Travel: Wandering Through Gold Country

Story & Photos by Lifestyle Staff

Surrounded by Yosemite National Park and Stanislaus National Forest, and situated within the two highest passes (Sonora Pass and Tioga Pass) through the Sierra Nevadas, Tuolumne and Calaveras Counties are filled with thriving historic gold rush towns that are reminiscent of the bygone days of the Old West. Gold was first discovered here in 1848 and yielded $600 million in mined gold. With scenic trails and natural vistas, the area is an outdoor playground for adults and kids alike with activities including hiking, horseback riding, water skiing, rafting, camping, boating, snowmobiling, and more. For those wanting a more leisurely experience, there’s plenty to choose from. Stay at one of the many restored historic hotels or charming bed-and-breakfasts. Enjoy golf courses, wine tasting, arts, shopping, museums, restaurants, and historic parks. Local industries include tourism, recreation, lumber, mining, cattle, turkeys, agriculture, and research.

Enjoy a horse carriage ride through town while pondering the prospects of gold.

Jamestown

visittuolumne.com/jamestown

Gold prospecting is still practiced and taught in Jamestown. The National Hotel was built in 1859 and is still operating with period accommodations, even accepting gold and gold dust payments for rooms and meals. The historic downtown boasts antique shops, a horse-drawn carriage ride, a cigar lounge, and restaurants. The Railtown 1897 State Historic Park offers steam locomotive rides that have been featured in movie productions for “Unforgiven,” “High Noon,” “Back to the Future III,” and “Petticoat Junction.”

Find one-of-a-kind gems at the many antique shops.

Travelers’ Tip:

Stop at the Columbia State Historic Park on your way to Murphys, where the kids can enjoy gold panning. Bring your furry family member too!

Murphys

visitmurphys.com

Further north in Calaveras County, lies Murphys. It’s a hidden gem village in the heart of Gold Country, boasting over two dozen wine tasting rooms along its main street. It’s a lively town with delicious eateries and shops that offer champagne flights, pasta tasting, books, unique spices, olive oil tasting, and more. Stay in a beautiful bed-and-breakfast, trendy remodeled roadside motel or a vacation cottage, all within walking distance to many activities. Stroll the historic park, complete with a stream running along a playground, museum and bocce ball courts. It’s one of the most welcoming places to visit.

Take a peek into 1856 at Murphys Historic Hotel, one of California’s longest operating hotels.

Visit Darby Red Apple Ranch for the tastiest apple pies and doughnuts.

Get refreshed with some flavored champagne from Pop the Bubbly.

Spoil yourself with handcrafted deliciousness from JoMa’s Artisan Ice Cream.

Sonora

sonoraca.com/visit-sonora/

Mexican miners named the town after Sonora, Mexico when settling in the area during the early gold rush days. After the gold rush dwindled, it evolved into a vital commercial and transportation center. There are many preserved mid-1800s and turn of the century Victorian homes and buildings. Visit on the second Saturday of the month when merchants host a blend of different artists creating live music, performances, and art demonstrations. You’ll also find a collection of lovely shops and restaurants including a dried flower bouquetmaking bar and a nostalgic candy shop.

Barn painting with a matching 3D model, viewed during Art Night.

Built in 1859, St. James Episcopal is one of the oldest churches in California, also known as the “Red Church.”

Simply southern chicken sandwich from Emberz.

Pear and basil cocktail from Emberz.

Every month, art, music, and fun converge with 2nd Saturday Art Night.