EXPLORE
DISCOVER COLUMBIA • GROVELAND • JAMESTOWN • THE HIGH COUNTRY & YOSEMITE
SUMMER 2016
SONORA & THE SIERRA FOOTHILLS to Yosemite
All Age Hikes: The West Side Trail
Wetlands & Waterfalls Discover Yosemite National Park
Sierra Rep Presents State Fair
Search for events at: Cover: ‘Valley View’ Sentinel Rock Bridalveil Falls & Half Dome By Tony Sarno
EXPLORE Sonora & THE SIERRA FOOTHILLS
OPEN 7 DAYS 108 So. Washington St. Downtown Sonora 209.588.8899
Women’s Clothing Store
Lucky to get six hours of sleep?
• • • • • •
• APPAREL • SHOES • ACCESSORIES
15,000 Sq. Ft. Showroom Interior Design Services Home Decor Accessories 39 Years Experience Extended Financing O.A.C. Open 7 Days a Week Mon-Sat 10-5, Sun 12-4
37 S. Stewart Street • Downtown Sonora • 209-536-9834
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Frozen Yogurt
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Salad Bar• Sandwich Bar
Self Serve
Senior Discounts 11 So. Washington Street, Sonora, CA 95370 Hours: Mon-Sat 10 am - 9 pm • Sun 11 am - 7 pm (209) 532-6403 Visit Our 2nd Location in the Crossroads Shopping Center
(209) 532-4663
Our Community Partner
EXPLORE Sonora & THE SIERRA FOOTHILLS
Live Well. Be Well.
EXPLORE Sonora & THE SIERRA FOOTHILLS CONCEPT, DESIGN & PRODUCTION Paul Bell
ADVERTISING SALES
Paul Bell Sonora Chamber of Commerce EDITORIAL & PHOTOGRAPH contributors Paul Bell National Park Service (NPS) U.S. Department of the Interior The Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau Tuolumne County Transit Carolyn Tuck Carolyn Botell Maggie Duncan Cover: Yosemite ‘Valley View’ by Tony Sarno
CONTENTS 4-5 The good life - SHOPPING GUIDE
Your shopping guide chock full of unique stores and small town experiences. 6 Local Theatre
Sierra Repertory celebrates their 37th Season with Rodgers and Hammerstein’s State Fair. BEEHIVE,The Robber Bridegroom and A Mighty Fortress in Our Basement 7 WILD & MILD ADVENTURES
Wild & Mild Adventures with Mother Lode Adventure Tours. Tuolumne County is Vacationland. 8-9 West Side TRAIL MAP
Start your Discovery of the Gold Country near Tuolumne City, with a family friendly trail in the Stanislaus National Forest. The
Sonora Chamber of Commerce
The Voice of Commerce, Culture & Community
Mailing Address P.O. Box 3084 Sonora, CA 95370 Telephone: 209.694.4405 WEBSITE
E-MAIL: info@sonorachamber.org The Sonora Chamber of Commerce is a membership organization. As the Sonora Chamber of Commerce, we concentrate our marketing efforts within the Greater Sonora area. The Sonora Chamber of Commerce is also dedicated to raising the awareness of Tuolumne County through tourism, and markets the area as a tourism destination.
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EXPLORE SONORA is a joint publication of The Sonora Chamber of Commerce and Paul Bell l Marketing Solutions. Every effort has been made to ensure that all information contained herein is accurate at the time of publication, but neither entity assumes any responsibility for errors, omissions and changes.
Paul Bell Marketing Solutions
P.O. Box 5572, Sonora, CA 95370 Telephone: 209.352.8551
10-13 DISCOVER YOSEMITE
Experience the flowing waters & wetlands of Yosemite National Park. 14 DISCOVER YOSEMITE TRAILS
Hiking Trail Guide for Yosemite National Park 15 Tuoulmne county event calendar
a very convenient option for travelers. The grounds are open for RV camping year-round, providing the following amenities: • Electric, water, sewer hook-ups • Free Wi-fi • Dump station • 80 RV camper spaces • Restrooms & showers • Open all year • $30.00/night • Groups are welcome. There is nearby shopping, dining, live theater, 2 grocery stores, several gas stations, camping supplies and autohe Mother Lode Fairgrounds Family RV Park is just a short distance from Sono- motive repair shops and supplies. Mother Lode Fairgrounds RV Park ra’s historic downtown. There are a multitude 220 Southgate Drive of regional and local events held at the FairSonora, CA 95370 grounds throughout the year,. Historic Downtown Sonora is host to many T/ 209.532.7428 • F/209.532.3573 events throughout the year, in all seasons, and Office Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm (Closed 12pm – 1pm) the Mother Lode Fairgrounds RV Park offers
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EXPLORE Sonora & THE SIERRA FOOTHILLS
The Good Life
FASHION, HOME & GARDEN
If the shoe fits
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Sonora’s Favorite Kitchen Store
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f you’re looking for anything unique and useful for the kitchen, stop here first-and you’re likely to find it among their stock of kitchen gadgets, tools and accessories. They carry BIA Cordon Bleu, Bialetti, Cuisinart, Emeril, John Boos, Le Creuset, Lodge, Microplane, Nordic Ware, Norpro, Oxo and more. Decorate a beautiful table with Park Designs, Root Candles and IHR napkins. There’s also a selection of gourmet jams, olive oils, spices, loose and bagged teas from Tea Forte. Find your favorite fragrance from their complete line of Crabtree and Evelyn. Customer Service is their specialty with free gift-wrap on every purchase.They even offer a selection of greeting cards to make your gift complete. Now that’s one-stop shopping!
traditional Hawaiian attire. Since they average over 100 new pieces to the floor daily, you just never know what you’ll find! Some favorite brands that you’ll find at Tradewinds are: Ann Taylor, Armani, Banana Republic, Brighton, Cache, Chicos, Liz Claiborne, Coach, Gucci, Anne Klein, and Ralph Lauren, to name a few! Tradewinds 63 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 588-8810
owntown Shoes is a foot-weary welcome to Historic Downtown Sonora as a new full service shoe store. Downtown Shoes specializes in comfortable and stylish shoes, boots and sandals for both men and women, along with a fun selection of socks and hand-bags. They pride themselves on the quality of their product lines. Close to Yosemite National Park, they offer you an opportunity to get yourself a quality pair of hiking, tramping, stomping or plain walking shoes for your exhilarating excursion into the wilderness, or just in and around town.
Joan’s Boutique
E Sonora’s Favorite Kitchen Store 98 S.Washington St. Historic Downtown Sonora (209) 588-1400
Tradewinds
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t’s always an adventure shopping at Tradewinds. Their main focus is women’s clothing: better and designer labels (no more than two years old, or classic, timeless styles) in new or like-new condition. They carry all accessories: belts, footwear, hats, scarves and jewelry. They also have a small consignment section for men, with an emphasis on Hawaiian and silk shirts. Nearly all the home decor items you will see in the store are for sale on consignment. While not a vintage store, you will find a smattering of vintage couture pieces and
xploring Downtown Sonora will likely reveal a pleasant surprise that you might not be expecting to find in such a small town. Joan’s Boutique at 52 S. Washington St. is owned and personally attended to by Joan Richardson, who’s been a retail merchant for more than two decades. Joan’s store has been a fixture of the community for years and it’s difficult to find women of any age who don’t shop there for that special discovery. Whether it’s clothing and accessories, or just her pleasant company during any hour of her very long retail day, which never seems to deter her from her positive, friendly and out-going demeanor. What is quickly revealed is Joan’s and her staff’s readiness to please every customer. Everyone is made to feel comfortable, which is exactly what Small Town Cheer is all about. Joan’s Boutique has been voted ‘The Best Woman’s Boutique/Clothing Store’ for six years in a row in the Union Democrat’s annual readers poll. She and her staff were recently voted Best Overall Customer Service. Joan’s Boutique 52 S. Washington St. Historic Downtown Sonora (209) 533-1550
The owners, Rick and Melody, pride themselves on providing exceptional service and making sure all of their customers are properly fit in comfortable, yet stylish footwear. They also cater to the working men of the area with Red Wing and Wesco work boots, and if you don’t see what you need, they will be a happy to special order them for you. If you don’t live in the area, just give them a call or send an email, as they also offer free shipping within the continental United States. Downtown Shoes 4 S. Washington St. Historic Downtown Sonora (209) 532-2500 4downtownshoes.com 4downtownshoes@gmail.com
EXPLORE Sonora & THE SIERRA FOOTHILLS
Let ‘er Buck!
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on’t just be part of the herd— start a stampede by visiting Let ‘er Buck a few doors down from the Four Corners intersection of Bradford & Washington streets. There’s a wide selection of new and quality consignment Western wear including belts, boots and hats.
The Candy Vault 42 S. Washington St.
Historic Downtown Sonora (209) 532-2388
Be DAZZLED
I Let ‘er Buck also offers Jim’s Formal Wear, uniforms (ems, fire, chp, cdcr), as well as children’s clothing. Because they wear what they sell, you are getting firsthand knowledge of what works! They can outfit the able ranch hand as well as the next Rodeo Queen.They take exceptional care of their customers, striving to provide the best value, selection, and service in the business. Let ‘er Buck has something for everyone. Let ‘er Buck Western Wear 68 S. Washington St.
f you’re looking for a boutique that makes every woman feel beautiful and special, than look no further that Be Dazzled. Tonya Fyfe and Linda Pare are the proud owners of Be Dazzled and believe that, “women are one of God’s most special creations”. The fashionable mother daughter duo are there to greet and assist customers with fashion consulting. The corner shop features live music played on the beautiful grand piano inside with beautiful feminine decor accompanied by gorgeous chandeliers hanging from the ceiling.
Historic Downtown Sonora (209) 533-1144
The Candy Vault
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ocated in the historic National Bank Building on the corner of Washington and Bradford, the Candy Vault takes customers back a half-century, offering a feeling reminiscent of walking into a Norman Rockwell painting on the cover of the Saturday Evening Post. A visit leaves one with a warm and comforting glow, reassuring you that enjoying a bit of ice cream and candy might be a good thing after all. The new owners, John and Brandi Ogle, share their enthusiasm for their business with every customer saying, ‘Have a sweet day,’ as they leave with a bag full of treats.The Candy Vault offers hard-to-find hand-made chocolates and specialty brands. They also now feature organic and even sugar-free delicacies. Be sure to stop by especially during the Holiday Season, as they will continue the tradition of Santa Stories through Christmas. Visit the Candy Vault and you’ll feel like a kid again.
While browsing through the store, you’re sure to find something that will suit your needs. Whether looking for a breezy summer dress or a new pair of jeans, Be Dazzled will have it in store for you. The selection of accessories includes women’s jewelry, hats, belts, handbags, and more. Recently expanded, Be Dazzled is centrally located downtown right at the stop light and connected to the famous Sonora Inn. Be Dazzled 160 S. Washington St.
Historic Downtown Sonora (209) 533-5023
FUNKY JUNK
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ounded in April 2011, Funky Junk began in its original location, in a space of 1200 square feet. Today the store that, manager, Andrea Jones calls an “eclectic mix of you name-its” has expanded to over 7000 square feet downtown and located in the historic Mundorf Building. Consigned furniture, gifts, and home decor in addition to new clothing, boots and outerwear makes the business one of the most unique in town. New brands featured include Pendleton, Cowgirl Tuff, American West, Rockmount, Scully, Lane Boots, and many more. 5 The shop has men and women’s clothing ranging from western wear to the classic and contemporary fashion. If you’re on the search for a shirt or a shot glass to commemorate your trip to Sonora, look no further as Funky Junk will have one for you. Some of the more eclectic items include Funky Junk brand stringed lights made with recycled shotgun shells, as well as upcycled furnishings, original art pieces and locally made jewelry and bath and body products. Every visit reveals a discovery.The shop defies any ‘typical’ description of the extraordinary things you might find there. Certainly a place that requires more than just a casual visit. Funky Junk In the Historic Mundorf ’s Bldg. Downtown Sonora 71 S. Washington St. Sonora, California (209) 532-8555
EXPLORE Plus Sonora Oaks Best Western Sonora & THE SIERRA FOOTHILLS
The AAA Award Best Western Plus Sonora Oaks Hotel & Conference Center Is a great Yosemite lodging choice while visiting and exploring the Mother Lode. Hi-speed Internet access • Free Served Hot Breakfast• Restaurant • Lounge • Room Services Outdoor Pool • Spa • 24-hour Front Desk • Concierge Services • Special Yosemite Park Packages
Sonora Oaks Hotel and Conference Center 19551 Hess Avenue, Sonora, California, 95370-9720
Christopher’s Local
Theatre
Sierra Repertory Theatre A grand night for singing plays through August 7
At the City Hotel Restaurant & What Cheer Saloon
Quality Dining in a Historic Setting
City Hotel & Restaurant What Cheer Saloon 22768 Main St. Columbia State Historic Park WEDNESDAY - SUNDAY Restaurant 10:00 am - 1:00 pm Sunday sit-down Brunch 11:00 am - 2:00 pm Lunch 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Dinner Saloon Menu 11:00 am - 8:00 pm Restaurant / 209-532-5964 Saloon / 209-532-1486
at Fallon House with Rodgers and Hammerstein’s State Fair. Against the colorful backdrop of an American heartland tradition, State Fair travels with the Frake family as they leave the routine of the farm for three days of adventure at the annual Iowa State Fair. Set to an Oscar-winning score, including It Might as Well Be Spring, It’s a Grand Night for Singing and the title song, State Fair. It’s a warm-hearted family entertainment only Rodgers & Hammerstein could deliver. Five rockin’ women, sizzling hit music, outrageous costumes from poodle skirts to tie-dye, and gallons of hair spray can mean only one thing – BEEHIVE, The 60s Musical Sensation returns to Sierra Rep’s East Sonora Theatre July 22 through August 28. This high-energy revue samples the exciting emergence of the 60s best “girl” groups and solo singers. A super-talented cast portrays The Chiffons, The Supremes and many more with favorites like My Boyfriend’s Back, One Fine Day and R-E-SP-E-C-T. Up next at the Fallon House, The Robber Bridegroom plays September 2 to 25 in a rousing, bawdy, Southern fairy tale from the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Driving Miss Daisy. The musical has one of the only genuine bluegrass scores ever heard on Broadway, underscoring a rollicking country romp. Opening at Sierra Rep’s East Sonora Theatre September 24 through October 16 is Edmond Rostand’s classic play Cyrano. A great swordsman with a beautiful soul is hampered by a huge nose that makes him believe he is incapable of being loved by the beautiful Roxane. When he learns that Roxane and a handsome young soldier are infatuated with each other, he writes beautiful love letters for her suitor that lead to a calamitous love triangle, with a flourish of swordplay and humor.
The Church Basement Ladies return to Sierra Rep’s Fallon House Theatre October 14 through November 27 with A Mighty Fortress Is Our Basement.
In this latest installment it’s 1960 and the ladies are back with an all-new musical and are once again required to face change head-on. Against the shifting tide, these pillars of the church stand strong in their faith and in their friendships with more crazy antics, great songs and lessons reluctantly learned. Visit www.sierrarep.org or call 209-5323120 for tickets and information.
Insuring our community since 1987 Business • Home • Auto Life • Health • Bonds (209) 533-0234
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EXPLORE Sonora & THE SIERRA FOOTHILLS
Finding A Mild or Wild Adventure Mother Lode Adventures Charters & Tours
TOUR GOLD COUNTRY, High Country & YOSEMITE
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hen it comes to exploring the Sonora region, there’s so much to see and do – wineries, historic sites,Yosemite and more. But navigating the twisting, turning roads of our beautiful Mother Lode can be challenging, so why not leave the driving to the experts so you can enjoy your visit? Mother Lode Adventures Charter Services is your one stop shop for all your transportation and event planning needs, whether you’re here for a visit, an event, a meeting, or a wedding. Offering door to door service, and customized transportation and tours, such as wedding shuttle service, airport shuttle service, magnificent Yosemite tours, and delicious wine tasting tours.
Owners and experienced travelers Scott and Kelly Smith are dedicated to ensuring that every guest has an enjoyable transportation experience. Knowledgeable and professional drivers give everyone “Red Carpet Treatment” from start to finish. As the Mother Lode’s #1 a Choice for transportation and tours, let Mother Lode Adventures Charter Services help make your visit one to remember.
Mother Lode Adventures Charter Services, LLC Tel: (209) 677-3183 Fax: (209) 677-3664
“Kelly & Scott’s customer service at Mother Lode Adventures was first rate! They arranged and managed 3 days of sightseeing, dining, entertainment and transportation of 42 members of our flying club’s 80th Anniversary Tour of Sonora, Jamestown and Columbia. I highly recommend them.” Buzz Elliott, President Aviation Country Club of California
Can’t get enough of the outdoors? Do you have visions of white water rafting and cave spelunking dancing through your head? Skiing, snowboarding, jet skiing, motorcycle riding, backpacking, or an offroad trip through the wilderness? Or maybe you’re looking for a little less adventure? Imagine a romantic houseboat vacation, camping under the stars, or a leisurely kayak ride on a pristine alpine lake.
If family fun is what you’re after, how about visit to one of our Local, State & National Parks? Spend the day panning for gold or riding a steam train as you watch history come to life in our Historic Towns. Columbia,
Sonora, Groveland, Jamestown and more! Don’t forget to bring your golf clubs, as we have several top-notch golf courses to choose from. See for yourself why Gold Country is the place to be for every kind of adventure!
Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau 542 W. Stockton Rd., Sonora, CA
800-446-1333 • 209-533-4420 yosemitegoldcountry.com
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TUOLUMNE COUNTY TRAILS
WEST SIDE TRAIL
EXPLORE
mne Rd N olu Tu Sonora & THE SIERRA FOOTHILLS
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Introduction
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This family friendly portion of the Stanislaus National Forest’s West Side Rails is a hidden treasure, combining spectacular scenery and a route that represents an amazing feat of railway construction. The timber industry in Tuolumne County was in full gear at the turn of the 20th century. An impressive sawmill was built at that time, and the West Side Lumber Company constructed its own narrow gauge railroad, called the Hetch Hetchy andYosemiteValley Railway, to bring timber to the mill. In total, more than 70 miles of mainline track were constructed in the area. The initial stretch of the mainline grade, constructed without the benefit of bulldozers and loaders, was blasted into an extremely steep and rocky canyon. As you enjoy this 5-mile portion of rail-trail, you can’t fail to be impressed by what the workers accomplished.
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From Twain Harte From Twain Harte Drive at Highway 108, head southeast on Tuolumne Road North. Continue for 6.5 miles until you pass Black Oak Casino. Directly across from the main entrance to the casino, turn left on Carter Street and veer left on Buchanan Road. Continue for .5 mile and you will see the parking lot on the left just past the intersection of Buchanan and Mira Monte Roads. The Tuolumne Park and Recreation District has maintained this wonderful resource for many years. Thank you. The Park district has maps available at its office— 18603 Pine Street in Tuolumne. Black Oak Casino Resort offers great access to the Trail.
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Directions to the Trailhead
From Sonora Leaving Sonora, heading south on South Washington St. toward Highway 108, turn 8 left on CA 108 East, then take the Mono Way exit toward Route 108 Business. Turn right on Mono Way. Turn right onto Tuolumne Road. Continue approximately 7 miles Tuoltoumne Rd Tuolumne. Turn left on Carter Street and go 3/10ths of a mile; turn right on Buchanan Road. Continue for 1/2 mile and you will see the parking lot on the left just past the intersection of Buchanan and Mira Monte Roads.
Torment Gulch
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Sonora & THE SIERRA FOOTHILLS
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Historic West Side Interpretative Railroad Trail 1:20,000
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Distance in Feet
3mi
15,840
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18,480
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21,120
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Mira Monte Trailhead to Basin Creek Area
Trail Etiquette • Multiple Use Trail Guidelines for Trail Courtesy Hike It • Bike It • Ride It Yield = Slow down, be prepared to stop, establish communication, pass safely. Between cyclist and hiker, “establish communication” may involve just a wave and a nod, but between cyclist/hiker and equestrian, communication should always involve voice communication because horses identify other trail users by voice, not appearance. Please Do Not Ride (mtn bikes/horses) after heavy rains or when soil is saturated! If you are leaving tracks on trail, it is too wet to ride.
Features of the West Side Trail
Trails in Tuolumne County, please visit
Interpretative Kiosks N.Tuolumne Canyon • Expansive views Incredible Spring Wildflowers Multi-use Trail (non-motorized)
For more history on the West Side Trail Please visit the Tuolumne Memorial Museum 18663 Carter St.
For more information on
Also in downtown Tuolumne West Side Memorial Park Shay Locomotive Photos Courtesy of Carolyn Tuck
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EXPLORE
Discover Yosemite Sonora & THE SIERRA FOOTHILLS
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Meadows and Wetlands
Nowhere else in Yosemite will you find a greater diversity of plants and animals. Meadows and wetlands are vital for deer and bears, for numerous birds, and for an unbelievable number of smaller creatures, all of which depend upon an amazing variety of plants. And, to top it off, the openness of meadows provides great views of the surrounding area. When visiting meadows, tread carefully and use existing boardwalks and trails where they exist. If you see wildlife, keep wildlife wild; respect animals from a distance. You’ll find several meadows in Yosemite Valley, all of which have boardwalks or trails that are wheelchair accessible (and also great for bicyclists). Four of the most popular are: Cook’s Meadow, between Yosemite Village and Yosemite Valley Lodge (formerly Yosemite Lodge),
Sentinel Meadow (just west of the chapel), Stoneman Meadow (across the street from Half Dome Village, formerly Curry Village), Leidig Meadow (west of Yosemite Valley Lodge, formerly Yosemite Lodge). Additionally, Wawona has large meadow visible from the road (or by hiking on a dirt road around it) and you can find numerous meadows along the Tioga Road and, of course, at Tuolumne Meadows.
Glacier Point
An overlook with a commanding view of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and Yosemite’s high country, is accessible by car from approximately late May through October or November. From mid-December through March, cross-country skiers can experience this view after skiing 10.5 miles. From the Glacier Point parking and tour unloading area, a short, paved, wheelchairaccessible trail takes you to an exhilarating (some might say unnerving) point 3,214 feet
above Half Dome Village (formerly Curry Village), on the floor of Yosemite Valley. From mid-May to September, you may be required to use a free shuttle from Badger Pass to Glacier Point between 10 am to 4:30 pm when the Glacier Point parking lot fills. If you arrive at the Badger Pass turnoff before 10 am or after 4:30 pm, you can drive to Glacier Point (and all trailheads). If you arrive between 10 am and 4:30 pm and the Glacier Point parking lot is full, rangers will have you park at Badger Pass and use the free shuttle to get to Glacier Point or other locations along the Glacier Point Road. Parking is available at Badger Pass for RVs and trailers, but not for full-sized commercial buses. The free shuttle leaves Badger Pass every 20 minutes and stops at Sentinel Dome/Taft Point trailhead, Washburn Point, and Glacier Point. Upon request or flag-down, the shuttle stops at McGurk Meadow, Ostrander Lake, and Mono Meadow trailheads. The
EXPLORE Sonora & THE SIERRA FOOTHILLS
View from the Road to Glacier Point first shuttle leaves Badger Pass at 10 am, the last shuttle leaves Badger Pass at 4:30 pm, and the last shuttle leaves Glacier Point at 5:30 pm. (No shuttle service of any kind is available after 5:30 pm.) Vehicles displaying accessibility placards, people with a wilderness permit for Glacier Point Road trailheads, and people camping at Bridalveil Creek Campground can drive to their destination at any time. Please note that the above details may change during the summer.
Getting There By Car: The Glacier Point Road is open to cars approximately late May through October or November, depending on conditions. When open, you can drive to Glacier Point by traveling on the Wawona Road (the continuation of Highway 41 within the park)—either north from Wawona or south from Yosemite Valley. After traveling about 13 miles, turn on to the Glacier Point Road at the Chinquapin intersection. Driving time from Wawona and Yosemite Valley is about an hour.
Waterfalls
Above: Upper Yosemite Falls At right Yosemite Falls & Half Dome
Yosemite is home to countless waterfalls. This is not a complete list of Yosemite’s waterfalls. While all but the last two of the waterfalls listed below are in Yosemite Valley, both Yosemite Valley and many other areas of the park have waterfalls both big and small. Yosemite Falls (2,425 ft) Flows: approximately November through July, with peak flow in May. Look for the ice cone at the base of the upper fall during winter and for roaring runoff April through June. Yosemite Falls, one of the world’s tallest, is actually made up of three separate falls: Upper Yosemite Fall (1,430 feet), the middle cascades (675 feet), and Lower Yosemite Fall (320 feet). You can see Yosemite Falls from numerous places around Yosemite Valley, especially around Yosemite Village and Yosemite Valley Lodge (formerly Yosemite Lodge). A one-mile loop trail leads to the base of Lower Yosemite Fall (the eastern side of the loop, from
By Bus: The Glacier Point Tour generally operates when the Glacier Point Road is open. One-way tickets are available if you’re interested in taking the bus to Glacier Point and hiking back to Yosemite Valley. (If hiking to or from Glacier Point, and expecting to take the bus back, be sure you’re familiar with the bus schedule. Activities • Birdwatching (all year) • Hiking and Walking (summer and fall) • Stargazing (all year) • Ranger and Interpretive Programs (all year) the shuttle stop to the base of the waterfall, is wheelchair accessible). It’s also possible to hike to the top of Yosemite Falls as a strenuous, all-day hike. Sentinel Falls (about 2,000 feet) Flows: approximately March through June, with peak flow in May. This waterfall is located on the south side of Yosemite Valley, just west of Sentinel Rock. It is comprised of multiple cascades, which range in height from 50 - 500 feet. You can see this waterfall from areas along Southside Drive near the Sentinel Beach Picnic Area, and near the Four Mile Trailhead. Alternatively, you can view it from across Yosemite Valley near Leidig Meadow, or while hiking the Upper Yosemite Fall Trail. Horsetail Fall is famous for appearing to be on fire when it reflects the orange glow of sunset in mid-to-late February. It falls off of the east side of El Capitan and is best seen from just east of El Capitan. To see Horsetail Fall, park at the El Capitan picnic area (on Northside Drive west of Yosemite Valley Lodge, for-
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EXPLORE Sonora & THE SIERRA FOOTHILLS
Horsetail Fall merly Yosemite Lodge) or in turnouts just east of the picnic area. You can see the waterfall from the road. 12 Bridalveil Fall (620 feet) veils the rocks over which it falls Flows: all year, with peak flow in May. This is often the first waterfall visitors see when entering Yosemite Valley. In spring, it thunders; during the rest of the year, look for its characteristic light, swaying flow. You can see Bridalveil Fall from near the tunnels on the Wawona Road (Highway 41) or Big Oak Flat Road (Highway 120) and from a signed parking lot on your way into Yosemite Valley.You can walk to the base via a short but steep (up to 24% slope) trail in just a few minutes.
Nevada Fall (594 feet) Flows: all year, with peak flow in late May. You can see Nevada Fall (from a distance) at Glacier Point.The road to Glacier Point is open approximately late May through sometime in November. A wheelchair-accessible trail is available to the viewpoint when the road is open. You can also hike beyond Vernal Fall to Nevada Fall on a steep trail. Vernal Fall (317 feet) Flows: all year, though by mid to late summer, it narrows and separates into one, two, or three falls as water flows decrease; peaks in late May. You can see Vernal Fall (from a distance) at Glacier Point.The road to Glacier Point is open approximately late May through sometime in November. A wheelchair-accessible trail is available to the viewpoint when the road is open. You can also hike to Vernal Fall on a steep trail (see a list of Valley day hikes). Wapama Falls (1,400 feet) Flows: all year, with peak flow in May. Relatively few people visit Hetch Hetchy Valley to see this roaring waterfall. In some springs, the water from this fall flows over the footbridges near its base. You can see this waterfall from the parking lot at O’Shaughnessy Dam or you can hike on an uneven trail to near its base.
half-way point from Groveland, 13.5 miles. When traveling east on the highway you’ll pass the View Point Rim of the World parking area above the Tuolumne River canyon. About 1.5 miles further east, you’ll see the highway making a sweeping turn into a bridge overpass. The entrance is on the right as you start to cross the bridge. There is a 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. Rainbow Pool is a popular swimming hole inviting locals and travelers during the summer months, to take a cooling dip or adventurous plunge.You can picnic above in the designated area or day camp by the Pool edge. You can see the occasional diver make the sign of the cross just before they take their leap of faith, plunge in the deep waters below the cliffs. It does take an adventurous sort but there seem to be plenty of brave plungers on any given day. It’s fun just to wade into the water and watch the exhibition for the afternoon. There are restrooms and picnic tables but parking is limited. Rainbow Pool is open all year. Carlon Falls Carlon Falls is a discovery much like that of Rainbow Pool. Upon first sight, you will happily wonder how it has escaped the throngs of visitors distracted by the rest of the Yosemite Valley. The falls are one of Yosemite’s lesser-known, even unknown waterfalls. This modest 3.5 mile trek begins outside of Yosemite’s boundaries. The trail elevation rises from 4400’ to 4600’ (approx,) 200 feet over its course and the distance makes for a great family outing. The trailhead can be found on Evergreen Road off Highway 120/Big Oak Flat Road, along the northward curve in the road towards Evergreen Lodge or Hetch Hetchy. The trailhead is at the southeast apex of the curve.
Wapama Falls
Nearby Waterfalls Rainbow Pool On your way to or from Yosemite National Park along Highway 120, you’ll find Rainbow Pools as it crosses over the South Fork Tuolumne River bridge at just about the Bridalveil Fall
Rainbow Pools
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Lakes & Rivers Very few lakes are easily accessible in Yosemite National Park. Tenaya Lake (above) is one of the easiest to get to (when the Tioga Road is open, late May or early June to sometime in November) and is quite popular for picnicking, swimming, and canoeing. You can see Tenaya Lake from Olmsted Point and as you drive past it.Two picnic areas are available (one of them is wheelchair accessible). Mirror Lake (in Yosemite Valley) is famous for its reflections of Half Dome and Mount Watkins when the water level is high enough (in spring); it’s more a pond than a lake. Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, created by damming the Tuolumne River, is another lake that’s accessible by car. Most lakes in Yosemite are in the wilderness and require hiking.
Mirror Lake
13 Hetch Hetchy Reservoir Rivers flow through Wawona, Meadows; numerous seasonal Yosemite Valley, and Tuolumne creeks flow throughout the park.
HIKING: DISCOVER YOSEMITE TRAILS A Few Things to Remember While Hiking:
•
Stay on trails: taking shortcuts causes trail erosion--and is both dangerous and illegal. • Carry (and drink) plenty of water: a leading cause of injuries on the trail is dehydration. Be sure to treat river, stream, lake, or spring water. • Pets & bicycles are only permitted on bike paths.
PARK INFO(209) 372-0200
larly patrolled: travel carefully and at your own risk. • Smoking while traveling on trails is prohibited, though you may smoke while stopped except when fire restrictions are in effect. (Crush out and dispose of cigarette butts in a trash receptacle.)
Yosemite Valley as you saunter through this large open meadow. Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km) loop Elevation gain: Flat Difficulty: Easy Time: 30 minutes Begin at:Yosemite Valley Visitor Center Bridalveil Fall Trail (shuttle stop #5 or #9) Cook’s Meadow is A short walk will lead you to the base of also accessible from shuttle stop #11 (near Bridalveil Fall, allowing you to get an up close Sentinel Bridge) or shuttle stop #6 (Lower view of this often-windswept waterfall. Yosemite Fall Trailhead) Distance: 0.5 mi (0.8 km) round trip Elevation gain: Approximately 80 ft (24 m) Mirror Lake Trail Difficulty: Easy With a fresh perspective looking up at Time: 20 minutes Half Dome directly from its base, you’ll be Begin at: Bridalveil Fall Parking Area rewarded with views of Tenaya Canyon, Mount Watkins, Washington Column, and Lower Yosemite Fall Trail more. Delight in stunning views of Yosemite Falls Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km) round trip to in its entirety, with the opportunity to walk lake and back; 5 miles (8 km) loop around to the base of the lower fall; it roars in lake spring but falls silent by late summer. Elevation: 100 feet Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km) loop Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Elevation gain: Approximately 50 ft (15 am) Time: 1 hour round trip to the lake (end Difficulty: Easy of paved trail); 2-3 hours for full loop Time: 30 minutes Begin at: Mirror Lake Trailhead (shuttle Begin at: Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead stop #17) (shuttle stop #6) Yosemite Valley Loop Trail Cook’s Meadow Loop Enjoy some solitude in western Yosemite Walk through the heart of it all! Enjoy Valley. Hike through meadows, forests, and views of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, Sentinel beside the Merced River. Along the way, enRock, and Royal Arches from the center of joy striking views of Sentinel Rock, CatheThe public information office is open from 9 am to 5 pm Pacific time (closed for lunch). Once connected, dial 3 then 5. If the ranger is already on the line, you’ll be returned to the main menu. If the ranger is not there, you can leave a message and we will return your call.
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• Horses & mules have the right of way on trails. • Pack out what you pack in. • Trails are not maintained nor are they regu-
Yosemite Creek
dral Rocks, Bridalveil Fall, El Capitan, Three Brothers,Yosemite Falls, and more. Distance: 11.5 mi (18.5 km) full loop; 7.2 mi (11.6 km) half loop Elevation gain: Mostly level Difficulty: Moderate Time: 5-7 hours full loop, 2.5-3.5 hours half loop Begin at: Lower Yosemite Fall (shuttle stop #6) [head west along the bicycle path until you see signs for the Valley Loop Trail] Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall Trails Climb along nature’s “giant staircase,” where you are rewarded with close-up views of two waterfalls and numerous geologic features (depending on how far you choose to hike). Powerful and turbulent, these two waterfalls will soak you in spring and entice you year-round. Views of Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall from each trail
Vernal Fall Footbridge Distance: 1.6 mi (2.6 km) round trip Elevation gain: 400 ft (120 m) Difficulty: Moderate Time: 1-1.5 hours Top of Vernal Fall Distance: 2.4 mi (3.9 km) round trip (via Mist Trail) Elevation gain: 1000 ft (300 m) Difficulty: Strenuous Time: 3 hours Top of Nevada Fall Distance: 5.4 mi (8.7 km) round trip (via Mist Trail) Elevation gain: 2000 ft (610 m) Difficulty: Strenuous Time: 5-6 hours All begin at: Happy Isles (shuttle stop #16) Yosemite Falls Trail A steep climb is well rewarded with closeup views of Upper Yosemite Fall and distant views of Half Dome and other Sierra mountain peaks. Along the hike, enjoy a bird’s eye view of Yosemite Valley’s meadows and the meandering Merced River. View of Upper Yosemite Fall and Half Dome from trail Columbia Rock Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km) round trip Elevation: 1,000 ft (328 m) elevation gain Difficulty: Moderate Time: 2-3 hours round trip Begin at: Camp 4 area (near shuttle stop #7 and El Capitan Shuttle stop #E2) Top of Yosemite Falls Distance: 7.2 miles (11.6 km) round trip Elevation: 2,700 ft (823 m) elevation gain Difficulty: Strenuous Time: 6-8 hours round trip Begin at: Camp 4 area (near shuttle stop #7 and El Capitan Shuttle stop #E2)
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Tuolumne County Event Calendar
Get Complete Events Details:
July 13 Tuolumne Parks & Recreation Concerts and Farmers Market July 13 to Aug 31 Railtown 1897 SHP Special Wednesdays Diesel Train Rides/Story Time/Junior Rangers July 16 Big Band Street Dance in Columbia July 20 Special Wednesdays Diesel Train Rides/Story Time/Junior Rangers
July 20 Tuolumne Parks & Recreation presents Concerts and Farmers Market July 22 to Aug 7 Bear Valley Music Festival July 23 to July 24 Summer Arts & Wine Festival in Twain Harte July 23 Wines In The Pines in Twain Harte July 23 History’s Mysteries in Columbia SHP July 27 Tuolumne Parks & Recreation Concerts and Farmers Market July 30 Rods to Rails Railtown 1897 SHP and Jamestown July 30 Columbia College Jazz Series Aug 5 Magic of the Night in Downtown Sonora Aug 6 Twain Harte Classic Car Show Aug 6 History’s Mysteries in Columbia SHP Aug 13 Columbia State Historic Park Ghost Tours Aug 20 History’s Mysteries in Columbia SHP Aug 25 to Aug 28 Yosemite Free-Pass Day Aug 27 The Dadgum Button Show in Columbia SHP Sept 1 to Sept 5 Strawberry Music Festival In Tuolumne Sept 3 History’s Mysteries in Columbia SHP Sept 3 to Sept 5 Labor Day Weekend at Railtown 1897 SHP Sept 10 Sonora Annual Exotic Bird and Animal Show Sept 10 California Statehood Day Parade in Columbia
Sept 10 to Sept 11 50th Annual Me-Wuk Indian Acorn Festival Tuolumne City Sept 10 Columbia State Historic Park Ghost Tours Sept 17 Groveland 49er Festival & Chili Salsa Cook-off Sept 17 Working on the Railroads Celebration of Sierra Railway Workers Sept 17 Back to School 1861 in Columbia SHP Sept 18 44th Annual Columbia Art Show Sept 23 to Sept 24 Stories in Stone tours in Columbia SHP Sept 24 34th Annual Fiddle & Bango Contest & Chili Cook-Off at Columbia SHP Sept 24 34th Annual Poison Oak Show in Columbia SHP Sept 24 Yosemite Free-Pass Day 15
The City of Sonora’s CERTIFIED Farmer’s Market is held every Saturday from 7:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. and is located on Theall and Stewart Street in Downtown Sonora. Info (209) 532-7725
685 South Washington St., Sonora • 209.536.1400 • groceryoutlet.com/Sonora-CA
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The Sonora Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 3084 Sonora, California 95370
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The ‘Movie Star’ Railroad Featuring Engine No. 3
R a i lt o w n
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The
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Downtown Sonora August 5th In AHistoric G F -F E
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