area adjacent to Bridal Veil just off the road and it’s an easy walk to the base. It’s just a half-mile and takes 20 minutes. Depending on your arrival time and this is an ideal alternate picnic site. The Ribbon or Virgin’s Tears Fall is on the opposite side of the Valley from the Bridal Veil.The Fall is dry by mid to late July.
L owe r Yo s e m i t e Falls
About 1/2 hour from entering the Park. his is also a great place for your picnic lunch. We assume that you have spent a little time at Bridal Veil more if you have shared your picnic lunch with your party. If you did not bring lunch you’ll find refreshments, produce, sandwiches and deserts in Yosemite Village. Alternate stop: Get some vicarious thrills
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eating lunch at El Capitan Picnic Area while watching a squadron of climbers ascending El Cap, the largest granite monolith in the world.
Cook’s Meadow Walk
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little over a mile and although on flat terrain and boardwalks, the altitude on the valley floor is 4000 feet and some may want to consider this before undertaking a walk.There are other ways to see the sights including guided Tram Tours of the valley. This will give you an opportunity for a meadow view of Yosemite from the valley floor. The vistas are breathtaking.Here you’ll get a sense of what it might have been like 150 years ago without the pine and redwood trees, which have volunteered into the meadow and Yosemite of today, coming down in the flush of spring storm surges. You’ll get a better view of the falls, and the YosemiteValley Chapel, the oldest surviving building, built in 1879. There are staggering views from the Swinging Bridge and Sentinel Bridge.
T H E A N sel Adams Gallery
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e encourage you to visit the Ansel Adams Gallery in the heart of Yosemite Village.You can also hop a shuttle down to the Ahwahnee for a cocktail to relax, do a little shopping in the village or take an extended walk or hike. Set aside time for a visit to the Yosemite Museum.
Goodbye Yo-Semite!
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n our departure we will take you to, without exaggeration, the world’s most scenic view: in late afternoon the sun gilds the valley in golden light.You’ll be able to see everything in the valley, all the way to Half Dome. Smile: and take a picture. This might just be your holiday card for 2011 or forever.
The Groveland Hotel is ideal Yosemite lodging with the acclaimed Cellar Door restaurant.
Indulge Yourself!
Serving California Fresh! www.yosemite120gateway.com
18767 Main Street • Groveland, CA 95321 • 209-962-4000 • 800-273-3314 • www.groveland.com
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THE TUOLUMNE COUNTY VISITORS UREAU & ITS MEMBER PARTNERS PRESENT D I S C O VB ER Groveland
a celebration of our western
heritage
A I L T O W R 1897 N
THE
‘MOVIE
S TA R ’
RAILROAD
F E AT U R I N G
CALIFORNIA STATE
ENGINE
NO.
3
HISTORIC PARK
EVENTS ALL YEAR LONG! The FAMILY FUN Experience Memorial Day Weekend •4th of July Singing Rails · Labor Day Weekend Engine No 3 Celebration Weekends Haunted Express · Santa’s Express
Movie Star ENGINE No. 3
RIDES THE RAILS ONCE AGAIN! Visit www.railtown1897.org 16
Look for more family fun events in 2012! Visit www.railtown1897.org for all event details! Located in Jamestown, California, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park is home to the Historic Jamestown Shops and Roundhouse of the Sierra Railway. This one-of-a-kind attraction combines industrial heritage and railroad history with the lore of Hollywood’s film industry. Railtown 1897 State Historic Park is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., April through October. From November through March, Park operating hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Railtown 1897 State Historic Park • 11855 5th Avenue • Jamestown, CA 95327 • 209.984.3953
TUOLUMNE COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU www.yosemite120gateway.com