101 Things To Do Sierra Nevada 2013 by 101 Things To Do Publications

SIERRA NEVADA GOLD COUNTRY

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Photo Courtesy

Maria Camillo

Photo Co urtesy Ca lifornia C averns

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Photo Courtesy ComeToArnold.com, see page 24-26

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Featuring the Counties of Sierra, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera, and more!

www.101things.com/sngc

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GOLD Country

WELCOME TO GOLD COUNTRY Sierra Nevada Gold Country is the heart of northeastern and central California. It is chock full of mountains, lakes, valleys, rivers, vineyards, and exciting, historic cities and towns. Whether your plans for vacationing in this region include sightseeing, shopping, hiking, fishing, snow or water skiing, a Wild West adventure or just a getaway for rest and relaxation, the Sierra Nevada Gold Country has something for everyone! The areas covered by this edition of 101 Things To Do include the counties of Tuolumne, Calaveras, Amador, Mariposa, Madera, Alpine, Mono, El Dorado, Placer, Sierra, and Nevada. It features the beautiful historic towns of Columbia, Groveland, Jamestown, Pinecrest, Sonora, Twain Harte, Angels Camp, Arnold, Bear Valley, Murphys, Amador City, Jackson, Sutter Creek, Plymouth, plus world class parks and attractions such as Yosemite, the caverns of Calaveras County, and the Lake Tahoe area. The highways and byways of the Gold Country are amongst the most scenic in the country and include Hwy 49, 4, 140, 120, and 108, all branching off 99, 50, and 80. The Gold Country is famed for the gold mines that attracted the immigrants known as 49ers during the 1849 California Gold Rush, and it lies within the Sierra Nevada mountains that reach down to the Sacramento Valley. The climate in this region resembles much of Italy and Spain, making vineyards one of the regions primary crops and industry. The local landmarks, history museums, and annual events held in the Gold Country will take you back in time as you can still pan for gold, find an abundance of history as well as art and culture, and escape to outdoor recreation year round. Yosemite National park spans the eastern portions of Tuolumne, Mariposa, and Madera counties and is managed by the National Park Service. It covers 761,268 acres, visited by more than 3.7 million people annually. Yosemite is known worldwide for its awesome granite cliffs, waterfalls, streams, Giant Sequoias, and diversity. With the efforts of Galen Clark, Abraham Lincoln, and John Muir, Yosemite was designated part of the National Park system. The park is characterized by granite rocks, narrow canyons, river beds, and scenic vistas developed by glaciers during the glacial period occurring over 10 million years ago. Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. It’s surface elevation is 6,225 ft and its depth is 1,645 ft, making it the second deepest lake in the United States. Tahoe is known for the clarity of its water and reflection of the surrounding mountains. Lake Tahoe is a major tourist attraction on both the Nevada and California sides. It is home to many ski resorts and summer tourist attractions. Major rivers that run through the region include North Yuba, South Yuba, North and South Fork American River, Bear River, and the Consumes River.

Each region of California’s Gold Country is filled with great beauty and great adventures! Sierra County is the most rugged and boasts deep river canyons and Sierra Buttes. It also has the Lakes Basin with incredible fishing, hiking and winter activities. Nevada County offers some of the best examples of Gold Rush History and stunning fall colors in October and November. Placer County is not only part of the Lake Tahoe area, it also offers many opportunities for arts, culture, and urban activity as you get closer to the Sacramento area. El Dorado County has visitors charmed along the length of hwy 50 through bustling towns all the way to Lake Tahoe’s clear blue waters. Amador County’s rolling foothills showcase small communities offering many family fun events in a quaint environment. Calaveras County has some diverse terrain and incredible adventure with all the Caverns, the towns of Angels Camp and Murphys, and of course the Hwy 4 Scenic Byway. Tuolumne County has remnants of times gone by in towns worth visiting such as Groveland, Jamestown, Sonora, Columbia, and the Hwy 108 Scenic Byway. Mariposa, being the largest of California’s original 27 counties, has a great number of museums and history to be seen!

101 THINGS TO DO MAGAZINE The goal of 101 Things To Do Magazine, Sierra Nevada Gold Country, is to serve as a guide while you explore the area. We have organized the magazine in a logical, orderly fashion and divided it by geographical area to make it easy to use. The table of contents is listed in sections according to the area where the activity or topic is located. Our map in the front of the magazine shows the major roads and towns in the area, and inside the magazine you’ll find many maps of the towns, major roads, areas, lakes, and more. 101 Things To Do editorials explain exciting activities that will entertain and thrill the entire family. It is a great way to learn about and enjoy this magnificent area. As you read through the magazine, you’ll see that we’ve included information about adjacent regions and counties for those who may be continuing their travels. We urge visitors and locals alike to patronize the many fine businesses that will make your stay more enjoyable. Through their support, we can share this magazine and the beauty of the Sierra Nevada Gold Country region. 101 Things To Do in Sierra Nevada Gold Country works in conjunction with guides published along the Oregon and California Coasts. For those traveling to our other regions, please look for the 101 Things To Do Magazines in Shasta, Sacramento, Del Norte, Humboldt, Mendocino, Sonoma, and Marin in Northern California. Also available is the Bento, Coos, Curry, Tillamook, Polk, Yamhill, Deschutes, Klamath, and Marion counties in Oregon. Be sure to look for the 101 Things To Do Magazines in San Diego, Palm Springs, Hawaii, and South Carolina as

ON THE COVER ... well. Meanwhile, please enjoy your stay in the Sierra Nevada Gold Country area, and let the advertisers know that you saw their ad in 101 Things To Do Magazine.

E V A DAY S I E R R ACN UNTR O GOLD

101 THINGS TO DO MOBILE APPLICATION To continue in providing the best on-the-go service to our readers, we have started development of mobile applications, starting with our very own Shasta edition! Follow along with the content of the magazine, see current events, GPS locations of your favorite attractions, directions to the 101 Things To Do, talk with us through social media and our fan wall, and even take photos and submit them through the app. All this and more! Download our FREE mobile app today by visiting the links provided below or scan the QR codes below for either the app store or android Google play today!

Scan these codes for the smartphone APP!

Sierra Nevada Gold Country App Coming Soon!

QR CODE SCANNING QR codes are scan able codes that you can scan with your Smartphone or device. They have information on the product they are attached to. All you have to do is get a FREE app for your smart device such as i-nigma (recommended), quiQR, QR Reader, and start scanning today. Locations on maps are approximate locations, searching for exact addresses may be necessary once in the GPS or mapping application. As this technology gets better we will be making additions and improvements.

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Main Photo by Robb Hirsch Photography

Robb Hirsch prefers to photograph away from the crowds, often backpacking or skiing long distances to previously scouted locations. Photography is part of the wilderness experience for him and by spending considerable time exploring, scouting and waiting for the right light, he becomes more in tune with the area, ultimately culminating in more evocative images. Robb shoots with Canon digital camera gear. His goal is to accurately portray the scenes he photographs and use as little post processing as possible. He enjoys shooting everything from wildlife to wildflowers, from grand landscapes to tiny abstracts. Robb’s images are known for their compelling subjects, careful compositions and fine light. In 2007, these attributes were highlighted nationally when his color landscape, El Capitan and the Merced River in Winter, was selected out of 17,000 entries and named a winner in the Natures Best, Windland Rice Smith International Nature Photography Competition. SMALL AND PRIVATE SESSIONS AVAILABLE Robb offers custom small group and private photography workshops and backpacking trips in Yosemite National Park and surrounding Sierra Nevada. Ph: 209.206.2235 Email: robb@robbhirschphoto.com www.robbhirschphoto.com

Inset Cover Photos: (top to bottom & left to right) Maria Camillo Moaning Caverns California Caverns Columbia State Park, franstrine.com And, White Pines Lake, Courtesy ComeToArnold.com, see pages 24-26

Photo Courtesy Robb Hirsch Photography robhirschphoto.com

Featuring the Counties of Sierra, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera, and more!

GOLD To R edding

Country

101 Things To Do, Sierra Nevada Gold Country Volume 27, No. 10 2013 Brought to you by: Trading Post Partners P.O. Box 991150 Redding, CA 96099 (530) 223-1227

In This Edition THINGS TO DO IN SIERRA NEVADA GOLD COUNTRY 1. Hiking in Sierra Nevada Gold Country ... 5 2. Sightseeing in the Gold Country............. 5 3. Soak up the Culture of Gold Country....... 5 4. Scenic Byways of Gold Country .............. 5 5. Wine Tasting in Gold Country ................. 5 6. Stay in Gold Country ............................... 5 YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK 7. Discover the History of Yosemite ............ 6 8. Take in the Great Yosemite Valley ........... 6 9. Stay in Yosemite ..................................... 6 10. Hiking in Yosemite ................................. 6 11. Waterfalls of Yosemite ........................... 6 12. Auto Tour of Yosemite ............................ 6 13. Viewing Yosemite .................................. 7 14. Capturing Yosemite ............................... 7

TUOLUMNE COUNTY GROVELAND 15. Historic Iron Door Saloon ....................... 8 16. Mountain Sage Gardens ........................ 9 17. Town of Groveland ................................. 9 18. Entryway to Yosemite Valley ................... 9 JAMESTOWN 19. The Rough and Ready Town ....................10 20. Jamestown Railtown Train Ride...............10 21. The Haunted Willow Steakhouse ............10 22. The Best Gold Prospecting Experience ....11 SONORA 23. Historic Downtown Sonora .....................12 24. Shop Unique Boutiques of Sonora ......... 12 COLUMBIA 25. Columbia State Historic Park ..................14 26. Quartz Mountain Stage Lines ................. 14 27. Seven Sisters Soap and Candle Factory....14 28. Nelson’s Columbia Candy Factory ...........14 HWY 108 29. Indigeny Reserve ................................... 16 30. Cover’s Apple Ranch ............................... 17

MARIPOSA & MADERA COUNTIES 31. 32. 33. 34.

Visit Historical Mariposa ........................ 17 California State Mining and Minerals..... 17 The City of Madera ................................. 17 Walker River Emigrant Trail Sonora Pass .17

CALAVERAS COUNTY

PUBLISHERS

To Redding & Oregon

40. Jumping Frog Jubilee ........................... 19 41. Fish with the Help of Glory Hole Sports.. 19 MURPHYS 42. Visit Murphys ........................................ 20 43. Treasures to be Found from Round the Globe. 21 44. Enjoy the Wine Events in Calaveras ....... 21 45. Saddle Up with Horse and Barrel .......... 21 46. Enjoy the Taste of Murphys ................... 21 BEAR VALLEY 47. Sierra Nevada Adventure Company ...... 22 48. Bear Valley Adventure .......................... 22 49. Bear Valley Music Festival .................... 22 MOKELUMNE HILL 50. The Historic Town of Mokelumne Hill ... 22 51. The Hotel Leger from Hotel Impossible. 22 52. Take a River Rafting Tour ....................... 22 53. Historic Walking Tour ............................ 23 54. Celebrate the 4th of July in Style .......... 23 55. Petroglyphe Gallery Museum ............... 23 56. Wine and Dine in Mokelumne Hill ....... 23 GREATER ARNOLD AREA 57. Drive the Ebbetts Pass Byway ............... 26 58. Hike the Trails of Art ............................. 26 59. Discover the Largest Trees in the World . 26 60. Sierra Nevada Logging Museum .......... 26 VALLECITO 61. White Pines Lake .................................. 27 62. Moaning Caverns .................................. 27 63. California Caverns ................................. 27

ALPINE & MONO COUNTY 64. 65. 66. 67. 68.

Markleeville ......................................... 28 Grover Hot Springs ............................... 28 Death Ride on a Bicycle ........................ 28 Grover State Park Waterfall Hike ........... 28 Mono Lake ............................................ 29

AMADOR COUNTY JACKSON 69. Visit Historic Downtown Jackson .......... 30 70. Kennedy Tailing Wheel Park ................. 30 71. Read, Trade and Hunt Books ................. 30 72. Amador County Museum ......................30 VOLCANO 73. Visit Volcano ......................................... 32 74. Black Chasm Caverns, NNL ................... 32 75. Stay in an Historical Place .................... 32 76. Take in the Sounds of the Music Box Company. 32 77. Fine Eye Gallery .................................... 32 SUTTER CREEK 78. The Clothes Mine ................................. .33 79. Susan’s Place ........................................ 33 80. Sutter Creek Ice Cream ......................... 33 81. Shopping Sutter Creek ......................... 33 82. Historic Downtown Sutter Creek ........... 33 PLYMOUTH

83. 84. 85.

Amador Flower Farm ............................ 34 Wine Tasting in Amador ....................... 34 Taste Amador ....................................... 34

EL DORADO COUNTY 86. 87. 88.

Apple Hill .............................................. 35 Visit Coloma .......................................... 35 Stroll Downtown Placerville .................. 35

Ride the Wake ....................................... 35 Art & Entertainment of Placer ................ 35 Auburn Endurance Capital of the World. 35

Biking, Hiking & Running Lake Tahoe.... 36 Family Fun in Lake Tahoe ....................... 36 Skiing & Snowboarding Lake Tahoe ....... 36 Water Recreation in Lake Tahoe.............. 36 Enjoy Lake Tahoe Culture ....................... 36 Gaming and Casinos in Lake Tahoe ....... 37

Editor (530) 227-6026

JB TOURISM MEDIA GROUP

Fra

Account Administrator, Cartography & Graphic Design Assistance Gold Country (707) 287-1143

isc

n Sa

S A

C O

NEVADA & SIERRA COUNTIES 98. 99. 100. 101.

Deer Creek Tribute Trail ......................... 38 Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park .... 38 South Yuba River State Park .................. 38 Lakes Basin ........................................... 38

OTHER REGIONS SACRAMENTO SHASTA

PAGE 40-41 PAGE 42-47

FORESTS, STATE & NATIONAL PARKS ~ PAGE 48 SIERRA NEVADA GOLD COUNTRY EVENTS ~ PAGE 39 MAPS Angels Camp ........................................................... 19 Columbia ................................................................ 14 Groveland ............................................................... 8 Jamestown ............................................................. 10 Sonora .................................................................... 12 Mokelumne Hill ...................................................... 22 Murphys .................................................................. 23

The 101 Things To Do® magazine in the Gold Country region is distributed free in hundreds of locations. For advertising information, call (530) 223-1227. 101 Things To Do® magazines are available for Humboldt, ANTIOCH Sonoma, Shasta, Butte, Lassen, Plumas, Tehama, Trinity, Siskiyou, Modoc, Del Norte, Mendocino San Fransisco, Sonoma Napa & Marin, Santa Cruz, Monterey/Carmel, Orange County, San Diego, Palm Springs counties, and Gold Country Counties; El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento, Sierra, Nevada, Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera in California, and Curry, Jackson, Josephine, Benton, Coos, Douglas, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Polk, Tillamook and Yamhill counties in Oregon. Copies of each 101 Things To Do® magazine are available free of charge in certain locations, are online in their entirety at www.101things. com, or are available by mail for a handling fee: $5 for one, $10 for two, $12 for three, $15 for four, or $18 for all editions. Mail to 101 Things To Do®, Post Office Box 1374, Eureka, CA 95502. Proudly printed by Valley Web Printing of Medford, Oregon

101 Things To Do® Sierra Nevada Gold Country published by Chase Winthrop & Associates, LLC Trading Post Partners & NorCal Marketing & Publishing

Photo Courtesy Robb Hirsch Photography robhirschphoto.com

All content of the 101 Things To Do® magazine is copyrighted. No part may be reprinted without the expressed written consent of NorCal Marketing & Publishing and Chase Winthrop & Associates, LLC. The name 101 Things To Do® is a registered trademark and cannot be used without written permission. ©2013Chase Winthrop & Associates, LLC Please visit www.101things.com to view all editions

DUNNIGAN

Account Executive (530) 223-1227

JEANE BILOLAVEK

LAKE TAHOE 92. 93. 94. 95. 96. 97.

JACQUELINE JOLLEY STACEY COUNCILMAN

PLACER COUNTY 89. 90. 91.

ARBUCKLE

Sierra Nevada Gold Country 2013 Edition 101things.com Say “I saw it in 101 Things To Do!”

To Los Angeles

ANGELS CAMP 35. Destination Copperopolis ...................... 18 36. The Town of Angels Camp ...................... 18 37. Soak up History at Angles Camp Museum... .18 38. Stories in Stone ...................................... 18 39. New Melonies Lake ................................ 19

COLU WILLIAMS

BRENTWOOD

DISCOV BAY

To Oakla

GOLD Country

P L U M A S

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CALPINE

DOWNIEVILLE

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GOODYEARS BAR

Beckwourth Pass 5212' California Inspection Station

SATTLEY

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To Los Angeles

Featuring the counties of Sierra, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera, and more!

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CHARLES B. MICHELL SKINNER

EASTON & TERRA ROUGE VINO NOCETO

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LAKE

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SHENANDOAH VALLEY ~ FIDDLETOWN WINE REGION

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COLIBRI RIDGE Slug Gulch Rd.

POLLOCK PINES

Liesure Lane

AMADOR VINTNERS ASSOCIATION

TAHOMA

HOMEWOOD SKI AREA

Griz Flat zly CANTIGA Rd.

LATCHAM SIERRA OAKS ESTATES

Mt. Akum Rd.

A M A D O R Rancho Murieta CC

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Featuring the Counties of Sierra, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado,MADERA Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera, and more!

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GOLD Country

SIERRA NEVADA GOLD COUNTRY 2013 This first section of our publication focuses on some valuable information needed while staying in our beautiful region of Northern California such as Wildlife details, water safety, and general information regarding activities that can be enjoyed throughout the entire area. For more information on each subject you can follow the links at the end of each topic.

ANIMALS IN THE WILD

You may not see them at first, or they may decide to show themselves at the most inconvenient times, such as crossing the road while you are driving, coming up to your boat while you are eating a sandwich, or deciding to sip from the lakeside while your kiddos are taking a mid-summer swim. Regardless of if you see them or not, they are there. Many of the animals that roam the forests in and around the Gold Country are secretive in their ways, moving about at night or concealed from your eyes by the forest cover. The following are just a few of the examples of wildlife you may catch a glimpse of on your visit.

MAMMALS

Black bear range in color and size. They are not always “black,” but can be seen in brown, cinnamon, and golden as well. Bears eat berries, fish, grubs, grass, mice, ground squirrels, deer, fish, and domestic animals. They will also eat your garbage or your breakfast, so always remember while visiting the forests of the Gold Country, to keep your garbage and food locked up tight. Columbian Black Tail Deer are the most commonly seen deer in Far Northern California. These deer are much smaller than their relatives the Mule Deer. These deer can be seen at all times of the night and day, but tend to be most active at night, during the early morning or late evening. Be aware of these deer while driving in Northern California, as they are often seen along side roads. Raccoons are nocturnal and make their dens in the holes of trees, in hollow logs and in the crevices of rocky ledges. They are often seen swimming in streams and alongside riverbanks where they are hunting for their food, which include crawdads, frogs, fish, and freshwater mussels. Raccoons are clever and because they have “fingers” they can undo latches on coolers and boxes. So, again, make sure you keep your food and garbage locked up tight while camping in the area. They are not shy about sharing your food if you leave it out. Skunks are of course known for their obnoxious scent, sprayed when offended or frightened. Skunks generally warn whomever or whatever is threatening them before spraying by hunching over and pointing their tails at the threat, and then stomping their feet. If you see this, you probably want to back up slowly. Skunks are nocturnal and feed on large insects and small rodents. Mountain Lions, also called pumas or cougars, are rarely seen. They prey mainly on deer, but will also eat rodents, rabbits, and porcupines. Mountain lions will attack humans, so never taunt a mountain lion if you happen upon one. Bobcats are seen occasionally, but are mostly nocturnal. They hunt rabbits, rats, mice, squirrels, birds, reptiles, and some invertebrates. Coyotes are seen frequently in the forests in Northern California, and aren’t shy about making their presence known. Coyotes are heard at night singing and howling. They hunt rats, rabbits, insects, squirrels, and mice. They will also eat birds and berries. They live and hunt in packs. The gray fox has a long bushy tail and is seen often darting across fields or roads in search of food. Like most of the other wildlife mentioned, gray fox is nocturnal but can be seen throughout the daytime as well. It eats almost anything available from small rodents to insects to berries. Unlike other members of the dog family, the gray fox can climb trees in search of food. River Otters are highly accomplished swimmers feeding mostly on fish, crawdads, frogs, and freshwater mussels. The make their dens in tree root cavities, hollow logs, or in dense brush alongside rivers and lakes. Western Gray Squirrels are tree dwellers. They are most comfortable in cavities or nests on branches off the ground. They are most active during the day and can often be seen sunning themselves on branches of trees or running around the ground in search of seeds. Chipmunks are seen almost everywhere running around campsites looking for goodies that people leave behind. The Golden Mantled Ground Squirrel is not a chipmunk, but is often mistaken as one. They are much larger than chipmunks. You can tell a ground squirrel apart from a chipmunk because it

has no stripes on its head, whereas a chipmunk does. The ground squirrel often acts like the chipmunk, begging for food around campsites. Black-tailed Jackrabbits can be seen in both forest areas and large fields. They are active at all times of day and night and eat grass. They are an important food source for all sorts of omnivores of the area. There are several species of bats that are found throughout the area, some of which migrate through the area at different times of the year. The little brown bat is the most common bat here making their homes in crevices of rocks, trees or caves, and occasionally in buildings and attics. They are very important for insect control around lakes and rivers. You can often see them darting around overhead in the evenings eating insects. Elk were almost hunted into extinction in the 1800’s, and were reintroduced to the area in the early 1900’s. They can rarely be seen but there are a few herds in the eastern part of far northern California. Other Mammals in the area consist of Moles, Shrews, Pikas and other rodents, Mule Deer, Antelope, Mountain Sheep, Mink, Weasel, Fisher, and possibly Grizzly Bear.

BIRDS

Birds of the area include Red-tailed Hawk, Swainson Hawk, Golden Eagle, Bald Eagle, Woodpeckers; Red shafted Flicker, Nightjars, Hummingbirds, Jays, Finches, Tanagers, Warblers, Nuthatches, Chickadees, Kinglets, and Thrushes, Loons, Pelicans, Cormorants, Herons, Spoonbills, Vultures, Waterfowl, Pheasants, Shorebirds, Doves, Roadrunners, Owls, among others.

FISH

The popular fish of Northern California include Steelhead, Chinook salmon, Rainbow Trout, King Salmon, Brown Trout, Spotted Bass, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Channel Catfish, Crappie, Bluegill, and Sturgeon, among others.

REPTILES

Reptiles of Northern California include Northern Rubber Boa, Aquatic Garter Snake, Sierra Garter Snake, Terrestrial Garter Snake, Common Garter Snake, Coast Night snake, Western Rattlesnake, North American Racer, Striped Racer, Striped Whip snake, Common King snake, California Mountain King snake, Gopher Snake, Common Sharp-tailed Snake, Ring-necked Snake, Alligator Lizard, Horned Lizard, Skinks, Sagebrush Lizard, Fence Lizard, Western Whiptail Lizard, Western Pond Turtle, Pond Slider Turtle, Central Pacific Chorus Frog, Western Spade foot Frog, Coastal Tailed Frog, Foothill Yellow legged Frog, Cascades Frog, American Bullfrog, Western Toad, Coastal Giant Salamander, Shasta Black Salamander, Shasta Salamander, Long toed Salamander, Rough-skinned Newt, Sierra Newt, among others.

CAMPING

Whether you are camping in a remote region by backpacking in the backcountry or if you are traveling by RV or going on a Houseboat trip, there is a great abundance of camping in the Gold Country region. Camping is often enjoyed in conjunction with hiking, whitewater kayaking, hill walking, climbing, canoeing, mountain biking, motorcycling, swimming, and fishing. Whatever your camping forte you will be pleased to find a wide range of land to roam and play in throughout the Gold Country.

HIKING

Whether you are looking for a leisurely stroll or a multi-day extreme hike, you will find what you are looking for in any county throughout the Sierra Nevada/Gold Country region. From flat land to steep mountaineering you will find all levels existing here. You can find several equipment retailers throughout all the major cities and towns throughout the region as well. The natural environments in which hikers seek adventure may be fragile. Remember in these areas such as National Recreation Areas, National Parks, and National Forests, we strongly recommend that you stay on marked trails so that you have a lesser effect on the fragile surroundings of the trail. Be aware of noxious plants, inclement weather, hazardous terrain, or exacerbation of pre-existing medical conditions. Obtain information regarding your hike before you go, such as maps, information via the Internet, or local visitor centers.

BOATING SAFETY & REGULATIONS BOAT SAFE AND SOBER!

Alcohol and drug use have been cited as contributing factors in many boating injuries and fatalities. Studies indicate that the effects of alcohol and drugs are more pronounced when operating a boat. Alcohol and/or drug use combined with wind, increased noise levels, vibration, wave action and sun glare have been shown to have a tremendous adverse influence on judgment and response times. It is unlawful to operate a recreational vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Under California State law, a person with a blood alcohol level of .087% or greater is considered to be under the influence.

FLOATING DEBRIS

Floating debris (such as limbs, logs and bark) generally enter the lake through rivers and streams. Following winter storms and during spring runoff, a considerable amount of debris may accumulate in lakes. The rising lake also “refloats” any debris beached on the shoreline from previous years. The larger debris can present a physical obstacle for boaters, while smaller debris can clog water intake ports in boat engine cooling systems, and can ruin props. Boat operators should maintain a constant watch and travel at reduced speeds when these conditions exist.

LAKE FLUCTUATIONS AND UNDERWATER OBSTACLES

Annual precipitation and the demand for water are primary determinants of lake levels. Lake levels can vary from a few inches to several feet per day. Underwater obstacles, such as rocks, trees, stumps, and landforms may become exposed or may lie just below the water surface when the lake level changes. In an effort to notify visitors of the presence of obstacles, the Forest Service provides free Boating Safety brochures and maps at designated public boat ramps.

HOW TO BUILD A CAMPFIRE:

Build your campfire away from overhanging branches, steep slopes, rotten stumps or logs, dry grass and leaves. Pile wood away from the fire. Scrape away litter, duff and any flammable material within 5 feet of the fire in all directions. This will keep a campfire from spreading. Have a shovel available at the campfire site for preparing and extinguishing campfires. Keep at least 5 gallons of water available to yourself and your party. Quick action will usually prevent a fire from getting out of control. Keep campfires small. A good bed of coals or small fire surrounded by rocks will provide plenty of heat for cooking. Extinguish campfires with water, using the “drown, stir and feel” method. No water? Use dirt. Mix enough soil and/or sand with the embers and the fire will go out. Continue adding and stirring until all material is cold enough to feel with your bare hand. Don’t just bury your fire...it may smolder and break out again after you have left the area.

Fireworks

Possession and use of fireworks are illegal on National Forest lands. Anyone found in possession of fireworks will be cited. Discharging or igniting a firecracker, rocket or other firework, or explosive is prohibited.

As a visitor to the National Forests, you are asked to follow certain rules designed to protect the land and the natural environment, to ensure the health and safety of visitors, and to promote pleasant and rewarding outdoor experiences for all visitors. Forest Officers are empowered to enforce the Federal Regulations that the rules are taken from. Please take time to read and understand them. When the need arises, Regional Foresters and Forest Supervisors may issue orders that will close or restrict the use of certain areas. Such prohibitions will be posted so that National Forest visitors can reasonably be expected to be familiar with them. Copies of the orders will also be available at the offices of Forest Supervisors and District Rangers. Information on all permit requirements is available from Forest Services office. If you have any questions or need help, please contact your nearest Forest Officer or visit the nearest Forest Service office. Please remember to be careful! You are primarily responsible for your own safety. Look out for natural hazards and dangers when you are in the forest. If you hike off trails or swim or dive in streams or lakes, you do so at YOUR OWN RISK!

Camping

Use picnic sites, swimming beaches, and other day use areas only between the hours of 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Campgrounds and other recreation sites can be used only for recreation purposes. Permanent use or use as a principal residence without authorization is not allowed. In campgrounds, camp only in those places specifically marked or provided. At least one person must occupy a camping area during the first night after camping equipment has been set up, unless permission has otherwise been granted by the Forest Ranger. Do not leave camping equipment unattended in a developed recreation site for more than 24 hours without permission from the Forest Ranger. The Forest Service is not responsible for any loss or damage to personal property. Remove all personal property and trash when leaving.

Campfires

Obey all restrictions on fires. Open fires may be limited or prohibited at certain times. Within campgrounds and other recreation sites, build fires only in existing fire rings, stoves, grills, or fireplaces provided for that purpose. Be sure your fire is completely extinguished before leaving. Do not leave fires unattended. YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR KEEPING FIRES UNDER CONTROL.

Property

Do not carve, chop, cut, or damage any live trees. Preserve and protect your National Forests by leaving natural areas the way you find them. Enter buildings, structures, or enclosed areas in National Forests only when they are expressly opened to the public. Native American, old cabins, and other structures-- along with all objects and artifacts associated with them--have historic or archeological value. Do not damage or remove any such historic or archeological resource.

Sanitation

Firearms

Throw all garbage and litter in containers provided for this purpose, or carry it out with you. Garbage containers, when provided, are reserved for the use of visitors to the National Forest, not visitors to or owners of private lands or lands under permit. Wash all food and personal items away from drinking water supplies. Use water faucets only for drawing water. Use toilets properly. Do not throw garbage, litter, fish cleanings, or other foreign substances in toilets and plumbing fixtures.

Littering/Resource damage

Operation of Vehicles

Discharging a firearm or any other implement capable of taking human life, causing injury, or damaging property is prohibited: In or within 50 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied area, or across or on a Forest development road, or a body or water adjacent thereto, or in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge.

Resource damage and littering are common problems that occur when large crowds of people gather in one location. All recreation visitors need to be responsible for their garbage and campsites. Avoid crowding into one area; spread your campsites and houseboats apart. Please remember, if you “Pack it in, Pack it out.” You can gather enough dead and down wood for your campfire without a permit, but please do not cut any standing wood, dead or alive.

Photo Courtesy Robb Hirsch Photography robhirschphoto.com

RULES FOR VISITORS TO NATIONAL FORESTS

Sierra Nevada Gold Country 2013 Edition 101things.com Say “I saw it in 101 Things To Do!”

Motorized vehicles are restricted to designated roads, trails, and areas. Obey all traffic signs. Specific state traffic laws apply to the National Forest unless otherwise specified. When operating any kind of vehicle, do not damage the land or vegetation, or disturb wildlife. Do not drive on unpaved roads or trails when they are wet or muddy. Within campgrounds and other recreation sites, use cars, motorbikes, motorcycles, or other motor vehicles only for entering or leaving, unless areas or trails are specifically marked

GOLD Country

THINGS TO DO IN SIERRA NEVADA GOLD COUNTRY Welcome to the Sierra Nevada Gold Country. This is a place where you can meander back in time to old towns that are literally still living in the old frontier days! In every little town there are award winning dining establishments, fantastic wineries and breweries, historical landmarks, and outdoor recreation opportunites for everyone in your traveling group! Here are a few things you can do in any of our featured counties;

for them. Park only in marked parking areas. Do not block, restrict, or interfere with the use of roads, trails or gates.

Pets and Animals

Pets must always be on a leash while in developed recreation sites. Pets (except guide dogs) are not allowed in swimming areas. Saddle or pack animals are allowed in recreation sites only where authorized by posted instructions.

Fee Areas

You must pay a fee to use certain sites and facilities. Such areas are clearly signed or posted as requiring a fee. Where fees are required, you must pay them before using the site, facility, equipment, or service furnished.

Audio Devices

Operate any audio device, such as a radio or musical instrument, so that it does not disturb other visitors. A permit is required for operating a public address system in or near a campsite, developed recreation site, or over a body of water. www.fs.fed.us/r4/recreation/rules.shtml

Dining

From small but quaint cafés, to B&B’s, GREAT Steakhouses, and small to large franchises, as well as the old but great mom & pop diners, there’s something for most every taste. We haven’t narrowed it down to the nitty-gritty; however, we have listed the streets to check out, and plan to expand this section of “dining” in future editions

Hiking in Sierra Nevada Gold Country (1 day+)

The incredibly magnificent Sierra Nevada mountain range covers much of mid California, spanning 400 miles from Yosemite to Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Park. The highest peaks are located on the east side of the Sierra Nevada from the highest point in the lower 48 states, Mount Whitney at 14,505 feet, to the lower laying meadows, lakes, rivers, and valleys. With such a diverse scene, you can imagine the quality and quantity of hiking in this great region. Here are a few mentioned throughout the magazine and a few more that are worth the google

search: North Grove Big Trees Trail in Calaveras Big Trees State Park www.hikespeak.com/trails/northgrove-calaveras-big-trees-state-park-hike/, Upper Natural Bridge Trail, located within a limestone tunnel that you can swim through in a creek in Calaveras County http://www.hikespeak.com/ trails/upper-natural-bridge-hike-calaveras-county/, Dragoon Gulch Trail, which is a loop that follows a creek and ridge to great views in Sonora http:// www.hikespeak.com/trails/dragoon-gulch-trailsonora/, Wapama Falls in Yosemite National Park, that tours the reservoir in Hetch Hetchy Valley to a great waterfall in the northwest corner of Yosemite National Park http://www.hikespeak.com/trails/ wapama-falls-hetch-hetchy-reservoir-yosemite/. For more information on some great Sierra Nevada hikes, visit www.hikespeak.com.

Sightseeing in the Sierra Nevada Gold Country

Sightseeing is one should cross your mind when

(1 day+)

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considering a visit through California’s prime Gold Country. From quaint little historical towns with outstanding museums to National Parks that will literally take your breath away, you just can’t go wrong with a sightseeing tour of the region. In Sierra County enjoy the Sierra Buttes, Lakes Basin, and Sierra Valley. In Nevada County visit the Gold Rush Museums, dining, nightlife, lodging, and fall colors in October and November. In Placer County enjoy Lake Tahoe, the Sierra Nevada foothills, and some great shopping in the more urban areas. El Dorado County offers great views of Lake Tahoe as well, along with great whitewater opportunities. Amador has great rolling foothills with great spring colors in the months of April – June. Calaveras County is fun, with yearround recreational opportunities. Tuolumne County has many neat towns and frontier villages that will take you back in time. No matter what Sierra Nevada Counties you will be traveling through, sightseeing should be one of the biggest reasons

to stop along the way. For more great information on sightseeing, visit www.calgold.org.

Soak up the Culture of Gold Country (1 day+)

You just can’t go wrong visiting the Gold Country to soak up some culture. The culture of the Sierra Nevada Gold Country in regards to history is amazing, with the number of small cities and towns that embrace their history. Some of our favorites are the Art on Divide Gallery in Georgetown, located at 6295 Main Street, the Olde Coloma Theater near the Gold Discovery Park in Coloma, and the Thomas Kinkade Gallery, which is appropriately located on Main Street in Placerville--Thomas Kinkade’s home town. The El Dorado Wine Region is arguably the most exciting wine producing area in the state, along with areas of Calaveras and Amador. With the different festivals and markets available year round, there is always culture to dive into in the Gold Country.

Wine Tasting in Sierra Nevada Gold Country (2 days+)

Nothing could be tastier than a fun and unforgettable wine tour through the heart of the Gold Country. From the scenic rolling Sierra Foothills of Amador County to El Dorado and Calaveras, the wineries of the Sierra Nevada Gold Country offer an amazing variety of award winning wines. Sutter Creek, located in the heart of the Sierra Foothill Wine Region, is the perfect launching point for your wine tasting exploration, with 9 wine tasting rooms right on Main Street. Amador County’s Shenandoah Valley is just minutes away near Plymouth, and don’t miss El Dorado County’s Fairplay region near Placerville as well as the fun filled Calaveras County Wine experience in and around Murphys. Visit www.calaveraswines.org, www.amadorwine.com, www.wineonmain.com Placer County Wine Trail is a series of family owned and family run wineries just a short 30 minute drive from Sacramento, and runs through the towns of Loomis, Lincoln, Newcastle and Auburn, easily accessible from 80, 65 and Hwy 49. Visit www. placerwine.com Taste at a higher level with El Dorado Wines. About an hour from Sacramento and South Lake Tahoe, El Dorado’s wineries offer a w i d e diversity of award winning wines, friendly tasting rooms and great views.

Photos Courtesy

Scenic Byways of Sierra Nevada Gold Country (1 day+)

Richard Carter

Stay in Sierra Nevada Gold Country

One of the unique and exciting things to do in Gold (2 days+) Country is to take advantage of our gorgeous scenic byways. Hwy 49 is like traveling through time, with cities such as Placerville, Coloma, Auburn, Grass Play in the real live California Gold Rush towns of Valley, Nevada City, Plymouth, Amador City, Sutter Amador, Calaveras and Tuolumne Counties and Creek, Jackson, Angels Camp, Sonora, Mariposa, experience Sierra Nevada high country adventures; and Oakhurst. You can find History museums, tour elegant family wineries and taste great dining antiques, and frontier like no other on Hwy. 49. cuisines; discover the arts and antiques, the One of the most intimate and untamed routes you’ll romantic inns, bed and breakfasts and exciting find in the region is Hwy 4 or Ebbetts Pass Scenic resorts. For more information on where to stay in Byway, which includes a 61 mile stretch between the Gold Country visit http://goldcountryvisitors. the towns of Angels Camp and Markleeville, com/lodging-inns-bedandbreakfast California. Other routes worth traveling are Hwy 108, 120, 88, and 89. Visit www.scenic4.org or www.historichwy49.com. Photo Courtesy Robb Hirsch Photography robhirschphoto.com

Featuring the Counties of Sierra, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera, and more!

GOLD Country

Photos Courtesy Robb Hirsch Photography robhirschphoto.com

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK Known as one of the greatest national parks in the United States, Yosemite National Park was first protected in 1864. It is known for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient sequoias, and more. The park is famous for its highly praised scenery— notably when it comes to photographers and artists , drawinging out the natural artistic talents in anyone that visits. Explore nature at its finest in one of the most pristine and scenic national parks in the nation.

Discover the History of Yosemite in Wawona (2-4 Hours)

The Pioneer Yosemite History Center in Wawona is an assembled village which affords structures that were found throughout the park in different locations and moved to Wawona in the 1950’s and 60’s. Each building represents a different chapter in Yosemite’s story. One of the biggest attractions is a carriage ride through a covered bridge. Other attractions at the History Center include pioneer homes and cabins, a blacksmith shop, Cavalry office, Wells Fargo office, and more. Wawona Hotel is a National Historic Landmark located in Yosemite, four miles from the south entrance of the park. Wawona was an ideal camp location when Galen Clark, a miner in the area, happened upon the spot in 1855. In 1856 he built a small cabin at the west end of the meadow, strategically placed so that travelers would stop at his place when trekking on the main trail into the valley. This was the beginning of what they called “Clarks Station,” later called the Big Tree Station, and finally Wawona Hotel. The present day hotel is located on the far side of the meadow where Clark moved his inn before 1860. Wawona Hotel hosted several prominent guests during its early history. Distinguished visitors included President Theodore Roosevelt, John Ruskin, Lily Langtry, Bernard Baruch, Diamond Jim Brady, William Jennings Bryan, William Harrison and many others. Today the Hotel is operated by DNC Parks & Resorts at Yosemite and features 104 guest rooms that were renovated in 2002. For more information and history visit www.yosemitepark.com or call (801) 559-4884.

Take in the Great Yosemite Valley (1 Day - Several Days)

An inspiration to poets, artists, photographers, and more, Yosemite Valley is home to many of the most famous waterfalls and mountains of the United States and the world, and lies within the bounds of several counties we include in this publication. You can access Yosemite Valley all year via Highways 41, 140, and 120 from the west, although chains may be required from October/November through March/April. Amtrak and Greyhound also provide

public transportation to the valley, and you can take advantage of year-round shuttle service via the visitor centers and museums. Activities to enjoy in Yosemite Valley are biking, bird watching, fishing, walking, horseback riding, ice skating (winter), mountain climbing, stargazing, tours, and all sorts of water activities. There are waterfalls to enjoy, meadows, valleys, and incredible views, all within a short drive. Many waterfalls are accessible by a very short walk. For an accessibility guide visit www.yosemitepark.com

Stay in Yosemite (2 days+)

Lodging in Yosemite National Park affords you the opportunity to stay in a simple tent cabin or a deluxe room in a full service hotel. Reservations are available 366 days in advance and are strongly recommended, especially for the busy summer months! Camping is an extraordinarily popular way of spending the night in Yosemite, but don’t expect to find a spot without an reservation between April and September. Overnight hiking and High Sierra Camps are available but you’ll need to be prepared by going to http://www.yosemitepark. com/high-sierra-camps.aspx. For information on other Yosemite accommodations visit http:// www.yosemitepark.com/lodging.aspx. And for information on Yosemite National Park itself visit http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/where.htm.

Hiking In Yosemite (Miniutes - Several Days)

One of the best ways to experience Yosemite is by hiking! Some of the best hiking trails are in Yosemite Valley, including Bridalveil Falls, Lower Yosemite Falls, Cook’s Meadow Loop, Mirror Lake/Meadow, Valley Floor Loop, Four Mile Trail, Panorama Trail, Upper Yosemite Falls, Vernal Falls, Nevada Falls, and Half Dome. Day hikes along the Glacier Point Road can be accessed by car; the road is opened late May or early June and closes sometime in November. Trails off Glacier Point Road include McGurk Meadow, Bridalveil Creek, and Dewey Point, as well as Sentinel Dome, Taft Point, Mono Meadow, and Ostrander Lake. There are also many hikes in Wawona and Mariposa Grove

of Giants, Hetch Hetchy, White Wolf, and the Tuolumne Meadows. When hiking in Yosemite, remember: stay on trails, carry and drink plenty of water, pets and bikes are only permitted on bike paths, horses and mules have the right of way, pack out what you pack in, and smoking is prohibited while traveling but permitted while stopped. For more information on hiking in Yosemite National Park visit http://www.nps.gov/yose/ planyourvisit/hiking.htm.

Waterfalls of Yosemite (Minutes - Several Days)

There are countless waterfalls in Yosemite National Park. The best time to see the waterfalls is during spring when the most snowmelt occurs and peak runoff between May and June. Some waterfalls are only left as a trickle or become dry by the end of summer. Yosemite Falls flows approximately November through July and is easily viewed and accessible. Sentinel Falls flows March through June with peak flow in May and is located on the south side of Yosemite Valley just west of Sentinel Rock. Ribbon Falls is seen from the road as you drive into Yosemite Valley just beyond the turn for Bridalveil Falls. Horsetail Falls is famous for appearing to be on fire when it reflects the orange glow of the sunset in February. To see Horsetail Falls, park at the El Capitan picnic area or in turnouts just east of the picnic area where you can see it from the road. Bridalveil Falls is the first waterfall most visitors see when entering Yosemite Valley as you can see it from near the tunnels on the Wawona Road or Big Oak Flat Rd. Nevada Falls flows all year and is accessible via Glacier Point Rd. Vernal Falls is also off Glacier Point Rd and a wheelchair accessible trail is available to the viewpoint when the road is open. Illilouette Falls is noticed on the way to Vernal Falls off Panorama Trail. Wapama Falls is seen from the parking lot at O’Shaughnessy Dam. Chilualna Falls is located in Wawona. For more information on all of Yosemite’s waterfalls visit http://www.nps.gov/ yose/planyourvisit/waterfalls.htm.

Auto Tour of Yosemite (Hours - Days)

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All of the roads in Yosemite National Forest are scenic, but the most famous scenic drive is along the Tioga Road, a 39 mile drive from Crane Flat to Tioga Pass. The road is open from late May to sometime in November. The Yosemite Valley Loop is probably the most popular and can be very crowded in the summer months; however, it is a must-see when you visit the park. Wawona road has an Old West Town with hiking trails and a Pioneer History Center. Glacier Point Road leads to some great views. You can also drive along Big Oak Flat Rd, El Portal Road, Hetch Hetchy Road, Sierra Vista Byway, Hwy 108, 120, 140, 4, 41, and 49. For more information on all these roads visit http:// www.allyosemite.com/scenic_drives/ The DNC Parks & Resorts at Yosemite offers bus tours year-round as well. Tours available include the Valley Floor Tour, the Glacier Point Tour, Tuolumne Meadows Tour, Big Trees Tram Tour, Mariposa Grove

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and other fine artists. In addition, you will find available, handcrafts, books, gifts, and photography supplies. The Yosemite Conservancy’s Outdoor Adventures program offers art and photography seminars throughout the park. The Yosemite Renaissance offers and artist-in-residence program as well. Visit http://www.nps.gov/yose/ planyourvisit/art.htm for more links for photographers.

Robb Hirsch Photography Robb Hirsch prefers to photograph away from the crowds, often backpacking or skiing long distances to previously scouted locations. Photography is part of the wilderness experience for him and by spending considerable time exploring, scouting and waiting for the right light, he becomes more in tune with the area, ultimately culminating in more evocative images.

of Sequoias, and the Grand Tour. Self-guiding trails are available in several areas of the park. http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/touring. htm

Viewing Yosemite (Hours - Days)

Yosemite is known for its scenic vistas and viewpoints. The Tunnel View overlook has been one of the most popular scenes for visitors for almost 75 years. This historic view has been an iconic part of Yosemite National Park’s lore since its beginning. The Tunnel View scenic overlook is a historic site located adjacent to Wawona Rd. Its

view includes Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, Bridalveil Falls, and Half Dome. The overlook was constructed during an era that heralded a boom in design and development throughout the National Park Service. Wawona Tunnel and Tunnel View were determined eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986 because of their design. Improvements have been made in recent decades to include handicap accessible viewing, and to accommodate 5-7,000 people visiting per day during the summer months. Other viewpoints in Yosemite National Park include Glacier Point, Olmsted Point, El Portal View, O’Shaughnessy Dam, Pothole Dome, El Capitan Meadow, Valley View, Sentinel Meadow and Yosemite Chapel, and last but not least, Sentinel Bridge. For more on the viewpoints and vistas of Yosemite visit; http://www.nps.gov/yose/naturescience/scenicvistas-tunnel-view.htm

Robb shoots with Canon digital camera gear. His goal is to accurately portray the scenes he photographs and use as little post processing as possible. He enjoys shooting everything from wildlife to wildflowers, from grand landscapes Photos Courtesy Robb Hirsch Photography robhirschphoto.com to tiny abstracts. Robb’s images are known for their compelling subjects, http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/viewpoints. careful compositions and fine light. In 2007, these htm attributes were highlighted nationally when his color landscape, El Capitan and the Merced River in Winter, was selected out of 17,000 entries and named a winner in the Natures Best, Windland Rice Smith International Nature Photography Capturing Yosemite Competition.

(Hours - Days)

If you are a photographer living in California, you have probably been to, or can’t wait to go to Yosemite National Park. In this long time haven for artists and photographers, art classes and photography walks are offered all year throughout the park. The Yosemite Museum Gallery displays exhibits of Yosemite art during spring and summer. The Ansel Adams Gallery offers work of Ansel Adams, contemporary photographers,

SMALL AND PRIVATE SESSIONS AVAILABLE Robb offers custom small group and private photography workshops and backpacking trips in Yosemite National Park and surrounding Sierra Nevada. Ph: 209.206.2235 Email: robb@robbhirschphoto.com www.robbhirschphoto.com

Photo Courtesy Robb Hirsch Photography robhirschphoto.com

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TUOLUMNE COUNTY Tuolumne County is known by many as the natural gateway to Yosemite National Park, with plenty of hiking, biking, fishing, camping, historical landmarks, river rafting, and sightseeing to suit your gold fever. You’ll find that Tuolumne County offers four seasons for exciting attractions and excellent adventures!

GROVELAND Located on the most direct scenic route to Yosemite National Park from the San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento on Hwy 120, Yosemite National Park’s year-round northern entrance is 30 minutes from Groveland, CA. All maps provide by JB Tourism Media Group, Jeane Bilolavek

Historic Iron Door Saloon (1-2 Hours)

The Historic Iron Door Saloon, near Yosemite National Park, was built in the California Gold Country sometime before 1852. It was first called the “Granite Store”, perhaps because the front and back walls are made of solid granite blocks. The sidewalls are made of “shist” rock and mortar and the roof consists of three feet of sod, covered by tin. James Tannahill was the first owner of the store that would become the Iron Door Saloon and served the Groveland community as the first Postmaster from 1863 to 1880, running the post office in the store. The establishment became a saloon in 1896 when it was purchased by Giacomo DeFarrari and was named “Jake’s Place.” In 1937 a second story was

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added and cards, billiards and pool were offered for an evening’s diversion. The establishment was renamed “The Iron Door Saloon” after the hefty iron doors which had been hauled in on mule back across the Tuolumne River by way of Wards Ferry. These iron doors were manufactured in England and brought around the tip of South America by sailing ship and sold to the saloon as a fire protection device. The idea was that if the town was burning, you just shut the doors and waited it out. The iron doors on the front of the saloon today are the same ones originally fitted. 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 pre-O’Shaughnessy Dam days, and many antique gold mining, timber and farm implements of the Old West. You’ll also 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

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Photos Courtesy Robb Hirsch Photography robhirschphoto.com

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 from all over the world, hosts live music every weekend, is available for private parties, and provides catering as well. For more information visit http://www.iron-door-saloon.com

Mountain Sage Gardens (1-2 Hours+)

Mountain Sage Nursery and Gardens highlights deer resistant and drought tolerant plants with a great selection of natives, hummingbird favorites, Japanese maples and bedding plants. During the summer months they host farmers markets, concerts, festivals, and events in the gardens. There is a coffee house and lots of places to sit and relax, drink a cup of tea and have some grapes straight from the vine. Time your visit accordingly so as to be able to relax and enjoy the nostalgia of the Sierra Nevada Foothills. The Mountain Sage Nursery and Gardens is located on the grounds of the historic 1860’s Laveroni House in Groveland Ca.

Town Of Groveland (Hours-days)

Groveland is the town at the entryway to Yosemite

Valley and has always been an important stop on the highway into the park. In the early 1900’s the development of the Tuolumne River Hetch-Hetchy water project for the city of San Francisco really made the town more popular. Groveland is adjacent to the Stanislaus National Forest and is known for the historic Iron Door Saloon, its annual 49’er festival, the Mountain Sage Gardens, and the gated community of Pine Mountain Lake. The community of Big Oak Flat was founded by James D. Savage, who began mining the area about 1851. Savage is credited by some as discovering the Yosemite Valley in 1848. He is one of the first European person to enter the valley on March 27, 1851, but others of European ancestry many have seen the valley as early as 1833. Groveland has lodging, eateries, grocery markets, a pharmacy, medical clinic, emergency services, a fire department, and many boutique shops.

Vacation Rentals

Pine Mountain Lake Hwy 120 near Yosemite Easy Online Reservations at

YosemiteGoldVacations.com Beaches Golf Marina Pool Tennis Hiking Fishing

Ser·en·dip·i·ty noun

the phenomenon of making for tunate, accidental discover ies art • home • jewelry • gifts in a big house in the heart of groveland

18680 HWY 120 • Groveland

Entryway to Yosemite Valley Driveby

Despite Yosemite’s peaceful remoteness, it is relatively easy to get to from anywhere. All public roadways into the park are well maintained and open year-round (with the exception of Tioga Rd, which is hwy 120 east between Crane Flat and Hwy 395 in Lee Vining). You can arrive in Yosemite by train, bus, car, or air. For more on how to get to Yosemite National Park visit: http://www. yosemitepark.com/yosemite-directions.aspx

Toll Free 877-962-7180

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Photo Courtesy Robb Hirsch Photography robhirschphoto.com

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JAMESTOWN In the early summer of 1848—a few months after the famous discovery of gold at Sutter’s Mill near Sacramento that started the Gold Rush—an Oregon man named Benjamin Wood discovered the first gold in the area in what is now known as Woods Creek. The discovery site is about 1 mile west of what is today downtown Jamestown. It seemed that everyone then in California who possibly could swarmed to the Sierra foothills seeking gold. Woods Creek became crowded with miners seeking nuggets and flakes. Many were successful in that first year. For more information visit www.jamestownca.org Make sure to check out these attractions: HISTORIC WILLOW STEAKHOUSE & SALOON Celebrating 150 years in business where you can enjoy lunch, dinner and your favorite libation at the historic bar, plus hear about their famous collection of ghosts (even buy a can of ghosts) from Roger and Siobhan Stevens. www.willowsteakjamestown.com NATIONAL HOTEL Jamestown features classic cuisine and gracious service in a lovely historic building with a vinecovered patio. Fresh seafood, choice steaks, decadent desserts. www.national-hotel.com GIANELLI VINEYARDS WINE TASTING & GIFT SHOP We are very excited to announce the opening of our Tasting Room in Downtown Jamestown. Please stop by to sample our entire fleet of wines -- you’ll find an assortment of other unique items and gifts. http://www.gianellivineyards.com CHARLEY’S BOOKS & GALLERY Is a wonderful and eclectic mix of collectable books, antique games, and every conceivable kind of gift useful and unusual.

Acclaimed Dining ~ Historic B&B Hotel� 39 Years of Dining Excellence�

Res�800-894-3446� 209-984-3446� Info�

18183 Main St�~�Jamestown, CA�~�www.National-Hotel.com�

RestauRant & saloon eST. 1862

family Owned and Operated Since 1972! Willow & main Streets in JameSTOWn (209) 984-3998 for Reservations

~ fun family dining ~ Prime Rib & Prime Cut Steaks fresh fish & lobster Poultry, Pasta & fondue ~ lunCh & dinneR daily ~ Breakfast on Weekends april–Sept. Saloon Opens at 10am full Service Catering, Banquets, Weddings

All maps provide by JB Tourism Media Group, Jeane Bilolavek

The Rough and Ready Town (Hours-Days)

Walk down Main Street in Historic Jamestown and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. You’ll see wooden buildings from the times of the Gold Rush, stone buildings built to withstand fires, and Victorian style buildings from the turn of the 20th century. There are bars, restaurants, steak houses, and old fashioned ice cream parlors with old style décor, with gift shops and antique collector stores featuring many items made locally. Several historic hotels are located on and around Main Street, as well as a park and an old jail built in 1898. A few blocks east of the historic downtown area is the state park Railtown. This park preserved a lot of the railway built in 1897 to link Oakdale to the rest of the rail network. It carried lumber from sawmills and quartz ore to processing plants. The Willow Steak House was the local hangout for builders of the railway. For more about Jamestown visit http://www.jamestownca.org

youths ages 6-17, children ages 5 and under ride free. Ticket prices include park admission. Your 6-mile, 45-minute roundtrip train ride will take you past the water tower from “Petticoat Junction,” and transport you from the backyards of Jamestown to the rugged hillsides of California’s Mother Lode country. At the end of the line (Rock Spur), your train will pause as the locomotive uncouples, “runs around” your train on a side track, then re-couples to the train’s opposite end for the return trip to Jamestown. Longer, specially themed excursions operate throughout the year as well. Special excursion trains include spring Wildflower Trains. For More information visit http://www. railtown1897.org/train-rides

Jamestown Railtown Train Ride (1-2 Hours)

Every Saturday and Sunday, April through October, ride behind a historic steam or diesel locomotive on a train trip through California’s scenic Gold Country! Trains depart from the Railtown Depot on the hour, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Trains feature comfortable enclosed coaches, open ‘mountain observation cars’, our restored wooden caboose (seen in many movies and TV shows), and our opulent first class car (depending upon availability and scheduling). Regular excursion train tickets are $15 adults, $8

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The Haunted Willow Steakhouse (1 Hour+)

The Willow Steakhouse and Saloon celebrates its 150th year with a brand new renovation and the same old ghost! The atmosphere here is truly exciting as Chef/owner Roger Stevens and his kitchen have rave reviews. Families and groups welcome for lunch and dinner, plus cocktails and ghost stories in the beautiful historic bar. In 1848, John Periera came from Portugal and engaged in new ventures, establishing The Willow in 1862. The Willow soon became one of the leading hotels in Tuolumne County, housing many dignitaries and wealthy businessmen who were instrumental in establishing Jamestown as a thriving township. Many businesses were housed here, as well as the first telegraph, medical offices and stage stop. The Willow was truly the heart of a thriving progressive area. It supported the first railway station with transportation and housing for travelers, including

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President McKinley, Bat Masterson, and Mrs. Robert E. Lee. The Willow stands today as a tribute to the pioneer effort and continues to serve the area as a mysterious and romantic dining establishment. The Willow’s history of unexplained fires and documented ghostly occurrences intrigue and fascinate today’s patrons. It is The Willow’s numerous past occupants who set the scene for the mysterious and ghostly activities that continue to haunt and inspire strange sightings. These occurrences have been documented worldwide. The Willow’s historical fires and sightings stem from the many tragedies that befell unsuspecting miners and patrons of the past. Today you can enjoy the same fine dining in the romantic and mystical history that spans well over a century. — by Sally Hamilton www. willowsteakjamestown.com

The Best Gold Prospecting Experience (1-2 Hours) 18263 Main Street, Jamestown, CA 209 984-1500 Mon-Thurs 1:00 - 5:00 Friday 1:00 - 6:00 Sat - Sun 12:00 - 5:00

During 1849, it was said that a prospector www.gianellivineyards.com could make a week’s wages prying the gold out of cracks in the bedrock with a knife on his way to pick up supplies. Here you can step back in history and dig for gold in the same conditions the 49ers did, back in the time when saloons and trading posts dotted the land between claims. Bring your family into this rich past and history of the gold rush days the Best Selection which made California the great state that it is. of Gold Rush & The businesses that provide gold panning instruction western History are professionals in gold If You Can’t Find it, Charley Can! prospecting and have perfected techniques, kept up with history, and tailored their businesses to meet the needs of the thousands of guests that visit each year. 18178 Main St, JaMeStown

gianellivineyards@hub3.net

209.984.3370 Photo Courtesy Robb Hirsch Photography robhirschphoto.com

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SONORA Sonora is named after the miners from Sonora Mexico who settled there. When you walk the streets of the city you will see that it still holds on to this poetic charm. The culture revolves around museums, art galleries and live theatre.

Historic Downtown Sonora (1-2 Hours+)

In the heart of California’s Gold Country lies Sonora, named after the miners from Sonora Mexico who settled in the city in 1848. Like many of the small towns dotting the Sierra Nevada foothills, this pristine city still holds its historic charm with many of its buildings dating back to the 1800’s. The city itself was incorporated in 1851 as a mining camp and quickly grew into a town while gold mining was booming. Sonora is home to museums, live theatre, and many galleries. Just outside the city limits are year-round opportunities for recreational activities and adventure. Things to do include shopping the eclectic and exciting mix of owner operated boutiques featuring antiques, toys and memorabilia to gourmet candy plus womens clothing, shoes and jewelry that are surrounded

At Joan’s Boutique You’ll find super buy-able women’s clothing and jewelry for all the lives you lead! Voted #1 women’s boutique in the county, Joan features lines like Prairie Underground, Brighton, Christine Alexander, XCVI and boutique designers around the world. OPEN EVERYDAY!

by a host great of cafes. For more information visit http://www.sonoraca.com

Shop Unique Boutiques of Sonora (1-2 Hours)

All maps provide by JB Tourism Media Group, Jeane Bilolavek

A Trip to Sonora is not complete without a walkthrough of the unique boutiques, especially a visit to these exceptional novelty stores: Backspace is savvy, sensational and well priced with unique well-made clothing, locally made jewelry, handbags and accessories for women and men. Great place to hang out with a Noe Valley feel and well done closeout consignment section in the back. Located at 67 S. Washington Street, Sonora, CA 95370. (209) 532-4894. Visit us on Facebook! By Hand Yarn located in a charming historic building, offers a large selection of novelty and basic wools, mohairs and textured yarns. With a knowledgeable and friendly staff, they offer classes, books, bags and accessories. www.byhandyarn. com Mountain Home is a fun new shop featuring gifts that say “Sonora and the Great Outdoors”. Quality posters, t-shirts and sweatshirts, eclectic and collectible gifts for friends and family to enjoy! Located at 87 S. Washington Street, Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 533-5319. Joan’s Boutique – www. joansboutique.com Europa Cafe - Located at 275 South Washington Street, Sonora, Ca 95370. Visit us on Facebook!

52 South Washington • Sonora • 209.533.1550 www.joansboutique.com

Mountain Home Gifts Gifts for everyone who loves the mountains ART l GIFTS l CLOTHING

87 S. Washington Street at the corner of Linoberg

209.533.5319

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sit a nd knit

com

Photo Courtesy Robb Hirsch Photography robhirschphoto.com

Featuring the Counties of Sierra, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera, and more!

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COLUMBIA Columbia State Historic Park is a living gold rush town in the heart of the California Mother Lode, with the loot to boot, having the single largest collection of existing gold rush-era structures in the entire state. Conveniently located off of Hwy 49, Columbia’s streets are lined with a variety of shops and boutiques with many nineteenth century designed goods, restaurants, ice cream parlors, candy stores, tea houses, and more. With so much to see and do in the area, we recommend staying overnight in or around Columbia, California.

Columbia State Historic Park (1-3 Hours+)

Columbia was only one of hundreds of settlements that sprang up during the exciting years when the cry of gold brought prospectors from all over the nation to strike it rich. Unlike many of these settlements, Columbia has never been completely

deserted. So, in recognizing an opportunity to preserve a well maintained “gold rush town,” the State Legislature in 1945 created Columbia State Historic Park. The Park is located three miles north of Sonora, off Highway 49. The town’s old gold rush era business district has been preserved with shops, restaurants and hotels. Visitors can experience a bygone era, watching proprietors in period clothing conduct business in the style of yesterday. You can ride a 100 year-old stagecoach, pan for gold, and explore real working businesses of Columbia. Free town tours are conducted during the summer at 11am and meet at the museum. For more information, go to: http://www.visitcolumbiacalifornia.com.

26 Stage Line

Located at Columbia State Historic Park on Main Street in Columbia CA, Go back to the past and enjoy an authentic stage coach ride. Memorial Day through Labor Day we operate seven days a week, weekends all year long.

(209)984-3125 www.qmcarriage.com

Quartz Mountain Stage Lines (1 Hour+)

Tom Fraser and family welcome you to check out their Horse Drawn Carriage site and their Stagecoach operation in Columbia California. Tom Fraser’s family has been involved with horses and horse drawn transportation for generations. Located at Columbia State Historic Park on Main

All maps provide by JB Tourism Media Group, Jeane Bilolavek

Street in Columbia California, Quartz Mountain Stage Line lets you go back to the past and enjoy an authentic stage coach ride. Memorial Day through Labor Day they will operate seven days a week Monday through Thursday 10am to 4pm, Friday through Sunday 10am to 5pm. During the Off Season In the months of March, April, May, September & October they operate three days a week on Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays from 11am to 4pm. In the months of January, February, November & December they operate two days a week on Saturdays & Sundays from 11am to 3pm, weather permitting. For more information visit http://www.qmcarriage.com/page3.html

Seven Sisters Soap and Candle Factory (30 Min+)

The Seven Sisters Soap and Candle shop is a unique candle and soap shop from the gold rush days. It has the largest selection of handmade candles, soaps and incense in the mother lode. The candles they sell are made on site as well as some of the soaps from their goat’s milk. You can watch candles being made five days a week at their Broadway location and in summer you can dip your own on Main Street. They also have candle making supplies, lotions, gifts & more! At the 7 Sisters farm Alpine and Nubian dairy goats are tended to alongside their chickens and honey bees. The goat milk is used to make their handcrafted soaps. Seven Sisters Soap and Candle Company is located at 22719 Broadway Street, Columbia, CA 95310. Phone (209) 536-9047 for more information.

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Nelson’s Columbia Candy Kitchen (30 min+)

The Columbia Candy Kitchen has been the home of fine handmade confections in Columbia, California since the late 1800s, when a Danish confectioner settled in this gold rush town. A fellow Danish miner, C. Rex Nelson, became the confectioner in the 1930s. After four generations the Nelson family still produces the finest candies using those original recipes. The ingredients are the purest and freshest available, cooked in bright copper kettles and cooled on marble tables that are over 100 years old. Columbia, now a State Historical Park, is filled with history and tradition; like the Nelson family, carrying on a heritage from another time. Gold Rush candies are pure as gold. For more information visit http://www.columbiacandykitchen.com.

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Photos Courtesy of Fran Strine at franstrine.com

Photo Courtesy Robb Hirsch Photography robhirschphoto.com

Featuring the Counties of Sierra, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera, and more!

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HWY 108

We specialize in elopements and small weddings in an ideal outdoor setting surrounded by majestic cedars and pines. We also stage weddings in our

SR 108, also known as Highway 108, is a numbered state highway in California. It runs across central California in a northeast direction. It begins in Modesto on the south end and crosses the Sierra Nevada at Sonora Pass to US Route 395 near the Nevada state line. Along the way, 108 crosses paths with SR 99, 132, 120, and 49. SR 49 joins from the south and is co-routed with SR 108 through Jamestown and into Sonora, where SR 49 departs to the north. 108 then continues east and passes through Twain Harte, Mi-Wuk Village, Long Barn, Cold Springs, Straweberry-Pinecrest Lake and Dodge Ridge Ski Area.

spacious living room with a grand piano and casual seating for your guests.

Come visit Indigeny Reserve™, a family-run organic apple ranch, ciderworks, distillery and tasting bar nestled in the foothills of Sonora, California. Indigeny Reserve is known for its crisp hard cider, small-batch apple brandy, unrivaled gift shop and ample space for picnicking, and RV Parking. Pure Paradise.

14679 Summers Lane, Sonora, California 95370 www.IndigenyReserve.com www.facebook.com/IndigenyReserve

Indigeny Reserve (30 Min+)

Indigeny Reserve is set in the breathtaking Sierra Nevada foothills of Northern California, Sonora. It is the perfect respite for intrepid and eco-travelers, hard cider and brandy fans, families, groups, and our Tuolumne County neighbors. Indigeny is close to Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, Twain Harte, and Mammoth Hot Springs, and only three hours from the San Francisco Bay Area. Founded by the Watson family in 2007, Indigeny Reserve™ is a lush 160-acre preserve created with one thing in mind: to create the best hard ciders and spirits – bold and intensely flavorful. “Indigeny ” comes from the word “indigenous,” meaning “occurring naturally in a region or environment.” “Reserve” means “consecrated, to set aside or retain for a future time or place.” Our name reflects our mission to celebrate, share, and renew nature’s bounty for generations to come. Indigeny Reserve’s™ estate-crafted apple brandy is organic and sustainably-produced. We use artisan double copper-pot distillation and the traditional aging methods of Normandy - creating a uniquely elegant and mellow taste, and a deeply satisfying experience for both newcomer and connoisseur... produced in small batches. Visit Indigeny’s 26,000 sq. foot ciderworks and distillery. Learn how the best organic apple brandy is produced. Discover why the equilibrium between liquid and vapor creates magic, and tour our spectacular 18-foothigh, 19-plate double copper-pot stills and oak barrel-aging chamber. Learn about organic apple farming, hardcider brewing, fermentation, and pasteurization – from land to glass.

Cover’s Apple Ranch (30 Min+)

Is your destination for family fun and great food? Take a ride on the miniature train through tunnels and around the pond. Afterwards, you can play in the tree houses or visit the many barnyard animals. Then head up to the main ranch house for home style food from the deli and delicious homemade baked goods from the bakery, and don’t forget the fresh-pressed, 100% natural cider to go with it. Take a stroll through the gift shop, with unique gifts and many locally made items that are available individually, or can be packaged into beautiful gift baskets suitable for any occasion. Cover’s Apple Ranch is an excellent place for a field trip. Children will learn about how an apple pie is made, starting with the seed and ending with the oven!

Photo Courtesy Robb Hirsch Photography robhirschphoto.com

Enjoy responsibly.

Joe Watson - Production Manager

Sample Indigeny Reserve Hard Cider™ at the bar. It’s bold, unconventionally delicious, versatile, infused with real fruit off the branch! Bring a picnic basket and lunch surrounded by apple orchards amid the rich volcanic earth and gentle terrain of the Sierra Nevada foothills. Tour our ciderworks and distillery, including the state-of-the-art apple press and bottling equipment, fragrant oak barrel-filled aging chamber, and towering artisan double copper-pot stills. Don’t forget to join us for the apple crush in the fall. Indigeny shares the land with over 20,000 organic apple trees (Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, Honeycrisp, etc.), Western kingbirds, great heron, acorn woodpeckers, raccoons, mountain lions, redbreasted sapsuckers, live springs, a wetlands pond, verdant meadows, abundant pine, cedar, oak, dogwood, native ferns, and bear clover.

Sierra Nevada Gold Country 2013 Edition 101things.com Say “I saw it in 101 Things To Do!”

GOLD Country

MARIPOSA & MADERA COUNTIES From the Foothills to the river canyons to the hills and valleys, mountains and lakes, Mariposa County is full of outdoor adventures, culture, activities, wining and dining and so much more!

Visit Historical Mariposa (1-2 Hours)

Mariposa was said to be named after the Spanish word for butterfly by an early expeditions of settlers led by a Spanish Priest named Gabriel Moraga. The 49ers that arrived in Mariposa set up camp along the Mariposa Creek, but after the high waters of 1850, the flat above the

mine area was chosen as a better site. Throughout the early 1850’s, stores, hotels, saloons, and stables sprang up. The Mariposa mine itself produced $200,000 in gold between 1849 and 1859, and a courthouse and newspaper were established in 1854. After several fires in the late 1800’s mining remained the driving force in the community, but the tourist trade began to pick up with the opening of Yosemite Valley to stage roads. Over the years entertainment progressed to bullfights, grand balls, and horse races. The need for gathering halls grew and the town of Mariposa was there to deliver, building assembly halls, community halls, opera houses and more.

Once the First World War was over and the mining industry meek, Mariposa began to stabilize as a small community dependent on agriculture and tourist trade to Yosemite. The Mariposa Museum and History Center is located in the historical town of Mariposa California. Mariposa has the unique distinction of being an authentic gold rush era community located near the southern end of the Mother Lode country of t h e 1849 Gold Rush.

Mariposa is located on Highway 49 which spans most of the historic mother load country of California. We are also located on the “all weather” highway (Highway 140) that accesses Yosemite National Park . The museum and history center is located one block off the main street just north of Mariposa’s historic (1850s era) downtown.

California State Mining and Minerals Museum (1 hour)

“There’s gold in the hills of California!” These words

echoed around the world in 1848 and started a mass migration to the wilderness of interior California. Gold seekers trekked from every part of the world and every walk of life to sift the streams for gold. Mining companies brought machines to the mountains and turned camps into boomtowns as they blasted and dug deep into the earth to follow the gold bearing veins. There is still gold in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, at the California State Mining and Mineral Museum, in historic Mariposa. This is where explorers John C. Fremont and Kit Carson found the rich Mariposa Vein and opened the first mill to crush ore and extract gold in California. You are invited to discover for yourself California’s mineral wealth, colorful history and geologic diversity as you view the official mineral collection of the state of California. The collection, which began in 1880, contains over 13,000 objects including mining artifacts and rare specimens of crystalline gold in its many forms, as well as beautiful gem and mineral specimens from California and around the world. The collection was moved to Mariposa in 1983 after residing in San Francisco for over 100 years. The museum became a state park in 1999. They proudly display the Fricot “Nugget”, a rare and beautiful specimen of crystallized gold discovered in the American River in 1864. This spectacular 13.8-pound. specimen is the largest remaining intact mass of crystalline gold from 19th century California, when these finds were more common but usually were simply melted down. You can also take a trip back in time as you walk through the mine tunnel and see how gold was mined in the mid-1800s, when California was a wilderness being transformed by rapid development. The museum even sponsors an annual gem and mineral show each spring featuring exhibits, speakers, food, educational children’s activities, and dealers of beautiful mineral specimens and lapidary work from around the world. Call the museum for dates and times. A visit to the California State Mining and Mineral Museum offers you the chance to explore the variety of California’s mineral wealth, view breathtaking gems and minerals from around the world, and experience a bit of California’s exciting mining history. Located at the Mariposa County Fairgrounds, 1.8 miles south of Mariposa on historic Highway 49. Turn left into fairgrounds. For more

The City of Madera

Walker River Emigrant Trail in Sonora Pass

info visit http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=588

(Hours)

The City of Madera, the seat of Madera County government, has a beautiful art gallery called the Circle Gallery located at 1653 North Schnoor Avenue, Suite 113, that displays and sells the works of over 40 professional artists and houses the Madera County Arts Council, a non-profit arts organization providing residents and visitors access to art and culture through diverse programs and services, including an extensive visiting-artist in the schools program. The gallery hosts an annual fine art competition entitled “Celebrate Agriculture with the Arts” in September, attracting artists from all over California. In November, they host the Holiday Art Affair, a pre-holiday art festival, featuring arts and crafts by many area artists. For more information or to check local listings for dates and exhibits, visit their website http://www.maderaarts.org/

(30 Min+)

The Walker River Emigrant Trail began on the Carson River just east of Fort Churchill. Emigrants traveled over the trail to Nevada and Wilson Canyon, Mickey Canyon, and Smith Valley, and passed though Hoye Canyon and into Antelope Valley. Once across the pass they crossed the high meadows around the many emigrant lakes, crossed Brown Bear Pass, and descended Summit Creek canyon. At Relief Valley they turned south to Upper Relief and then across to Burst Rock. From the top of Burst Rock they stuck to the ridges until past Dodge Ridge and then descended to Pinecrest. Beyond Pinecrest the emigrant trail follows the ridge line parallel to Highway 108 down through Twain Harte, past modern day Phoenix Lake, and into Sonora.

Featuring the Counties of Sierra, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera, and more!

GOLD Country

CALAVERAS COUNTY

www.griffsbbqngrill.com

An adventure around every bend, Calaveras County is defined by beauty and filled with adventure. Those of you looking to momentarily escape the tension of metropolitan life will find yourselves captivated, entertained, and rejuvenated by this part of California Gold Country. Discover unique, year-round adventures in Calaveras County, including historic and picturesque gold rush towns, award winning California vineyards and tasting rooms, an array of seasonal outdoor sports, eclectic art galleries, antique shops, and gold rush museums.

Steaks, Amazing barbeque, Slow smoked brisket, Famous 14-hour pulled pork, Beer on tap, and the house favorite that started it all... RIBS!!!!!!

(209) 785 GRIL * Copperopolis Town Square

ANGELS CAMP Angels Camp is the home of the Jumping Frog Jubilee, mountain sports of the Sierras, and the juncture of highways 4 and 49. The town is just east of San Francisco and Sacramento and just high enough above the winter valley fog and the extreme heat, and just below the winter snow.

530 Egan Street, Copperopolis (209) 785-7300 www.fancypanskitchen.com Open 7 days a week 11am - 5pm

Flourish Apparel & Gifts 10% off with mention of this ad

Brighton Jewelry, Fabulous Fun Clothing, Footwear, Handbags and more! COPPEROPOLIS TOWN SQUARE

209.785.8788

• • • • • • •

A taste of the Sierras A unique Wine-Tasting Experience That Engages The Senses Come in and wine a bit, you’ll feel better! Winers always welcome By the taste, by the glass or buy the bottle* Imported from Germany, Shornramer Beer by the bottle. We also offer wine related gift items, and paintings!

www.coppercellars.com

308 Town Square Rd. Copperopolis, CA 95228

(209) 785-9292

Destination Copperopolis (1 Day)

Copperopolis is one of California’s most desirable destinations. Tucked away among the rolling hills covered with oaks, Copperopolis in the Copper Valley looks much as it did when miners first discovered the riches the valley had to offer. And while the area is still steeped in its historical grandeur, the Copper Valley is no longer just a piece of history but rather a destination for generations to come. Whether it’s your family’s next boating vacation, a wine tasting weekend with your significant other, a new family home or vacation property, Copperopolis in the Copper Valley truly has something for everyone. And at the heart of it all - the new Copperopolis Town Square. Copperopolis is a place to meet your neighbors and enjoy the many events that are held throughout the year. Travelers will discover a great place to stop and stretch their legs, walk the dog or get a bite to eat. Take a little extra time to explore the shops and buy that special someone a gift. Conveniently located on Highway 4 at the gateway to the Sierra. Embracing its proud heritage and cherished way of life as a once thriving 1800’s mining town, Copperopolis Town Square has been reborn as a new blend of shops, restaurants and residential lofts. Designed around a traditional, pedestrianfriendly town square, the timeless architecture and covered walkways bring you back to another era yet provide all the luxury and convenience of a modern retail setting.

The Town of Angels Camp(1 (1 day+)

located downtown in the historic district of Angels Camp

It’s our mission to keep you fishin! 2892 Highway 49, Angels Camp, CA 209-736-4333 www.gloryholesports.com

Located in the heart of California’s Gold Country in Calaveras County, just below the snow line and halfway between Yosemite national Park and Lake Tahoe, Angels Camp is the quintessential base camp for mountain sport adventures in the Sierra. Close to thousands of acres of national forest land, low-country and high-country lakes and rivers, caverns, wide-open landscapes, starry skies and the Ebbetts Pass National Scenic Byway, Angels Camp beckons all levels of outdoor recreation enthusiasts to escape the rush of everyday life and instead enjoy the rush of thrilling outdoor adventures. Add to your epic outdoor experience by enjoying gourmet dining, nationally recognized wineries, art, theatre, concerts, casinos, museums, specialty shops, special events, and more. Whether you’re seeking mild or wild, Angels Camp is your multiday, year-round destination.

Museum Admission: $5 adults $2.50 children (5-11) free for children (4 & younger) + Museum Members. For more information call 209.736.2963 or visit www.angelscamp.gov.

Soak up History at Angels Camp Museum (1 Day)

Angels Camp Museum is the premier local history museum in Northern California. Located on a 3-acre site of the now defunct Angels Quartz Mine, the museum dedicates collections to inspire understanding of the gold country history of Angels Camp and the Mother Lode region. We create opportunities for learning and discovery, and present the extraordinary stories of our country’s past. Home to one of the largest collections of carriages and wagons in the nation, Angels Camp Museum is a destination. Take a walk in this historical park to explore both indoor and outdoor exhibits that include a doctor’s office, a rock & mineral garden, and photographs, as well as ranching and farming related artifacts. Visitors can also view two steam traction engines and exhibits highlighting mining equipment such as an overshot water-wheel in its original location, a hydraulic monitor, drills, ore cars and even a working model of a famous stamp mill. Bring your lunch and enjoy a picnic under native oak trees of China Gulch where the ‘49ers prospected for gold. Make sure to check out the Altaville Schoolhouse - one of the oldest and best preserved little red schoolhouses in the state, and the historical Sam Choy mercantile that tells the story of Chinese culture in downtown Angels Camp. Stop by the gift shop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs including a copy of Mark Twain’s famous story ‘The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County.’ The Angels Camp Museum is located of historic highway 49 at 753 S. Main Street, Angels Camp, CA 95222 Hours of Operation: March through November, Thursday to Monday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

1252 S Main St. Angels Camp, CA 95222 (209) 736-0444 www.eatatsidewinders.com

Sierra Nevada Gold Country 2013 Edition 101things.com Say “I saw it in 101 Things To Do!”

Stories in Stone (1 Hour)

Stories in Stones was established in Southern California by Russ and Pam Shoemaker in 1975. Russ was introduced to the earth sciences by his dad and he has spent the bulk of his life studying the earth, collecting from it, and sharing with others what he has learned about the earth and our dependence on it. Pam was introduced to the earth sciences in Southern California when she was nine years old by her grandmother who had a rock shop in San Diego County. She traveled with her grandmother to Gem & Mineral Shows around the country. Russ and Pam met in the late 1960’s and their common interest in the earth sciences led them to purchase 257 acres of highly fossiliferous land in Kern County, California where they began digging thousands of fossils from the Miocene marine fossil deposits on their property. In 1975, they opened their first retail store and began doing earth science presentations. In the1981 Stories in Stones moved to the town of Murphys, then opened a second retail store In Angels, Camp, California in 2001. Today, the Earth Science Learning center is located in their retail store in Angels Camp and Russ teaches the “Earth in a Nutshell” program where you learn that you can’t live without rocks and that you eat them for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The presentation is for all groups - public, private and home schools, gem and mineral societies and service organizations; in fact, any group of all ages from first grade to graduate geologists. Their fascinating presentation lasts at least one hour, which allows time to complete an overview of the earth sciences and includes time for questions and answers plus some hands on experience at the end of the program. Programs are by appointment and are free of charge. Russ and Pam want everyone to have the opportunity to learn about the earth and how important it is to us in our daily lives... By the time you leave you will understand that we, as humans, are “nothing more than walking rocks ourselves”. Stories and Stones is located at 1249 So. Main Street, P. O. Box 578, Angels Camp, CA 95222. Call (209) 736-1300 for more information or visit www.storiesinstones.com.

GOLD Country

The premier local history museum in Northern California. Dedicated collections to inspire the understanding of the gold country history of Angels Camp and the Mother Lode Region. 753 S. Main St., Angels Camp Located off historic hwy 49

Voted “Best of” by The Calaveras Enterprise & The Union Democrat

Enjoy a Slice of Local Color! Be sure to try our BBQ Ribs, Pasta and Salad Bar!

All maps provide by JB Tourism Media Group, Jeane Bilolavek

New Melonies Lake (Hours-Days)

New Melones is a reservoir created by New Melones Dam across Stanislaus River and has a surface area of 12,500 acres, and a capacity of 2,400,000 acre feet. When full the shoreline is more than 100 miles in length. During the gold rush the water from the Stanislaus River was diverted and colonized. By 1900 the flowing water was used to create electricity. Some of it was channeled out for use in agriculture. The original Melones Dam was built in 1926. The New Melones Project was authorized in 1944 to create a much larger reservoir and to establish a new hydroelectric plant. It would also be specifically designed to prevent floods. The consensus after the surveys was that the dam would be built. Upon the dam’s completion, the valley filled with water, covering the old mining town of Melones and the original Melones Dam. Today New Melones Lake provides irrigation water, hydroelectric power, flood control, wildlife habitat, fishing, camping, boating, and other recreation as part of the lake’s Glory Hole and Tuttletown recreation areas. Be sure and stop in Glory Hole Sports on Hwy 49 for the latest information cause “To keep you fishin in their mission!”. The New Melones Visitor Center and Museum contains information about local history, cultural and natural history. Exhibits focus on the use of the Stanislaus River by prehistoric and historic peoples, including Miwok Indians, the California Gold Rush, ranchers, and the now defunct community of Robinson Ferry, renamed Melones in 1902. Other exhibits highlight the area’s geologic past, natural history and the New Melones project. New Melones Lake offers all kinds of recreation including boating, fishing, skiing, wake boarding, house boating, camping, hiking, and more!

Jumping Frog Jubilee

Amongst the tall tales of Mark Twain there lives the celebrated story of the Jumping Frog Jubilee in Calaveras County, and the small gold rush town of Angels Camp. The top 50 frogs qualify for the International Frog Jump Grand Finals, which are held on Sunday afternoon of the Jubilee. The current worlds record was set in 1986 by Rosie the Ribeter. Rosie jumped 21 feet 5 ¾ inches . The cash prize for breaking the world record is $5000. The Frog Jumping Competition begins the Thursday, first day of the Jumping Frog Jubilee,. Contestants can choose to jump for fun on our smaller, Luly Pad stage, or jump to qualify for the finals. Jumping continues on Friday, Saturday and Sunday morning. The International Frog Jump finals are held on Sunday afternoon. The top 50 jumps from the four days of Fair (and some from sanctioned jumps) will be entered into the Grand Finals. Contestants can bring their own frog. You get to name your frog and attempt to crown him/her the new champion! For more information visit http://m.frogtown.org

Fish with the Help of Glory Hole Sports (30 min+)

Whether you are bank fishing, boating or trolling, Glory Hole Sports specializes in New Melones Lake Fishing and has up to date infromation including current fishing reports. They have the Mother Lode’s best selection of bait and tackle especially when it comes to bass, trout, kokanee and catfish. One of the best ways to learn how to fish a lake is to go out with a guide who regularly fishes that lake. In rescent years many guides have begun working New Melones Lake. In addition, most of the guides are also excellent salmon, steelhead, and striper guides. The Glory Hole is located at 2892 Highway 49, Angels Camp, California. Visit www.gloryholesports. com or call (209) 736-4333.

(Hours-All Day)

Photo Courtesy Robb Hirsch Photography robhirschphoto.com

For the best Pizza in Gold Country, go where the (YOUR)locals go!

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BBilolavek SECURED SELF STORAGE at (415) 488-1285 or jem@californiavisitors.com Affordable Self Storage for your Personal, Commercial and Industrial Storage

Need to Transport? We have full U-Haul Services! Located in Angels Camp & Copperopolis, CA

Do you find yourself running out of storage space in your home or business? Our units located in Copperopolis and Angels Camp, California are the perfect solution to all of your storage challenges. Whether you need to store cars, an RV, or a boat, we offer spacious storage units in a variety of sizes to suit your needs. Our customers are our first priority and we are dedicated to helping you store more for less. Let us help you get the clutter out of your home or business. TWO LOCATIONS

49 Cosmic Court Suite D, Copperopolis, CA 95228 and 2999 Highway 49, Angles Camp, CA 95222 Office Hours 8:30 am - 5:30 pm Monday-Saturday

(209) 785-9400 or (209) 736-0803 www.b-securedselfstorageangelscamp.com

Featuring the Counties of Sierra, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera, and more!

GOLD Country

MURPHYS Coffee beans freshly roasted on-site for wholesale and retail sale. Coffee and espresso drinks Fresh baked pastries and sweets Tea and chai Pure fruit smoothies Indoor and outdoor seating Free Wi-Fi

Open 7am-5pm Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm Sat, and 8am-4pm Sunday Gold Country Roasters, 78 Scott St., Suite A Murphys, CA 95247 (209) 728-8634 www.goldcountryroasters.com

Artisan wines produced in the Sierra Foothills Tasting Room & Hat Shop: 263 A Main St Murphys, CA 95247 209-728-5298 | lafoliawine.com Thursday - Sunday 11am-5pm

Once called “Queen of the Sierra,” the town of Murphys is a forever charming Gold Country hamlet that shipped over $15 million in gold between 1850 and 1860. Take the time to enjoy strolling along Main Street and visiting with the locals. Main Street is lined with elm trees, cobblestone sidewalks and beautifully preserved historic Buildings. Browse and shop in unique gift and clothing boutiques as well as fine art galleries. Murphys is home to 22 winery tasting rooms, 18 restaurants and a myriad of unique gift shops, clothing boutiques and galleries. In downtown Murphys and the surrounding hills you may taste hand-crafted wines at the many small, award-winning wineries and take a tour. The intriguing Moaning and California Caverns, championship golf courses, Calaveras Big Trees, Bear Valley and much more are an easy drive from your Inn.

Eat, Taste, Shop and Play

in One of the Coolest Small Towns in America. www.visitmurphys.com info@visitmurphys.com

Visit Murphys (Hours-Days)

After visiting, John Muir wrote, “MURPHY’S CAMP is a curious old mining-town in Calaveras County, at an elevation of 2,400 feet (730 m) above the sea, situated like a nest in the center of a rough, gravelly region, rich in gold. Granites, slates, lavas, limestone, iron ores, quartz veins, auriferous gravels, remnants of dead fire-rivers and dead water-rivers are developed here side by side within a radius of a few miles, and placed invitingly open before the student like a book, while the people and the region beyond the camp furnish mines of study of never-failing interest and variety.” Like many other mining towns fire destroyed the town more than once. The first post office was established in 1851 as Murphy’s, as Murphy in 1894, and finally to Murphys in 1935. Daniel and John Murphy settled the area in 1848, at the start of the great California gold rush. Shrewd traders and smart businessmen both, the brothers made their fortune supplying the legions of gold miners flocking to the area, and legend has it that they were millionaires by the time they turned 25.

Sierra Nevada Gold Country 2013 Edition 101things.com Say “I saw it in 101 Things To Do!”

More about the history of Murphys. Ever wondered why Murphys doesn’t have an apostrophe? One day the 2 brothers started arguing about which one was the ‘owner’ of the camp, and after a bit of continued argument, decided to settle the issue with a show of strength, which really was nothing but a fist fight between two brothers – not uncommon, as you know if you have a brother (or sister). After rolling around in the dirt and mud for a few minutes, the 2 brothers actually fell into a mine pit, with the help of one of the town’s mules. Fortunately for them, it was only about 30 feet deep, but slick on both sides, and about 6 feet in diameter. After each one got tired of only trying to rescue himself, they decided to work together, and back to back pushed off on the walls, and somehow with extreme effort, got themselves up and out. It was then that the brothers decided just to call the town “Murphys” instead of “Murphy’s”. Without the apostrophe, there was no “possession” of the town by either. A great number of annual special events bring newcomers to Murphys, who fall in love with the surround area and friendly folk. Events include President’s Wine Weekend in February, Murphys Irish Day in March, Wine Passport Weekend in June, the Calaveras Grape Stomp the first Saturday in October and Murphys infamous Holiday Open House the first Friday in December.

GOLD Country

Machineries Quality Service Since 1976

Early American Bathroom Fixtures & accessories Brass Hardware • Hard-to-Find Parts

All maps provide by JB Tourism Media Group, Jeane Bilolavek

Murphys boasts an abundance of Recreation, Wine Tasting, shopping, and more! Voted “One of the Best Places to Live” in Sunset magazine. Once you arrive, you won’t want to leave! Visit www. visitmurphys.com for more information.

Treasures to be Found from Round the Globe (30 min - 1 Hour)

Folks from England, Japan, Australia, Canada and around the world seeking period bathroom pieces or looking to restore a toilet from the late1800s all turn to Tom Scheller, owner of DEA Bathroom Machineries in Murphys. Without a doubt, Tom’s business is one of the most unique in the Mother Lode, if not the nation. In fact, last month Tom and his crew of eight shipped an entire container (that’s 5,200 pounds) of 1950era bathroom fixtures to a mansion in Melbourne, Australia—$60,000 worth of blue, pink and green sinks, tubs, toilets and medicine cabinets. It took nine months to find all of the pieces, and is quite an affirmation to the success of the business. Opened in 1976, DEA, an acronym for Domestic Environmental Alternatives, started out offering an environmental alternative to house waste with compost toilets, as well as environmental alternative to energy, solar panels. However, in 1980 the State of California issued what was considered a “ban” on composting toilets, and at the same time, tax credits for solar installations abruptly stopped. “You could say that our idea went down the toilet,” smiled Tom. A plumber by trade, it didn’t take Tom long to change directions and form DEA Bathroom Machineries, specializing in antique toilets, claw foot bath tubs, sinks, and everything bathroom, as well as manufacturing period reproductions. “We started a catalog business, and I traveled two months out of every year sourcing antique fixtures and parts from across the country,” Tom explained. He has maintained strong contacts in Chicago, Seattle and New York throughout the years. “Sometimes we find a huge warehouse of merchandise, and then locate a number of private collections,” he added. Not only is inventory unique, so are its customers. “We have some pretty famous clients,” remarked Tom. “We are currently working on a luxury motor yacht that may have been owned by Al Capone. Built in 1930, we are restoring the bathrooms in six state rooms and five crew quarters. The yacht has a secret liquor compartment. You press a button on one side of the room, and the bar panel opens on the other side of the room.” Everything, absolutely everything behind each piece at DEA, has its own story. DEA Bathroom Machineries is located at 495 Main Street, Murphys, CA. Call (209) 728-2031 for more information or visit www.deabath.com

Enjoy the Wine Events in Calaveras (Hours-Days)

CALAVERAS WINE GRAPE ASSOCIATION The Gold Country is where California began its love affair with fine wine and the tradition continues with growing fervor in Calaveras County. In the heart of the Northern California Wine Country, Calaveras County winemakers offer some of the most elegant, affordable, award-winning wines in the State. Centered in and around the beautiful little town of Murphys on Highway 4, special yearly events are hosted by the Calaveras Winegrape Alliance. Please see Calaveras County Events. Murphys • 209-866-9463

Saddle Up with Horse and Barrel

EnJoy The Taste of Murphys

authentic Italian Style wines from the Sierra Foothills!

495 Main Street • Murphys 209-728-2031 • tom@deabath.com

(1-3 Hours)

Saddle up with Horse and Barrel for a rural adventure in California’s premier wine and gold country. A wonderful family destination, we invite you to relax in our beautiful vineyard landscapes - and why not enjoy Northern California’s award winning wines when your trail is done. Horse and Barrel is an established trail company offering unique horseback experiences in the beautiful vineyard landscapes in the Sierra Foothills. Currently we are offering riders the new and twisted experience of vineyard rides through one of the most popular and successful local vineyards, Twisted Oak. Trail Riding in Murphys, California - a great day out! Horseback adventures are a wonderful way to see Calaveras County. Perfect for riders and non-riders alike! For more information and prices, please call us at (209) 728 9333 or visit www.horseandbarrel.com

(30 min+)

OUTER AISLE FOODS is a local food distribution network of eaters, growers and makers. The café is our most recent place where we express our passion for food. Their mission for the café is to serve healthy wholesome dishes using the everchanging seasonal fresh ingredients from farmers like us. Encourage a passion for cooking and life long healthy eating. Their vision is to feature a daily blackboard menu, highlighting the finest produce and ingredients our region can offer, encourage recipe sharing, host cooking classes and demos, and for those on the run, they’ll have deli items made in their certified kitchen. Outer Aisle Foods & Goods provides the highest quality, local, seasonal and regional produce and products only from farms and producers who are committed to ecologically sustainable practices and go beyond the organic requirements. Located in at 1192 Highway 4, Ste A in Douglas Flat. Call (209) 728-9112 or visit www. outeraislefoods.com. LA FOLIA means “The Madness” a passion that burns so deep that it drives you to madness. At La Folia, you’ll be moved to indulge your passion with

Photo Courtesy Robb Hirsch Photography robhirschphoto.com

At the heart of Calaveras County’s wine country is an old-school Main Street with a new-world vibe. Unique to any other wine region, Murphys is a wine-lover’s dream with more than twenty tasting rooms and many excellent restaurants in an historic downtown.

www.calaveraswines.org Featuring the Counties of Sierra, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera, and more!

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GOLD Country

BEAR VALLEY Bear Valley is the home of great skiing in the winter, and great camping in the summer. After the snow melts into the valley rivers, Bear Valley shows its stuff. With biking, hiking, and off-road trails and roads located on public lands and off highway routes, the depths of picturesque wonder run deep in this backcountry. There are thousands of acres of water nearby to enjoy fishing, kayaking, swimming, paddleboarding and more.

Sierra Nevada Adventure Company (30 min+)

In the early 90’s the owner of Sierra Nevada Adventure Company, was selling the most important gear out of the back of his truck, items such as life jackets, river shorts, sandals, and river knives. Eventually, he added t-shirts, hats, sunscreen, and other items folks forgot for their kayaking trips down the river. In 1994, the Sonora Mountaineering building in downtown Sonora became available and Shawn and his wife decided to grab some experienced team members and open the doors. They now have stores in Sonora, Murphys, and Arnold. Their mission is to provide customers with expert service and the most exciting, innovative new products, priced so they can spend more time using their gear than paying for it. Sierra Nevada Adventure Co. is your headquarters for quality gear, clothing, footwear, and rentals since 1994! Check out the Arnold locations for all the latest gear for every season. Visit www.snacattack. com for more information!

Bear Valley Adventure

Bear Valley Village is northern California’s most centrally located mountain resort community. It’s conveniently accessible via the all-weather historic Ebbetts Pass Highway 4 corridor. Bear Valley Village is home to a variety of services, shops, restaurants and a wide range of accommodations. Surrounded by two of California’s largest federally designated wilderness areas, outdoor activities in Bear Valley are abundant. Winters provide skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, sledding, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Hiking, fishing, cycling, rock climbing, kayaking, camping and a variety

(1-2 Days)

of cultural events make for perfect summer companion activities. Bear Valley boasts a ski area located on Highway 4 between Lake Tahoe and Yosemite about three hours southeast of Sacramento. It is about one hour from Angels Camp and provides ten lifts and access to 67 runs covering 1,280 acres that are skiable. The Bear Valley Cross Country and Snowshoe Trails System consists of 35 trails covering 3,000 acres of terrain. The base village includes a hotel, spa, cabins, and some dining and shopping options.

Bear Valley Music Festival (Hours)

What began as a trip down a small two-lane highway for John Gosling and his wife became the Bear Valley Music Festival, which is an inaugural concert with a 38 person orchestra at the Bear Valley Lodge’s Cathedral Lounge beginning in 1967. Througout the next 15 years the orchestra expanded its numbers to include members from all over the United States. The festival was even televised nationally and featured on the NBC today show. In 1985, Carter Nice, the Conductor of the Sacramento Symphony, succeeded John Gosling as the Music Director and Conductor. Since then, the Bear Valley Orchestra has attracted players from New York the Florida, New Orleans, Indiana, and all parts of California. As people changed their music tasts, the classical genre was supplemented with opera and an evening of Broadway show tunes. In the autumn of 2012 Michael Marogan, Music director of the Oakland East Bay Symphony, succeeded Carter Nice as Music Director of the Bear Valley Music Festival. A delightful new era has begun within the 44 year old festival. For more information visit www.vearvalleymusic festival.org

All maps provide by JB Tourism Media Group, Jeane Bilolavek

The Historic Town of Mokelumne Hill (1 Day)

With the discovery of gold in Coloma in January 1848, the rush to the Mokelumne River was soon underway. Riches along the watercourse were concentrated at Big Bar (present Highway 49 crossing), Middle Bar, and on “The Hill.” Here a permanent settlement grew around tent stores and bars, with stone buildings being erected by the early 1850s. A devastating fire in 1854 prompted more construction in rhyolite, the distinctive volcanic stone quarried nearby. The largest town in Calaveras County, Mokelumne Hill served as the County Seat from 1852 to 1866. The cosmopolitan population contained large numbers of French, German, Chinese, and Italian, along with immigrants from the Eastern States. Water arrived by canal, while stages connected the town to Stockton and ships completed the link to San Francisco. With the decline of “free” placer gold by the 1860s, the town declined, subsisting on an agricultural economy. Hard-rock mining boosted incomes around 1900 and helped the region weather the Great Depression of the 1930s. Mokelumne Hill’s historic charm and small town character is preserved by its location, surrounded by active family cattle ranches which stave off development.

The Hotel Leger from Hotel Impossible (2 Days_

Gold Rush era. Central to Mokelumne Hill is the state registered Historic Hotel Leger, one of the first hotel/saloon establishments in the area and the only historic Gold Country hotel to be featured on the Travel Channel’s Hotel Impossible series. Originally built in 1851 and rebuilt several times after being destroyed by fires, part of the hotel includes the first courthouse and jail in Calaveras County. The former jail was recently renovated by the Hotel Impossible show into a beautiful wine cellar/banquet room. Also, unique to Mokelumne Hill and the Hotel Leger are the three enormous 150-year old orange trees that grace the beautiful pool courtyard at the rear of the hotel. Beat the summer heat with a day pass for use of the pool, and enjoy one of the Whitewater Saloon’s signature martinis, made with our own oranges. Stay the night in the Hotel, and you might get to meet one of our more “spirited” guests reported to inhabit the premises. Take a walking tour of the town, where you can see numerous historic buildings and structures. Stroll through the grounds of the two town cemeteries – one Catholic/Chinese and the other Protestant/Jewish, where you will find the gravesite of the hotel’s founder, George Leger. Pay a visit to the Mokelumne Hill Historical Library and Archives, where you can read about the many “firsts” of this unique town rich with Gold Rush history. For more information visit www.hotelleger. com.

Come visit the quaint village of Mokelumne Hill, one of the earliest boomtowns of the California

Sierra Nevada Gold Country 2013 Edition 101things.com Say “I saw it in 101 Things To Do!”

Take a River Rafting Tour (4+ Hours_

The scenic section of the Stanislaus River from Knights Ferry to Orange Blossom is popular with both experienced and inexperienced paddlers due to an outstanding mix of wildlife as well as

GOLD Country

MOKELUMNE HILL Mokelumne Hill was one of the wealthiest gold mining towns in California at the beginning of the California Gold Rush era. There are many historic buildings here, and great festivals, bike trails, museums, caverns, and tons of recreational activites to choose from. beautiful views of the Sierra Nevada foothills, volcanic bluffs, and great riverside plant life. Small rapids all along the Stanislaus add to the excitement, but are tame enough for amateur rafters. This float trip is approximately 8 miles long (3.5-5 hours) and is ideal for families, youth groups, companies, clubs, or for those just looking to spend a relaxing day on the water. The trip is typically selfguided (meaning no guide in the boat) as the level of difficulty is low enough to accommodate even brand new rafters. The put in point is 150 yards down river from the historic Knights Ferry covered bridge, the longest covered bridge west of the Mississippi, and the end point for the trip is Orange Blossom Park, a spacious public park on the east end of Oakdale. If you would like to participate on a river rafting trip out of Knights Ferry, you do need to make advance reservations, as many of the dates book out (meaning they run out of equipment). Reservations are easy to make via the website www. raftadventure.com or by calling 209-848-4800.

Historic Walking Tour

Celebrate the 4th of July in Style

(Hours)

A new walking tour guide to historic buildings and locations in downtown Mokelumne Hill is now available! Written by the History Society, it includes line drawings by our own Marion Waldon, and a wonderful layout by volunteer Gayle Lorraine. Petroglyphe Gallery sponsored the printing. The brochures are available at the Library/Archives, Hotel Leger, Moke Hill Nuts, Petroglyphe Gallery, and McHales Revival Shop (with a suggested 50cent donation).

(All Day)

Mokelumne Hill has the best 4th of July event in Calaveras County! You will not find a better event than the Independence Day Parade, vendors, food, and games. This year the parade will start on Main Street at 11 am. 4th of July in Moke Hill is such a great a community event. It is a time to celebrate not only the birth of this nation but a time to reconnect with old friends, family and to meet new people. Attached is a parade entry form for you to fill out. We need parade entries! It can be anything from the serious to the super zany! Forms will also be available in the Post Office. There are still a lot of volunteer positions open. Please contact Susan

or Terry Weatherby at (209) 286-1241 for more information. Together we can once again have the best Independence Day around! Check out Moke Hill Fourth of July on Facebook too! Event Date: Thursday, July 4, 2013 - 8:30am to 8:00pm. Visit www.mokehill.org.

Petroglyphe Gallery Art Museum

Wine and Dine in Mokelumne Hill

Union House As part of Mokelumne Hill’s renaissance, the newly renovated Union House offers stellar pizza, microbrews on tap, live music and entertainment, outdoor garden patio, and lots of fun in an historic landmark setting.

(1 Hour+)

Petroglyphe Gallery features original contemporary works of art in oil, acrylic, watercolor, glass, ceramic and jewelry. Also on display are limited edition bronze sculptures and copper plate etching prints. The gallery represents North American artists, many from California, who have impressive credentials with works in private, corporate, and public collections. Located in Mokelumne Hill’s historic district, Petroglyphe Gallery is in a newly renovated building originally constructed in 1858. One of Calaveras County’s original gold mining towns, Mokelumne Hill is part of the Sierra Nevada foothills of California. A perfect setting for art, the gallery is filled with natural light and elegant architectural detail. Owners Denise Ebbett and Marisa Chaffey look forward to your visit where you will find a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Whether you are looking for a unique piece of handcrafted jewelry, want to add an awesome piece of art to your collection or just want to look at intriguing artwork, there is something for everyone. There are often on-site demonstrations giving the opportunity to observe and interact with one of the gallery’s many artists. Petroglyphe Gallery hours are Thursday through Saturday, 11:30 am to 5:30 pm and Sunday 11:30 am to 4 pm 8317 Main Street, Mokelumne Hill, CA. Visit www. gallerypetrogylphe.com

(Hours)

Renegade Winery Renegade winery specializes in red wines made in the Old World style with New World savvy. Open Friday through Sunday, in a friendly wine bar atmosphere the tastings here are free and don’t stop until the last person leaves. Port lovers will want to try the two port style wines! Located at 8032 So. Main Street, Mokelumne Hill, CA (209) 286-1041.

Photo Courtesy Robb Hirsch Photography robhirschphoto.com

“Jewelry and Art for the Discerning Eye” 8 317 M a in S t r ee t Mok eluMne Hil l , Ca www.gallerypetroglyphe.com 209-286-1387 thursday-Saturday: 11:30am - 5:30pm Sunday: 11:30am - 4pm

Featuring the Counties of Sierra, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera, and more!

Top left: Kayaking on peaceful White Pines Lake. Bottom left: Hundreds turn out for free concerts at Cedar Center Park. Above: Majestic Sequoia trees at Big Trees State Park.

SIERRA NV ADVERNTURE CO

EBBETS BYPASS Welcome to one of the most intimate and untamed trans-Sierra routes â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the Ebbetts Pass National Scenic Byway. Jutting up from the heart of the Sierra Nevada with Lake Tahoe and Yosemite National Park as its neighbors, the byway is a 61-mile stretch of Highways 4 and 89, in between the towns of Arnold in Calaveras County and Markleeville in Alpine County, California.

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Drive Less. Enjoy More. Nestled in the Stanislaus National Forest, the historic town of Arnold offers a terrific variety of year-round activities for outdoor fun. Situated on the Ebbetts Pass National Scenic Byway, Arnold is the home of Calaveras Big Trees State Park, featuring the biggest trees on the continent. At an elevation of 4,000 feet, you can literally ski in the morning at Bear Valley Mountain and play outdoors in the afternoon. Visit the park and explore cool, peaceful trails among the enormous redwoods, cedars and pines. The park flanks the Stanislaus River with wonderful fishing and swimming, too. The Arnold Rim Trail provides more than a dozen miles of hiking and riding along forested creeks and ridge tops with breathtaking views. Want to take it easier? Rent a kayak from Sierra Nevada Adventure Company or take a swim at White Pines Lake. While you’re there, visit the historic Sierra Nevada Logging Museum or just enjoy wine tasting and free outdoor concerts at Arnold’s Cedar Center Park. A round-trip from the bay area takes 2½ hours less than Tahoe or Yosemite, leaving you more gas in your tank and more time to enjoy. Arnold is close enough for a day trip, but you’ll want to spend a night or two. Book a vacation cabin in the woods from Cedar Creek Realty, or stay at one of Arnold’s charming lodges and inns. Top: Refreshment break at 8,000 feet. Middle: Sunset hike on the Rim Trail. Bottom: Casting away at Lake Alpine.

Everything you need is here, so hop in the car, leave the traffic behind and Come to Arnold, the Heart of the Sierra. Photo Credits: Sierra Nevada Adventure Company, Lynn Glocker, Sierra Vacation Rentals, Bob Doten, Dave Edney

Planning Your Visit Arnold California Real Estate & Vacation Rentals If you love it here, we can help you find a vacation rental

cabin of your own! CEDAR orCREEK REALTY/ VACATION RENTALS

Cedar Creek Realty has the knowledge you expect of a local expert, the marketing and property management experience that you would find in the Bay area, and the service philosophy you wish existed everywhere. If you are interested in mountain living, let us be your guide to Arnold and the Ebbetts Pass Corridor on the western slopes of the Sierra. Selling a property? You can count on our network and hard work to capture the market’s interest, quickly and creatively. Contact Cedar Creek Realty today!

Life is good in the mountains!

1332 Oak Court PO Box 818 Arnold, CA 95223 (209) 795-HOME info@cedarcreekrealty.com

Arnold offers you the best vacation value anywhere in the Sierra Nevada mountains. For a complete directory of where to play, stay, dine or shop plus a listing of the many family-oriented events, please visit

ComeToArnold.com info@ComeToArnold.com or (209) 795-GABA

GOLD Country

GREATER ARNOLD AREA NESTLED 4,000 FEET HIGH IN THE STANISLAUS NATIONAL FOREST, the charming town of Arnold is one of the Sierra’s best kept secrets. Located on California’s Ebbetts Pass National Scenic Byway, the area is a wonderland of outdoor activity and watersports. Because of its elevation, you can play in the snow at Bear Valley in the morning and hike or play golf in the afternoon during Autumn and Spring. For hikers, bikers and equestrians, the Arnold Rim Trail features more than a dozen miles of pathways along forested creeks and breathtaking ridgetop vistas with panoramic views. For those who want to take it easier, visit White Pines Park or the Sierra Nevada Logging Museum, find something special in one of several charming gift shops or go wine tasting at dozens of local wineries. Arnold is home to Calaveras Big Trees State Park, where the continent’s biggest trees grow. Featuring giant Sequoias over 300’ tall and 30’ in diameter, the park has both wheelchair-accessible paths and rugged trails among thousands of enormous redwoods, cedars and pines. The park flanks the Stanlislaus River with terrific fishing and swimming, too. A round-trip from the Bay Area is 2½ hours closer than Tahoe or Yosemite – close enough for a day trip – yet there’s so many fun family activities that you’ll want to spend a night or two. Everything you’ll need is here in town, so hop in the car, leave the traffic behind and come to Arnold, the heart of the Sierra. Visit www.cometoarnold.com for more information or call (209) 795-4222.

Drive the Ebbetts Pass Byway (1 Day+)

The Ebbetts Pass National Scenic Byway is one of the most scenic drives across California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains. Anchored at either end by two State Parks – Calaveras Big Trees and Grover Hot Springs – and passing through the Stanislaus and Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forests, visitors have the opportunity to witness and explore this rugged landscape that was home to the native peoples of the area and to pioneer emigrants alike. The byway ranges in elevation from approximately 3000′ to 8500.’ Expansive views of granite outcrops, basalt columns, ancient volcanic peaks, deep river canyons, glacially carved valleys, majestic stands of conifers including giant sequoias, open meadows, clear mountain lakes, and swiftly flowing streams and rivers can all be experienced along the route. One can find historic relics of people who lived here before as well as present day resorts and recreation facilities. Whether you’re choosing an alternate route over the Sierra, planning to hike or camp in the high country, or searching out a great new fishing spot, the Ebbetts Pass National Scenic Byway offers plenty of adventure and solitude. Slow down. . . and Savor the Sierra! Visit www. cometoarnold.com for more information or call (209) 795-4789.

snowy Mt. Lyell on the high eastern slopes of the Sierra near Yosemite, then dive down into canyons with streams coursing through the shade of older growth forests of cedar, pine, fir and oak. High rocky promontories, native acorn grinding rocks, a magnificent waterfall, many birds and wildlife of all kinds, and a lake lie along its current completed section in the part of the Stanislaus National Forest known as the Interface. Contact ART at PO Box 441, Arnold, CA 95223 or visit www.arnoldrimtrail.org.

Discover the Largest Trees In the World (2 Hours - All Day)

Calaveras Big Trees State Park is one of California’s most outstanding state parks. This

Situated within the central Sierra Nevada mixed– conifer forest, the park also protects portions of the Stanislaus River and Beaver Creek, ancient volcanic formations, and natural meadows. Within the park you will find campgrounds, hiking trails, a Visitor Center, Warming Hut, and opportunities for many types of outdoor recreation. Park staff and Docents offer educational programs that will enhance your understanding and enjoyment of this special place. If you have visited the park before, you may notice some changes this year. There is a new boardwalk in the North Grove meadow, which was built by a crew from the California Conservation Corps, along with park staff. The boardwalk protects the meadow’s fragile plant and animal life from foot traffic. A new visitor center is under construction near the North Grove parking lot. Funding for this $2.7 million

project is coming from the $500,000 donated by the Calaveras Big Trees Association and the 2006 voter–approved Proposition 84 bonds. This bond money does not impact the current California budget. Park staff is looking forward to a larger space for visitors, new exhibits and audio–visual programs, as well as much– needed workspace. In early December 2011, a violent windstorm blew down hundreds of trees throughout the park, causing a two week closure due to safety concerns and cleanup efforts. The North Grove campground was hit especially hard. Seventy large trees were completely uprooted and smashed picnic tables, bear boxes, bridges, and campfire rings. Photographs of the damage can be viewed in the Visitor Center. Whether you plan to kick back and relax or do some strenuous hiking, take the time to observe and experience what is here. It is a special place, with much to discover. Located at 1170 E. Highway 4, Arnold, CA 95223. Call (209) 795-2334 or visit www.parks.ca.gov or www.bigtrees.org.

Sierra Nevada Logging Museum (1 Hour+)

Hike the Trails of Art (Hours - Days)

The Arnold Rim Trail (ART) is a unique trail system at mid-elevation in the central Sierra Nevada Mountains. A non-motorized trail system designed for hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians, it connects the many wonders of public lands along the Ebbetts Pass National Scenic Byway stretch of Hwy 4 to its communities, creating a high level of access for its residents and visitors. You’ll discover breathtaking vistas with panoramic views stretching from Mt. Diablo in the East Bay Area to

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o ComeToArn park was created to preserve and protect two groves of giant sequoias—the world’s largest trees. Although Native Americans and early European explorers had seen the big trees earlier, it wasn’t until A.T. Dowd wandered into the Calaveras North Grove in 1852 that the world learned of these trees.

ComeToArnold.com

Sierra Nevada Gold Country 2013 Edition 101things.com Say “I saw it in 101 Things To Do!”

GOLD Country

VALLECITO Vallecito, like many 49’er established towns, was established in 1849. The town was revitalized in 1852 when rich deposits of gold were discovered running through the center of town. The most noted thing about Vallecito are the awesome Cavern attractions that beckon visitors to the wonders of the underground treasures it boasts.

Photos Courtesy CaveAndMineAdventures.com

Moaning Caverns

California Caverns

(1-4 Hours)

Moaning Cavern holds the largest vertical chamber in a public cavern in California. It is large enough to hold the Statue of Liberty. Walking tours are available for everyone. They also provide tours that involve a 165 ft rappel into the cave, which is the most thrilling way to see the main chamber. They have a challenging 3-hour caving adventure trip as well that begins with the same rappel. Moaning Cavern also has a new zip line, a custom built 32 ft tall climbing tower, and events such as carolling in the cave concerts. For more information visit www.caverntours.com

Logging and lumbering in the Gold Country started before gold was discovered. The discovery of gold in 1848 brought a new demand for an increase in wood products. Although steam powered mills had been sawing lumber on the East coast, water-power was all that was available at the time in California. Being that the larger cities of San Francisco, Stockton and Sacramento were more efficient in the supply and demand of lumber, the Sierra mills had to compete by building mills where steampowered saws could cut the lumber and steam locomotives could transport the lumber to market. Building and maintaining flumes was costly and only lumber from the more valuable tree species could be produced at a profit, and clear-cutting was not common for economic reasons. Currently professional foresters are practicing sustainable forestry to ensure a never-ending supply of trees to furnish us with the thousands of products derived from the forest. The Museum conveys the history of the logging and lumbering industry as it evolved in the Sierra Nevada region since the mid 1800’s, educates visitors about the economic, social, cultural and environmental effects of this industry on the development of communities in the Sierra Nevada, acts as a resource center for education and historical

research, describes current trends in the logging and lumber industry, and keeps the history of the logging industry in the Sierra Nevada region alive so that its historical relevance is not lost. For more information visit www. sierraloggingmuseum.org.

(2-4 Hours)

In 1849 or 1850, Captain Joseph Taylor was target practicing on a rocky outcropping and noticed his targets were being moved by a breeze that seemed to emanate from the rocks. When he investigated this curious phenomenon, he discovered the

entrance to a cave he named Mammoth Cave. In 1850, Captain Taylor opened the cave for public tours, making it the first show cave in the state of California. Click on the interactive map at left to see the original walk tour trail, in comparison with the current, longer walk tour trail which was established in 1980, after the cave was renamed California Cavern. Early visitors included Bret Harte, Mark Twain and John Muir who wrote about his visit in “Chapter 15 – In the Sierra Foot-Hills” of his 1894 book “The Mountains of California” when it was called Cave City Cave. For 150 years, visitors have enjoyed the unique delicate beauty of the cavern’s crystalline formations. Some speleothems, such as the beaded helictites found in the Middle Earth area, are very rare. Others are so numerous as to be spectacular, such as the “Jungle Room’s” array of stalactites. Besides 2 fun walking tours, we also offer the wonderful opportunity to participate in underground adventures – our professionally guided wild cavern spelunking trips – the Mammoth Cave Expedition and Middle Earth Expedition.

White Pines Lake (30 Min - All Day)

White Pines Lake is a small well known lake to local residents. Many visitors pass it by on their way to Big Trees State Park or Alpine Lake. The lake is only a mile from Arnold and is a great location for picnicking, fishing, swimming, hiking, mountain bikers, and equestrians. The Arnold Rim Trail also leads from the lake and it is 10.5 miles to Sheep Ranch Rd near Avery. This area was originally a lumber mill but was closed and a dam put in with the intention of selling home property around the lake. Currently the Calaveras Water District owns the lake and the land.

CALIFORNIA CAVERN

MOANING CAVERN

ZIP LINES

Guided cave tours at all locations. Expeditions, 165-foot rope rappel, twin zip lines and climbing tower at Moaning Cavern. FREE BIRTHDAY activities offered on your birthday at each location. Check our Free Birthdays web page for more info.

866.762.2837 CaveAndMineAdventures.com Photo Courtesy Robb Hirsch Photography robhirschphoto.com

Featuring the Counties of Sierra, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera, and more!

GOLD Country

ALPINE & MONO COUNTY Home of the California Alps and offering miles and miles of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, these counties offer not only world class fishing, lodging, and dining facilities, but some great ski resorts as well.

Markleeville (1-2 Days)

Markleeville is located just outside Lake Tahoe off hwy 89. Leave the crowds behind and experience an elegant and ultimate Sierra Nevada vacation. Markleeville offers mountain themed lodges, restaurants and adventures outside of the croweded Tahoe area. Enjoy rocky peaks, lush valleys, beautiful sunsets, and whitewater trout filled streams. A great place to enjoy unspoiled forests and meadows i this historically rich mountain town. For more information visit www.markleevilleusa. com

Grover Hot Springs (Hours - Days)

Grover Hot Springs State Park is located on the east side of the Sierra at the edge of the Great Basin Province, characterized by open pine forest, sagebrush and meadows. The park has a pool complex with a hot pool and a swimming pool hot springs, a campground, picnic area and hiking trails.  A full range of seasons and weather offer the visitor the opportunity to experience a variety of conditions, from major blizzards to dry scorchers, from warm clear nights to intense, blasting thunderstorms. Winds of great speeds are capable of whipping through the park causing damage during any month of the year. Pristine clear, warm days can be followed by cold stormy nights.  Proper preparation for the full range of potential conditions can make a visit to the park not only safe and warm but also dry and comfortable. The pool complex is generally open every day from June through August. From September through May the pool hours and days of operation vary. Please call ahead for current operating hours (530) 694-2249 – this may save you an unnecessary trip.   The pools are closed for facility and pool maintenance during two weeks in September each year. Please call the park for closure dates.  The pool complex is also closed for Thanksgiving day and Christmas day.  Closed on Wednesdays in the off-season. Call for current operating hours.  Finally the pools must close during nearby thunderstorms due to the possibility of lightning striking the water. Thunderstorms usually occur during the afternoon hours in the summer months of July and August. If thunderstorms are predicted by the National Weather Service for the Northern Sierra

Nevada, then Grover may be affected.   During the winter, when snow is covering the ground, the pool complex will usually remain open. It may be closed during severe snow storms, and high accumulations of snow on the roads. The roads are generally plowed during the winter, but always carry snow chains and a shovel when traveling in the Sierra during the winter. Contact a weather service and Caltrans for conditions before departing. Located four miles west of Markleeville, at the end of Hot Springs Road, the park is in an alpine meadow and pine forest at 5,900 feet surrounded by peaks that just top 10,000 feet. Visit http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=508 for more information.

Death Ride on a Bicycle

Grover State Park Waterfall Hike

(All Day+)

Known as one of the most popular and exciting rides of the nations west coast, the Alpin County Chamber of Commerce presents the Death Ride. While enjoying the scenery of the gold country, this ride ends at Turtle Rock Park near Markleville. The five pass ride includes 129 miles and 15,000+ft of climbing elevation. Registrants have the option of riding 1, 2, 3, or 4 passes. The passes include Monitor Pass, Ebbetts Pass, and Carson Pass which are closed to vehicular traffic during course times. Five pass finishers receive a five-pass pin and are eleigible to purchase a jersey. The race begins at daylight and riders must end the course by 8:00pm. There are rest stops along the way and an expo at Turtle Rock Park. For more information visit www.deathride.com

(1-2 Hours)

The waterfall on Burnside Trail is located 1.5 miles up the 10 mile round trip hike to Burnside Lake and back. Grover Hot Springs offers a hot pool and a cool pool with adjacent changing rooms. The surrounding granite peaks form a magnificent backdrop to an area that’s been bringing in visitors since the 1850’s. Most visitors come out for the water, not the hiking, but the state park does have some great trails. From hwy 89 in Markleeville turn west on Hot Springs Rd. and travel 3.5 miles to Grover Hot Springs State Park. You can park at

Image credit: <a href=’http://www.123rf.com/photo_19141271_extreme-mountain-bike-sport-athlete-man-riding-outdoors-lifestyle-trail.html’>warrengoldswain / 123RF Stock Photo</a>

Sierra Nevada Gold Country 2013 Edition 101things.com Say “I saw it in 101 Things To Do!”

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GOLD Country

the pool or proceed past the park entrance station to the overflow parking area. For more information visit http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=25165

Mono Lake (1 Hour - All Day)

Mono lake is known for its limestone formations called tufa. In 1941 the Los Angleles Department of Water and Power began diverting Mono Lake’s tributary streams 350 miles south to meet the growing water demands of LA. Deprived of its freswater resources, the salinity in Mono Lake doubled while the volume of water halved. Unable to adjust to these changing conditions, the ecosystem began to collapse. Appalled by this, a committee was formed in 1978 to protect Mono Lake and received legislative recognition. Working with the public and government agencies, the committee has brought negotiation, legislation, and litigation to Mono Lake’s support. Embracing 14 different ecological zones, over 1000 plant species, and roughly 400 recorded vertebrate species within its watershed, Mono Lake and its surrounding basin encompass one of California’s richest natural areas. Mono lake has an average depth of 57 feet, with its maximum being 159 feet. The lake is at least 760,000 years old making it one of the oldest lakes in North America. For more information on Mono Lake visit www.monolake.org

Image credit: <a href=’http://www.123rf.com/photo_20792068_old-weathered-wooden-church-in-ghost-town.html’>agezinder / 123RF Stock Photo</a>

Photo Courtesy Robb Hirsch Photography robhirschphoto.com

Featuring the Counties of Sierra, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera, and more!

GOLD Country

AMADOR COUNTY About 45 miles southeast of Sacramento, Amador County is quickly becoming an area known for beautiful scenery, great wine, restaurants, resorts and hotels. You also may want to take advantage of the areas great golf courses, and ski resorts.

JACKSON With 21 main street historic buildings, self guided tours, history museums and more, the town of Jackson, California will suit your need for Gold Rush frontier style adventure. Annual events such as Dandelion Days, Motherlode Hot Jazz Party, Jazzin It Up in Jackson, and Christmas Delights are all held in Jackson. One of California’s oldest hotels, the National Hotel, has been completely renovated with luxury rooms in Gold Rush style, and a bar and restaurant on main street. You can also enjoy the Amador County Museum, Mine Model, the newly renovated Kennedy Tailing Wheels Park, Vista Point interpretive site and Kennedy Gold Mine tours. In the summer you can enjoy theater under the stars at the Kennedy Mine Amphitheater. For shopping venues you can take advantage of the many unique antique stores. For more information on Jackson visit www.visitjacksonca.com or www.nationalhoteljackson.com. -Jackson Business Association, Lucy Hackett and Pat Crew While in Jackson pay special attention to these businesses: NATIONAL HOTEL JACKSON is one of California’s oldest hotels, the National Hotel, has been completely renovated with luxury rooms in Gold Rush style, plus a beautiful bar and restaurant that are elegant yet comfortable and friendly, boasting an excellent menu. www.nationalhoteljackson.com BIGGEST LITTLE KITCHEN is famous! The ever-changing inventory of kitchenware, bake ware, tabletop, wine accessories and cooking resources is housed in a beautifully renovated storefront on Jackson’s Main Street, and also available online. CELTIC KNOT is brimming with fine jewelry, cutlery, collectable crystal, fine woolen and mohair clothing and throws, from Wales, Scotland and Ireland. There’s so much to see you’ll have to find out for yourself.

In 1913, near the height of hard rock gold mining in the Mother Lode, the Kennedy Gold Mine and other mining operations in the Sierra foothills were almost shut down completely due to issues (1 Hour - All Day) related to the “tailings” that were the remaining product from the stamp mill where the ore was crushed and processed to obtain the gold from the Jackson’s Main Street glows with the newly quartz rock. The silt laden and rocky soil was filling renovated National Hotel’s Victorian luxury creeks and ruining farmland in the valleys below. A anchoring a charming 150-year old business negotiated deal between both mines in Jackson to district. Antique dealers line Main Street, with gift capture the tailings allowed the mines to continue shops, popular eateries and a steampunk-themed operation. The challenge for the Kennedy, however, used book store. Summer offers Main Street Theatre was to get the tailings over two nearby ridges to the Work’s outdoor productions; Main Street dresses up tailings dam it planned to construct. The Kennedy for the holidays with a Thanksgiving weekend open Tailing Wheels were the result. These four 58 foot house. Gold Rush fans tour the famous Kennedy diameter wooden wheels lifted the tailings over the Gold Mine site and explore the Amador County two ridges through a series of flumes to the tailings Museum and working gold mine model. Don’t miss dam. When the mines were shut down during the spectacular new Kennedy Tailing Wheels Park – World War II, the corrugated metal buildings were its majestic wooden wheels are one of California’s removed, exposing the wheels to public view, and most unique historic landmarks! more critically, directly sunlight and precipitation. Two of the wheels have collapsed, but two have been preserved. A project completed in 2013 Kennedy Tailing Wheel at Kennedy Tailing Wheels Park reconstructed a building around Tailing Wheel #4. With new Park interpretive signage describing how the wheels (30 min - 1 hour) worked and better access, this park gives visitors a sense of the enormity of this process and how this first “environmentally sensitive” project helped the Kennedy Mine continue to flourish until it closed in 1942. More information is available at the Kennedy Tailing Wheels Park link on the City bringing a touch of the emerald of Jackson’s website: http:// isle to the mother lode ci.jackson.ca.us

Visit Historic Downtown Jackson

art, crafts and goods from Ireland, Wales and Scotland

Open wed-Mon, 10-5

209.223.5830 28 Main Street, Jackson thecelticknot.net

Read, Trade, and Hunt Books

Amador County Museum

(Minutes - Hours)

With over 650,000 used and rare books, Hein & Co is one of the largest used book stores in California. We now feature used DVDs, CDs, console video games and systems, as well as antiques and an entire 99- Cent discount entertainment store.This highly recommended, cozy bookstore located in Jackson is noted as the local hub for any new or used book. Looking for something specific or hard to find, rare or first edition? We just might have what you are looking for! To visitors the Hein & Co. bookstore may remind you of something out of a movie with books literally stacked everywhere, and most are amazed that such a great bookstore is in such a small town. Located at 204a N Main Street Jackson, CA 95642. Call (209) 223-9076 or visit www.heincobooks.com. Open Mon-Fri 9:00-6:00, Saturday 10-6, and Sunday 11-6.

(30 min+)

The Amador County Museum was built as a home in 1859 by Armstead C. Brown, one of Jackson’s earliest settlers. This classic Greek Revival-styled dwelling sits atop Corral or Court House Hill overlooking downtown Jackson. Cedar trees tower on each side of the concrete walk to the front door, planted there, we believe, by Brown when he completed the house.   Today, numerous trees and shrubs frame the surrounding lawns and gardens. Pathways lead through rose and herb gardens, and through profuse varieties of camellias, azaleas, mock orange, rhododendron and seasonal blooms. In 1849 A. C. Brown, older and more established

Sierra Nevada Gold Country 2013 Edition 101things.com Say “I saw it in 101 Things To Do!”

than most gold seekers, left his Wisconsin home and law profession to “see the elephant” in the gold fields. Before coming to Jackson in 1850 or 51, he mined in what is now Shasta County, and is credited with actually naming the camp of Shasta City. He arrived in Jackson in 1850, liked what he saw, and determined to bring his family west and settle. Thus, overland he went again in 1851 to get family and return to Jackson. By 1852 the Browns lived in a rude frame building near today’s corner of North and North Main, which later became the first Catholic church in the village. Brown quickly began investing in town lots and buildings, and lived in more than one of them before moving into the new home circa 1859. In early day Jackson, when the town was in Calaveras, Brown was a town trustee. He concentrated on his law practice and his rental units. It the late 1860s he served a term as a legislator, and the next decade served a 2-year term as county judge.  Judge Brown served his community for a half century before his death in 1902. With his and wife Philippa’s death, youngest son George W. Brown lived in the family home until 1947. Collateral Brown heirs sold the home to the county. Entering the museum is a step back in time. It features a fascinating array of artifacts and items from the county’s early days as a neglected “province” of Calaveras, the formation of Amador in 1854, and present day displays and exhibits. Visitors may wander through the many unusual exhibits that fill the 15-room home, with nostalgic background music setting the right restful ambiance. The museum collections include: a “Gold History Exhibit,” “Dressed to the Nines” or fashions of the past; a sewing and quilt exhibit; a Victorian bedroom and parlor; a Native American collection; a Chinese American collection; an old fashioned school room and much more.

GOLD Country

Photo Courtesy Richard Carter

Luxury in the Heart of Gold Country

Enjoy Fine Dining in Stanley’s Steakhouse – Amador County’s Finest Full Bar • Wine Tasting • Gourmet Deli • Wedding Services & Group Events

Everything for Your Kitchen! Select from Over 1,000 Gadgets

One of California’s Largest Bookstores Over 600,000 New & Used Books 10,000 DVD Titles Rare & Collectors’ Books g Coffee Bar

hours: Monday-Friday 9-6, saturday 10-6, sunday 11-6 204 north Main street, Jackson 209.223.9076 • heinbooksellers.com heincompany@yahoo.com

165 Main St, Jackson • 209.223.0264 Open Everyday, 9am – 5pm biggestlittlekitchenstore.com

Photo Courtesy Richard Carter

Featuring the Counties of Sierra, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera, and more!

GOLD Country

VOLCANO

Landmarks such as the St. George Hotel set this unique town apart from others. The town itself is registered as a California Historical Landmark.

Visit Volcano (1 Day+)

The town of Volcano is named for its bowl-shaped valley which early miners thought was caused by a volcano. The early morning fog that raises from the valley floor, typical of the area , reinforced that belief. The area was first known by Colonel Stevenson’s men who mined Soldiers Gulch in 1849. In 1851 a post office was established and by April 1852 there were 300 houses. By 1853 the flats and gulches swarmed with men and there were 11 stores, 6 hotels, 3 bakeries, and 3 saloons. Hydraulic mining operations begun in 1855 brought thousands of fortune seekers to form a town of 17 hotels, a library, a theater, and courts of quick justice.

During the Civil War, Volcano’s gold served the Union. The Volcano Blues smuggled the Cannon “Old Abe,” into the town by hearse, to intimidate rebel sympathizers. The cannon was cast by Cyrus Alger & Co. in Boston in 1837 and is the first of two 6-pounders made on the same day to be stamped with serial number 4. The cannon was never fired. The other cannon still survives at Shiloh Battlefield and is called “Shiloh Sam”. Abe is the only cannon of that age in the U.S. still on a nineteenth century wooden carriage, and has had an interesting history all on its own. The landmark St. George Hotel, located in Volcano, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Volcano almost became the county seat in 1854 and again in 1857, but the newspaper closed in 1857 and afterwards, the town began to decline. Although small, Volcano is a town of many “firsts” in California including the first theater group, debating society, library, private school, law school, legal hanging, astronomical observatory, and solar still.

74 BLACK CHASM CAVERNS

Black Chasm Cavern was designated a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service in 1976 after being recommended by local members of the National Speleological Society, and as such is considered a “nationally significant natural area.” This cavern tour is suitable for the entire family and makes an excellent school, scout or church field trip.

Black Chasm Caverns, NNL (1-4 Hours)

Black Chasm Cavern was designated a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service in 1976 after being recommended by local members of the National Speleological Society, and as such is considered a nationally significant natural area. Visitors to the cave are enchanted by the beauty of a wide variety of limestone formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, and a vast array of rare helictite crystals for which Black Chasm Cavern is justly famous. Above ground, kids love gemstone mining at the mining flumes right outside the visitor center. The new 3,000 sq ft. visitor center provides information on Black Chasm Cavern’s connection to the Matrix Trilogy, and displays props from the movies. The 50-minute

walking tour follows a series of environmentally friendly platforms, stairs and walkways, designed to give the best views of the cave without compromising the naturally pristine environment. Black Chasm also offers a three-hour Labyrinth tour which is a fun, physically challenging surface tour that explores picturesque rock outcroppings in the foothills surrounding the caverns. For more information call (866) 762-2837 or visit www. caverntours.com.

architecture and ambiance of the main building will offer guests a feeling of serenity and simpler times. Depending on who you talk to, it is rumored that ghosts roam the second and third floor of the hotel, with one room specifically being haunted. The lovely and magical grounds of the St. George are a joy in every season. They are perfect for outdoor wedding ceremonies, receptions, summer teas and parties. The Daffodils and Tulips in Spring time and the grand trees and flowering bushes in summer provide privacy and shade and offer beautiful outdoor sitting areas throughout the gardens for reading, meditating, or reflecting on simpler times. The St. George is located at 16104 Main Street, in Volcano, California. All rooms are subject to the 10% Amador County Transient Occupancy Tax. St. George Hotel is located at 16104 Main Street in Volcano, CA 95689. Call (209) 296-4485 for more information or visit www.stgeorgevolcano.com.

Stay in a Historical Place (1-2 Days+)

The St. George Hotel is located in Volcano-the “Gem of the Mother Lode”, slightly off the beaten path in the Sierra Nevada Foothills of California. This 3-story building with wooden balconies is the first thing you’ll see upon approaching the entrance to town. The St. George Hotel is listed on the national Register of Historic Places. The main Hotel was built in 1862. It is a 3-story brick building with 14 inch thick walls. The Hotel, built by B.F. George, was named “The St. George” to “thwart the demonic Fire Dragon”. The first two hotels on the site (Eureka in 1853 and Empire in 1859) were destroyed by fire. The Hotel was known in the late 1800’s as the best Hotel in the County. The Hotel was one of the first 3-story buildings in the State, and Volcano is one of the original Gold Rush towns in the Mother Lode. The main floor of the St. George Hotel has 3 sections: The “Parlor” with 12-foot ceilings and a grand fireplace, The “Dining Room” home to some of the finest food in the County, and The “Whiskey Flat Saloon” which was added to the main structure in the 1930’s and is a great place to have a drink, explore the bar memorabilia on the walls, and meet the locals. The main Hotel has 13 guestrooms on 2 floors, two with private baths and the remainder with shared bathrooms. An additional one-story annex building, built in the 1960’s, offers 6 rooms with private bathrooms and televisions. Want to bring your dog? No problem. We have one room in the annex which we allow your pet to stay with you for an additional nominal charge. In 2003 the “Garden Cottage” was added and features a private deck, queen size bed, fireplace, double Jacuzzi tub, shower, television and DVD player. At the back side of the property, the Zinfandel Conference Center offers a perfect setting for meetings, gatherings or conferences with its small kitchen, separate queen bedroom and spacious area for seating in the living room and a television. While some guests may prefer to stay in the more modern rooms of the annex, the original

Take in the Sounds of the Music Box Company

Fine Eye Gallery

Sierra Nevada Gold Country 2013 Edition 101things.com Say “I saw it in 101 Things To Do!”

(1 Hour+)

Nestled inside a classic Gold Rush Victorian building is one of the most unique stores on the West Coast. Founded in 1989 in San Francisco, The Music Box Company is like walking into one of your favorite movies or a magical fantasyland. From Disney Characters, miniature animated theme park musicals, to lovely European imports, the Music Box Company has thousands of wonderful items to enjoy. Stop by and see for yourself the wide array of beautiful music boxes, clocks and figurines that are showcased in this wonderful and magical store! Open Daily from 11-5pm Pacific Standard Time. (800) 588-1712 email: musicboxcompany@ comcast.net, or visit and order online at www. themusicboxcompany.com. The Music Box Company is located at 64 Main Street Hwy 49, P.O. Box 1151, Sutter Creek, CA 95685.

(30 Min)

Fine Eye Gallery, located in the historic gold rush town of Sutter Creek, CA offers visitors a kaleidoscopic journey through American art. The collection is continuously changing and features the work of local and national artists and craftspeople. One-of-a-kind furniture built from native trees sits alongside whimsical pottery formed in a small studio in Providence, RI. Sophisticated artisan jewelry, hand-made clothing,

GOLD Country

Lunch · Dinner · Wine Tasting

SUTTER CREEK

Sutter Creek is ideally situated in the heart of the Sierra Foothill Wine Country. Feel free to shop, dine, slumber, stroll, wine taste, and enjoy the quaint atmosphere of Amador County within Sutter Creek. elegant candles and supple leather purses call for your attention while whimsical garden art, brightly colored paintings and dynamic, floating mobiles encourage you to take them home. And that’s not all. The Fine Eye fills out its collection with fanciful cards, and unique “gotta have its” that owner Gail Pimlott curates into a well rounded presentation where there is something for everyone. The gallery, housed in the 1858 Brignole building, was built as a general store by Bartolomeo Brignole and is one of the largest and oldest buildings in Sutter Creek. Today’s visitors will want to take note of the original ceiling joists, iron pegged beams and historic bulk item bins inside as well as native limestone walls and heavy iron shutters along the portico covered walkway out front. These architectural details are in good company with the Fine Eye’s collection of contemporary art and were highlighted by National Geographic’s Geotourism Guide with a 4 thumbs up review. The Fine Eye’s engaging staff is dedicated to exceeding your wants and wishes by providing excellent customer service. Stop by to see us while you are in town or visit us on the web at www. fineeye.com The Fine Eye is open year round, 10:30am to 5:30pm daily. For more information about National Geographic’s Geotourism Guide, please visit: http://www.sierranevadageotourism. org/

The Clothes Mine (30 Min+)

The Clothes Mine carries an eclectic mix of women’s sportswear, accessories, bridal and formal wear, as well as men’s sportswear and tuxedo rentals. They also carry women’s sizes small to extra large and plus sizes and men’s shirts up to 3XL and tall. The Clothes Mine has been open since 1977 and is a proud family owned business. Located at 60 Main Street, #2, Sutter Creek, CA 95685 (209) 267-0417 or visit www.theclothesmine.com

Susan’s Place (1 Hour+)

Looking for a unique lunch or dinner experience? Treat your friends and family to lunch or dinner at Susan’s place, the best kept secret in Sutter Creek. Exquisitely unique meals prepared from Susan’s original recipes while you relax in our restful garden courtyard setting. GOOD WINE: Isn’t it time you tried something new? Take some time out of your busy life to relax and enjoy some good wine. Susan’s Places offers

a wide selection of award winning Sierra Foothill Wines for your tasting pleasure. By the glass, bottle or case, Susan’s Place has the wine you love at a price you can afford. GOOD FOOD: From the moment you enter Susan’s Place, you will feel more relaxed. Inside or outside seating is available in the ambiance of a garden courtyard setting, with quiet music, greenery, fountains and doves to calm your inner spirit.Your taste buds will be delighted with Susan’s freshly prepared Mediterranean/California cuisine. This is no ordinary meal! Each bite has been meticulously prepared for the ultimate dining experience from Susan’s own tried and true recipes. At meal’s end you will want to linger over coffee and dessert among soft light candles and cooing doves.  Throughout the years, Susan’s Place has become a destination for the discriminating gourmet. GOOD FRIENDS: Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply want to make your dining experience special, Susan’s Place is the place to dine in Sutter Creek. From near to far, Susan’s Place has become the gathering place for friends. So treat yourself to the epicurean delights you and yours deserve, and become friends of Susan’s. Visit www.susansplace.com

Sutter Creek Ice Cream (30 Min)

As featured in Sunset magazine, Sutter Creek Ice Cream Emporium features a very tasty lunch menu, an old fashioned soda fountain, fresh fudge and candy, live Ragtime Piano, party planning and great gifts and cards. Sutter Creek Ice Cream is open 7 days a week from 7:30 am – 8:00 pm. For over 70 years, The Emporium was once the town drug store. Thick shakes and malts are served to your table in shake glasses with the extra in the can. The shakes are prepared at the soda fountain featuring a turn of the century carved oak. It is home to the Motherlode Ragtime Society, which meets every third Saturday in every odd month, and they orchestrate the Sutter Creek Ragtime Festival which runs every second weekend in August. Upon request the owner will treat you to a ragtime tune while you enjoy your treats. Sutter Creek Ice Cream Emporium is located at 51 Main Street, Sutter Creek, CA 95685 (209) 267-0543.

Photo Courtesy Richard Carter

Shopping Sutter Creek (1/2 Day)

ON PURPOSE Since 1987, On Purpose has been providing customers with wonderful products and service in higher awareness books, art, gifts and everything in between. On Purpose is a fascinating store famous for their unique style and eclectic selection of merchandise. www.onlineonpurpose.com WATER STREET ANTIQUES Featuring over 50,000 square feet of quality antiques and exquisite reproductions from around the world, Water Street Antiques showcases European pine antiques, reclaimed hardwood furnishings, distressed dining room tables, exciting home accessories, colorful fair-trade textiles and much, much more. Our Jackson warehouse and showroom in Historic Sutter Creek are just 45 minutes from Sacramento…where you’ll find the trip worthwhile and the inventory unforgettable. www.waterstreetantiques.com

Historic Downtown Sutter Creek (1 Day+)

Today’s Sutter Creek maintains its Gold Rush facade while catering to the wants and needs of visitors from around the world. It featureas a diverse and distinctive range of lodging options from historic to modern, intimate to grand. Dining in Sutter Creek rivals the finest eateries thorughout the entire state, each having its own flavor and ambiance. Unique Galleries, Boutiques, and Antique Shopes line Sutter Creek’s Main Street making for a wonderful shopping experience in Sutter Creek with some shops in nearby Amador City. The nine wine tasting rooms on Main Street will serve as the perfect complement to a great day of wine tasting in the California Sierra Foothills.

On Purpose

A Higher Awareness MINERALS, GIFTS, JEWELRY, MUSIC & ART Bookstore

Wine Flights and Tapas in our Wine Bar

15 Eureka Street Just off Main Street In Old Town Sutter Creek 209.267.0945 www.susansplace.com

Great Lunch, Ice Cream & Dessert Specialties

Candies l Unique Gifts l Homemade Fudge l Milkshakes & Malts l Banana Splits l Sundaes l Espresso Drinks

OPEN 7 DAYS

Located in an historic building featured in Sunset magazine! 51 Main Street Sutter Creek JBad2013_Layout 1 6/19/13 3:48 PM Page 1

209.267.0543

Beauty that evokes touch – craftsmanship that awes. Experience the many textures of art at the...

71 MAIN STREET SUTTER CREEK, CA

209.267.0571 Open daily 10:30-5:30 www.fineeye.com Follow us on

Founded in 1989, The Music Box Company has one of the largest selections of music boxes,clocks and collectibles anywhere!

64 Main Street, Sutter Creek, Ca

60 MAIN STREET, SUTTER CREEK • (209) 267-0710

800-588-1712

209-267-5317

WWW.THEMUSICBOXCOMPANY.COM

Featuring the Counties of Sierra, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera, and more!

GOLD Country

PLYMOUTH

Located on Historic Hwy 49, Plymoth hosts the Amador County Fairgrounds and is now considered a gateway to many wineries of Shenandoah Valley.

Amador Flower Farm (1 Hour+)

Amador Flower Farm started as a direct mail business in 1994 with over 350 different daylilies. They have been adding new daylilies every year since and now have over 1000 different daylilies. They cover 14 acres with four acres of award winning Demonstration Gardens designed to showcase their daylilies. The grounds are available for your pleasure throughout the year. Hours of operation are 9:00 am - 4:00 pm DAILY, March through November. Winter hours are in effect from December through February: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm, Thursday - Sunday, closed Monday - Wednesday. The Demonstration Gardens are planted with more than 200 unusual perennials and grasses and over 1000 varieties of daylilies. Special Awards Amador Flower Farm has been designated as one of the very few American Hemerocallis Society Display Gardens. Recipient of a special award for Landscape Design. Awarded for “...good land use that incorporated native oaks and natural rock piles in the creation of acres of gardens which are a place of beauty, and also serve as a site for educational events of horticultural significance.” They’ve also been voted Best Business in Amador County by the readers of the Sierra Lodestar newspaper, Best Nursery by the readers of the Amador Ledger newspaper and 4th place in the competition for Best Garden Center in the Sacramento, CA region by the viewers of KCRA3, our NBC affiliate. They’ve also been listed as a National Geographic Destination

on the Sierra Nevada Geotourism website, a great place to start when you want to visit the Sierra Nevada! The Amador Flower Farm is located at 22001 Shenandoah School Road, Plymouth, CA 95669. Call (209) 245-6660 for more information or visit www.amadorflowerfarm.com

Wine Tasting in Amador (Hours - Days)

Would you like to experience wine country the way it used to be? Then make a beeline for Amador County! Visiting the small, family-owned wineries is a delight. All are nestled along scenic backroads in some of California’s most picturesque rural settings and offer gracious, unpretentious hospitality. You can sip Amador’s award-winning wines – including our famed old-vine zinfandels – while gazing at the beautiful, snow-capped Sierras or picnicking under grand old oak trees surrounded by vines. And Amador wineries are easy to reach, just 45 minutes from the state capitol of Sacramento and two hours from the San Francisco Bay Area. This wine country is the jewel of the Sierra Foothills, where there’s gold in the ground and in your glass. For more information call (209) 245-6992 or visit www. amadorwine.com.

Vineyard of the Year 2013 California State Fair

Taste Amador (1-3 Hours)

As winners of the James Beard Award, Taste Restaurant is dedicated to providing guests with the highest quality service, food, beverage and ambiance. They strive to be innovative, leaders in their field and to make a difference in their community. Taste is owned and operated by Mark and Tracey Berkner and their great staff. The Berkner’s come from a hospitality background where they worked for small family owned restaurants, wineries and Marriott Hotels & Resorts. From 1997 to 2003 they owned and operated the St. George Hotel in Volcano, CA. In August 2009, the Berkner’s opened the Volcano Union Inn, a four-room bed and breakfast with a pub. Together they direct the Culinary Arts Department at Delta College in Stockton. They are focused on creating a great work environment for their staff and a great dining experience for their guests. Menu items are fresh, seasonal and changing with availability while offering a variety of selections from beef to vegetarian. The Volcano Union Pub and Inn is Taste’s sister pub in Volcano, California. For more information call (209) 245-3463 or visit www. restauranttaste.com

deli  specialty foods  full service catering  cooking classes

DINNER THURSDAY–MONDAY LUNCH SATURDAY & SUNDAY

The food, the wine, the beer, the service and the entire concept at Taste are so finely tuned and impressive that there is enough to experience on several excursions to the countryside. -Sacramento Bee

Amador County’s only ZAGAT rated restaurant 9402 Main Street Plymouth, CA (209) 245-3463 (dine) www.restauranttaste.com

Casual Lunch Cafe and Wine Market Tuesday - Sunday 10am - 6pm

Catering & Deli Preorders available daily

9393 Main Street, Plymouth 209-245-FOOD www.amadorvintagemarket.com

Photo Courtesy Richard Carter

Sierra Nevada Gold Country 2013 Edition 101things.com Say “I saw it in 101 Things To Do!”

GOLD Country

EL DORADO

PLACER

Experience the variety of recreational opportunites in El Dorado County. Along with many historical museums, the El Dorado area of the Gold Country also boasts the towns of El Dorado, Coloma, and Placerville. Be sure to check out Apple Hill and go whitewater rafting if time permits in this area.

Placer County stretches for a hundred miles from the urban outskirts of Sacramento to the High Sierra of North Lake Tahoe and the Nevada state line. Outdoor enthusiasts as well as shopaholics can appreciate all that Placer County has to offer. Because of its diversity, some call it its own country inside a county. From local wine trails, to shopping malls, fine dining, river rafting, farms, lakes, rivers, and small to large towns, you’ll see why Placer County is the most diverse county in all of the Gold Country and the Sierra Nevada.

Apple Hill (1 Day)

The name Apple Hill was created by Bob Tuck. In mid-June of 1964 the Apple Farmers on Apple Hill decided to have a press picnic that coming August. During the picnic, each Apple Hill family hosted individual members of the press for a meal at their home. They also handed out paper bags at the State Fair the same year, offering two pounds of free apples to visitors who brought their bag to Apple Hill with them. The Apple Hill Growers Association has since grown from 16 ranchers to over 55 ranchers, including Christmas tree growers, wineries, vineyards, micro breweries and a spa. Much of the history of Apple Hill has been preserved. The community has gone to tremendous effort to protect their history and offer the visitors family filled fun days on the ranch. An event calendar and maps are available on their website at www. applehill.com

Visit Coloma (1-2 Days)

From hikes and nature talks hosted by the staff at the American River Conservancy at the yellow house in downtown Coloma, to trail riding and hiking, to shopping, eateries, wineries, nightlife and great beaches on the American River, Coloma will have enough to satisfy every family member’s desires for adventure. Playing on the river is a big draw for many visitors coming to Coloma, which features whitewater rafting, kayak schools and parks with great beaches. Among the best parks are the Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park, the Dave Moore Nature Area, the Henningsen Lotus County Park, and the Marshall Gold Discover State Historical Park. For Whitewater Rafting adventures keep in mind that the South Fork of the American River offers exciting whitewater rapids from April through Labor days and commercial rafting outfitters offer a wide variety of river experiences. Wineries and breweries are also great to visit in Coloma, being that their wine tasting is FREE. Many local bands visit Coloma as well. For more information on Coloma visit www.coloma.com While in Coloma be sure to visit the Olde Coloma Theater, the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, and raft the South Fork American River.

Stroll Downtown Placerville (Hours+)

Placerville is named after the placer gold deposits found in its river beds and hills in the late 1840’s. The City of Placerville is located between Sacramento and South Lake Tahoe along Highway 49 and 50. Placerville’s treasured heritage is reflected in the historical architecture of its downtown core. Among its treasures you will find the famous Apple Hill Ranches, Historic Coloma, the American River, and the El Dorado National Forest within minutes of downtown. Placerville was also known as “Hangtown” in its earliest days. The famous hanging tree once stood in Elstner’s Hay Yard, next to the Jackass Inn. Today the original stump from the tree remains in the cellar of “The Hangman’s Tree” tavern on Historic Main Street. Another important landmark to visit while in Placerville is the Bell Tower. The bell was placed in the tower in the plaza in 1865 to call out to firefighters when needed, and is known to honor the city’s firemen and the history of the town. It also serves as the meeting place for the towns parades, celebrations, and events. For more on the town of Placerville visit www.placerville-downtown.org When visiting Placerville be sure to visit the El Dorado County Historical Museum, the FountainTallman Museum, and the Gold Bug Mine and Park.

Wake Island is located 15 minutes from downtown Sacramento and 15 minutes from Roseville at 7633 Locust Rd. Pleasant Grove, CA 95668. Visit www. wakeislandwatersports.com for more information.

Art & Entertainment of Placer (Hours-Days)

Placer County offers a wide variety of art culture, festivals, concert series and more. Be sure to visit the Donner State Park museum, indulge in some gold panning, art galleries, and seasonal festivals such as rodeos, car shows, and farmers markets. Auburn has local Art Walks, which highlight local artists. The annual Clayfest in Lincoln has gained much deserved national recognition as well. The Auburn Symphony and Rocklin’s Evening in the Park Summer Concert Series are always interesting for those looking for outdoor evening activities. The North Lake Tahoe Arts Center supports the art enthusiasts in the North Tahoe and Truckee areas. When you are visiting the area, make sure to check out the local Arts Councils; PlacerArts, Blue Line Arts, and North Tahoe Arts. Museums to check out in the Placer area are the Roseville Telephone Co. Museum, the Maidu Museum and Historic Site, the Carnegie Library and Museum, Sierra College Museum of Natural History, Rocklin History Museum and Old St. Mary’s Chapel,

Placer County Courthouse Museum, Gold Country Museum, Joss House Museum and Chinese History Center in Old Town Auburn, and the Colfax Heritage Museum.

Auburn Endurance Capital of the World (1 Day+)

Auburn has been dubbed the basecamp for everything endurance. Some of the most challenging and historic endurance events on the planet happen here. With roads, trails, rivers, lakes, and Auburn State Park with the surrounding Sierra Nevada, Auburn is a premiere destination for endurance athletes of all levels and interests in the world. The Endurance Capital Committee is a committee of seven members appointed by the City Council to promote Auburn as a destination point for these activites and to promote a healthier lifestyle. Some of the signature events that the group hosts are: The Tevis Cup Ride, The Western States Endurance Run, Cool Mountain Bike Race, Auburn Triathlon, Auburn Century Bike Ride, American River Classic, American River 50 Mile Run, and the Way Too Cool 50k Run. For more information visit www.auburnendurancecapital.com

Ride The Wake (Hours - All Day)

Wake Island is an 80 acre water sports park that consists of a five-tower cable system for wakeboarding and wake skating and a two-tower cable system for beginners, as well as a 16-acre lake used for boating and an 8-acre lagoon used for paddle boarding. The park introduces beginners to the exciting sports of wakeboarding & wake skating, while offering experienced riders the ability to further develop their skills without the use of a boat! With 7,000 square feet of observation deck, a tropical beach, and an assortment of food and beverages, Wake Island is a great place to hang out with the entire family for the day. Forget that gym membership, it is time to start taking your lunch breaks with us, riding and enjoying our free wifi. The only thing you need to bring is a swimsuit & a towel, we provide everything else!

Watersports for everyone!

Wake Island is located 15 min from Sacramento and 15 min from Roseville 7633 Locust Rd. Pleasant Grove, CA

www.wakeislandwatersports.com 916.655.3900 Mention the “Trading Post” and any ‘first timer’ to Wake Island gets a 2 hour pass for the price of 1 hour!

Photo Courtesy Wake Island Watersports

Featuring the Counties of Sierra, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera, and more!

GOLD Country

LAKE TAHOE Everyone knows Lake Tahoe as the Skiing and Snowboarding capital of California and Nevada. What most don’t realize is that Lake Tahoe has much to offer in EVERY season! From season to season you can enjoy outdoor recreation of almost any caliber.

Biking Hiking & Running Lake Tahoe (Hours+)

Mountain bikers--if they don’t live in Tahoe, they visit Tahoe. Tahoe’s legendary south-side trails draw mountain bikers of all kinds to ride the windy roads, downhill track of the Saxon Creek Trail (Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride), the Flume Trail and several bike paths throughout this friendly community. The famed loop around Lake Tahoe is 72 miles, dotted with trees and breathtaking views of the lake. Easy beach access is available along the ride. As far as hiking goes, the South Lake Tahoe region is an amazing network of backcountry trails that are sure to lead you to a new special place dear to your heart. You could spend a week backpacking through Desolation Wilderness, or just go on a day hike with a picnic basket in tow. A popular winter activity is snowshoeing. Clamber up the trails and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking view of Lake Tahoe at its best.

a wide variety of hiking and biking trails that are beginner appropriate, and campgrounds that are sure to stir up some gold country ghost stories. In the winter, there’s not just skiing and snowboarding but also an abundance of sledding, snow tubing, ice skating, and ski resorts; all have ski instruction for all levels.

Skiing & Snowboarding Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is one of the worlds most premiere ski and snowboard areas. World class ski resorts and acres of backcountry trails abound as the skiing and snowboarding amenities provide shuttle services, equipment rentals, package deals, and their own ski resort communities with lounging, world class restaurants, shopping, nightclubs and more. SUGAR BOWL, SINCE 1939 A yodeling ski fanatic from Austria name Hans Schroll first laid eyes on Mt Lincoln on July 4, 1937. Schroll took one look at the still remaining 30 foot base of snow and immediately began plotting places for lifts and runs. He was later quoted as saying, “When I saw the bowl at the foot of Mount Lincoln, I decided that was the place.” The perfect place to build his dream Austrian style resort.  With all his money tied up in a then occupied Austria, Schroll sought out investors for his newly planned resort. Schroll had taught some of California’s most wealthy and influential families how to ski. One

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Family Fun in Lake Tahoe

(1/2 Day+)

Known as a family-friendly destination, Lake Tahoe offers everything from hot-air balloons, miniature golf, helicopter tours, arcades and more. There are

(1 Day+)

of his most famous clients was Walt Disney.  With little convincing from Schroll, Disney invested the now seemingly small sum of $2500 and in turn his name was stamped on the peak that would become home to the first chairlift in California. On October 13, 1938, Sugar Bowl Corporation was officially formed and together the investors purchased the 700 acres that would soon become the Village of Sugar Bowl Resort. Construction of the new Disney chairlift and the planned Bavarian style lodge began in the summer of 1939. Sugar Bowl Resort officially opened for the first time on December 15, 1939. California’s first chairlift drew large crowds that first season. The ride to the top of Mt Disney was six and a half minutes and cost riders 25 cents or $2 if skiing. Sugar Bowl also attracted the attention of Hollywood right away. The likes of Greta Garbo, Errol Flynn, Norma Shearer, Claudette Colbert and many others enjoyed the resort’s picturesque slopes and European feel. In 1946, Norma Shearer saw a photograph of the then desk clerk’s daughter and decided the girl should be in movies. Thus was born the career of Janet Leigh. World War II stopped the resort’s operations for three years as the railroad routes were overrun with military transports and fears of railroad sabotage. Many of the top skiers and ski instructors joined the 87th Infantry Division and subsequently the 10th Mountain Division. By Christmas of 1945, Sugar Bowl was ready to reopen.   For the next several years, Sugar Bowl enjoyed the country’s journey back to normal after the Great Depression and World War II. People came in droves to Bill Klein’s new ski school, eager to join in the fun on the mountain.   In 1953, a man named Jerome

Hill came up with the long needed solution to the resort’s slow transport from Highway 40 to the Village. Jerome suggested building a gondola that could transport people and goods in and out of the resort year round. Sugar Bowl offered the land and Hill financed the first gondola on the West Coast. For Resort information on Sugar Bowl visit www. sugarbowl.com

Water Recreation in Lake Tahoe (Hours - Days)

One thing that isn’t talked about as much as the skiing is the lake. At South Lake Tahoe you can water ski, wakeboard, paddle board, kayak, go canoeing, lay in a raft, jet ski, sailboat, and so much more. Whatever kind of water activity you enjoy, you can enjoy it on Lake Tahoe. You can even scuba dive at Sparks Marina Park. Dinner cruises are available on the lake as well. You can book a fishing charter or fish from shore. Visit Lake Tahoe and you’ll find out why it is just as exciting in the warm seasons as it is when covered in white.

Enjoy Lake Tahoe Culture (1/2 Day)

The most annual snowfall in Tahoe, and North America’s largest cross-country ski resort. Visit: Sugarbowl.com for more info

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GOLD Country

South Lake Tahoe has several galleries and shops that exhibit the work of local artists and crafters, and boasts many festivals when the weather is warm. Live music is available at the annual Valhalla Arts Music and Theatre Festival. Every summer and fall there is a Valhalla Renaissance Fair as well. DL Bliss campground is OPEN through 9/2/13 on the reservation system. For reservations contact Reserve America at 1-800-444-PARK or at www. reserveamerica.com. A portion of the campground is scheduled to remain open on a first-come, first-served basis from 9/3/13 through 9/29/13, conditions permitting.  The day use parking areas at the beaches and at the Rubicon trailhead are extremely popular in the summer months and are often FULL by late morning. We recommend arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon for best chances of finding a parking space. When the parking lots are full, no more day use vehicles are allowed into the park. Thank you for your understanding. The grandeur of the parks and their setting is a product of successive upheavals of the mountain-building processes that raised the Sierra Nevada. From promontories such as Rubicon Point in D.L. Bliss State Park you can see over one hundred feet into the depths of Lake Tahoe. On the crest of Eagle Falls in Emerald Bay State Park, you can see a brilliant panorama of Emerald Bay, Fannette Island,

Lake Tahoe, and the distant Nevada shore. The park is named for a pioneering lumberman, railroad owner, and banker of the region. The D.L. Bliss family donated 744 acres to the State Park system in 1929. Visit www.parks.ca.gov

Gaming and Casinos of Lake Tahoe (Hours - 1 Day+)

Home to world class casinos, South Lake Tahoe is the place for gaming. The hotels and casinos here attract big-name entertainment, have exceptional dining, luxurious spas, and naturally beautiful scenery. If you are ready to unwind in the casino atmosphere, but want a gorgeous background and some outdoor recreation and adventure, then South Lake Tahoe is the place to be!

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Featuring the Counties of Sierra, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera, and more!

GOLD Country

NEVADA & SIERRA If you want the more secluded side of nature, visit the Nevada and Sierra Counties. Rich with outdoor recreation but also suiting your lodging, dining, and entertainment needs, both counties are equally wonderful.

Deer Creek Tribute Trail

Take In Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park

(1 Hour+)

A 9-mile loop trail to and from Nevada City, this tributary trail is fairly easy. It has some hills, but also has wonderful views. The trail pieces together historic road and new trail. Deer Creek is a tributary of the Yuba River and major campsite for the Maidu people. This area has been mined and logged in the past but is now a recovering forest. After crossing a small stream with a waterfall below the road, take the short segment of marked trail to the Newtown or Deer Creek Ditch. On Deer Creek is the newly constructed Chinese Bridge to the south side of the creek. The trail begins in historic downtown Nevada City and moves along scenic back roads and trails. The Tribute Trail is available for picnics, bicycling, hiking, swimming, fishing, and horseback riding.

(1 Hour+)

Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park is the site of California’s largest “hydraulic” mine. Visitors can see huge cliffs carved by mighty streams of water, results of the gold mining technique of washing away entire mountains to find the precious metal. Legal battles between mine owners and downstream farmers ended this method. The park also contains a 7,847 foot bedrock tunnel that served as a drain. The visitor center has exhibits on life in the old mining town of North Bloomfield. From Nevada City, travel 11-miles north on highway-49 toward Downieville. North Bloomfield Road is not recommended. Turn right on Tyler Foote Rd. turnoff from Highway 49 and follow the main paved road to the park.The main road changes names a few times (Cruzon Grade Road, Back Bone Road, Derbec Road, North Bloomfield Road). You will stay on paved roads all the way to the park. These are not high-speed roads. The park is 26-miles (50 min drive time) from Nevada City. The Chute Hill Campground and Group Camp are currently closed.The Miner’s Cabins are open and available by reservation through September 30, 2012. www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=494

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South Yuba River State Park (1/2 Day+)

This 20-mile portion of the South Yuba River canyon stretches from Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park to Bridgeport covered bridge. The area includes the longest single-span covered bridge in the world, the steep rugged canyon of the South Yuba River, and the Independence Trail - the first identified wheelchair-accessible wilderness trail in the country.   South Yuba River State Park offers many scenic vistas. Visitors can view fast water pouring over massive granite ledges in the spring and warm, slow moving emerald swimming holes during the late summer. Gold Panning Demonstrations are offered every Saturday and Sunday from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. 11am 2pm at Bridgeport. Visitors can enjoy :  swimming  hiking  panning for gold  beautiful wildflowers in the spring  exploring the trails leading to historic mining sites   Docent-led history, nature, and goldpanning tours are also offered at selected times throughout the year.  Adventuresome hikers have a choice of trails ranging in difficulty from the easiest (Independence Trail), to other more strenuous trails throughout the park. A historic water ditch has been adapted to carry wheelchairs and hikers across the Independence Trail. The trail features waterfalls, scenic vistas, and a gentle switchback descent to a mountain stream on a wooden flume accessible by wheelchair. Outhouses with full wheelchair access are located at several points along the trail. South Yuba River State Park headquarters located at Bridgeport, 17660 Pleasant Valley Rd can be accessed from Highway 20 west of Grass Valley or from Highway 49 north of Nevada City. Remote portions of the park are accessible from Edwards Crossing, Purdon Crossing, and Highway 49.

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Lakes Basin Campground is located in the Lakes Basin Recreation Area. Located nine miles southwest of Graeagle, California, this recreation area has special geological features. There is breathtaking scenery and over 20 small lakes nearby, most of which are accessible by hiking trails. This area provides a multitude of recreational

activities including camping, fishing, boating, hunting, mountain biking, horseback riding, picnicking, hiking, backpacking, swimming, windsurfing and nature study. In the winter visitors can ice fish, snowmobile, cross-country ski and snowshoe.

Lakes Basin (1 Day+)

The Sierra Buttes and Lakes Basin Recreation Area are just outside Bassets along Gold Lake Road. Numerous lakes formed by glaciers add to the unique beauty offered here. You can expect exceptional hiking in the warmer months as well as the winter months with snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. Being very secluded, Lakes Basin has incredibly majestic landscape you can enjoy without the hustle and bustle of more urbanized areas. The areas lakes are highly prized by fly fisherman and those who prefer to fish from shore or small boats. Kayaking has become very popular here, and small resorts also dot the shoreline of Gold Lake. The Lakes Basin area also has numerous off-road vehicle and 4 WD trails from moderate to difficult. For more information check out www.sierracountychamber.com

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GOLD Country

SIERRA NEVADA GOLD COUNTRY ANNUAL EVENTS

AMADOR COUNTY EVENTS FEBRUARY

Amador Vintners Barrel Tasting Sutter Creek Mardi Gras Party & Cajun Cook-Off

MARCH

Behind the Cellar Door Dandelion Festival, Jackson

APRIL

Amador City Artisan Craft Fair Sutter Creek Duck Race

MAY

Gold Country Cruise Car Show, Jackson Sierra Showcase of Wines, Plymouth Trash to Treasures Street Fair

JUNE

Black Bart Hold-Up Days Plymouth Sierra Century Bike Trek Plymouth Summer Solstice Wine Daze Sutter Creek Italian Fest Italian Picnic & Parade DayLily Days/Amador Flower Farm – 3rd week in June

Music in the Parks “Mokulumne Crossing” Art, Jazz, Wine & Food on the Square (Copperopolis)

JULY

Arnold Independence Day Parade Bear Valley Music Fest Murphys Heritage Days Lake Alpine Fishing Derby Murphys Homecoming - 3rd Sat in July Calaveras County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee Western Days (Copperopolis) Independence Day Fireworks at Ironstone Vineyards Independence Day in Mokelumne Hill Arnold Car Show

JUNE ~ AUGUST

Cajun Fete & Dinner Dance, Bear Valley Summer Fest (Copperopolis) Calaveras Big Trees Family Fun Day Logging Jamboree

Mi-Wok Indian Acorn Festival, Tuolumne Sierra Apple Festival 49er Festival, Parade and Chili Cook Off – Groveland Sierra Apple Festival Don’t Dress For Dinner ~ Fallon House Theatre

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

AUGUST

Murphys Gold Rush Street Faire Taste of Calaveras: Wine, Food & Art Festival, Angels Camp Murphys Grape Stomp - Ist Sat in Oct (Street Faire & Grape Stomp Competition) Trick or Treat St (Copperopolis) Lumberjack Day Concerts in the Moaning Cave

SEPTEMBER

Amador City Antique Fair Annual Chili Cook-Off Bluegrass in the Foothills, Plymouth Blues & Brews Festival Fiddletown Fiddlers Jam Chaw’se Big Time Indian Celebration Pine Grove Musical Organ Rally

OCTOBER

Amador Vintners Big Crush, Plymouth Trick or Treat on Main Street, Jackson Haunted Dungeon

NOVEMBER

Christmas Delights, Jackson Sutter Creek Wine Festival (2nd Saturday)

DECEMBER

Calico Christmas Open House,Amador City Parade of Lights Sutter Creek Old Fashioned Christmas Open House Los Posadas

CALAVERAS COUNTY JANUARY

Annual Chili Cook-off (Copperopolis) Guided Hikes & Snowshoe Hikes @ Calaveras Big Trees State Park Ovation Concert Series

AUGUST ~ SEPTEMBER

Strawberry Music Festival, Camp Mather

Bear Valley Triathalon Master Gardeners Fall Fest Arnold Logging Jamboree Concourse d’Elegance, Murphys

Festival of Music, Art & Wine, Jackson Sutter Creek Ragtime Fest Jackson Show & Shine

AUGUST

Sonora Blues Music Festival “Battle of Small Mill Flat,” Columbia Magic of the Night Festival “The Deadly Gentleman” Concert

Music in the Parks

JULY

Amador County Fair, Plymouth Roaring Camp 49er Days, Pine Grove Sutter Creek July 4th Celebration Dustbowl Revival @ Sutter Creek

Twain Harte Summer Art & Wine Festival Mother Lode Fair Natural History Workshop -Calaveras Big Trees Ghost Tour in Columbia State Historic Park The Irish Jam Wednesday Train Rides at Railtown Annual “Fire On The Mountain” Twain Harte Annual Rods to Rails – Jamestown

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

Festival of Trees Black Tie Gala & Viewing, Murphys WinterFest, Bear Valley Lodge Old Fashioned Holiday (Copperopolis)

DECEMBER

Calaveras Winegrape Alliance Holiday Open House Murphy’s Christmas Open House Winter Winefest, Ironstone Vineyards Murphys Holiday Open House - 1st Friday in December Winter Wonderland at Calaveras Big Trees State Park Caroling in the Moaning Cave Christmas in Mokelumne Hill 286

TUOLUMNE COUNTY JANUARY ~ DECEMBER

Columbia Town Tours - (Every Sat & Sun 11am) Columbia Gold Rush Days (2nd Sat 1-4pm)

JANUARY

Columbia Gold Rush Days Jamestown Old West Re-Enactment

FEBRUARY

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

Columbia Fiddle & Banjo Contest Columbia Harvest Festival Groveland Living History Day! Annual Sonora Bach Festival Mother Lode Art Association Annual Juried Art Show

OCTOBER - NOVEMBER

Harvey at Fallon House Theatre

NOVEMBER

Sonora Historic Downtown Christmas Parade ITSA Film Festival! Veteran’s Day Golf Tournament at Pine Mountain Sonora Christmas Parade

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER

Annual Sonora Christmas Craft & Music Festival It’s a Wonderful Life - A Live Radio Play

DECEMBER

Docent Lamplight Tour, Columbia A Miner’s Christmas, Columbia Sounds Of The Season At Sonora Opera Hall Annual Black Irish Band Christmas Show

SIERRA ANNUAL EVENTS

Plumas Sierra County Fair 6th Annual Big City Rod Run And Car Show

NEVADA ANNUAL EVENTS

Nevada County Fair Annual Squaw Mountain Run 13th Annual Nevada City Film Festival

PLACER ANNUAL EVENTS

MARCH

9th Annual Townsmen Car Show 58th Annual Tevis Cup Trail Ride 2nd Annual Gold Pan Ukulele Festival

APRIL

EL DORADO EVENTS

Columbia Big Band Jazz Fest Columbia Vocal Jazz Fest

FEBRUARY

Jamestown Railtown Opens Sonora Spring Art Festival

21st Annual First Financial Bank/SHARE Benefit Golf Tournament

MARCH

April 8, - October 19 – Art workshops in Yosemite

ALPINE EVENTS

Ironstone Sweethearts Dinner & Dance, Murphys President’s Wine Weekend Calaveras Follies, Murphys Celtic Faire, Angels Camp Gourmet Ski Tour, Bear Valley Murphys Irish Day (street faire, music) Spring Fest (Copperopolis) Ironstone Spring Obsession Art Show Calaveras Gem & Mineral Show

APRIL ~ OCTOBER MAY

Death Ride Soap Box Derby And County Faire

MAY ~ JUNE

MONO EVENTS

Mother Lode “Round Up,” Tuolumne Sonora Art Trails Strawberry Music Festival, Camp Mather (near North entry to Yosemite National Park)

Mammoth Mud Run The Mammoth 8/24 Hour Endurance BIKE RACE

APRIL

Sonora’s Certified Farmer’s Market Groveland Farmers Market Jamestown Certified Farmers’ Market Tuolumne Certified Farmers Market

MARIPOSA EVENTS

MAY

Columbia 1850’s Tent Town Experience Columbia’s 1850’s History Mysteries Motherload Fair

Tom’s Cross Country Ski Race, Bear Valley Murphys Festival of Wines Taste of Calaveras Calaveras County Home & Garden Show County Fair & Jumping Frog Jubilee, Angels Camp Italian Heritage Days, Angels Camp Hot Copper Car Show (Copperopolis) Twisted Folk Concert Series

JUNE

Ironstone Summer Concert Series begins, Murphys Passport Weekend - June 21-23 2013 (Wine Event)

MAY ~ NOVEMBER

JUNE

JUNE ~ SEPTEMBER

Oklahoma! at Fallon House Theatre Railtown Presents ” In Train View ” Photo Exhibit

Mariposa County Fair Grape Stomp “Coyote Fest” Yosemite Car Show

MADERA EVENTS

Madera’s Annual Pomegranate Festival Madera County Fair 2nd Annual Puttin’ Cancer to Shame

JULY

Columbia July 4th Celebration

Featuring the Counties of Sierra, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera, and more!

GOLD Country

SACRAMENTO

VISIT SACRAMENTO Sacramento California is often overlooked as a center point between San Francisco and Lake Tahoe. Think again!! Sacramento was voted by TIME magazine as one of the most diverse urban areas in the nation. With more then 101 things to do in Sacramento, it is difficult to narrow it down. With amazing dining options, museums, historical places, attractions for kids, and fabulous shopping opportunities, the capital of California leaves nothing out! The City encompasses only 100.1

square miles, however, the Sacramento metropolitan area includes seven counties with an estimated population of over 2,500,000. It is the fourth largest area in California, the sixth largest city in California, and the 35th largest city in the United States.

Railroad.

Sacramento grew quickly in the gold rush era and was established by John Sutter in 1839 as a major distribution point, and a terminus for wagon trains, stagecoaches, riverboats, telegraph, the Pony Express, and the

Not only can you visit as a tourist, but Sacramento also has some of the best value and location placement of hotels and places to stay that your family will enjoy if you are a traveling professional to the area.

Sacramento has an abundance of great amusement parks, art museums, comedy clubs, farm to fork and four-star cuisine, FREE things to see and do, sightseeing tours, spas, wine tasting tours and more.

One of the most popular attractions in Sacramento is the historical district of Old Sacramento. This national historic landmark overflows with things to see and do. From river boats to railroad museums, horse drawn

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GOLD Country

G N I H S U CR AY W R U O ! P O T E TO TH

-MSHA, OSHA CERTIFIED -ARB CERTIFIED -COMPLETELY MOBILE/PORTABLE -ON-SITE QUALIT Y CONTROL -PORTABLE LAB hoto Courtesy Robb Hirsch Photography robhirschphoto.com Photo Courtesy Robb Hirsch Photography robhirschphoto.com -GREEN RECOGNIZED -LATEST & MODERN EQUIPMENT carriages, great restaurants in historic Circus, CUS Sacramento, Theatre -MARKET STUDY buildings, shopping, entertainment, & Dance Department, and the -DEVELOPMENTAL RESEARCH and more, all adjacent to the beautiful Sacramento Opera is there to thrill. -UNION RECOGNIZED Sacramento River. Professional sports are also around to -24 HOUR SERVICE The Sacramento Zoo is home to over keep you entertained. Enjoy a game -LICENSED & BONDED 140 native, exotic and endangered watching the Kings NBA basketball species and is one of over 200 team, or the Rivercats Minor League accredited institutions of the Baseball team. Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Also worth a visit is Fairytale Town, Yearly events in Sacramento include located across the street from the zoo. Eppie’s Great Race California, the California State Fair, the California Museums in the Sacramento area Capital Airshow, The County Fair, and include the Aerospace Museum of the Jazz Festival. California, the California Automobile Museum, The California Museum, The above is only the beginning of The California State Railroad how much there is to offer visitors Museum, Crocker Art Museum, and locals alike in the beautiful City Discovery Museum, Effie Yeaw Nature of Sacramento and surrounding Center, Galt Area Historical Society’s metropolitan area. So make sure Rae House Museum, Sacramento to stay and spend some time while Museums, Sutter’s Fort, and the you are traveling through or make Wells Fargo History Museum. Sacramento your destination!

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707.544.0303 www.bcjunlimited.com

If you seek performing arts, Sacramento doesn’t disappoint! The Sacramento Ballet, Sacramento Theatre Company, California Music

Featuring the Counties of Sierra, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera, and more!

GOLD Country

VISIT SHASTA Under the shadow of Shasta we find a nature’s wonderland filled with mountains, lakes, fields, and streams. Whether your plans include snow or water skiing, fishing or house boating, hiking or just getting away from it all, the fashionable small towns, quaint yet trendy communities, and amazing cities have something to offer everyone. The areas covered by this magazine include the state’s northern most counties, Shasta, Siskiyou, Trinity, and Lassen. Also included are pieces of Modoc, Plumas, Butte, and

Tehama. The area is bounded by Oregon to the north, Nevada to the east, the coastal counties of Humboldt and Del Norte to the west, and the Sacramento Valley to the south. While the land area encompasses nearly 20 percent of the Golden State, approximately the size of the state of Ohio, the population is a mere 1.4 percent of the 39 million people calling California home. The Shasta area is a summertime playground with warm water lakes and all kinds of activities that go with them. It is also a

wintertime playground for alpine enthusiasts. This scenic region serves as a major supply and support center for anyone traveling the

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I-5 corridor. With the exceptions of the Redding area with upwards of 105,000 in population, and Chico, with more than 94,000, most towns in the region are small and the surrounding countryside is sparsely populated. Within the area, there are seven National Forests, twelve State Parks, and four National Parks. Redding boasts a significant amount of culture. You can’t drive through the town without noticing the famous Sundial Bridge off to the west of I-5. Downtown Redding is becoming quite the hub of entertainment in the area, as it has restored a big section of its historical area including the Cascade area, Market Street Promenade, and is expanding constantly. Throughout the year you can find several festivals, quaint cafés, wine bars, shopping, art shows, Market fest, and fine dining. As mentioned, the region is served from north to south by I-5. Smaller routes traverse the area from west to east and include highways 36, 44, 70, 96, and 299, among others. The roads are mostly two-lane and offer incredible scenery for motorists. Some of them are designated National Scenic Byways. Major rivers in the area include the Sacramento, Klamath, Trinity, Feather and

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McCloud. The waterways provide excitement for anglers, whitewater rafters and kayakers, as do the areas lakes and reservoirs. The dominant body of water in the region is, of course, Shasta Lake, with more than 400 miles of shoreline created by the second largest dam in the United States, Shasta Dam. The lake is visible to travelers at several points along I-5 starting about 15 minutes north of Redding, and continuing north until just past the small town of Lakehead. Mt. Shasta, our towering beauty, seems impossibly massive, especially on clear days. Its lofty peak seems to be out of this world, standing at 14,162 feet. The mountain is the highest volcano in the state, attracting hikers, skiers, campers, mountain climbers, mountain bikers, snowboarders, and serious mountaineers who strive for its summit. Mt. Shasta is part of the Cascade Range, which runs diagonally through the region. Southeast of Mt. Shasta is Lassen Volcanic National Park, with 106,000 acres of volcanic terrain that includes steaming mud pools, hot springs, cinder cones, and lava pinnacles. Other portions of the park feature thick forests, clear streams, and wildflower dotted meadows. Bird enthusiasts can see the state’s largest resident population of bald eagles at Shasta

GOLD Country

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Lake. Hundreds of species can be seen at wildlife refuges such as the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge and the Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge north east of Mt. Shasta near the Oregon border. At Lava Beds National Monument, visitors can view miles of hardened molten lava flows, lava tubes and caves. Cave enthusiasts will also enjoy Lake Shasta Caverns, which is 17 miles north of Redding and features a onehour guided tour after a boat ride across the lake, and a bus ride to the cavern entrance. New this year are Shasta Lake Dinner Cruises, which depart from Lake Shasta Caverns. In the western portion of the Shasta Cascade region lie the Trinity Alps and Marble Mountain Wilderness Areas. Accessible by Hwy 299 and Hwy 3, the mountains draw backpackers to 9,000 foot peaks, alpine meadows and more than 50 mountain lakes. Lake Siskiyou and Lake Shastina in Siskiyou County feature miles of beautiful shoreline and are growing in popularity. Farther east, Eagle Lake is the second largest natural lake completely within California’s borders. It is home to abundant wildlife and the famous Eagle Lake Trout, which grow very large in size. Lake Almanor is a large manmade lake in Plumas County and is a popular recreation destination. Whiskeytown Lake is another popular lake and is located within a National Recreation Area abundant with activities to enjoy, having 36 miles of shoreline. Whiskeytown’s most popular activities include mountain biking, hikes to waterfalls, kayaking, and sailing. Lake Oroville is a manmade lake, with the largest earthen dam in America. All of these lakes have similar outdoor recreation possibilities, including water-sports, house boating, camping, fishing, hiking, and all around exploring.

Shasta Dam an engineering marvel!

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Featuring the Counties of Sierra, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Calaveras, Alpine, Mono, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Madera, and more!

Visitors to far Northern California

will find Shasta Lake to be the crown jewel of our state. With nearly 370 miles of shoreline, there is something for everyone. There are dozens of resorts, and the lake is known for recreational watersports, houseboats, and fishing. Surrounded by the rugged Shasta Trinity National forest, camping is available throughout. Tours of amazing Shasta Caverns are available year round. Rivers and streams that feed the lake are known the world over as premiere destination fly fishing destinations. Tours of spectacular Shasta Dam itself are available. Nearby Redding California offers full amenities to travelers, and the unique Sundial Bridge. Take time while there to visit the adjacent Turtle Bay Exploration Park, with its 80 acres of natural beauty, and many natural science attractions. The Sundial Bridge connects to Redding’s extensive Sacramento River Trail system. With over 200 miles of trails within 10 miles of Redding, you’ll easily find a hike or bike adventure. Locals know that nearby Whiskeytown Lake offers qualities that define the best of the Northstate, like the hike to Whiskeytown Falls. Why just visit when you can live here? This region offers some of the lowest cost of living in all California.

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Visit the westâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest National Natural Landmark Reconnecting people to education and exploration since 1964... 250 Million years in the making.

www.lakeshastacaverns.com 800.795.2283 Cave into your curiosity!

L A N O I T A N ATURAL #

N S K R A M D N A L #2 #3

n o i g e R e d a c s a C a t s a h S e h t f O McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park

Lake Shasta Caverns The NEWEST NATIONAL NATURAL LANDMARK IN THE UNITED STATES!!!

Mount Shasta

The National Natural Landmarks (NNL) Program recognizes and encourages the conservation of sites that contain outstanding biological and geological resources, regardless of landownership type. It is the only natural areas program of national scope that recognizes the best examples of biological and geological features in both public and private ownership. NNLs are owned by a variety of land stewards, and participation in the program is voluntary. National Natural Landmarks are selected for their outstanding condition, illustrative value, rarity, diversity, and value to science and education. Sites are designated by the Secretary of the Interior, with landowner concurrence, and to-date, nearly 600 landmarks have received the NNL designation within the United States, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The National Park Service administers the program, reports on the condition of the NNLs, acts as an advocate for the protection of designated sites, and raises public awareness of our Nation’s natural heritage. Ongoing partnerships with public and private landmark owners allow participants to share information, solve problems cooperatively, and conserve outstanding sites that illustrate the rich and diverse tapestry of the country’s natural landscape. For further information about how the National Park Service’s National Natural Landmarks Program is is serving its mission, be sure to visit http://www.nature. nps.gov/nnl/index.cfm.

MT SHASTA Mt Shasta is located at the southern end of the Cascade Range in Siskiyou County, California and at 14,179 feet is the second highest peak in the Cascades and the fifth highest in California. Mount Shasta has an estimated volume of 85 cubic miles which makes it the most vouminous stratovolcano in the Cascade Volcanic Arc. The mountain and its surrounding area photo by Tina Prestwood are managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Shasta Trinity National Forest. Mount Shasta is not connected to any nearby mountain and dominates the northern California landscape. It rises abruptly and stands nearly 10,000 ft (3,000 m) above the surrounding terrain. On a clear day, Mount Shasta can be seen from about 150 miles (240 km) away. The mountain has attracted the attention of poets, authors, and presidents. Many climbers attempt the summit of Mount Shasta. The summer climbing season runs from late April until October, although many attempts are made in the winter. In winter, Sargents Ridge and Casaval Ridge, to the east and west of Avalanche Gulch respectively, become the most traveled routes, to avoid avalanche danger. Mount Shasta is also a popular destination for backcountry skiing. Many of the climbing routes can be descended by experienced skiers, and there are numerous lower-angled areas around the base of the mountain. The oldest known human habitation in the area dates to about 7,000 years ago, and by about 5,000 years ago, there was substantial human habitation in the surrounding area. BURNEY FALLS Burney Falls, located within McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, contains some of the best examples in the western United States of a river drainage regulated by stratigraphicallycontrolled springs, and of a waterfall formed by undercutting of horizontal rock layers. The park is within the Cascade Range and Modoc Plateau natural region, with forest and five miles of streamside and lake shoreline, including a portion of Lake Britton. The park’s centerpiece is the 129-foot Burney Falls, which is not the highest or largest waterfall in the state, but possibly the most beautiful. Additional water comes from springs, joining to create a mistfilled basin. Burney Creek originates from the park’s underground springs and flows to Lake Britton, getting larger along the way to the majestic falls. The park’s landscape was created by volcanic activity as well as erosion from weather and streams. This volcanic region is surrounded by mountain peaks and is covered by black volcanic rock, or basalt. Created over a million years ago, the layered, porous basalt retains rainwater and snow melt, which forms a large underground reservoir. Within the park, the water emerges as springs at and above Burney Falls, where it flows at 100 million gallons every day. Burney Falls was named after pioneer settler Samuel Burney who lived in the area in the 1850s. The McArthurs were pioneer settlers who arrived in the late 1800s. Descendants were responsible for saving the waterfall and nearby land from development. They bought the property and gave it to the state as a gift in the 1920s.

www.lakeshastacaverns.com 1-800-795-CAVE

LAKE SHASTA CAVERNS Congratulations to the newest designated National Natural Landmark! Lake Shasta Caverns is an extraordinarily welldecorated solution cave that contains an especially diverse assemblage of calcite cave formations ranging from millimeters to tens of meters. The caverns are developed in the lower Permian McCloud Limestone, an unusual carbonate rock for the region in that it is not highly re-crystallized or metamorphosed, thus preserving a diverse fossil fauna and flora marine record from 270 million years ago.

GOLD COUNTRY FORESTS, STATE & NATIONAL PARKS STATE PARKS

ALPINE COUNTY Grover Hot Springs State Park

From Highway 89 in Markleeville (a half-hour drive from South Lake Tahoe), turn west on Hot Springs Road and travel 3.5 miles to Grover Hot Springs State Park. You can park at the pool (then walk a footpath and the park road to the trailhead) or proceed past the park entrance station to the overﬂow parking area and the signed trailhead at the north end of Quaking Aspen Campground. http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=25165

AMADOR COUNTY Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park

The park is northeast of Stockton in the lower foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Take State Highway 88 East through Jackson to the town of Pine Grove. Take a left turn on Pine GroveVolcano Road and approximately 1.5 miles later you will arrive at the park. The SECOND turnoff is the main entrance to the day use area while the first turn off is to the campground. http://www. parks.ca.gov/?page_id=553

CALAVERES COUNTY Calaveras Big Trees State Park

The park is northeast of Stockton, four miles northeast of Arnold on Highway 4. Latitude/ Longitude: 38.2719 / -120.2867. Please note that many car navigation systems and handheld Global Positioning Devices (GPS) are unable to locate the park.  From SF Bay Area Take I-580 eastbound over Altamont Pass to I-205 toward Manteca, to US 99 North. Take the exit for State Hwy 4 Eastbound (Angel’s Camp) to the Park Entrance. Calaveras Big Trees is about 35 minutes driving from Angel’s Camp.   From Southern California Take either I-5 or US 99 North. From I-5 you can cross to the other side of Stockton on State Hwy 4 to 99/4 South a few miles, then follow Hwy 4 towards and beyond Farmington to the Park. Calaveras Big Trees is about 35 minutes driving time from Angel’s Camp.   From Sacramento Take U.S. 99 South to Stockton. Turn East on State Hwy 4. Driving time to the park from here is approx 1 hour and 30 minutes. Pass through Farmington and Copperopolis to the Park. An alternate route from Sacramento is to take State Hwy 16 to State Hwy 49 South through Jackson, San Andreas, and Angels Camp.   From Nevada Take US 395 to State Hwy 89 West to the terminus of State Hwy 4, up over Ebbett’s Pass to the Park. The road is closed in Winter. It’s very scenic, but so steep and tortuous that trailers and large motorhomes are ill-advised to use it. http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=551

EL DORADO COUNTY D. L. Bliss State Park

The park is located 17 miles south of Tahoe City on Highway 89, a couple of miles north of Emerald Bay. http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=505

Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park

The park is located on the west shore of Lake Tahoe, ten miles south of Tahoe City on Highway 89. http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=510

Emerald Bay State Park

The park is located 22 miles south of Tahoe City. Vikingsholm can be reached by parking in the Harvey West parking lot by Highway 89 at Emerald Bay. Take the trail, which is one mile in length and drops 500 feet in elevation to the house. Dogs are not allowed on any trails into Emerald Bay, nor on the beach. Fannette Island is located in the bay on the west shore of Lake Tahoe. http://www.parks. ca.gov/?page_id=506

Lake Valley State Recreation Area

The area is located 3 1/2 miles southeast of South Lake Tahoe on U.S. 50. http://www.parks. ca.gov/?page_id=515

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park

The park is located in Coloma on Highway 49 between Placerville and Auburn. http://www. parks.ca.gov/?page_id=484

Washoe Meadows State Park

Washoe Meadows State Park consists of meadows and woodlands in the valley at the base of the escarpment leading to Echo Summit. The park was named for the Native Americans who inhabited the area for thousands of years.  The park lands have not been developed. http://www.parks. ca.gov/?page_id=516

Auburn State Recreation Area

The park (which is 20 miles long on two forks of the American River) is situated south of Interstate 80, stretching from Auburn to Colfax. The main access is from Auburn, either on Highway 49 or the Auburn-Foresthill Road. In the heart of the gold country, the Auburn State Recreation Area (Auburn SRA) covers 40-miles of the North and Middle Forks of the American river. Once teeming with thousands of gold miners, the area is now a natural area offering a wide variety of recreation opportunities to over 900,000 visitors a year.   Major recreational uses include hiking, river access, boating, fishing, camping, mountain biking, gold panning, limited hunting, equestrian/ horseback riding trails and off-highway motorcycle riding. Whitewater recreation is also very popular on both forks of the river, with Class II, III and IV runs. Over 30 -private outfitters are licensed to offer whitewater trips in Auburn SRA.   Auburn SRA is made up of mainly federal lands. California State Parks administers the area under a managing partner with the US Bureau of Reclamation. http:// www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=502

Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

Located at the base of the Sierra foothills, the lake and recreation area offers opportunities for hiking, biking, running, camping, picnicking, horseback riding, water-skiing and boating. Fishing offers trout, catfish, big and small mouth bass or perch. Visitors can also see the Folsom Powerhouse (once called “the greatest operative electrical plant on the American continent”), which from 1885 to 1952 produced 11,000 volts of electricity for Sacramento residents. For cyclists, there is a 32-mile long bicycle path that connects Folsom Lake with many Sacramento County parks before reaching Old Sacramento. The park also includes Lake Natoma, downstream from Folsom Lake, which is popular for crew races, sailing, kayaking and other aquatic sports. http://www.parks. ca.gov/?page_id=500

MADERA COUNTY

Wassama Round House State Historic Park The park is five miles northwest of Oakhurst off Highway 49. http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_ id=586

MARIPOSA COUNTY

California State Mining and Mineral Museum Located at the Mariposa County Fairgrounds, 1.8 miles south of Mariposa on historic Highway 49. Turn left into fairgrounds. http://www.parks. ca.gov/?page_id=588

MONO COUNTY

Bodie State Historic Park The park is northeast of Yosemite, 13 miles east of Highway 395 on Bodie Road (Hwy 270), seven miles south of Bridgeport.   From U.S. 395 seven miles south of Bridgeport, take State Route 270. Go east 10 miles to the end of the pavement and continue 3 miles on a dirt road to Bodie. The last 3 miles can at times be rough. Reduced speeds are necessary. Call the park if there are

any questions about road conditions. http://www. parks.ca.gov/?page_id=509

Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve

Highway 395, 13 miles east of Yosemite National Park, near the town of Lee Vining, California.  http:// www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=514

PLACER COUNTY Burton Creek State Park

The park is located on the northeast side of Tahoe City.  http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=512

Kings Beach State Recreation Area

The park is located in downtown Kings Beach, northeast of Tahoe City. Approximately one mile from the Nevada State Line, the easiest route is to take I-80 to Truckee, then travel 13 miles southeast along Highway 267. http://www.parks. ca.gov/?page_id=511

Tahoe State Recreation Area

0.25 miles east of Tahoe City on Highway 28. http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=504

TUOLUMNE COUNTY Columbia State Historic Park

Columbia State Historic Park is three miles north of Sonora, off Highway 49. The town’s old Gold Rush-era business district has been preserved with shops, restaurants and two hotels. Visitors have the chance to time-travel to the 1850s, imagining life when gold miners rubbed shoulders with businessmen and the other residents in Columbia. Visitors can experience a bygone era watching proprietors in period clothing conduct business in the style of yesterday. There are opportunities to ride a 100 year-old stagecoach, pan for gold, and explore the real working businesses of Columbia. http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=552 Railtown 1897 State Historic Park Located in Jamestown, in the heart of California’s Gold Country about 100 miles southeast of Sacramento, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park is home to the Historic Jamestown Shops and Roundhouse—an intact and still-functioning steam locomotive repair and maintenance facility, portions of which date back to 1897. This one-ofa-kind attraction combines industrial heritage and railroad history with the lore of Hollywood’s film industry. The Railtown 1897 Interpretive Center, the authentic roundhouse and shops, and the Depot Store (a railroad specialty gift shop) are among the Park’s unique year-round offerings. Railtown 1897 State Historic Park is open daily (April-October, from 9:30 to 4:30 p.m.; November-March, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.), except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.  Visit www.Railtown1897.org for more information and current special events.

NATIONAL PARKS

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park covers nearly 1,200 square miles of mountainous terrain in the Sierra Nevada of California. Yosemite is open all year, though some areas of the park are inaccessible by car from approximately November through May due to snow. You can drive your car into and around Yosemite, though we encourage you to use shuttles in some areas. Reservations are not required to enter Yosemite, however we strongly recommend that you make reservations for camping or lodging if you plan to spend the night. http://www.nps.gov/yose/ planyourvisit/directions.htm

NATIONAL FORESTS

Plumas National Forest

Situated in the Sierra Nevada, just south of the Cascade Range, the Plumas is versatile in its land features, uncrowded, and enhanced by a pleasant climate. Outdoor enthusiasts are attracted year

round to its many streams and lakes, beautiful deep canyons, rich mountain valleys, meadows, and lofty peaks. Come and enjoy your national forests! http://www.fs.usda.gov/plumas/

Tahoe National Forest

Tahoe National Forest is a U.S. National Forest located in the state of California, northwest of Lake Tahoe. It includes the 8,587-foot peak of Sierra Buttes, near Sierra City, which has views of Mount Lassen and Mount Shasta.

ElDorado National Forest

Established in 1910, the Eldorado hosts over 2.1 million visitors each year. The Forest offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities to the forest visitor looking to explore, seek out new adventures, or revisit old memories. With over 80 developed campgrounds and picnic areas, hundreds of miles of roads and trails, multiple large lakes and reservoirs, innumerable miles of rivers and streams, great scenery, and an abundance of plant and wildlife, visitors can find a place or activity to suit them.

Stanislaus National Forest

During the gold rush, the area that would become the Stanislaus National Forest was a busy place, occupied by miners and other immigrants, homesteaders and ranchers, dam builders and loggers. Several railroads were constructed to haul logs out of the woods. Evidence of these activities still exist. During your visit to the National Forest you may encounter archeological and historic sites and artifacts. Like a jigsaw puzzle, each artifact and site, no matter how seemingly insignificant, helps tell the heritage story. Please help preserve these remnants of our past by not disturbing or harming them. The Stanislaus National Forest (Forest) encompasses 898,099 acres on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada; California’s snow capped mountain range that flanks the Great Central Valley. Located between Lake Tahoe and Yosemite, the Forest landscape is a continuum of natural and scenic beauty that defines the Sierra. Amid soaring crests, sparkling mountain lakes, towering forests, and canyons carved by cool rushing rivers, visitors discover connections with nature and the spirit of the Sierra Nevada. A mere two hour drive from the Great Central Valley and three hours from the San Francisco Bay Area, makes the Forest a very popular destination place.

Inyo National Forest

Located in California’s beautiful Eastern Sierra, the Inyo National Forest offers clean air, crystal blue skies, mountain lakes and streams, challenging trails, high mountain peaks, and beautiful views. With over two million acres, the Inyo National Forest is home to many natural wonders, including Mt. Whitney, Mono Lake, Mammoth Lakes Basin, and the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, as well as nine Congressionally-designated Wildernesses, comprising over 800,000 acres of land. Recreational opportunities include camping, picnicking, hiking, backpacking, equestrian use, and off-highway vehicle use. Ski resorts offer alpine skiing and snowboarding; over 100 miles of trails groomed for multiple purpose winter use (snowmobile, skiing, and hiking), and approximately 45 miles of trails groomed for cross-country skiing.

Sierra National Forest

Sierra National Forest is a U.S. National Forest located on the western slope of central Sierra Nevada in the state of California. The forest is known for its mountain scenery and natural resources.

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