Gold Country Recreation guide 2015 by Union Democrat

THEUNIONDEMOCRAT Sonora, California

Recreation Guide 2015

Sonora, California

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Whether biking, hiking, camping, fishing or swimming, the Mother Lode's vast forests and meadows offer outdoor lovers many treasures. Here, blue dicks grow in the Red Hills southwest of Jamestown.

Sonora, California

Recreation Guide 2015

Tab>eor ot er o e is ric wit isto, attractions Contents

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The Mother Lode, once the site of the famous California Gold Rush, is a place beyond time, a snapshot of rough and ready 19th century America set sideby-side with modern comforts and activities. Visitors to Tuolumne and Calaveras counties can hike through the untarnished wilderness, raft down the rapids or rappel into caves deep below the surface of the earth. Take a boat and fishing line out onto one of the pristine lakes, or set up camp in Yosemite National Park or Calaveras Big Trees State Park — two ofthe most celebrated destinations in the country. Those looking for a taste of the pioneerlife — and a placeto keep small children busy — can try their hand panning gold in Columbia State Historic Park, California' sbest-preserved Gold Rush town. If locomotion gets your engine going, take a ride on the steam-powered train at the Railtown 1897 State Historic Park in Jamestown. Adults can find their entertainment at nearby casinos or a bevy of local wineries with a range oflabels to tempt the palate. High-caliber authors like Mark Twain and Bret Harte once called the Mother Lode "home," and the local art and music scene continues to Qourish with a richarray oftheater offerings and live music. For more information on the activities and happenings in the Mother Lode, contact the

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Tuolumne and Calaveras coun-

Activities A rts.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Calaveras Big Trees State P ark .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 C amping. . . . . . . . . . . 6 C asinos.... . . . . . . . . . 8 C averns ... . . . . . . . . . 1 0 Columbia State Historic P ark .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 4 F arms... . . . . . . . . . . . 1 1 F ishing.. . . . . . . . . . . . 1 3 G hosts ... . . . . . . . . . . 1 6 G old Panning. . . . . . . 1 4 G olf... . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 8 H iking .. . . . . . . . . . . . 2 0 H istory.. . . . . . . . . . . . 2 4 Horseback Riding.... 25 H unting. . . . . . . . . . . . 2 5 M useums... . . . . . . . . 2 4 M usic.. . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Off-highway Vehicles. 25 R afting ... . . . . . . . . . . 2 6 Railtown 1897 State

H istoric Park.. . . . . . . 2 4 R ock Climbing. . . . . . 26 Snow Activities.. . . . . 26 'Iheater. . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 W ineries... . . . . . . . . . 2 8 Yosemite National Park 27

Calendar of Events... 29

Communities Angels Camp .. A rnold. . . . . . . C olumbia.. . . .

Copp eropolis. G roveland. . . .

J amestown... . M urphys... . . . P inecrest ... . . San Andreas .. Sonora . . .

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T uolumne .. . . T wain Harte. . .

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ties' visitors bureaus. The helpful staff can guide you to the best that the region has to offer. The Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau (www.yosemitegoldcountry.corn) has two locations in Sonora — the main office at 542 W. Stockton Road and the Vacation Station information center at 13785 Highway 49 in Chinese Camp. To reach the main office, call 800-446-1333 or 533-4420. Visitors can call the Vacation Station visitor information center at 984-4636. The Calaveras County Visitors

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Yosemite National Park is one of the Mother Lode's best known attractions.

Bureau (www.gocalaveras.corn) can be reached at 736-0049 or 800-225-3764. Staff are availableto assisttravelers at1192 S. Main St. in Angels Camp. Throughout this guide, all area codes are 209, unless otherwise noted.

Full- Time Realtor Fu11-Service Website Log on to... www.BetsyHurst.corn to view all Tuolumne County Properties for sale in the privacy of your own home.

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Fresh Homebaked Breads Pastries ' Turnovers ' Dumplings ' Pies Mon.-Fri. 6:30am — 6:00pm Saturday 8:00am — 5:00pm

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Recreation Guide 2015

Sonora, California

Mother Lode full of music, arturorh, live theater Theater, music and art are

among the rich cultural attractionsof the Sierra Nevadafoothills. From galleries showcasing emerging artist stoperformances bytop professionals, there aremany entertainment possibilities in Tuolumne and Calaveras counties. File photo /Union Democrat

Theater

St. James Episcopal Church, Sonora's "Red Church is an historic landmark on the city's main street.

Tuolumne County Sierra Repertory Theatre — 13891 Mono Way, East Sonora, and Fallon House Theater, 11175 Washington St., Columbia State Historic Park; year-round regional theaterfeaturing classicand contemporarycomedy, drama and musical productions since 1980; professional performers, including members of the Actors Equity

File photo /Union Democrat

Columbia Big Band Director Rod Harris gets the audience to participate during a concert at the Columbia Jazz Artist series. Mountain Theater, community theater since 1995; 293-7979, 293-3100. Murphys Creek Theatre — Year-round theater; pro-

Association, drawn from across the

duces annual "Theatre Under

country; Dennis Jones, producing director; Sara Jones,managing director; ScottViets,artisticdirector; 532-3120, www.sierrarep.org. Stage 3 Theatre Company208 S. Green St., Sonora; yearround productions, new and classic works; celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2013; 536-1778, www. stage3.org.

the Stars" outdoor shows; other productions at Black Bart Playhouse, 580 S. Algiers St., Murphys; Graham Scott Green, artistic director; 728-8422,www. murphyscreektheatre.org. Mother Lode Storytelling Guild — Storytelling performances, workshops and trainings on the third Saturday of the month between September and April. Runs from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Angels Camp World Mercantile, 1267 S. Main St., Angels Camp.

Calaveras County Blue Mountain Players347 Main St., West Point; Blue

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Music Tuolumne County Black Oak Casino Resort — Live music, comedians; Willow Creek Lounge, 19400 Tuolumne Road North, Tuolumne, 928-9300, www. blackoakcasino.corn. Columbia College Community Chorus — Concerts each fall and spring; Darrell Hollinger, director,588-5087,5885101. Columbia College Jazz Series — Concerts with top jazz professionals, October through April; Rod Harris, director, 588-5211. Tickets available by calling 588-5126. Concerts in the ParkFree concerts weekly through summer in Sonora and Tuolumne, 928-1214 and Twain Harte, 586-4482. Mountain Sage — Live at the Sage, outdoor summer concertseriesin Groveland; 962-4686, www.mountainsagemusic.org.

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Pine Cone Performers — Singers and actors from the Groveland area, annual melodrama, — Continued on Page 6

Known as the "Queen of the Southern Mines," Sonora incorporated on May 1, 1851, making it the 11th oldest city in California. The history of Sonora and the area surrounding it began with the Me-Wuk tribe, whose members prospered before the incursion of gold-hungry 49-ers. Today's Washington Street — also known as Highway 49, which runs through the downtown — is believed to follow an old Me-Wuk trail. Miners from Sonora, Mexico arrived first and settled what they called the "Sonorian Camp." Men from the eastern United States, Canada, Europe, South America, China and the South Pacific followed. In the beginning, the Me-Wuks traded peacefully with the miners, but soon found themselves displaced as word of the riches beneath the ground spread. Writings by those who visited Sonora in the early 1850s describe a rough place where men carried weapons openly. With people came industry, and Sonora became the commercial center of the southern Mother Lode. By 1854, the town had a flour mill and improved roads. Miners were able to get locally produced goods rather than more expensive items brought from San Francisco. As gold fever petered out, the atmosphere in Sonora also quieted. The town continued as the area's commercial and governmental hub and has stayed that way through the present day, acting as both the seat of city and county government. Despite paved roads and electric streetlights, the downtown still resembles its Gold Rush roots. Buildings like St. James Episcopal Church, better known as the Red Church, remain like visualguideposts to the past. While the businesses that now occupy downtown's storefronts cater to a 21st century crowd, some traditions live on.

Sonora, California

Recreation Guide 2016 ~

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AGLTIOil ' PLANNE R ~~ .

. Visitors to TuolumneCounty will And: 0 Rich andcolorful GoldRushhistory

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0 RailtownandColumbiaState Historic Parks 4 Eclectic shopping

0YosemiteNational Park 0Excitingartsandentertainment • • -e g 0 Year-roundrecreatioopp n ortunities 0Casual tofine diningvenues

0Casino action 0Wineries 0 Manylodgingoptions 4SceniV cistas

Stop by one orboth of our Visitor Information Centersandget all the

informationyouneedincluding the latest Tuolumne County Vacation Planner andaVacationland ValuesDiscount Card.

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TUOLUMNE COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU YosemiteGoldCountry.corn I($00) 446-1333

Tuolumne County Visitor Centers (2 locations): 13785 Highway 49, Chinese Camp 542 Stockton Street, Sonora I (209) 288-2277

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Recreation Guide 2015 Alpine County

— Continued from Page 4 winter and spring concerts,

962-4815. Sonora Bach Festival — Annual festival of live classical performances each October; youth, professional and local performers at several Sonoraarea locations, 536-6330, www. sonorabach.org. St. James Concert Series — Five classical and semiclassical concerts November through May; local musicians and professional guest artists; call Carol Biederman at 5369402, www.sjconcertseries.org. Symphony of theSierra — Columbia College program, 30-member community orchestra;falland spring concerts; Mic Harper, conductor, 5330941, e-mail:harperm@yosemite.edu.

Calaveras County

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Visual Arts Tuolumne County

Camping Opportunities aboundfiom thejbothi lfs to theHigh Sienu For those seeking an outdoor getaway, Tuolumne and Calaveras counties offera variety of camping options — from tucked away spots hidden among the treesto large villages ofRV and tent campsites.

Tuolumne County Arts Alliance — 251 Barretta St., Sonora; art exhibitions, special events, Arts Reach to Schools program and KASA (Kids Art Studies Academy) for "kids" ages 8 to 80; 532-2787, www. tuolumnecountyarts.org. Mother Lode Art Association — Annual exhibit each October, monthly meetings

Camping opportunities can be found withinworld-renowned Yosemite National Park, neighboring Stanislaus National Forest and other public lands. During the summer, especially on holiday weekends, campsites are quickly snatched up, so officials recommend reserving sites well in advance. Here is a summary of where to

with demonstrations, www.

camp in the area:

motherlodeartassociation.org.

Calaveras Community Band — Year-round public concerts; Mic Harper, conductor, 533-0941, www.calaverascommunityband.org. Music in the Park — Free weekly concerts during summer throughout Calaveras County; 754-1774, www.calaverasarts.org. Ironstone Concert Series — World-renowned acts perform outdoors throughout summer in Murphys, 728-1251,

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Bear Valley Music Festival — Two weeks in late July and early August; classical, pop, jazz and more at 7,000foot elevation, Bear Valley, near the eastern border of Calaveras County; 753-2574, 800-458-1618, wwwbearvalleymusicfestival.org.

Calaveras County Arts of Bear ValleySummer and fall exhibitions in Calaveras and Alpine counties, classes, seminars, children' s programs,www.artsofbearvalley.org. Calaveras Arts Council22 N. Main St., San Andreas, Gallery Calaveras, art exhibits, special events, annual studio tour, 754-1774, www.calaverasarts.org

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Sonora, California

Calaveras Big Trees State Park — Sprawling 6,500 acres at an elevation of 4,000 to 5,000 feet, the park can be found off Highway 4 just east of Arnold. Big Trees has 129 individual campsites - 74 at the North Grove and 55 at Oak Hollow. Additionally, there are two group campgrounds, called Upper and Lower (each holds about 50 people). The park offers five "environmental" walk-in sites where campers must pack in their own

Permit process Those wanting more solitude can backpack into the breathtaking wilderness areas ofYosemite National Park and Stanislaus National Forest. Free wilderness permits are required year-round for any overnight stay in the Yosemite Wilderness. Permits are issued to a limited number of people for each trailhead. Sixty percent of the daily quota for each trailhead can be reserved ahead of time for $5, plus a $5 per person fee. The remaining 40 percent are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis no earlier than 11 a.m. the day before your hike begins. Yosemite's wilderness permit stations include the Yosemite Valley Wilderness Center, Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center, Big Oak Flat Information Station, Wawona Visitor Center at Hill's Studio, Hetch Hetchy

operates three campgrounds around the reservoir: Fleming Meadows (176 tent sites, 90 RV hookups), Blue Oaks (161 tent sites, 34 partial RV hookups) and Moccasin Point (78 tent sites, 18 water.Reservations are recomRV hookups). Moccasin Point is mended from mid-May to midoff Highway 120 between ChiSeptember. Campgrounds are nese Camp and Moccasin, while typicallyclosed from December Blue Oaks and Fleming Meadthrough February. Call 800-444ows can be found on opposite 7275 or visit www.parks.ca.gov. sides of Don Pedro Dam along Campsite fees are $35 per night Bonds Flat Road. Tent sites cost for eight people, one vehicle and $18 to $29 depending on the seaa trail er.The Upper group campson, and RV hook-ups range from ground costs $135 per night and $28 to $41. A good resource for the Lower group campground those visiting the lake is the Don costs $200 per night. A highlights Pedro Visitor Center, a round of thepark are two groves ofgibuilding filled with windows that ant sequoia trees. overlooksthe dam and mounCamanche Reservoirtainslocated at 10201 Bonds Situatedbetween Amador and Flat Road, La Grange. Day use Calaveras counties, along the picnic areas are available at the Mokelumne River, the East Bay Fleming Meadows and MoccaMunicipal Utilities District ressinPoint sitesfor a $10 day use ervoir is popular for fishing and fee per vehicle. Both Fleming boating. Camping is available on Meadows and Blue Oaks have the North and South shores. Res- picnicareas forgroups of50 or ervations: 866-763-5121, www. more. Fleming Meadows, which camancherecreation.corn features a two-acre swimming Don Pedro Reservoir — The lagoon and both a grassy field Don Pedro Recreation Agency and a sandy beach. Camping

Entrance Station and Badger Pass Ranger Station (only open in the winter). To make a reservation, call 3720740 or visit http: //www.nps.gov/ yose/planyourvisit/wildpermits.htm for more information. Free wilderness permits are also required for camping in the Stanislaus National Forest's three wilderness areas — the Emigrant, Carson-Iceberg and Mokelumnebetween April 1 and Nov. 30. Pick up a permit at any nearby ranger station. If you plan to arrive after business hours, call ahead to have a permit left in after-hours pick-up boxes. Visit the forest's website, www.fs.usda.gov/stanislaus, for information about protecting the wilderness, backcountry safety tips, trail mileage and maps to help plan your backpacking adventure.

Who to Call Calaveras Big Trees State Patk, 795-2334 Don Pedro Reservoir, 852-2396 New Melones Reservoir, 536-9094 Stanislaus National Forest, 532-3671 Calaveras Ranger District, 795-1381 Groveland Ranger District, 962-825 Mi-Wok Ranger District, 5863234 Summit Ranger District, 965-3434 Yosemite National Park, 3720200

is allowed along most of Don Pedro's160 miles ofshoreline. Restrooms arelocated in popular camping areas and "floating restrooms" can even be found on the reservoir. For more information, visit www.donpedrolake.corn. — Continued on next page

Sonora, California

Recreation Guide 2015

— (Note: Call the Forest Service ranger station before heading out New Melones Reservoirto forest areas). The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation The nearly 900,000-acre forest, operates campgrounds at Tuttle- which occupies vast high-country town (160sites,oneboat ramp) areas, has plenty of tent room off Highway 49 north of Sonora with 47 campgrounds and 1,514 and at Glory Hole (144 sites, campsites scattered through its twoboat ramps and marina) off four ranger districts. Campsites Highway 49 just south of Angels are accessed via Highway 108 Camp in Calaveras County. Fees (forMi Wok and Summit ranger districts), Highway 120 (for are $22fora regular campsite and $18 for a walk-in campsite Groveland Ranger District) and per night. To reserve a campsite, Highway 4 (for Calaveras Ranger call 877-444-6777 or visit www. District) .The forest'slarger,m ost recreation.gov. popular campgrounds, including New Hogan ReservoirPinecrest on the Summit Ranger District and Lake Alpine on the Popular for boating and fishing, the reservoir' scamping areas Calaveras Ranger District,are are located off New Hogan Dam operated by concessionaires. Road, south of Valley Springs in They are typically open May to Calaveras County, oK Highway October, weather permitting. 26. It's operated by the U.S. Army Most of the campgrounds are first-come, first-served except for Corps of Engineers. Info: 7721343 or for reservations, 877-444- Pinecrest, Pioneer Group, Big 6777 or visit www.recreation.gov. Meadow Group, Dimond 0, Pines Developed campgrounds (Acorn Group andSpicerGroup — allof which are reservation only. East and Acorn West) have 177 campsites, hot showers and flush Call 877-444-6777 or visit toilets. Oak Knoll is primitive, www.recreation.gov to make a and Coyote Point is a group reservation. campground. There are also 300 Individual campsites fees boat-in campsites at Deer Flat, rangefrom $5 to $27 pernight. available between May and The forest also offers something called "dispersed camping," in September. Pin dee Reservoir — The which visitors may camp in an Pardee Recreation Area is area with no facilities or fees. located on the northwest end of You' ll get a more peaceful and the East Bay Municipal Utiliadventure-filled experience, tiesDistrictreservoir,offStoney although there are rules. You' ll Creek Road in Amador County need to bring your own water or (accessed via winding roads lead- treat the water you collect, camp ing from Highway 88 in Jackson, at least100 feetfrom water or Highway 12 in Valley Springs. sources, bury human waste in a Follow signs). Features: 141 sites 6-inch hole and pack out trash. You' ll also need to obtain a campavailablethat can be reserved by calling 772-1472. Showers fire permit if you plan to have a available. campfire, camp stove or barbecue RV camping — Recreational in dispersedareas (permits can vehicle camping is available at be obtained at any ranger station the Mother Lode Fairgrounds in or at the Supervisor's Office in Sonora at 532-7428 and at Frog- Sonora). Forest officials ask that town, the Calaveras County Fair- campers check local fire restricgrounds, in Angels Camp at 736- tions and do not bring firewood 2561. Tuolumne and Calaveras from outside the area (due to counties have several private non-native damaging insects campgrounds and RV parks. that can contaminate the forest). They canbe found along major Campers may stay a maximum highways 4, 49, 108 and 120. of 14 nights in a stretch and no For more information on private more than 21 nights in a calencampgrounds, call the Tuolumne dar year. County Visitors Bureau at 533Yosemite National Park4420, 800-446-1333 or visit www. The often-crowded 1,169-squaretcvb.corn. The Calaveras Visitors mile park features 13 campBureau can be reached at 736grounds. Some campgrounds 0049, 800-225-3764 or visit www. operateon a first-come, firstgocalaveras.corn. servedbasis,while others require Stanislaus National Forest reservations. The height of the

season is from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. A majority of campsites range from $10 to $20 per night per site with the exception of Camp 4, which charges $5 per person per night. Six campgrounds are irst-come, first-served -Bridf alveil Creek, Tamarack Flat, White Wolf, Yosemite Creek, Camp 4 andPorcupine Flat. Five campgrounds - North Pines, Lower Pines, Upper Pines, Wawona and Hodgdon

— Continued from Page 6

Meadow - requirereservations.

Wawona and Hodgdon become first-come, first-served from Oc-

toberthrough April,and Upper Pines becomes first-come, first-

served from December to March. Tuolumne Meadows is half first come,first served and halfreservations. Pets are allowed at 10 of the 13 campgrounds. There are no showers or RV hookups at any of the campgrounds. There is drinking water at most

with the exception of Yosemite Creek, Tamarack Flat and Porcupine Flat. A lottery system is used to book Yosemite's High Sierra camps, including Merced Lake, Vogelsang, Glen Aulin, May Lake and Sunrise. The Tuolumne Meadows Lodge, also a High Sierra Camp, can be reserved.

Arnold Gateway toCalaverasCounty's highcountty The town ofArnold may be small, but it plays an outsized role in welcoming visitors to some of Calaveras County's biggest attractions. Arnold, population 3,843 as of the 2010 census, is the gateway to Calaveras Big Trees State Park, the Stanislaus National Forest's Calaveras Ranger District and the Bear Valley area of western Alpine County. Its central location makes Arnold a quaint magnet for shopping, dining and golfing. The community derives its name from Bob and Bernice Arnold, who arrived in 1927 and built the Ebbetts Pass Inn and a restaurant. Since its inception, the town has acted as a home base for the adventurous as they explore Calaveras County's prime locations. Nearby White Pines offers kayaking and fishing. It's also the site of the annual Logging Jamboree, put on by the Friends of the SierraNevada Logging Museum on the Saturday of Labor Day Weekend.

The Big Trees Park, with its breaktaking groves of giant sequoias, is situated 4 miles east of the town. Visitors can access that park year-round for hiking or picnicking in the summer and crosscountry ski or snowshoe trails in the winter. Those looking to expand their knowledge of California's outdoors may also take advantage of educational and interpretive programs. Check out the Arnold Rim Trail, a non-motorized trail system designed for hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians. A map of the first 17.5 miles of the trail is available at www.arnoldrimtrail. org as well as locations throughout Calaveras County and Arnold itself. The U.S. Federal Highway Administration named a portion of Highway 4 that begins in Arnold and stretchesup over Ebbetts Pass a National Scenic Byway. The 61 miles of narrow pavement runs through glacially-carved valleys and canyons in addition to ancient volcanic peaks and rugged granite snow-capped ridges.

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Recreation Guide 2015

Casinos

Sonora, California

Tuolulttme

the Mother Lode are owned and operatedby theTuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians, the Chicken Ranch Rancheria Band of Me-Wuk Indians and the Jackson Rancheria Band of Miwuk Indians. The tribes inhabited the region long before the California Gold Rush brought hordes of settlers here in search of instant wealth. Now, several bands ofthetribe

ing, but have become substantial contributors to their communities with the profits they make &om Las Vegas-style gambling. The three area casinos are: • Black Oak Casino Resort19400 Tuolumne Road North, seven miles east of Sonora in the town of Tuolumne, is a three-story entertainment center featuring many popular gaming options. The casino offers live entertainment, a bowling center, children' s arcade and dining options ranging from burgers and fries to upscale cuisine. Black Oak has the largest smoke-free gaming area in Califor-

includea six-story,1,000-space available. The Mill Sports Bar has a large-scale video wall and pool parking garage with free valet, skywalk gaming expansion, 1,300 table. Bothrestaurants are open slots, 25 tablegames,poker,Jump- t h e same hours as the bowling ing Coyote Espresso Bar and adall e y. ditional slot tournament area. The Underground Arcade offers A new luxury dozens of the hotelfeatures latest arcade WhO 'tO CB II 148 rooms, and redempincluding 16 tion games. suites, an outBlack Oak Casino Resort, 928 Children 12 and door pool, work9300, 877-747-8777 younger must be out room and Chicken Ranch Casino, 984accompanied by 6,000-square3000, 800-75-BINGO (24646) an adult. Arcade foot meeting Jackson Rancheria Casino hours vary defacility. Resort, 800-822-WINN (9466) pending on the Bottom level: season. Black Oak Middle level: Lanes is a Brunswick 24-1ane Willow Creek Lounge has live bowling center with lockersand a m u sic every Friday and Saturday full-s ervice proshop.Hours vary and some Wednesdays, while codepending on the season. Cosmic m e d ians are showcased on Thursbowling is featured every Friday da y evenings at 8 p.m. Most shows and Saturday night. are &ee, butthereisa chargefor Kingpins Family Eatery offers so m e bigger-name performers. family-&iendly dining. Counter The 2 5 0-seat lounge has a full-

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Families also enjoy a playground, baseball fields, swimming pool, horseshoe pits, libraryand a largeVeterans Memorial Hall, where community events are held. The town's fortunes rose and fell with the lumber industry, with rough patches when the mill closed in 1962 and then was destroyed in a fire. Black Oak Casino and Resort, built by the Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians in 2001,now plays a centralrole in the local economy. The tribe constitutes the area'searliestresidents,and the Tuolumne Rancheria was established in 1910. The tribe owns the historic 350-acre West Side Lumber Co. property adjacent to the town, which already holds a medical

Some still strike it rich The Gold Rush may be over, but there is still money to be found in the hills of the Mother Lode. Area casinos offer live entertainment, ine dining,arcades and a huge f selection of slots and table games. American Indian casinos in

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Hours: Monday - Wed. 10:30-5pm Thurs. Fri., 10:30-9:30pm saturday 10 - 9:30pm Sunday 10-5pm

s e r v ice bar and dance fioor.

The casino is open 24 hours a day andoffers 1,300 slots,video reelsand progressives from one cent to $100. Black Oak Cafe has a family&iendly atmosphere near gaming action with themed buffet specials or featuredentrees every day of the week. Call 928-9352 for more information. The Gift Basket sells a variety of Native American gift items in additiontothecasino'sbranded merchandise. Upper level: Seven Sisters is Black Oak's signature fine-dining restaurant that includes torch-lit patio dining when the weather allows. The restaurant is open &om 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday and 5 to 10 p.m.Friday and Saturday. On Sundays, the restaurant offers a brunch from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and dinnerfrom 4 to 9 p.m .For reservations, call928-9363. Bus routes and charters to the casinoare availablefrom Modesto, Stockton, Pleasanton, Lodi, Manteca, Turlock and Oakdale. The casino's Bear Creek Station sells fuel and more. For more information, call 928-9300 or 877-747-8777 or visit www.blackoakcasino.corn. • Chicken Ranch Casino16929 Chicken Ranch Road,off Highway 108 near Jamestown, offersbingo,slotmachines and food. — Continued on Page 10

Gold, lumberand jackpots helped town keepthriving The township of Tuolumne is a little off the beaten path, with a small business district, a quiet residential area and wide, tree-linedstreets.

The Gold Rush put it on the map, but the community evolved into a lumber town when WestSide Lumber Co. moved in and built the residential and downtown business area for its employees in the early1900s.Itnow boastsa large park that hosts a farmers market where bands play in the summer months.

center and will soon be home to

agolfcourse,commercial development and additional housing. The town celebrates each of thesemajor culturalforcesin annual festivals. The Me-Wuk host the Acorn Festival at the Rancheria each September, which is open to the public. The Tuolumne Lumber Jubilee began after the mill reopened aRer the Great Depression, and is still held every June. It includes a queen coronation, parade,carnival rides and a variety of lumberjack events.

Sonora, California

Recreation Guide 2015

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Recreation Guide 2015

Sonora, California

Caverns Limestone and marble caves oper underground adventure Adventurers who have dreamed of exploring cool, underground caverns need to look no farther than Calaveras County. Beneath the gently rolling foothills stretch passageways and chambers filled with geological delights. Vallecito-based Cave and Mine Adventures operates Moaning Cavern and California Cavern in Calaveras County. They also operate Black Chasm Cavern National Natural Landmark in neighboring Amador County. More information can befound atwww.caveandmineadventures.corn. Go to any of their locations on your birthday, with proof that it' s yourspecialday,and receive a free cave tour. At Moaning Cavern, you can choose between the tour, a rappel, a zip-line adventure or climbing tower climb. Additionally, there's Mercer

Caverns about a mile &om Murphys' Main Street.

California Cavern State Historic Landmark • Address: 9565 Cave City Road, nine miles east of San Andreas, off Mountain Ranch Road. • Background: California Cavern's passageways wind past delicate rock formations and open into chambers where the likes of M ark Twain and John Muir once walked. A state historic landmark near Mountain Ranch, California Cavern opened to the public in 1850 and is the oldest publicly toured cave system in the state. In the1850s,rooms ofthe cave were used regularly for church services, community meetings and political gatherings. Signatures &om the Gold Rush

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days — some &om as early as 1849 — can still be seen on the cavern's walls and ceilings in the Registry Room, which is open to the public on special occasions. • Tours: Three options — a walking tour known as the Trail of Lights during the dry season and the Trail of Lakes during the wet season; the Mammoth Cave Expedition, which goes off-the-beatenpath into tiny passageways using only cave helmets to light the way; and the Middle Earth Expedition, which explores undeveloped areas of the cave on a challenging fourhour adventure. Call for costs and hours, which vary seasonally. • Contact: 736-2708, 866-7622837, www.caverntours.corn.

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• Address: 1665 Sheep Ranch Road, Murphys. • Background: Mercer Caverns is the longest continually operating commercial cave in California. The owners have guest books signed by paying

pletely lost until 1885. The limestone cave is 16 stories deep and visitors now climb every one of the 440 steps down and back up again through stalagmites and stalac tites. • Tours: Mercer Caverns offers 45-minute guided walking tours into the Sierra Nevada depths. Call for costs and hours, which vary seasonally. • Contact: 728-2101, www.mercercaverns.corn

Courtesy photo

Moaning Cavern Adventure Park in Vallecito offers a cavern tour, rappelling, a zip line and more. customers dating back to 1885. The cave was originally used by a prehistoric American Indian tribe called the Yokuts as a mortuary cave. They would bring bodies to the opening and let them roll down inside. Because such a site was considered sacred, no one was allowedtoenter. The Yokuts were hunters and, when the game was gone, they moved camp. Over the years, the entrance slowly filled with dirt, leaves and rocks and was com-

— Continued from Page 8

The casino, in operation since 1985, has 345 slot machines and 400 bingo seats. Bingo is held every day ofthe week except Friday and Saturday. Chicken Ranch has paper-bill slot machines, progressive slots, video game machines and video poker. Live entertainment takes place 1Yiday and Saturday. The casino offers a rewards program, The Players Club. There is also a full-service restaurant, The Ranch House. The casino is open 24 hours a day Thursday throughSaturday,and &om 9 a.m. to 1a.m .therest of the week.

• Address: 5350 Moaning Cave Road, Vallecito. • Background: Moaning Cavern is a spectacular cave with massive stalactites and stalagmites. Visitorsexplorethe cavevia a historic spiralstaircaseorrappel 165-feet down in a high-adrenaline descent. The chamber's marble and limestone walls and beautiful formations have thrilled many visitors. The main chamber is so large it can hold the entire StatueofLiberty and isthelargest publicly accessed cave chamber in California. Above ground, the adventure park has 1,500-foot-long twin zip-lines and a 32-foot-high climbing tower. There's also gemstone mining and gold panning that' s popular with children. • Tours: Three options — a 45-minute guided walking tour; a 165-foot rope rappel;and a challenging three-hour adventure trip, which combines rappelling and crawling through passageways. Call for costs and hours, which vary seasonally. Open daily, yearI'ound.

• Contact: 736-2708, 866-7622837, www.moaningcavern.corn.

Call the casino at 984-3000 or 800-75-BINGO (24646) for more information, or visit www.chickenranchcasino.corn. • Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort — 12222 New York Ranch Road, Jackson, Amador County, has more than 40 gaming tables, poker room, high-limit room and more than 1,500 slot and video poker machines that range from one cent to $100. Open 24 hours daily. The casino also features a first-class hotel, full-service RV park, concert venue, general store, gas station and more. As for food and drink, the casino has five restaurants, and the hotelfeatures a coffee bar. Call 800-822-WINN (9466) or visit wwwjacksoncasino.corn for more information.

Sonora, California

Recreation Guide 2015

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Farms &esh pnxfuce, plants abound

File photo/Union Democrat

Angels Camp's main street is lined with historic buildings.

Angels Camp 'City ofAngels'known for mines,writers, hogs Angels Camp, also known as the other "City of Angels," is the only incorporated city in Calaveras County. There's debate over which brother the town was named for, Henry or George Angel. Most favor Henry, a shopkeeper &om Rhode Island who moved to town in 1848. Early miners struck gold and, within a year, more than 4,000 miners were working the surface gold of Angels Camp. The easy pickings played out quickly, but hard rock mining kept the gold mining flourishing in town. The town is honeycombed with subterranean tunnels &om many successful mines.

In 1865, Mark Twain wrote hisfirstsuccessfulshortstory, "The CelebratedJumping Frog of Calaveras County," and Angels Camp became forever linked with frogs. The Calaveras County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee is held at Frogtown, the county's fairgrounds, each May. Angels Camp's main industry is tourism, which boasts such attractions as historic buildings with shopsand eateries,golfand boating on New Melones Reservoir. It' s alsonear caves that are open to

visitors.

The Mother Lode hosts many farms where you can buy apples, cut down a Christmas tree or visit a pumpkin patch. During the warmer months, there are farmers markets in Sonora (parking lot at Theall and Stewart streets) and Groveland (Mountain Sage on Main Street) on Saturday mornings (the Groveland market is also held on Friday evenings). The town of Tuolumne has one on Wednesday evenings (Memorial Park at Fir and Pine streets). Angels Camp (Utica Park in downtown) hosts them on Friday nights. A good resource to learn more

DragonSy Peony FarmSpecializesin potted and bareroot peonies, flowers, wreaths and other items, with bloom season between mid-May and mid-June; 5590 Charles Ave., Wilseyville, 293-1242, www.dragonflypeonyfarm.corn. Anderson Tree Farm —Cut your own Christmas tree (primarily Douglas Fir), pet &iendly goats, enjoy a picnic and let children hop on a &ee hay ride. Address: 1743 Mustang Road, Murphys. Opens Nov. 27. House: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., all week except Wednesdays. 728-1531, www. andersonchristmastreefarm.net.

File photo /Union Democrat

Apples grown on Indigeny property are destined to become hard cider or apple brandy. tillery, tasting room, tours and gift shop in addition to pumpkins and corn maze in fall. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week, 14679 Summers Lane, Sonora, 533-9463, wwwindigenyreserve.corn. Twain Harte Tree FarmChoose-and-cutChristmas tree

farm andoutdoorwedding and event facility. Tree sales begin day after Thanksgiving. Also featuresgiftshop.Freehotcider,coffee, cookies and boughs with tree purchase. Located at 21730 Moore Drive, Twain Harte, 586-7666, www.twainhartetreefarm.corn.

about farms and ranches in

Tuolumne County is the Farms of Tuolumne County organization (www.farmsoftuolumnecounty. org). Calaveras County has a similar organization, Calaveras Grown. The website is www.calaverasgrown.org. Members include ranches raising everything from goats and cattle topetllamas, and farms growing everything &om apples

TuolumneCounty

Bramble Hill Farm —Cutyour-own Christmas tree farm. Also sells pomegranates and persimmons. Free mistletoe, candy canes and children's coloring books with tree purchase. Opens the day aAer Thanksgiving, 12161 Cattle Drive Trail, Columbia, and flowers, to Christmas trees, follow signs off Italian Bar Road, olive oil and honey. 532-5629. Wineries and wine tasting Cover's Apple Rancharealsoa big partofthe area's Homemadepies and pastries, economy (see wineries section), applecider,fresh produce,gift and one new farm makes hard shop, playground, picnic area, farm animals, kids' train rides, cider and apple brandy. hay mazeand pumpkin patch Here are a few of the different in fall; 19211 Cherokee Road, farms tovisit: Tuolumne, 928-4689, www.coversappleranch.corn. Dambaeher Family Farms — Sell vegetables in winter and summer. Trees, plant starts and The Red Apple —Freshseeds for sale. Open year-round pressed cider, apple donuts, home- by appointmentMonday through made &uitpies,fresh preserves, Friday, 9 a.m .tonoon.Callahead: produce, honey and more. Located 588-3879. along E. Highway 4, between Hurst Ranch —Working Murphys and Arnold, 728-8906, ranch along Woods Creek, one www.theredapplebunch.corn. mile west of Jamestown. ProDodasa Ranch —New for duces natural-fed cattle, olive oil 2015 a zip-line, rock climbing wall and wine, among other products. and trapshooting,schoolfield Special events, and weddings. trips,fresh pies,catch and release Located at 17415 Highway 108, fishing, weddings, corporate Jamestown, 984-3016, www. events, sustainable farming, kids hurstchuckwagon.corn. Indigeny Reserve —Organic camp, petting corral, giant slide; 5059 Carol Lane, Burson, 772apple ranch making hard cider 2700,wwwdodasa.corn. and apple brandy. Features dis-

Calaveras County

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The First Tee programs run for nine weeks and beg m May 2015. For more Mormation, please visit www.greenhorncreek.corn.

GolF Academy Greenhorn Creek also offers instruction through our Golf Academy all year long. For as little as $15 a lesson, youths can be introduced to the game of golf. Greenhorn Creek's golf programs include group and private instruction. $15 per class $25 for one half-hour private lesson $55 per month for all group classes $75 per month includes classes and one private lesson $125 per month includes classes and two private lessons plus Junior Green Fees Sundays — Thursdays after 3 PM

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Recreation Guide 2015

Sonora, California

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Sonora, California

Recreation Guide 2015

Fis ing Lakes andrivers also oper boating and swimming opportunities The Mother Lode's lakes, reservoirs and rivers offer many venues to enjoy the regionfrom fiy-fishing a high-country river to kayaking in a peaceful cove to zooming down a houseboat's slide. Visitors can escape the foothills' heat by heading to the water at any of the region's three main foothills reservoirs — New Melones, Don Pedro and Tulloch — for boating and fishing. New Melones — New Melones Reservoir has three boat ramps — twoat Glory Hole, south of Angels Camp off Highway 49, and another at Tuttletown, north of Sonora off Highway 49. Access to the boat ramps depends on water levels at thereservoir,so call536-9094 for current information. Don Pedro — All three recreation areas at Don Pedro Reservoir — Fleming Meadows, Blue Oaks and Moccasin Point — have boat ramps along with fishing access and fish cleaning stations. Fleming Meadows and Moccasin Point also have marinas where visitors can rent boats and fishing equipment. The day-use fee is $8 watercraft, $10 vehicle. Call 852-2396, ext. 3, for more information. Tulloch — Tulloch Reservoir, just below New Melones Reservoir on the Stanislaus River, offersgreat fishing in early spring and late fall. During the summer, it is quite popular with personalwatercraft and speedboat enthusiasts. On the South Shore is Lake Tulloch Campground and Marina, which offers a 21-slip marina, boat rentals, tent and RV camping and cabins. Call 881-0107, 800-894-2267 or visit www.laketullochcampground. corn for more information. On the North Shore is Lake Tulloch Resort, 7260 O'Byrnes Ferry Road in Copperopolis; 785-8200. To escape the heat of the foothills, many head for cooler elevations.

Stanislaus National Forest The Stanislaus National Forest has numerous lakes and reservoirsin addition to more than 800 miles of rivers and streams. Those waterways are home to many rainbow, brown and brook trout. The trout fishing season

begins in late April and runs through mid-November. Popular fishing rivers include various forks of the Stanislaus and Tuolumne in addition to major tributaries, such as the Clavey River.

Emigrant Wilderness In the Emigrant Wilderness, hundreds of streams and lakes, such asReliefReservoir, are also popular fishing destina-

File photo/Union Democrat

Despite low water levels, the fish continue to bite at New Melones Reservoir, which serves as the county line between Tuolumne and Calaveras counties.

tion s.

On the Calaveras Ranger District, fish along 225 miles of streams or in one of 19 lakes. A valid California fishing license is required to fish. Licenses are sold at sporting good stores and other retail outlets. With a license comes a current state fishing regulation guide with specifics on fishing times and limits. You may also obtain information from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, www. wildlife.ca.gov. No boating is allowed in Yo-

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Sonora, CA 95370

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Recreation Guide 2015

Pinecrest

Lake, ski resort atcenter oftown's activities Thousands of vacationers converge on Pinecrest each summer to camp, boat, fish, swim and hike around the lake. Pinecrest Lake, in the Stanislaus National Forest, is about 30miles east ofSonora off Highway 108. The 300-acre reservoir is owned by Pacific Gas & Electric Co. Pinecrest's recreation area, perfect for an afternoon picnic or topitch a tentatone ofits hundreds of campsites, is in a timberedsetting at an elevationof 5,600 feet. The lake has a designated swimming area,and a fourmile trail provides hikers with beautiful views. The loop trail also connects hikers to other trails leading to places such as the town of Strawberry or Cleo's Bath, a natural swimming hole. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife regularly stocks Pinecrest Lake with rainbow trout. A fishing pier and boat launch are available. A full-service marina, restaurant,coffee bar, groceries, sport

shop (which sells fishing licenses), post office, public showers,

Contact the Chambers of Commerce: Tuolumne County: 532-4212 Calaveras County: 754-5400

bicycle rentals and lodging can all be found at Pinecrest Lake Resort (965-3411, www. pinecrestlakeresort. corn). First-run movies are shown outdoors during the summer at Pinecrest Theater, by the lake. Visit www.pinecresttheater. corn for movie schedules and show times. Evening programs on a wide varietyoftopics are also held at the Pinecrest Amphitheater. For more information, check online or pick up a brochure at the ranger station.

The Aspen Meadows Pack

Early day tradition kept alive Gold once abounded in the Mother Lode to the point that early miners could sift the metal out of streambeds, no digging required. Modern families can get a taste of those heady days by trying their hands at gold panning in some of the rivers and streams that pass through the area's public lands. Gold panning, the easiest form of mineral exploration, is permissible in most Bureau of Land Management and Stanislaus National However, recreational gold panning is not allowed in the

Station, near Pinecrest, con-

forest'swilderness areas or

ducts trail rides on horseback and with pack mules through Bell Meadows and beyond. Half- and full-day trip are available.

Yosemite National Park. Also, m ake sure the area you plan to work is not claimed (claim holders should post signs). Contact the nearest ranger station to obtain information and maps. A goodplaceto learn more about gold panning is Columbia State Historic Park. There, visitors employ panning troughs similar to what miners used in the 1850s. They may either rent a pan and do it themselves or get instructions on how to pan for gold.

Winter at Pinecrest During the winter, there are still plenty of activities to do at Pinecrest. Sledding, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are all popular nearby activities (see Snow Activities section). Dodge Ridge Winter Sports Area is also only about a mile away/ No dogs are allowed in the Pinecrest day-use area from May 15 to Sept. 15. Leashed dogs are allowed on trails and in campgrounds. For more information about

eOur teachers try to make

it fun for all ages," says Jan Lewellen, owner of Hidden Treasure Gold Mine on the park's Main Street. "This is a greatplace to learn to pan for gold and then go down to the

Pinecrest,contact the forest's

river for free and try your luck."

Summit Ranger District at 965-3434.

In addition to on-site gold panning and gem mining, the storesells a variety ofgifts and gold panning supplies. For more information, including hours and prices, call 532-9693. You can also learn more about gold panning and prospecting at the following shops: • '49er Mining Supplies offers gold prospecting equipment, suppliesand charters (gold panning and sluicing expeditions on private claims). Info: 588-1635, www.49erminingsupplies.corn. • Gold Prospecting Adventures and Store has been

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File photo / Union Democrat

Michael Darby, of Angels Camp (left) and Aron Bock, of Germany, pan for gold in Six Mile Creek in Calaveras County. offering gold prospecting trips on Woods Creek for over 25 years in addition to longer, customized trips. They also offer a full line of prospectingsupplies,training and metal detecting trips. Their retail store and museum is located at 18170 Main St. in Jamestown.Info:984-4653, (800)

596-0009, www.goldprospecting. corn,info@goldprospecting.corn (email). • Gold Rush Originals, 1227 S. Main St. in downtown Angels Camp, offers gold panning tours on Angels Creek as well as Gold Rush art. Info: 736-0044, www. goldrushoriginals.corn.

Sonora, California

Recreation Guide 2015

a -'%.

File photo /Union Democrat

The Jacobson family of Sacramento — Mark, Courtney, and Gail, walk with their dog, Angel, through Columbia State Historic Park.

Columbia

withthen-Gov.EarlWa rren and other influential Californians, was

Once-thrivingminingtown nowastate park

accepted as a state park. The history of Columbia shines with gold. According to most

What is now Columbia State Historic Park started life in 1850 as a commercial hub for miners. Over time, it transformed into an educational and sightseeing attraction for people from all over the world. The original buildings, with iron doors from the 1800s, have been

reports, the first miners arrived

instrumental in getting the town

charm. The town has also been the setting for movies, television shows and commercials. Columbia was accepted as a state park in 1945 at the urging of area residents who wanted to preserve the Mother Lode's most intact Gold Rush town. restored to house businesses in Efforts began in the early 1930s keeping with the historical theme to save what had become a ghost of the park. Live theater, an oldtown after Columbia's rich gold fashioned candy store and saloons diggings played out. all call downtown Columbia home. Columbia artist Otheto Weston There are &ee public displays, and San Francisco resident Rheta picnic areas and a museum. Zimmerman spearheaded early efColumbia's docents don period cos- forts to save the old buildings and tume to host a number of special establisha state park. events throughout the year, bringDr. James E. McConnell, who ing the past to life. practiced dentistry in Sonora Tourists aren't the only ones to from 1924to 1961,laterbecame appreciate Columbia's old-time active in the movement and, along

there in 1850. Dr. Thaddeus Hildreth, his brother George, and a handful of other miners found gold while camped at what is now the park's main parking lot off Parrotts Ferry Road. Another version credits a group of Mexicans with panning for gold at the same spot in relative secrecy for four or five months prior to the Kldrethparty happening upon them. Within a month of the Kldreths' arrival, about 6,000 miners lived in a tent and shanty town called Kldreths' Diggings. The name was changed to American Camp, then to Columbia, all in 1850. By the end of 1852, the new town had more than 150 shops, saloons and other businesses.

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Recreation Guide 2015

Sonora, California

G osts Stones o sprri s no uncommonin o t her While most people visit the Mother Lode for itsnatural wonders, thesupernaturalisalso a draw. That's because many of the Gold County's hotels, museums and cemeteries are reputedly haunted with unsettled spirits from dayslong past.Several have been

written about and featured on TV. The N ational Hotel in Jamestown and the Murphys Historic Hotel in Murphys both claim to have spirits roaming the halls. Flo, the National Hotel's ghost, apparently favors rooms in the front of the hotel, although she has been scen in other parts of the building.

In comment notebooks, guests have reported "doors slamming, lights going on and off, clothing being dumped from suitcases onto the floor, and a woman's sobbing coming from the hallway in the middle of the night," according to the hotel. At the Murphys Hotel, rumor has it that a ghost named Eleanor visits the kitchen and that her picture hangs in the hotel's Gold Room. Ghost tours are held at Columbia State Historic Park on select Saturday evenings. On the tours, find out where ghosts lurk and hear the — Continued next page

s'r File photo / Union Democrat

Copperopolis Town Square is the site of many community events throughout the year.

Copper Mines gavetownits start; golf, reservoir

keep itgoingstrong This may be Gold Country, but Copperopolis shines a different hue. Copperopolis, or "Copper" to the locals,traces its roots back

to active copper mines that kept the Union Army in metal for its ammunition during th e C ivil War. A pproximately 1 9 mil l i o n pounds of copper came out of the soil near the town, making Calaveras County second in the production of the ore at the time. Following the Civil War, the local mines closed, only to open again when the winds of war swept the nation during t he First and Second World Wars. Although the mines no longer operate,historical artifacts and refurbished buildings capture the fl avor ofthatbygone era. T he C o p peropolis To w n Square hosts cultural events throughout the year as well as shops and restaurants where visitorscan grab a bite to eat (www.copperopolistownsquare. corn) off of Highway 4, just west of the historic town. Golf is available at Saddle Creek and nearby Tulloch Reservoir is open to boating.

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Recreation Guide 2015

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stories behind those who lived in Columbia during the Gold Rush. At Halloween time, the park's "Ghosts, Mystics and Urban Legends" event features psychic readers, healers and mystical vendors in addition to lectures on ghosts, UFOs and Bigfoot. Burgers Deli Sandwiches Espresso Philly Cheese Steak 16 Flavors of Ice Cream

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Finding remnants of the Mother Lode's Gold Rush past can be as easy as strolling through Columbia,Sonora orAngelsCamp. But venturing off the beaten track yields lesser known historic gems — lightly or unpopulated ghost towns with names such as Campo Seco and Second Garrotte. A tour of Campo Seco in northern Calaveras County, for example, reveals many original

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stone buildings and walls dating to 1854 — when gold seekersfrom acrossthe globefirst settled in the town. And a visit to Chinese Camp, off Highway 120 in Tuolumne County, provides a look at buildings that housed Chinese immigrants and businesses during the 19th and early 20th centuries. All that remains of Second Garrotte, near present-day Grove-

land, is a tree from which 60 people were supposedly hanged. While some of those towns still have resi dents,m ostlocalghost towns were abandoned long ago, usually once gold mines played out. They' ve become just dots on faded maps, or names on forgotten graves. During the summer months, take ascenic drive east over

Sonora Pass, through the town of Bridgeport and on to Bodie State Historic Park. Visitors can walk down thedeserted streetsofa town that once had a population of nearly 10,000 people.

Recreation Guide 2015

Sonora, California

Go Lode offerslinks for every budget It's golf, not gold, that brings many to the Mother Lode these days. Below is a listing of golf courses found in Calaveras and Tuolumne counties:

Calaveras County Forest Meadows Golf Course and Resort — 633 Forest Meadows Dr. Four miles east of Murphys off Highway 4, inside the gated community of Forest Meadows. The Robert Trent Jones Jr. 18-hole executive course is open to the public year-round. Golf instruction

available. Dining option: Alibis Grill and Lounge. Info: 728-3439, www.forestmeadowsgolf.corn. Greenhorn Creek Golf Resort — 711 McCauley Ranch Road, Angels Camp. The 18-hole championship course is par 72. Also features acomplete practice facility, rental clubs and PGA lessons. Open daily, yearround. Dining option: CAMPS Restaurant. Info: 729-8111, www.greenhorncreek.corn. La Contenta Golf Club — 1653 Highway 26, Valley Springs. The semi-private 18-hole, par 71 course is open to the public. Dining option: Vista Grill. Info: 772-1081, www.lacontentagolf.corn. Saddle Creek GolfResort — 1001 Saddle Creek Drive, Copperopolis. The semi-private 18-hole course is par72.Also features a driving range and pro shop. Dining option: Copper Grille. Info: 785-3700,www.saddlecreek.corn. Sequoia Woods Golf Club — 1000 Cypress Point Drive, Arnold. The 18-hole, par 70 course is open to private guests and members,

reciprocal play. Dining option: The Restaurant at Sequoia Woods, open to the public. Info: 795-2141, www.sequoiawoods.corn.

Tuolumne County Mountain Springs Golf Club — 17566 Lime Kiln Road, Sonora. The semiprivate 18-hole, par 72 course is open to the public. Also features a driving range, clubhouse, pro shop, lessons, cart and club rentals. Tee

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in advance. Dining option: Barmy's Cafe and Wine Bar. Info: 532-1000, www.mountainspringsgolf.corn. Phoenix Lake Golf Course —21448 Paseo De Los Portales, seven miles east of Sonora. The nine-hole, par 35 course is open to the public. Info: 532-0111, www.phoenixlakegolf.corn. Pine Mountain Lake Golf Course — 12765 Mueller Drive, Groveland. The 18-hole, par 70course issemi-private but open to the public. Annual membership is available to Pine MountainLake property owners. Features a pro shop, rentals and a driving range.

Dining option: The Grill at Pine Mountain Lake. Info: 962-8620, www.pinemountainlake.corn. Twain Harte Golf Club22909 Meadow Lane, Twain Harte. The nine-hole, par 29 course is open to the public. Features a pro shop, club and cartrentals,and full-service bar andbanquet room. Dining option: Mickey's Dining and Catering. Info: 586-5487, www. twainhartegolf .corn. Twain Harte Miniature Golf —23098 FullerRoad, Twain Harte. Available also to F.h„ rentforprivate parties.Opens on Friday through Sunday in mid-April. Open seven-days a: a week June through August then open Friday through Sunday through September. « I ' A l• «.. Info: 586-5569. Eproson Park, where most summer functions are held, alsofeatures one ofthebest playgrounds in Tuolumne Alan Bell, of Confidence, golfs at Mountain Springs Golf Club in Sonora. County.

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Recreation Guide 2015

Sonora, California

HalfDome, otherhikesaremust d-o' s Yosemite Valley is the starting point for many of Yosemite ¹ tional Park's most iconic hikes. Notable day hikes include a rugged climb to the top of Half Dome, the park's signature rock formation, and Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America.

Half Dome Hiking Half Dome is one of the park's ultimate treks. The challenging, yet popular hike starts at Happy Isles and then follows the Mist Trail, which passes Vernal and Nevada Falls. Then it's off to Little Yosemite Valley — about halfway up the trail. A few miles later, hikers reach hundreds of steps along narrow switchbacks that lead to the base of the cables. Half Dome's cables stretch up an especially steep granite shoulder, givingaccessto the 8,842-footsummit and to unparalleled views of Yosemite Valley and the surrounding snow-capped Sierra Nevada. The hike is 14 miles roundtrip on the Mist Trail, 16.4 miles round-trip on the John Muir Trail and takes roughly 10 to 12 hours to complete. The cables are up typically between mid-May through midOctober. Permits are required to climb the Half Dome cables. No more than 300 hikers — 225 day hikers and 75 backpackers — are allowed on the Half Dome Trail past the base of the subdome. Backpackers should apply for a Half Dome permit along with their wilderness permits.

Permits are available by lottery through www.recreation.gov. A singlepre-season lottery takes place at the beginning of the year, but daily lotteries of roughly 50 permits are also held two days before the anticipated hike day. That means that to hike on Saturday, you would participate in the Thursday lottery. The application period runs from midnight to 1 p.m. Permits cost $8 per person, but thereisa nonrefundable fee of $4.50ifyou apply online and $6.50 ifyou apply overthe phone.Application fees are per application, not per person. The $8 permit fee will be refunded if you cancel two days before your hike date or if the cables are not up the day your permit is valid. To apply for a permit, visit www. recreation.gov or call (877) 4446777. A call center is open &om 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. Online requests can be made any time during a lottery perIod.

Yosemite Falls The Yosemite Falls trailhead can be found behind Camp 4, Yosemite Valley's widely known camping and rock climbing hot spot,across from the Yosemite Lodge. The prize for finishing the hikeis a bird's eye view of Yosemite Valley, a nearly lateral view of Glacier Point, across the valley, and a surreal vertical view down Yosemite Falls. From the trailhead, and for about the next 3 '/2 miles, it' s

up, up, up a seemingly endless

File photo /Union Democrat

Hikers make their way up the cables to the top of Yosemite's Half Dome, one of the most popular hikes in the Mother Lode area.

network to cover 102 acres and

series of switchbacks. Built between 1873 and 1877, the trail to the top ofYosemite Falls is one of the oldest — and steepest — in Yosemite. Rangers recommend settingaside six to eight hours to complete the hike. About a mile up the trail is Columbia Rock, providing a scenic resting spot with a great view of Half Dome. At 2,425feet,Yosemite Fallsis the highest measured waterfall in North America and one of the tallest on Earth. The waterfall consists of three parts: The 320foot lower fall, 675-foot middle cascades and 1,430-foot upper fall. Expect a soaking in the spring and early summer when the falls are at their most robust as the

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The strenuous, six to eight hour hike begins at the Four Mile Trailhead along Southside Drive. The trail starts near the base of Sentinel Rock and climbs tothe top ofYosemite Valley at Glacier Point. If you don't want to hike the whole way, purchase a bus ticket to Glacier Point — a one-way trip costs$25 for an adult,$15 for children, free for children under 5. Make reservations by calling (209) 372-4FUN (4386) before arriving at the park, or at any tour and activity desk. The trail is typically closed from December through May due to avalanche conditions.

Bridalveil Fall

snow melts. (The falls are often dry by early August.)

An easy, beautiful walk, the Bridalveil Fall trail starts at the For those wanting to experiparking area off the Yosemite loop ence the falls without trekking road. This paved trail is about a to the top, a mile-long paved half mile round-trip and takes path in Yosemite Valley has spec- about 20 minutes to complete. tacular views of both the upper Leashed pets are allowed. Expect and lower falls. This flat, easy plenty of spray in spring and early walk loops through tall pines summer and possible icy condiand brings hikers to the base of tions in winter. Lower Yosemite Fall.

Four-Mile Trail Kathy Siyre

ing downtown Sonora, is located off Alpine Lane in Sonora. The parking lot and trailhead are well marked. The 2.5-mile loop takes walkers, joggers and cyclists up a relatively steep hillside with plenty of benches on which to stop and rest. Manzanita arches over the trail toward the top, leading to the final bench. Not surprisingly, this is one of the best views of town. To get there, head north on Washington Street, veer to the leR oftheRed Church and take Snell Street. At the stop sign continue straight onto Bonanza Road. Turn right on Calaveras Way and then left onto Alpine Lane. After a short distance, take the fork to the leftto find the trailhead sign and parking lot. In 2013, the City of Sonora completed the Dragoon Gulch Master Trails Plan, which will extend the

The Four Mile Trail leads to the top of Glacier Point, the park's most popular vista point, also accessible by road. K kers gain 3,200 feetin elevation on the 9.6 mile round-trip trek.

Hiking elsewhere From rolling foothills to mountainpeaks,there are a variety

of hiking options in Tuolumne and Calaveras counties. Here's a sample: Dragoon Gulch Trail, which leads to a scenic hilltop overlook-

include approximately 10 miles of walking trails. A portion of the expandedtrailarea should be available by 2015.

TableMountain Table Mountain is a large mesa paralleling Highway 108 between Knights Ferry and Jamestown. The mountain is actually the remnant of a pre-historic lava flow that followed the long-ago route of the Stanislaus River. Table Mountain is frequented by hikers of all ages. The trail is especially popular for viewing springtime wildflowers, such as lupine and Indian paintbrush. The 1.5-mile trail, which is steep and rocky toward the top, is maintained by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. From Sonora, take Highway 108 west, turn right on Rawhide Road in Jamestown, and follow it for about three miles. Take a left on Shell Road and stay to the left. Either park at the gates and walk to the trailhead or open the gates and drive through (remember to close them behind you; also, fourwheel drive is recommended).

Red Hills Red Hill, covering 7,100 acres of public land just south of Chinese Camp, is notable for its ultramafic rock and rare plant life able to survive in its serpentine soils. The area is open for hiking, horseback riding, wildflower photogra-

Sonora, California phy, wildlife viewing, picnicking and mountain biking. There is no feeforuse ofthe area.Located off Red Hills Road in Chinese Camp, off Highway 49.

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Calaveras Big Trees State Park Calaveras Big Trees State Park, of Highway 4 just east of Arnold, offers five hiking trails including two groves of giant sequoia trees. The North Grove is shorter and more populated, while the So th Grove offers hikers a longer walk with more solitude. A day-use fee — from sunrise to sunset — is$10 pervehicle($9 for thoseage62 or older). Park information is available at 795-2334, 795-3840 (visitor center) or www.parks.ca.gov

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File photo/Union Democrat

owntown Groveland serves as a gateway to Yosemite National Park and offers shopping, entertainment and lodging to those D passing through.

trekking to Relief Reservoir from Kennedy Meadows (seven miles, roundtrip). Higher up, Highway 108 is SonoraPass,atan elevation of9,624. Adjacent to the summit is a picnic and parking area, which serves as a day-usereststop or a trailhead to Sonora Peak as well as other spots along the Pacific Crest Trail. Much shorter walks on the Summit Ranger District include Donnell Vista, a high-country overlook and picnic area 18 miles east of Pinecrest, and Columns of the Giants. The latter is a half-mile trail that takes hikers to acolumnar basaltformation similar to Devils Postpile National Monument. The trail starts next to

Pigeon Flat Campground, 24 miles

It'sone ofthe lastplaces to stop for food, shopping and lodging alongHighway 120 efore reaching Yosemite National Park.Mary Laveroni Community Park toward the east end of town isa great place to stretch, eat a snack and let the kids play. Groveland is also a vacation

Stanislaus National Forest

Those hiking the Stanislaus National Forest have hundreds of miles of trails to explore throughout the forest's four ranger districts. A few popular hikes unaffected by the fire include the following: The four-mile Pinecrest Lake Loop Trail remains one of the most popular treks. The easy hike follows a National Recreation Trail around Pinecrest Lake, one mile off Highway 108. Start at Pinecrest Marina. For a more wilderness experience on the Summit Ranger District, head to Gianelli Trailhead and hike to Burst Rock (two miles, round-trip) and Powell Lake (four miles round-trip) or walk to Camp Lake (six miles, round-trip) from closer Crabtree Trailhead. Want to venture away Rom the Pinecrest area? Visit the Bennett Juniper, the largest Western juniper alive today. The tree can be found about 12 miles (one-hour drive each way) on back roads off Highway 108 (accessible by Eagle Meadow Road, which is Forest Service Road 5N01). A high-clearance vehicle is recommended as

Recreation Guide 2015

east of Pinecrest off Highway 108. Mi-Wok Ranger District The mellow Westside Railroad Gradeoffersspectacularviews of the Tuolumne River Canyon. Parking is off Buchanan Road, one mile east of downtown Tuolumne. This trail is a great spot to view wildlife and wildflowers. It can be scorching in the summer, so remember to bring water with you. As for the Groveland Ranger District, if accessible, check out Cherry Lake — the forest's largest lake. A nice day hike takes visitors from Cherry Lake to Lake Eleanor, which is inside Yosemite National Park. If you plan to stay the night in Yosemite after the hike, be sure to get a wilderness permit from the Stanislaus National Forest.

destination in its own right, with hotels, restaurants and shops steeped in the history of the California Gold Rush. Tourists from around the world set up vacation headquarters in town and take day trips to Yosemite and other nearby points ofinterest. It hasalso become a place to set down roots. The Pine Mountain Lake subdivision just outside of town features its own golfcourse, airport,stables and lake. While Groveland now serves visitorsfrom around the globe, gold brought the area's first rush of people. Originally, Groveland and neighboring Big Oak Flat were named Savage's Diggings after James Savage, who discovered goldthere in 1848.By 1850, the camp was named Garrotte. In 1875, Ben Savory, owner of what is now the Groveland Hotel, convinced his fellow citizens to

A similar hike where you start in the forest and walk into Yosemite Wilderness is a short trek to Carlon Falls off Evergreen Road. Another impressive hike on the Groveland district is Preston Falls. This eight-mile roundtrip hike begins at the Kirkwood Powerhouse and continues along the Tuolumne River to the waterfall. There are many swimming and fishing holes as you walk.

Calaveras Ranger District Unaffected by the Rim Fire, the Calaveras Ranger District offers more than 200 miles of maintained trails on which to hike or ride horseback. Those trails range from short, easy day hikes to

rename the town Groveland. The town has since had many booms, including mining and milling operations. Almost a century ago, Groveland was selected as the mountain division construction headquarters for the Hetch Hetchy Water Project. Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, in the Tuolumne County portion of Yosemite National Park, provides water toGroveland and the San Francisco Bay Area. Today, Groveland's downtown area boastscafes,giftshops,a historic bar, restaurants, thrift stores and a tea house. During the summer months, thereisplenty to do: • Farmers markets are held at Mountain Sage on Friday nights and Saturday mornings in addition to frequent concerts (www. mountainsagemusic.org). • The Groveland Hotel (www. groveland.corn) offersitsYosemite Courtyard Cabaret from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. The town's annual '49er Festival and Chili & Salsa Cook-off is held the third Saturday in September. For more information on

events in Groveland, visit the Yosemite Chamber of Commerce Web site at www.groveland.org or call 962-0429.

strenuous, multi-day backpacking trips. There are also hundreds of miles of trails and roads on which to mountain bike.

Popular hiking trails include the Inspiration Point Trail, an uphill climb at the top of which hikers are rewarded with spectacular views of Spicer Reservoir and the Dardanelles. Access is from Lakeshore Trail. The trailhead to the Emigrant-West Trail, which is partofahistoricpioneerroute,can be found on Highway 4 at a parking area a half-mile east of Bear Valley. Each of these hikes are consideredmoderate and arethree miles, roundtrip. Call795-1381 orvisitthe ranger station in Hathaway Pines for more information.

Recreation Guide 2015

Sonora, California

Jamestown Railroad, miningcentral totown's history Jamestown is the first Mother

trainrides and special events throughout the year. Pieces of the old infrastructure have appeared in over 200 movies and television shows, including modern films like "Back to the Future III" and the "Great Bank Robbery." The railroad's arrival in Jamestown was a pivotal moment in Mother Lode history, bringing expanded commerce to the area.

Lode town to greet visitors heading from the west on Highway 108. Gold Rush era buildings that house restaurants, antique

shops and other businesses line Main Street, serving both locals and tourists alike. Railtown 1897 State Historic Park lies slightly to the east of themain drag.The park features an authentic railroad depot offering tours, excursion

File photo /Union Democrat

— Continuednext page Jamestown's history is celebrated each year during Pioneer Day.

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Sonora, California

Recreation Guide 2015 Jamestown is near the spot on Woods Creek where local historians say Oregon prospector Benjamin Wood discovered gold in the summer of 1848. When the easy gold dried up, the mining camp picked up and moved east to Jamestown's current location. Though Wood found the gold, the town gets its name from Col. George James, a speculator who established a trading post nearby. James abandoned the camp in the middle of the night, without paying his investors and some miners. Despite that, the name stuck. The town slumbered after the first goldseekers left for new, easy pickings, but it was revived in 1896 when a group of Bostonians purchased the Whiskey Hill Consolidated Gold and Silver Mining Co. and opened it as the HarvardMine,justa year before the railroad came to town.

File photo /Union Democrat

Historic engines still run at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park in Jamestown.

In 1916, World War I brought an end to the

Harvard, the last large-scale mining there until1986, when Sonora Mining Co. opened, employing more than 270 people. That mine has since closed. Everything about Jamestown seemed to slide during the 1920s after the gold mines closed. But the town's image started turning around during the 1970s, when students and business owners began cleaning the town and raising funds to build a gazebo and park on Main Street. At the same time, the rest of the historic downtown began to be revived. Buildings were renovated and many of the Victorian homes were turned into shops that feature artwork,

gifts, collectibles and antiques. A more recent effort involved returning the historic Jamestown Branch Jail to town and rehabilitating it to look as much like the original as possible.

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Recreation Guide 2015

Musemrns

History State parks oper glimpse into past Two historic state parks are just a few miles from Sonora.

Columbia State Historic Park Visitors step back in time to the Gold Rush era when they walk through the entrance of Columbia State Historic Park. The well-preserved town offers activities such as panning for gold and stagecoachridesand features educational displays. Docents bring the 1850s mining town to life. A variety of shops can be found in the town's old-time business district. Visitors can purchase everything from leather saddles and antiques to hand-dipped chocolates. Columbia hosts a variety of events throughout the year, but summer is its busiest time. Each June, the park throws Columbia Diggin's 1852, a fourday event where docents and stafFrecreatean 1852 tenttown to demonstrate daily activities during the Gold Rush. In July,

San A small group of miners established the historic town of San Andreas in the winter of

1848. It bears the name of their patron saint. San Andreas today is Calaveras County's government seat.Itfeatures shops, restaurants and charming Turner Park. History tied two infamous Gold Rush characters to San Andreas — Black Bart and Joaquin Murrieta. Black Bart was a gentleman

banditwho never harmed drivers or passengers. His capture was secured by a dropped handkerchief, left upon leaving the San Andreas area after an

Sonora, California

annual events include a Big Band Street Dance and "Glorious 4th of July Celebration" complete with a parade,greased-poleclim bing and watermelon-eating contests. To get to the park, head north on Highway 49 from Sonora and merge right onto Parrotts Ferry Road, which leads to a large parking lot. For more information, visit the File photo /Union Democrat Columbia Chamber of Commerce's Railtown's Engine No. 3 has Web site, www.visitcolumbiaplayed a role in many feature california.corn, or call the park at films and TV shows. 588-9128. holidays, such as wildflower train rides in the spring, Harvest Haunt Express for Halloween and rides Railtown 1897 State Historic with Santa Claus at ChristmasPark in Jamestown allows visitors time. to experience a time when the Railtown, at the intersection of rails ruled western transport. Fifth Avenue and Reservoir Road, On weekends from April to is easily accessible from Highway October, visitorscan ride on an 108 or Jamestown's Main Street. historic train. In addition to train For more information, call 984rides, Railtown ofFers an authentic 3953 or visit www.railtown1897. roundhouse and the Depot Store, a org. railroad-themed gift shop. Visit www.parks.ca.gov for more The park has theme train rides information on both state historic that coincide with seasons and parks.

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park

especially good haul. Investigatorstraced the laundry mark onthe handkerchief to San Francisco and, ultimately, to one of the city's leading citizens, Charles E. Bolton. Bolton-Bart actually turned out to be Charles E. Boles, a shipping clerk originally from Illinois. Bolton-Boles-Bart had acquireda taste for the good life and proceeded to finance some

of the finer things he desired by robbing stagecoaches. He was finally arrested and held in San Andreas pending trial. The jail where he was held still stands, part ofthe complex that houses the county historical archives, county museum and the Calaveras County Arts Council's Gallery Calaveras. He was sentenced to six years in

state prison and was released for

goodbehaviorafterservingfour. Murrieta's reputation was more coarse than Bart's. He was credited with leading a gang of relatives and friends, including Manuel"Three Fingered Jack" Garcia, in a three-year crime spree that included cattle rustling, robberies and several murders. Considered either a savage criminal or a Robin Hood-like figure avenging wrongs committed against California's Mexicans,Murrieta was reportedly shot by rangers in San Benito County in 1853. A head claimed to be his was preserved in a jar of brandy as proof of his capture, and became part of a traveling display. The jarwas lost in the 1906 San Francisco Earthquake. Several alleged sightings were reported following his apparent death.

Area's history housed atmany locations inLode Calaveras and Tuolumne counties are full of quaint museums celebrating the area's rich history. Below is a sampling:

Calaveras County Angels Camp Museum — Includes displays of horse carriages and old mining equipment. Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdaythrough Monday. Call for winter hours. Located at 753 S. Main St., Angels Camp, 736-2963. Calaveras County Historical Societyand MuseumFeaturescounty archaeological and historical displays along with a bookstore. Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, 30 N. Main St., San Andreas, 754-1058. Calaveras County Historical Society Red Barn Museum —Displays include mining, blacksmith, wagons and oldfarm equipment.Open 10 a.m.to4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. Located near Calaveras County GovernmentCenter, 891 Mountain Ranch Rd., San Andreas, 754-0800. Ironstone Heritage Museum —Features early Gold Rush history exhibits, the largest piece of crystalline gold leaf in the world and various other rotating exhibits. Open 10a.m.to 5 p.m .daily, 1894 Six Mile Road, Murphys, 728-1251. Mokelumne Hill History Societyand Museum and Library — Archives and exhibit of historical memorabilia from the Mokelumne Hill area, including 550 photographs. Open afternoons Tuesday through Friday, 8328 Main St., Mokelumne Hill. Call for hours, 286-0507. Murphys Old Timers Museum — Gold Rush and Native American artifacts, books, walking tour on Saturday mornings (meet 10 a.m. at museum). Open noon to 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday, 470

Main St., Murphys, 728-1160. Sierra Nevada Logging Museum — Open seasonally noon to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, closed Dec. 1 through March 31 (weather permitting), 2148 Dunbar Road, White Pines, near Arnold. Several new exhibits added in 2014. Information: 795-6782; Ginny Kafka, president, 795-1226; www.sierraloggingmuseum.org.

Tuolumne County Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum —This museum features displays about the families and the history of Southern Tuolumne County. Displays include a moving scale model of a stamp mill and a display of "pettable" animal pelts. A small theater shows a coll ection ofvideosabout Yosemite, Hetch-Hetchy, and the Gold Rush. Open 10a.m. to 4 p.m .Friday and Saturday, 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday through Thursday (open until 4:30 in the summertime) .Otherwise,call962-0300 for hours. Tuolumne City Memorial Museum —Features historical items and model railroad. Exhibits on Native Americans, mining and West Side Lumber Co. Open 1 to 4 p.m. weekends, 18663 Carter St., Tuolumne, 928-3516. Tuolumne County Museum and History Research Center — Housed in the old county jail, this museum features Gold Rush-era displays on early county history. Collections include maps, photographs, period clothing, art and antiques. Staffed by volunteers. Gift shop sells books, maps and walking guide to points of historical interestin Sonora.Open Monday through Saturday, 158 Bradford St., Sonora. Phone: 532-1317 (museum) and 532-4227 (research center). Veterans Memorial Hall and Military Museum — Features collections and displays of military documents, weapons and uniforms from Civil War to

present day. Open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekends, 9 N. Washington St., Sonora, 533-0923.

Sonora, California

Horse

Hunting

ing

Regt'on offers a variety of outings Riding is a popular activity in the foothills and parts of the High Sierra. You can bring your own animal to many locations, and can alsorentortakeorganized pack trips. Harmony Ranch —Nonprofit horsemanship program offering recreational therapeuticservices to children and adults with or without special needs, 754-4299, www.harmonyranchca.org. Horse and Barrel —Vineyardhorseback tour followed by wine tasting. Offering vineyard rides in the spring/summer custom trail rides year-round, 2000 Nickerson Lane, Murphys. Info: 728-9333,www.horseandbarrel. corn. Mounted Dream Center — Nonprofit providing children and adults with special needs a safe, educational and recreational equine experience that aims to enrich physical, emotional and social development. Info: 5338930, www.facebook.corn/mounteddreamcenter Pine Mountain LakeFull-servicestables are open to the public. Trail rides are offered daily during spring, summer and fall, and Friday through Sunday during winter. Call for information on rates, special events, horse shows, theme rides and camps. Stables are at 13309 Clifton Way, Groveland, 962-8667, www. stables@pinemountainlake.corn. Ride Away Center —Therapeutic horsemanship program for people with disabilities and special needs. The center welcomes riders of all abilities. Located at 18200 Woodham Carne Road, Tuolumne area, 928-4092.

Stanislaus National Forest Hundreds of miles of forest trails are suitable for horseback riding. Some areas may be closed as a result of the Rim Fire, so

Recreation Guide 2015

Marksmen set sights here •

Hunting is allowed on most land overseen by the Stanislaus National Forest and U.S. Bureau of LandManagement, although state hunting regulations must be followed.

Each of the forest's four ranger stations have maps showing statedesignated hunting areas in additionto firearm safety regulations.

A hunting license must be obtained in advance through the Those hunting in the forest are California Department of Fish and advised to use designated U.S. Wildlife. Maps of seasonal hunting Forest Service maps to avoid hunt- zones can be found at,www.wilding ongame refuges and private life. ca.gov orcallthedepartment's land.There arealsorestrictions regionaloffice in Fresno at559243-4005formore information. pea g to how close firearms can be discharged to campgrounds, Hunting is not allowed in Yorecreational sitesand roads. semite National Park.

File photo i Union Democrat

Horseback trail rides are one of the more popular activites at Kennedy Meadows Resort and Pack Station near Sonora Pass. Meadow, Reynolds Creek, Deer Creek and Camp Clavey. There arealsotrailsin the area ofLyons Reservoir and former Sugar Pine Railroad Grade that are now maintained by the Twain Harte Horseman's Association and PG&E. On theGroveland Ranger District, visitors typically ride and camp at Andersen Valley, Kibbie Ridge and the area south of Cherry Lake Dam. Higher-elevation riding and camping is available at the Summit andCalaveras ranger districts. On Summit, areas suitable for traveling and camping with livestock include Clark Fork, Eagle Meadow, Fence Creek, Herring Creek, Pine Valley and Kerrick Camp near the Emigrant

Wilderness. A free wilderness permit is required for overnight stays by horseback in the forest's three wilderness areas — the Emigrant, Carson-Iceberg and Mokelumne. Regulations regarding group size and stock handling in wilderness areas are available at rangerstations and trailheads as well as online.

Aspen Meadow Pack Station — Offers guided trail ridesand pack trips tothe Emigrant Wilderness. Located along Crabtree Road, in the Pinecrest area off Highway 108, 965-3402, www.aspenmeadowpackstation.corn. Kennedy Meadows Resort and Pack Station — Guided horseback rides from about an hour to all-day and overnight wilderness pack trips. Offers all-inclusive week-long youth horse camp. Resort features rentalcabins, general store, saloon,restaurant. Located off Highway 108, nearly 60 miles east of Sonora, 965-3900, www. kennedymeadows.corn. Yosemite National ParkSeasonalmule and horseback rides; two-hour, four-hour and daylong rides available. Three stables: Tuolumne Meadows Stable (372-8427, open midJune through Sept.), Yosemite Valley Stable (372-8348 open mid-April through Oct. weather permitting) and the Wawona Stable(375-6502, open from Memorial Day to Labor Day). Callfor rates and more infor-

check with local ranger stations

mation. Equestrians can also

before heading out. Lower-elevation riding and camping are popular within the Mi-Wok Ranger District at Thompson Meadow, Bourland

take their horses on a limited number of park trails. A guide listing these trails can be picked-up at any of the park's visitorcenters.

Pack stations The following pack stations are authorized to rent animals and offerpack tripsin theforest:

0 - H i w ay Ve ic es Ttnils, roads oper scenic rides The Stanislaus National Forest offers many opportunities for riding off-highway vehicles. Trails for motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles are available, as well ashundreds ofm ilesof unpaved roads suitable for streetlegal four-wheel drive vehicles. The forest's Mi-Wok Ranger District has some of the more popular riding spots: Crandall extends from north of Crandall Peak to the Deer Creek area northwest of Highway 108, Hull Creek and Hull Creek Campground are off of Forest Road 4N01 outside of Long Barn, and Hunter Creek is east of Tuolumne on the south end of the district. California residents who own certain kinds of OHVs that receive Red Stickers from the Department of Motor Vehicles may not ride in these areas between Oct. 1and May 31. Riding is allowed year-round in Corral Hollow and Spicer in the Calaveras Ranger District and NiagaraRidge Area in the Summit Ranger District. The Black Springs OHV net-

work on the north side of Highway 4 is the main off-roading area in the Calaveras Ranger District. There's also the Interface, which is featured in maps and brochures at the district's ranger station in Hathaway Pines. Statelaw requires registration of all motor vehicles before being operated on public lands. Off-highway travel is restricted to designated routes, and it is against the law to cause damage or ruttingto roads or trails. OHV drivers must obey speed limits of 15 miles per hour within 50 feet of people, campsites or animals. The forest's new Motorized Vehicle Use Maps are now in effect and can be picked up at all four ranger stations or downloaded from the Internet. No off-roading is allowed in Yosemite National Park or the forest's wilderness areas. Check out the state's offhighway vehicle Web site, www. wildlife.ca.gov for more information.

Recreation Guide 2015

R ock C

Sonora, California

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Yosemite National Park

File photo /Union Democrat

A group of rafters guided by Zephyr Whitewater Expeditions make their way down the Merced River.

Cold-weather fu/t to behad

The "big walls" of Yosemite National Park for decades have been the proving grounds and home bases for the climbing world's rock stars. El Capitan and Half Dome in Yosemite Valley draw the most experienced climbers. But experienced, intermediate and beginning climbers can also find a plethora of climbs in the park's backcountryand the Tuolumne Meadows area. Overnight stays require a wilderness permit if camping on the ground. No permit is needed to bivouac on climbing walls.

Skiing, sledding and ice skating are just a few of the many winter activities available to visitors oftheCentralSierra Nevada. Here is a sample of some of the more popular destinations and activities:

TuolumneCounty

Because some areas can open

R a in g White water rapids beckon Tuolumne Coun +

Calaveras County

American River Touring Association — ARTA offers guided whitewater trips on the Tuolumne, Merced and American rivers as well as wilderness tripson classic rivers ofthe West. Information: 962-7873, (800) 323-2782, www.arta.org. Sierra Mac RiverTripsThis outfit, established in 1965, provides whitewater rafting trips with expert guides and gourmet meals. Open April through August. Running trips on the class IV Main Tuolumne River whitewater run and the class V Cherry Creek Upper Tuolumne River whitewater run. Information: 591-8027, (800) 457-2580, www. sierramac.corn, marty@sierramac.corn. Zephyr Whitewater Expeditions — Zephyr, based in Columbia since 1973, offers guided rafting trips to the Kings, Tuolumne, Merced and American rivers. Half-day to five-day trips. Open April through Sept. Information: 532-6249, (800) 431-3636, www.zrafting.corn.

OA.R.S. — Angels Camp-based Outdoor Adventure River Specialists, formed in 1969, ofFer trips all over the world, including rafting trips on the Tuolumne, Merced and American rivers along with the North Fork of the Stanislaus River. Information: 736-4677, (800) 346-6277, www.oars.corn.

On your own The Tuolumne Wild and Scenic River, coursing through the Groveland Ranger District, and the North Fork of the Stanislaus River, fiowing through the Calaveras RangerDistrict,are popular whitewater and canoeing spots. Bothrivers are very technicalclassIV and V — so are suited to experienced boaters. Tuolumne River non-commercial fioaters are required to obtain permits through the Stanislaus National Forest's Groveland Ranger Station. Call 962-7825. The Forest Service doesn' t regulate private, non-commercial boaters on the North Fork of the Stanislaus River, so permits are not required.

and close due to unforeseen circumstances — like a falcon's nest being discovered, or recent rockfalls in an area — check before heading out. The park service's website: www.nps.gov/yose/ planyourvisit/climbing.htm Never gone climbing before but want to learn? The Yosemite Mountaineering School has taught people rock

File photo /Union Democrat

James Lucas, of Chinese Camp (bottom), belays Vian Charbonneau, of San Francisco, on a climb.

climb for more than 40 years.

The school ofFers everything from beginner"Go Climb a Rock" classestom ulti-day ascents of El Capitan for the more experienced. Contact: 372-8344, www. yosemitepark.corn.

Dodge Ridge Winter Sports Area — 1 Dodge Ridge Road, about30 mileseastofSonora, off Highway 108 near Pinecrest. Offers862 acresof downhill terrain for skiers and snowboarders, 1,600 vertical feetfrom 8,200-footsummit to 6,600-foot base of mountain, eight chair lifts, plus four surface lifts. Dodge ofF ersavariety of progression terrain parks and

Climbing spots closer to Sonora include the Grotto at Table Mountain near Jamestown (see Hiking section), the Arboretum in Columbia and several spots in the Stanislaus National Forest's high country. Those on the Summit Ranger District include Burst Rock, Columns of the Giants and Lost W orld — beautifu a lgorge that leads to Donnell Reservoir. A climbing guide is available to

and scrambling. Calaveras Dome, a 90-minute drive northwest of Bear Valley on rough four-wheel-drive roads, ofFersbig granitefor serious climber s. Popular climbing spots include Box Canyon, Spicer Road Crags and Spicer Terraces. Bouldering is possible at Schoolhouse Boulders, Tamarack Boulders, Hells Kitchen, Big Meadow and Stanislaus River Boulders. Bear Valley's Mountain Adventure Seminars, 148 Bear Valley Road,ofFers avariety ofclasses for beginners and experienced rock climbers. MAS is a yearround mountaineering school and guide service. During the winter, MAS offers backcountry

view at the ranger station near

ski, snowboard and snowshoe

Pinecrest. The forest's Calaveras Ranger District offers vertical graniteoutcrops and boulder fields perfect for rock hopping

tours and lessons, mountaineering, telemark ski school and avalanche education.

Climbing elsewhere

P ay

a total of 67 runs, including the two-mile Stagecoach. Adult and teen ski and snowboard lessons,children'slesson programs for ages 2 to 12,equipment rentals, retail store, demo shop, repair and tune-up shop, Nordic skis, snowshoe rentals, group sales, restaurants, bar. Contact: 965-3474 (main line), 536-5348 (retail shop) and 5365300 (snow conditions), www. dodgeridge.corn. Leland High Sierra Snow Play — 34033 Leland Meadow Road, four miles east of Strawberry, largest sledding snow park in the Sierra Nevada. Fifteen acres of groomed snow for tubing, two tow lifts, mini-snowmobile rides for children ages 5 to 12, sledding on children's hill, 4,000-square-foot lodge featuring large sun deck, fireplace, hot food snack bar with beer and wine; equipment rental included in admission,

Contact: 753-6556, www.mtad-

venture.corn.

— Continued next page

Sonora, California freeparking,group rates available, callforprices.Contact:965-4719,

www.snow playcorn.

Loag Barn Lodge Ice Skating Rink — 25957 Long Barn Road,17 miles eastofSonora ofF Kghway 108. Ice skating rink open &om November until April. Rentals available, ice skating fundraisers, snacks and hot chocolate, callforhoursand prices. Lodge also offers motel and cabins and events such as weddings and reunions. Contact: 586-3533, 800310-3533, www.longbarn.corn. Stanislaus National Forest — The Summit Ranger District, ofF Highway 108 near Pinecrest, is open to a variety of wintertime activities including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and sledding. Snow play is allowed anywhere within the district as long as there is snow and drivers can safely and legally pull off the road. A popular sledding spot is Pinecrest day-use area, where there are restrooms. fThe nearby Pinecrest Lake Resort ofFersgroceriesand otherservices. Winter camping is allowed anywhere within the district. However, those camping in the Pinecrest area during winter may only camp at Pioneer Group Campground (965-3116) . A developed Sno Park with vault restrooms can be found at

the Highway 108 winter closure point. It provides parking and access to groomed snowmobile routes. However, there is no snow play area. A parking permit, available online or at shops in nearby towns such as Cold Springs and Strawberry, is required. Daily permitsare $5,and seasonalpermitsare$25.Call916-131-0014 for more information or go online, www.ohv.parks.ca.gov/snoparks. Two well-traveled cross-country

Recreation Guide 2015

Winter in Yosexxnte Yosemite National Park may be known for its towering granite cliffs and booming waterfalls, but when temperatures drop and snow falls, the park becomes a winter wonderland. For outdoor enthusiasts, the park has it all: ice skating with iconic Half Dome as a backdrop, skiing at California's oldest ski area or trekking in snowshoes. A popular snowshoe hike is from Badger Pass, the park's ski area, to Dewey Point, a lookout vista that providessweeping views ofthe park'ssnow-capped backcountry. The seven-mile roundtrip trek is a prime example of how a trail crowded in summer takes on a whole new, much more isolated feeling in winter. Yosemite offers a variety of snowshoe activities, including free daily hikes with park rangers (they ask for a $5 donation for snowshoe use) and guided full-moon walks (costing $18.50, including snowshoes). Park visitors can also join a naturalist for a three-mile snowshoe walk to the Clark Range Vista from Crane Flat for $18.50 with snowshoe rental or $5 without. Any trail in the park with snow on it is considered open to snowshoeing or skiing. The base for most wintertime activities in the park remains Badger Pass — off the Highway 41 entrance to the park. Badger Pass Ski Area, the state's oldest ski area, features 10 runs, four chair lifts, a rope-tow and a small snow-tubing area. After skiing during the day at Badger Pass, families often migrate down to Yosemite Valley in the evening for skating and hot chocolate at the Curry Village Ice Rink. Yosemite's winter activities at a glance:

The Summit Ranger District offersmore than 30 miles of groomedsnowmobile trails, including Highway 108 east of the winter closure gate and Eagle Meadow Road. Routes that are not groomed include Clark Fork Road and Herring Creek Road. On all areas, adequate snow (6-inch packed, 12-inch powder) must be present for snowmobile use anywhere. For more information, including free brochures and trail maps, contact the ranger station at 965-3434 or go to www.pinecrestnordic.org. Additionally, the Mi Wok Ranger District ofFers the North Fork Day-use Area, which can be found outside of Long Barn — and away from the Highway 108 trafllcalong Forest Road 4N01. Vault toilets areopen year-round there.

ski and snowshoe routes in the Pinecrest area are Crabtree and Gooseberry. These trails are marked, but not groomed. The forest offersguided snowshoe hikes on select winter weekends. Snowshoes can be rented &om nearby Dodge Ridge Winter Sports Area or Sierra Nevada Adventure Co. in downtown Sonora. Heidi's Ski Shop, 29870 Highway 108 in Cold Springs, rents skis, snowBear Valley Cross Country boards and snowshoes (as well and Adventure Co. —1 Bear as stand-up paddle boards in the Valley Road, Bear Valley Village. summer). Info: 965-3450, www. Features an extensive trail system heidisskishop.corn. withover35 groomed trailsfor

Calaveras County

ICE SKATING Daily skating sessions at the Curry Village Ice Rink are from 3:30to 6 p.m.and 7 to 9:30 p.m .On weekends and holidays, the rink is open for four 2 1/2-hour sessions, beginningat8:30 a.m.,noon, 3:30 and 7 p.m.,w eather permitting. Typically open mid-November until early March, weather permitting. Contact: 372-8319 (this number is for bicycle rentals during the summer), www.yosemitepark.corn. SKIING Badger Pass Ski Area, rentals and lessons available, 372-8430. Cross-country ski lessons and rentals are also available at the Badger Pass Nordic Ski Center. Backcountry ski trips, both guided and self-guided, go to popular Glacier Point Ski Hut. Reservations are required, 372-8444.

center). Stanislaus National Forest — The Calaveras Ranger District is open to snowshoeing, crosscountry skiing and snowmobiling. The district has two Sno Parks, one at Lake Alpine and the other on Spicer Reservoir Road. The Lake Alpine park is on Highway 4, just past the turnofF to Bear Valley Mountain. The park provides access to a groomed snowmobile trail along Highway 4 to Highland Lakes as well as a network of marked and un-

marked cross-country ski routes. The Spicer Sno Park is about a quarter-mile from Highway 4 and providesaccesstoa 20-m ile network of groomed snowmobile trails to Spicer, Union and Utica reservoirs.

SNOWSHOEING Each winter day, park rangers lead free snowshoe hikes starting at the Badger Pass A-frame. A $5 donation is requested for snowshoe use, 372-0200 (this is also the number for snow conditions and chain control information). DNC Parks and Resorts atYosemite, the park's concessionaire, offers a variety of guided snowshoe treks to places such as Dewey Point and Crane Flat. Reservations are required, 372-1240. Snowshoescan be rented from the Badger PassCross Country Center or the Curry Village Ice Rink.

cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, children's sledding and tubing area, rentals, snowbikes,

retail shop,repairs,demo shop. Summertime activities include mountain biking, kayaking and an 18-hole Frisbee golfcourse. Contact: 753-2834, www.bearvalleyxc.corn. Bear Valley Mountain2280 Highway 207, Bear Valley, about 30 miles east of Arnold off Highway 4. Bear Valley's summit sits high in the Sierra at 8,500

753-2323, 877-HWY4FUN (4994386), www.bvsnowmobile.corn. Calaveras Big Trees State Park — OfF Highway 4 just east of Arnold. Big Trees ofFers crosscountry ski trails, snowshoeing, sledding, warming hut open on winter weekends features a fire and free hot drinks, guided snowshoe walks at 1 p.m. on Saturdays, 795-2334, 795-3840 (visitor

A Sno Parkparking permit, available at local sporting shops or online, is required at both parks. Daily permits are $5 and seasonal permits are $25. Call 916-3244442formore information orvisit wwwohv parks.ca.gov/snoparks. For snowshoers, rentals are available in Bear Valley or at Sierra Nevada Adventure Co. in Arnold. The rangerdistrictofFers 35 miles of groomed snowmobile routes, including Bear Valley Trail (&om Lake Alpine Sno Park to Bear Valley Village), Kghway 4 (east of the winter closure gate) as well as in the Spicer Reservoir area.

For more information, including &ee brochures and trail maps, contact the ranger station in Hathaway Pines at 795-1381. The ranger station does not issue Sno Park passes.

feetand has 1,680 acres of terrain

for all skill levels and a 1,900-foot vertical drop. Nine lifts, including a high-speed quad chair on the back of the mountain; 75-plus runs. Full-service resort, rental shop, sports shop, ski school, ski patrol, repair shop, lodge with cafe, espresso bar and saloon. Contact: 753-2301, 753-2327 (lodge), www.

bearva ley corn. Bear Valley Snowmobile —3

Bear Valley Road (inside lodge building). Snowmobile rentals, salesand service;self-guided tours include a map, helmet and Sno Park pass; mid-week specials ofFeredto area residents.Contact:

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22732'Mi'ddlecamp Rd., 'Tiwain Hart'e, CA 800-585-1238 • LazyZ.corn 148022 121114RG

Recreation Guide 2015

Wineries

Sonora, California

Foothill climate makesfor great grape harvest Many of the region's wineries are concentrated around Mur-

phys, but others can be found throughout the foothills. For ideas on where to stay, eat and shop between wine-tasting stops in Murphys, check out www.visitmurphys.corn. The Calaveras Winegrape Alliance (www.calaveraswines.org) hosts events throughout the year, including Presidents Wine Weekend in February and Passport Weekend in June. Wine-tasting room hours vary seasonally. However, most are open on the weekends yearround, and many are open during the week. Call for details.

Calaveras Coun + Allegoric Wine Tasting and Art Gallery — 432 Main St., Murphys, 728-9922, www.allegoriewine.corn Black Sheep Winery — 221 Main St., Murphys, 728-2157, www.blacksheepwinery.corn Bodega del Sur Winery457 S. Algiers St., Murphys, 7289030, www.bodegadelsur.corn Brice Station Vintners3353 E. Highway 4, Murphys, 728-9893,www.bricestation.corn Broil Mountain Vineyards — 106 MainSt.,M urphys, 7289750, www.brollmountainvineyards.corn Chatom Vineyards — 1969 Highway 4, Douglas Flat, 7366500, www.chatomvineyards.corn Chiarella Wines — 431 Main St., Murphys, 728-8318, www. chiarellawines.corn Coppermine Tasting Room — 3210 Main St., Vallecito, 7362305, www.copperminewinery. corn

Domaine Becquet Winery415 MainSt.,M urphys, 728-8487, www.becquetwinery.corn Four Winds Cellars — 3675 Six Mile Road, Vallecito, 7364766, www.fourwindscellars.corn Frog's Tooth Vineyard380 Main St., Suite 5, Murphys, 728-2700, www.frogstooth.corn Hatcher Winery — 425 Main

File photo /Union Democrat

Hoards of people fill Murphys Park each year for the annual Calaveras Grape Stomp, hosted by the Calaveras Winegrape Alliance.

Murphys File photo /Union Democrat

Miguel Rodriguez, of Turlock, dumps a bucket of grapes he picked during the harvest at Irish Vineyards in Murphys. St., Murphys, 605-7111, www. hatcherwinery.corn Hovey Winery — 350-A Main St., Murphys, 728-9999, www. hoveywine.corn

Indian Rock Vineyards1154 PennsylvaniaGulch Road, Murphys, 728-8514, www.indianrockvineyards.corn Irish Vineyards — 2849 Highway 4, Vallecito, 736-1299, www.irishvineyard.corn Ironstone Vineyards — 1894 Six Mile Road, Murphys, 7281251, www.ironstonevineyards. corn Lavender Ridge Vineyard and Winery —425-A Main St., Murphys, 728-2441, www.lavenderridgevineyard.corn La Folia Winery — 263-A Main St., Murphys, 728-5298, www.lafoliawine.corn Metate Hill Vineyards448-C MainSt.,M urphys, 805636-4721, www.vinometate.corn Milliaire Winery — 276 Main St., Murphys, 728-1658, www. milliairewinery.corn Newsome-Harlow Wines403 MainSt.,M urphys, 728-9817, www.nhvino.corn Stevenot Winery — 458 Main St., Suite 3, Murphys, 728-3485, www.stevenotwinery.corn

Tanner Vineyards —435 Main St., Murphys, 728-8229, www.tannervineyards.corn Twisted Oak Winery — 363 Main St., Murphys (tasting room), and 4280 Red Hill Road, Vallecito (winery and tasting room), 736-9080, www.twistedoak.corn Val duVino Winery — 634 French Gulch Road, Murphys, 728-9911, www.valduvino.corn Vina Moda Winery — 147 Main St., Murphys, 743-6226, www.vinamoda.corn

Zucca Mountain Vineyards — 431Main St., Murphys, 7281623, www.zuccawines.corn

Tuolumne Coun + Gianelli Vineyards — 18263 Main St., Jamestown, 984-1500, www.gianellivineyards.corn La Bella Rosa Vineyards — 72 N. Washington St., Sonora, 533-9968 (tasting room), and 17990 Old Wards Ferry Road, Sonora, 533-8668 (vineyards and tasting room), www.labellarosavineyards.corn Mt. Brow Winery — 10850 Mt. Brow Road, Sonora, 532-8491, www.mtbrowwinery.corn.

Shops, winesandcaverns drawvisitors Murphys is one of the crown jewels of the Gold Country. Historical and also modern, the one-time Gold Rush boomtown features several wine

tasting rooms and boutiques selling baked goods, jewelry, book, shoes, toys and more. There arealso artgalleries with colorful paintings that give Main Street extra flair. The Murphys Historic Hotel is one downtown landmark. It features nine rooms, each named after a famous guest who had stayed there, including Mark Twain, Ulysses S. Grant and Susan B. Anthony. A short walk from elm-lined Main Street is picturesque Murphys Community Park, which has a white gazebo and bubbling Murphys Creek running through. It also has one of the best playgrounds in Calaveras County. The park is also the setting for the Calaveras Grape Stomp. At that event, held the first Saturday in October, teams oftwo compete to see

who can collect the most juice by crushing 25 pounds of grapes. In March, the town hosts its annual Murphys Irish Day. Not surprisingly, a town with

a name like Murphys takes St. Patrick's celebrations seriously. While most of the activity centers on Main Street, visitors can venture to nearby Mercer Caverns, Moaning Cavern or Calaveras Big Trees State Park, where they can hike through groves of giant sequoias. Ironstone Vineyards, the largest of Calaveras County's wineries, is just a mile from town. Ironstone hosts a popular concert series each summer at its outdoor amphitheater, where musicians such as Willie Nelson, Bonnie Raitt and Sheryl Crow have played. The winery also features a large wine-tasting room (there'sa small fee fortastings), deli and gift shops, where a 44-pound gold piece is on display. Murphys is nicknamed the "Queen of the Sierra," but got its real name from brothers Daniel and John Murphy, who settled the area in 1848. The brothers, perhaps using their Irish luck, made a fortune gold mining. Legend has it they were millionaires by their mid-20s. These days, grapes have definitely replaced gold.

Sonora, California

mation: http: //cecentralsierra.ucanr.edu/ Master Gardeners. Phone: 754-2880. 27 — Columbia Birthday Celebration. Reenactments and refreshments Eventswith datesto be announced celebrating the discovery of gold in Columbia. Information: www.parks.ca.gov/co3ANUARY 2015 Annual Crab Feed. From 6 to 7:30 lumbia. Phone: 588-91 28. p.m., Black Creek Park, Copperopolis. 28 — Foothill Pregnancy Center An1 — New Year's Day. Cost: $35 per person. Proceeds benefit nual Gala Banquet.At the Mother Lode 4 — Pancake breakfast.Sonora VeterProject Fund for Copperopolis-Lake Tulloch Fairgrounds. Information: www.fpcans Memorial Hall, 9 N. Washington St. in Lions Club. Information: www.laketullo- sonora.corn. Phone: 532-9262. downtown Sonora. Information: www. chlions.org. Phone: 785-2757. americanlegionsonora.org.,Commander Big Band Jazz Festival.A weekend of Lonald Lott, 402-8204. big-band jazz with several guest artists. Events with datesto be announced "Hughie," by Eugene 9- Feb.1 Directed by Rod Harris. Information: harO' Neill, Stage 3Theater, 208 S. Green St., 13th annual Family Wellness Faire.8 Sonora. Opening times are 7 p.m. Thurs- event at the Murphys Hotel benefits risr@ yosemite.edu. Phone: 588-5211. Season Opening Gala.Event to a.m. to noon at Tenaya Elementary School, days, Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Human Resources Council Food Bank. be36th held late February or early March. Sierra Groveland. Free to public; $25 blood Saturdays and Sundays. For reservations, Information: www.murphyshotel.corn, or 728-3444. Repertory Theatre Reception with wine, draws with 12-hour fasting. Held in March call 536-1778 or visit www.stage3.org. champagne,hors d'oeuvres, silent auc- or April, depending on Spring break. Spon2 — Groundhog Day. 11 — Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday 2-28 — Annual "Hearts for the Arts" tion, dinner, live auction, performance, af- sored by Soroptimist International of Celebration. Held the Sunday before the Holiday weekend. At 2 p.m., Sonora High Membership Campaign. Tuolumne ter-party with dessert with cast, staff and Groveland. Phone: Liz Mattingly, 962Sonora Elks Lodge. Information: 7648. School auditorium. A celebration filled with County Arts Alliance. Information: www. crew. bhandelman©sierrarep.org. Phone: Bev36th SeasonOpening Gala.Eventto music, stories, student art and essay con- tuolumnecountyarts.org. Phone: 532- erly Handelman, 532-0502, ext. 111. be held late late February or early March. test centered on the message of the Rev. ARTS (2787). Fireman's Ball. Live band, host-free Sierra Repertory Theatre Reception with 7 — Chinese Camp Orient Express Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., reception folbar. From 6to11 p.m. at the Sonora Opera wine, champagne, hors d'oeuvres, silent Run. Yearly run benefits Tuolumne County lowing the event. Featured speaker Dr. Cost: $10 per person. Benefits the auction, dinner, live auction, performance, Clayborne Carson, archivist of MLK papers Special Olympics. Sponsored by the Sun- Hall. Sonora Fire Museum, keeping antique after-party with dessert with cast, staff and and professor at Stanford University. Infor- rise Rotary Club. Phone: 586-4802. 7 — Valentine's Ball.Tuolumne County equipment restored. Phone: 984-5887. crew. Sonora Elks Lodge. Information: mation: http: //mlmartinlutherkingjr.org or bhandelman@sierrarep.org. Phone: BevSenior Center Ballroom, Greenley Road, patcervelli©frontiernet.net., 928-3494. erly Handelman, 532-0502 ext. 111. 17 — All-You-Can-Eat Crab Feed. Sonora. 5 p.m. social, 6 p.m. dinner. BenMARCH Ninth annual Poetry Out Loud ComFrom 5 to 7 p.m., Tuolumne Veterans Me- efits Tuolumne County Senior Center. Inpetition. All participating local high formation: www.sierraseniorproviders. morial Hall. Benefits Twain Harte Soropti1 — Pancake breakfast.American Le- schools. County competition held in parorg. Phone: 533-2622. mist Club. Phone: Patt Koral, 928-1616. 12 — Tuolumne County Historical So- gion Post 58 will serve a pancake break- ticipation with Stage 3. Tuolumne County 17 — 4-H Community Dinner.Mother Lode Fairgrounds. Fundraiser for local 4-H ciety Program. At 7 p.m. Tuolumne fast from 8 to 11 a.m. at Sonora Veterans Arts Alliance, Sonora. Information: www. groups. Information: cetuolumne.ucdavis. County Library Community Room; 7 p.m. Memorial Hall, 9 N. Washington St. in tuolumnecountyarts.org. Phone: 532Topics on local history vary. Free. Informa- downtown Sonora. Tickets $7 for adults ARTS (2787). edu. Phone: 533-6990. Sonora Lions Club Cioppino Dinner. tion: www.tchistory.org. Phone: 532-1317. and $3 for children under 10. Proceeds go 19 — Martin Luther King Jr. Day. 14 — Valentine's Day. to community projects. The menu in- Elks Lodge, Sonora. 24 — 23rd annual Copper Run.TwoYouth Symphony of the Sierras.So14 — Roundhouse Day. Behind the cludes pancakes, sausage, scrambled mile run start, 9 a.m., half-mile start, 9:45 biscuits and gravy, orange juice, and nora High School Auditorium. Dates and a.m., 10K start,10:15 a.m.; Black Creek scenes look at what happens during the eggs, Park, Copperopolis. Benefits Copperopolis winter months to prepare the locomotives coffee, milk and tea. Information: www. times to be announced. Information: Elementary School, Copperopolis Volun- and cars for the operating season. Infor- americanlegionsonora.org. Phone: Com- www.tuolumnecountyarts.org. Phone: Lonald Lott, 4024204. 532-ARTS I2787). teer Fire Department; entry includes race mation: www.railtown1897org. Phone: mander 2-29 — Annual Art Show. Held at Arbor Day Tree Planting.Sonora BeauTshirt designed by Copper Elementary 984-3953. 14 — 14th annual Emigrant Basin TCAAArts Academy, 251-B and 251-C Bar- tiful Committee observes Arbor Day, plantStudents. Phone Marilyn richardson, 785Pack and Social Club Scholarship Din- retta St., Sonora. Information: www.tu- ing trees. Phone: Sharon Marovich, 2757 . 532-1733 or 532-6937. s.org.Phone: 532-ARTS 31 — Crab Feed.Located atTuolumne ner.At the Sonora Elks Lodge, Elk Drive, olumnecountyart Columbia College Community ChoCounty Senior Center, Greenley Road, So- Sonora. Open to public. Dinner and dance (2787). 12 — Tuolumne County Historical So- rus.A 50-member mixed chorus presents nora. Benefits Senior Center's Meals on benefits local high school students scholciety Monthly Program.At 7 p.m. at the classical and traditional musical. Phone: Wheels Center. Information: www.sier- arship funds. Contact: 768-1126. 16 — President's Day. Tuolumne County Library Community 588-5214. raseniorproviders.org., 533-2622. 18 — Ash Wednesday. Room on Greenley Road, Sonora.Topics ChineseAuction and Dinner.Fund19 — Chinese New Year. vary. Free. Information: www.tchistory. raiser for Soroptimist International of Events with dates to be determined 20- March 20 —"Five Women Wear- org. Phone: 532-1317. Groveland. Located at The Grill at Pine TBA — S.O.S. (Save Our Styrofoam). ing the Same Dress,"by Alan Ball, Stage 12 — Disney's "Camp Rock." Per- Mountain Lake. Held in March or April. For Bring your clean No. 6 styrofoam to be 3Theater, 208 S. Green St., Sonora. Open- formed by both adults and children of tickets, call Liz Mattingly, 962-7648. Dog Obedience/Puppy Training recycled; Microtronics Way, Tuolumne ing times are 7 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays Mountain Youth and Community Theatre Business Park. Phone: 533-5912. and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Production. Showings at 7 p.m. Thursday, Classes. Mother Lode Fairgrounds, SoTBA — Dog Obedience/PuppyTrain- Sundays. For reservations, call 536-1778 Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Saturday and nora. Meets at 6 p.m. Wednesday nights ing Classes. Mother Lode Fairgrounds, or visit www.stage3.org. Sunday matinees, at The Webster Theatre, for one-hour classes held for eight con22 — Calaveras Master Gardeners' 14372 Cuesta Court, Sonora. Admission: secutiveweeks. Classes beginning JanuSonora. Meets Wednesday nights at 6 $12 general, $8 for students/seniors. Infor- ary, March, May and September. p.m. one-hour classes held for eight con- Open Garden Day. From 10 a.m. to 2 secutiveweeks. Classes beginning Janu- p.m. at the UC Master Gardeners' demon- mation: www.mountainyouthact.corn. Information: www.stkc.org. Phone: Mary Barrett, 536-0526. ary, March, May and September. stration garden, 891 Mountain Ranch Phone: 874-6408. 14 — Trivia Bee. 5 to 9 p.m. Benefits Information: www.stkc.org. Phone: Mary Road, San Andreas. Features free demonstrations, workshops, tours and advice. adult and children literacy programs and Barrett, 536-0526. APRIL Information: http: //cecentralsierra.ucanr. bookmobile. Held at the Sonora Opera edu/MasterGardeners.Phone:754-2880. Hall. Information: www.tuolcolib.org. 28 — 19th annual Mule Deer Foun- Phone: 694-2727. 5 — Easter. FEBRUARY dation Banquet. Includes steak dinner 14 — Muiphys Irish Day.Annual St. 4 — Easter Egg Hunt. From 9 a.m. to 1 — Pancake breakfast.American Le- with all the trimmings, games, live and si- Patrick's Day-themed event starts with an noon at Tuolumne Westside Memorial gion Post 58 will serve a pancake break- lent auction, raffle. Begins at 5 p.m. with 11 a.m. parade, Main Street, Murphys. Park. Sponsored by Tuolumne Park and fast from 8 to 11 a.m. at Sonora Veterans no-host bar, at the Elks Lodge, Elk Drive, Arts, crafts, events all day. Information: Recreation District. Info: www.tuolumwww.visitmurphys.corn.Phone: 728- nerecreation.corn. Phone: 928-1214. Memorial Hall, 9 N. Washington St. in Sonora Phone: Bill, 743-5922. downtown Sonora. Tickets $7 for adults 28- May 3 - "Mary Poppins."East 3371. 5 — Pancake breakfast.American Le17 — St. Patrick's Day. and $3 for children under 10. Proceeds go Sonora Theatre, Curtain times are 7 p.m. gion Post 58 will serve a pancake breakto community projects. The menu in- Thursdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. 20 — First day of spring. fast from 8 to 11 a.m. at Sonora Veterans 22 — Calaveras Master Gardeners' Memorial Hall, 9 N. Washington St. in cludes pancakes, sausage, scrambled Saturdays, Sundays through Thursday, eggs, biscuits and gravy, orange juice, and 11175 Washington St.. For reservations, Open Garden Day.From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. downtown Sonora. Tickets $7 for adults coffee, milk and tea. Information: www. call 532-3120 or visit www.sierrarep.org. at the UC Master Gardeners' demonstra- and $3 for children under 10. Proceeds go americanlegionsonora.org. Phone: Com22 — Susan Lamb Cook, Cello Con- tion garden, 891 Mountain Ranch Road, to community projects. The menu inmander Lonald Lott, 4024204. cert. Held at the Red Church, downtown San Andreas. Features free demonstra- cludes pancakes, sausage, scrambled 1 — Annual Chili Cook Off.Daylong Sonora. Part of St. James Concert Series. tions, workshops, tours and advice. Infor- eggs, biscuits and gravy, orange juice, and

Calendar

Recreation Guide 2015 Because dates and event locations change, checkThe Weekender entertainment guide — published every Thursday and available free at stores and hotels throughout Tuolumne and Calaveras counties — for up-to4ate information.

Information: www.sjconcertseries.org. Phone: 536-0825.

coffee, milk and tea. Information: www. americanlegionsonora.org. Phone: Commander Lonald Lott, 402-8204. 5 — Columbia Victorian Easter Celebration, Parade and Egg Hunts. Registration begins at 11 a.m.; parade at 12:30. Also features children's Easter egg hunts. Sponsored by the Columbia Chamber of Commerce. Information: www.visitcolumbiacalifornia.corn. Phone: 536-1672. 9 thru 20 — 28th annual IN FOCUS PhotographyShow. Times and location of exhibition to be announced. Information: w w w .tuolumnecountyarts.org. Phone: 532-ARTS I2787). 10 — Golf Tournament. Mountain Springs Golf Course; 1 p.m. shotgun start. Benefits Tuolumne County Senior Center's Meals on Wheels program. Information: www.sierraseniorproviders.org. Phone: 533-2622. 12 — Julie Sieben, Soprano Concert. Held at the Red Church, downtown Sonora. Part of the St. James Concert Series. Information: www.sjconcertseries.org. Phone: 536-0825. 12-13 — 34th annual Home and Garden Show. Popular annual show runs 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at the Mother Lode Fairgrounds, Sonora. Free admission, free shuttle from The Junction. Sponsored by The Union Democrat. For exhibitor information, call 5884560 or 532-7151. 13 — Good Friday. 14 — Rites of Spring Auction. Features original art, handcrafted items, goods, services, vacation opportunities, live entertainment, food, music. From 5 to 9 p.m. at the Mother Lode Fairgrounds, John Muir building. Cost: $35. Benefits the Sierra Waldorf School. Information: www.sierrawaldorf.corn. Phone: 9840454. 18 - "OffThe Beaten Path" run. Sponsored by and benefits Mind Matters Clinic. Information: www.mindmattersclinic.org. Phone: 728-2184. 18 — 36th annual Old Mill Run.This 10K Run, 2-Mile Run/Walk, Kids Mini Mile, and Kids Mile event begin at 9 a.m. Benefits the Tuolumne County Community Christmas Eve Dinner. Phone: Cathie Peacock, 586-4802. 25 — ICES Children's Fair.A free day of information and fun for parents and young children. Parents visit information booths while children engage in activities. Entertainment, giveaways. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Mother Lode Fairgrounds. Information: www.icesagency.org, or 5330377. 25 — 59th annual Lamplight Dinner. Social hour starts at 5:30 p.m., dinner 6:30 p.m., at the Mother Lode Fairgrounds, Manzanita Building. Features a prominent historical speaker and awards. Presented by Tuolumne County Historical Society. Open to public. Advance reservations required: Information: www.tchistory.org. Phone: 532-1317. 20 — Pirates of Pawszance Spring Champagne Bmnch.Allproceeds benefit the Humane Society of Tuolumne County. Information: www.hsotc.org. Phone: 984-5489. 25 — Spring Festival.This free event is open to the public and features arts and crafts, live music and entertainment, family fun. Information: www.sonoraca.corn. Phone:ShealaWi lkinson,532-7725. 26 — Calaveras Master Gardeners' Open GardenDay.Featuresfree dem onstrations, workshops, tours and advice. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the UC Master Gardeners' demonstration garden, 891 '

Recreation Guide 2015

Mountain Ranch Road, San Andreas. Infor3 — Pancake breakfast.American Lemation: http: //cecentralsierra.ucanr.edu/ gian Post 58 will serve a pancake breakMaster Gardeners. Phone: 754-2880. fast from 8 to 11 a.m. at Sonora Veterans Memorial Hall, 9 N. Washington St., Sonora. Tickets $7 for adults and $3 for chilEventS with dateS to be debermined dren under 10. Proceeds go to community projects. The menu includes pancakes, Railtown 1897 Wildflower Train.Spe- sausage,scrambled eggs, biscuits and cial afternoon Wildflower Train departs at gravy, orange juice, and coffee, milk and 4:30 p.m. from the Railtown 1897 Depot. tea. Information: www.americanlegionNew Melones Reservoir naturalists will sonora.org. Phone: Commander Lonald answer questions and point out wild- Lott, 402-8204. flower groupings along the way. Guests 5 — Cinco De Mayo. take away wildflower seeds to spread at 9 — NationalTrain Day.An annual celhome and a booklet to identify local wild- ebration of all things trains. Lots going on flowers. Special ticket prices apply. Train in and around the roundhouse, including capacity is limited, and reservations are speeder demonstrations, equipment that suggested. I n f ormation: www.rail- is seldom seen, and the belt-driven matown1897org. Phone: 984-3953. chine shop in operation. Information: Railtown 1897 Opening Weekend. www.railtown1897org. Phone: 984-3953. Kickoff for Railtown's regular 2015 steam9-10 — Mother Lode Roundup.Tutrain operating season. Grand opening olumne County's biggest annual event. festivities both days. Calaveras, Mariposa s Washi ngand Tuolumne county residents ride trains Includesparade down Sonora' for free (proof of residency required). ton Street, rodeo at the Mother Lode FairThose who arrive at 7 a.m. can watch the grounds, a dance, barbecue and Mother' s Day breakfast. Information: www.mothercrew prepare the train for the day in the loderoundup.corn. historic roundhouse. Information: www. 10 — Mother's Day. railtown1897org. Phone: 984-3953. 10 — Railtown 1897 Mother's Day California Native Plant Sale.Bi-annual sale from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Jamestown Celebration.Daylong Mom's Day celebraRocca Park. Information: www.sierrafoot- tion. Special treats for moms aboard regular steam-powered excursion trains when hillscnps.org. Phone: 928-9281. accompanied by a child. Trains depart on the hour from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Information: www.railtown1897org. Phone: 984MAY 3953. 14 — Tuolumne County Historical So1-20 - "Seascape with Sharks and Dancer, by Don Nigro, Stage 3Theater, ciety Program. Starts 7 p.m. at the Tu208 S. Green St., Sonora. Opening times olumne County Library Community are 7 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Satur- Room. Topics on local history vary. Free days and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. and open to public. Information: www. For reservations, call 536-1778 or visit tchistory.org. Phone: 532-1317. 14-17 — Calaveras County Fair and www.stage3.org. 2 — Sierra Waldorf May Day Festival. Jumping Frog Jubilee.All day, all weekWelcome in Spring with Maypole dancing, end at the Calaveras County Fairgrounds arts and crafts, live music and many chil- (Frogtown) in Angels Camp. Information: dren's activities. From 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. www.frogtown.org. Phone: 736-2561. 14-17 — Pine Cone Singers' Concert. at Sierra Waldorf School, 19234 Rawhide Road, Jamestown. Information: www.si- Performances held at 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunerrawaldorf.corn. Phone: 984-0454. 2-3 — 55th annual Firemen's Muster. day, at the Groveland Evangelical Free Volunteer fire crews from around the Church, 19172 Ferretti Rd., Groveland. western United States compete in Colum- Tickets: $10 in advance, $12 at the door. bia Volunteer Fire Department Engine Co. Children under 12 free. Bob Swan, 962No. 1 events including hose cart races, 6535. 16 — Fifth annual Pet Blessing. 10 bucket brigade, skills competition, hand pumper contests; 10 a.m. Saturday on a.m. on the lawn at Columbia Presbyterian Main Street in Columbia. Saturday dance. "Church of the 49ers," 11155 Jackson Free admission. Phone: 533-4479. Street, C o l u mbia. I n f o rmation:

www.49erchurch.org. Phone: 532-2441. 16 — Armed Forces Day. 24 — Calaveras Master Gardeners' Open Garden Day. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the UC Master Gardeners' demonstration garden, 891 Mountain Ranch Road, San Andreas. Features free demonstrations, workshops, tours and advice. Information: http: //cecentralsierra.ucanr. edu/MasterGardeners.Phone:754-2880. 25 — Memorial Day Salute. 10:45 a.m. in the old Veterans section of the Columbia Cemetery. Features prayers, information on Memorial Day, the Battle Hymn of the Republic, and a salute to those buried in this section. Ceremony is conducted by theColumbia Foot Dragoons and Columbia Grenadine Belles. Information: www.visitcolumbiacalifornia.corn. Phone: 536-1 672. 25 — Memorial Day. 2841 — Diggins TentTown 1852.Living history event depicting early Gold Rush History. More than 150 costumed volunteers put on reenactments, theater shows and more during this four-day event. Information: www.parks.ca.gov/ columbia. Phone: 588-9128. 29-June 29 - "Unnecessary Farce." East Sonora Theatre, Curtain times are 7 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays through Thursday, 11175 Washington St. For reservations, call 532-3120 or visit www.sierrarep.

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by a local Murphys restaurant. Runs June through September. Phone: 728-1948. 6 — Royal FlushOuthouse Races. From 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Eproson Park 22901 Meadow Drive, Twain Harte. Features races in outhouses built by contestants, craft vendors, entertainment, food and drink. Fun for the family. 7 — Pancake breakfast.American Legion Post 58 will serve a pancake breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. at Sonora Veterans Memorial Hall, 9 N. Washington St. in downtown Sonora. Tickets $7 for adults and $3 for children under 10. Proceeds go to community projects. The menu includes pancakes, sausage, scrambled eggs, biscuits and gravy, orange juice, and coffee, milk and tea. Information: www. americanlegionsonora.org. Phone: Commander Lonald Lott, 402-8204. 11 — Tuolumne County Historical Society Monthly Program.At 7 p.m. at the Tuolumne County Library Community Room on GreenleyRoad, Sonora.Topics vary. Free. Information: www.tchistory. org. Phone: 532-1317. 13 — GhostTours.Columbia State Historic Park. "Join us on the tour to find out where they lurk and the stories behind those who lived in Columbia during the Gold Rush." Information: www.visitcolumbiacalifornia.corn. Phone: 588-9128. 14 — Flag Day. 15-19 — 12th annual Summer Arts olg. Camp.ATCAA partnership with Columbia 30 — Memorial Day Services.At Cart- State Historic Park. Designed to partner ers Cemetery, Tuolumne. Sponsored by children ages 7 to 12 years old with profesVFW Post 4748Tuolumne. A tribute to vet- sional artists and performers to promote eranswho gave all.Phone: Commander exploration and self-expression of their Aaron Rasmussen, 928-3347. creative interests and appreciation of the 30 — Eighth annual Reagan Dinner. arts. 9 a.m. to noon in Columbia State HisAt the Sonora Elks Lodge. Sponsored by toric Park. Tuolumne County Arts Alliance: the Tuolumne County Republican Central www.tuolumnecountyarts.org. Phone: Committee. For tickets/information: Con- 532-ARTS (2787). 21 — Railtown 1897 Father's Day Celnie Williams, 499-5039. 30 — Twain HarteA La Carte.Features ebration. Daylong Father's Day celebrawine tasting and gourmet foods. Benefits tion includes special treats for dads aboard local charities. From 5 to 7 p.m. at regular steam-powered excursion trains Meadow Plaza, Twain Harte. Held by Twain w hen accompanied by a child.Trains deHarte Soroptimists. Phone: Patt Koral, part on the hour from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 928-1 616. Information: w w w.railtown1897org. Phone: 984-3953. 21 — Father's Day. EVentS With dateS to be announaed 21 — Summer begins. 21 — Calaveras Master Gardeners' Dog Obedience/Puppy Training Open Garden Day.From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Classes. Mother Lode Fairgrounds, So- at the UC Master Gardeners' demonstranora. Meets Wednesday nights at 6 p.m. tion garden, 891 Mountain Ranch Road, one-hour classes held for eight consecu- San Andreas. Features free demonstrative weeks. Classes beginning January, tions, workshops, tours and advice. InforMarch, May and September. Information: mation: http: //cecentralsierra.ucanr.edu/ www.stkc.org. Phone: Mary Barrett, 536- Master Gardeners. Phone: 754-2880. 0526. 26-Aug. 16 - "The Music Man" Fallon Annual Spring Garden Tour.Informa- House Theatre, Columbia State Historic tion: www.cetuolumne.ucdavis.edu. Park. Curtain times are 7 p.m. Thursdays Phone: 532-5912. through Saturdays and 2 p.m. Saturdays, Black and White Charity Ball.Set for 5 Sundays through Thursday. For reservap.m. at Foothill Horizons Outdoor Educa- tions, call 532-3120 or visit www.sierrarep. tion Center, Sonora. Presented by the org. Black Hat Foundation. Features hors d'oeuvres, drinks, dinner, dance, auction. Information: blackhatfoundation.org. Eventswith datesto beannounaed Phone: Sandy, 586-2562. Plant, Rummage & Bake Sale.8 a.m. S.O.S. (Save Our Styrofoam); Bring to 4 p.m. Held at Mono Village Shopping your clean No. 6 styrofoam to be recycled; Center over the weekend in middle-late Microtronics Way, Tuolumne Business May. Proceeds from sale go to scholarship Park. Information: ucanr.org/sites/tufund. Phone: Vicki Smith, 928-3999. olumne county master gardeners. Phone: 533-5912. HabitatHouse Party.Imm anuelLodge 3UNE on Confidence-SouthFork Road, Twain Harte, benefitting Habitat for Humanity of 5 — First Fridays in the Park. From Tuolumne County. www.habitattuolumne. 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Murphys Community org. Phone: 536-0970. Park. Features a free concert open to the Tuolumne Lumber Jubilee. Biggest public, family fun, food and drink catered annual event in Tuolumne township. Fea-

Sonora, California tures a parade, craft fair, arm wrestling, tug-o-war, logging events, carnival and more. Information: www.tuolumnelumberjubilee.corn. Senior Expo. Held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Mother Lode Fairgrounds no fee to attend; free information relevant to the senior community; "Senior Idol" talent contest; w w w .seniorfair.corn. Phone: 532-1 607. Summer "KASA Kamps." ATCAA partnership with Tuolumne County Recreation Department. Arts Academy at KASA, 251-B Barretta St., Sonora. Half days and Full days available. Information: www.tuolumnecountyart s.org. Phone: 532-3234.

3ULY 4 — Railtown 1897 Fourth of July Celebration. Steam train rides and live music. Enjoy the oak shaded picnic grounds. Information: www.railtown1897. org. Phone: 984-3953. 4 — Columbia's Glorious Fourth of July Celebration.Columbia State Historic Park.Sponsored by the Columbia Chamber of Commerce, Columbia's most popular event features a parade, Mother Lode Brass & Reed Band free concert, dancing in the street, old-fashioned contests, barbecue. Information: www.visitcolumbiacalifornia.corn. Phone: 536-1672. 4 — Fourth of July Parade. Downtown Twain Harte. Information: www. twainhartecc.corn, or 5864482. 4 — independence Day. 5 — Pancake breakfast.American Legion Post 58 will serve a pancake breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. at Sonora Veterans Memorial Hall, 9 N. Washington St. in downtown Sonora. Tickets $7 for adults and $3 for children under 10. Proceeds go to community projects. The menu includes pancakes, sausage, scrambled eggs, biscuits and gravy, orange juice, and coffee, milk and tea. Information: www. americanlegionsonora.org. Phone: Commander Lonald Lott, 402-8204. 8 — First Fridays in the Park.Features a free concert open to the public, family fun, food and drink catered by a local Murphys restaurant. From 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Murphys CommunityPark. Runs June through September. Phone 728-1 948. 9-12 — Mother Lode Fair.Motherlode Fairgrounds, Sonora. Features carnival, livestock auction, art and agricultural exhibits, live music and more. Ilnformation: http: //motherlodefair.org/. Phone: 5327428. 10 — "Blues in the Night,"by Sheldon Epps, Stage 3 Theater, 208 S. Green St., Sonora. Opening times are 7 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. For reservations, call 536-1778 or visit www.stage3.org. 11 — GhostTours.Columbia State Historic Park. "Join us on the tour to find out where they lurk and the stories behind those who lived in Columbia during the Gold Rush." Information: www.visitcolumbiacalifornia.corn. Phone: 588-9128. 18 — Yappy Hour Pawty 8r. Auction. All proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Tuolumne County. Check website for updates: www.hsotc.org. Phone: 9845489. 26 — Calaveras Master Gardeners' Open Garden Day. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the UC Master Gardeners' demonstration garden, 891 Mountain Ranch Road, San Andreas. Features free demonstrations, workshops, tours and advice.

Sonora, California Information: http: //cecentralsierra.ucanr. edu/MasterGardeners.Phone:754-2880. 26-27 —Wines in the Pines.Meadow Plaza in Twain Harte. Noon to 3 p.m. Information: www.twainhartecc.corn, or 586-

Recreation Guide 2015 www.grovelandmuseum.org, or 9620300. 6 — Pancake breakfast.American Legion Post 58 will serve a pancake breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. at Sonora Veterans Memorial Hall, 9 N. Washington St. in downtown Sonora. Tickets are $7 for adults and $3 for children under 10. The menu incl udes pancakes,sausage,scrambled eggs, biscuits and gravy, orange juice, and coffee or tea. 7 — Labor Day. 12-13 — 47th Annual Me-Wuk Indian Acorn Festival.Features vendors, traditional dancing, games, Indian crafts, pit barbecue, Indian tacos. From 10 a.m. to dusk,Tuolumne Rancheria,19595 Mi Wu St., Tuolumne. Phone: 928-5300. 12 - '49er Festival and Chili Cook Off. Features a breakfast, fly-over, parade, live entertainment, chili cook off and tasting, vendors, raffles, kids games, petting zoo. From 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. in downtown Groveland. Information: www.groveland. org, or 962-0429. 13-16 — Rosh Hashanah. 18-Oct. 18 - "Always, Patsy Cline." Fallon House Theatre, Columbia State Historic Park. Curtain times are 7 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays throughThursday. For reservations, call 532-3120 or visit www. sierrarep.org. 6 — California Admission Day Parade. Sponsored by Native Sons of the Golden West, Parlor 258. At 1:30p.m. at Columbia State Historic Park. Information: www.visitcolumbiacalifornia.corn. 11-Oct. 11 — "The Glass Menagerie" by Tennessee Williams, Stage 3 Theater, 208 S. Green St., Sonora. Opening times are 7 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. For reservations, call 536-1778 or visit www.stage3.org. 11 — Patriot Day. 19-20 — Sierra Quilt Guild Quilt and Threads Show. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 19, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 20, at the Mother Lode Fairgrounds. Proceeds benefit community projects and scholarships. Phone: 586-7982, or visit www.sierraquiltguild.corn. 22 — Yom Kippur. 25 — Native American Day 26 — Exotic Animals and Birds Show. Presented by the Gold Country Aviculture Society. Held at the Mother Lode Fairgrounds. Phone: 532-3496 or e-mail: parrots©sonnet.corn. 26 — PioneerDays. Beginsat 9 a.m . to dusk Main Street will have family games, street vendors and western re enactment.

tures a competitive grape stomp, vendors, live entertainment, food, arts and crafts. From 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Murphys Community Park and downtown Murphys. Information: www.calaveraswines.org, calaverasgrapestomp.corn, or 754-0127. 3% — Oktoberfest.Features entertainment, beer tasting, crafts. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Eproson Park in Twain Harte. Information: www.twainhartecc.corn, or 586-4482. 12 —Columbus Day. 16-Nov. 29 - "The Drowsy Chaperone." East Sonora Theatre, Curtain times are 7 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays through Thursday, 11175 Washington St.. For reservations, call 532-3120 or visit www.sier-

532-6561. Contra Dance. Dances held at 7:30 p.m. on the third Saturday of each month attheAronos Research Women's Club,37 E. Elkin St., Sonora. Live music. All ages 4482. welcome and no experience is necessary. Donation is $7 for adults. An optional potluck dinner begins at 6:30 p.m. Phone: Events with dates ta be announaed 532-6025. Open Air Market. Year-round event Bear Valley Music Festival.Two-week every Saturday and Sunday at Mono Vilmusic concert series focusing on a variety lage Center. Features community yard of genres of music including classical and sales, vendors, fresh produce, crafts, anpopular music. Held at Bear Valley. Infortiques, tools, clothing and miscellaneous mation: www.bearvalleymusicfestival.org. items. Sponsored by Kiwanis Club of Phone: 800-458-1618, 753-2574. Greater Sonora. Contact: Al Smith, Mountain Youth and Community asmith@mlode.corn. Phone:532-0140. Theatre Production.Showings at 7 p.m. Guided Hike, Big Trees State Park. Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Satra rep.org. North Grove guided hikes offered yearurdayand Sunday matinees,atThe Web22-31 — Realms of Darkness. Local round at 1 p.m every Saturday. When ster Theatre, 14372 Cuesta Court, Sonora. 4-H clubshost a haunted house, on South the snow covers the ground, the hikes Admission: $12 general, $8 for students/ Washington Street across from post of- become guided snowshoe walks. seniors. Information: www.mountainfice. Not recommended for young chil- Snowshoes are provided free, first youthact.corn. Phone: 874-6408. dren. Phone: 533-5695. come first served. The park entrance fee San Andreas Rumble.A 9 a.m. to 3 31 — Halloween is $10 ($12 on holiday weekends) per p.m. free event featuring cars, food, carload. No reservations. Check in at music, vendors. Held at the Calaveras the warming hut by the parking lot no Government Center, San Andreas. InforNOVEMBER later than 12:30 p.m. Phone: 795-3840. mation: www.sanandreasmerchants. Murphys Historical Walking Tour. corn. Phone: 754-0127. 13-Dec. 20 —"A Christmas Carol." Fal- Tours of town landmarks and history. Bear Valley Star Party and Astronlon House Theatre, Columbia State His- Starts at 10 a.m. every Saturday at the omy Classes.Bear Valley, in conjunction toric Park. Curtain times are 7 p.m. Old Timer's Museum, across from Murwith Bear Valley Music Festival organizers, Thursdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. phys Hotel. It's free and no appointment are organizing this free events. The actual Saturdays, Sundays throughThursday. For is necessary. Information: www.visitdate will determined by the moon pattern. reservations, call 532-3120 or visit www. murphys.corn/tour. Phone: 728-1160. See website for updated information: sierrarep.org. Columbia State Historic Park Gold www.bearvalleystarparty.corn. Phone: 14-Dec. 20 - "Almost Maine," by Rush Days.Columbia park staff and vol753-2574 or 800-458-1618. John Cariani, Stage 3 Theater, 208 S. unteers, in period attire, open many exBig Band Street Dance.Band director Green St., Sonora. Opening times are 7 hibits not normally viewable by the Rod Harris and his orchestra plan to perp.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and public. Held from 1 to 4 p.m. the second form. Free admission. Sponsored by 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. For reser- Saturday of each month. Information: Friends of Columbia State Historic Park. vations, call 536-1778 or visit www. www.visitcolumbiacalifornia.corn. Phone: 532-1885 or 532-3184. stage3.org. Phone: 588-9128. 26 — Thanksgiving. Columbia State Historic ParkTown 27 — Annual Historic Downtown So- Tour. An hour-long walking tour of town AUGUST nora Christmas Parade. Begins at 5:30 led by a park staff member or docent. p.m. Held in rain or shine. Phone: 532- See the actual gold discovery site, learn 7 — Magic of the Night. From 6 to 9 7725. about the buildings and early merchants p.m. City of Sonora will have live music, of Columbia. Tours held at 11 a.m. every dancing, antique cars, street entertainSaturday and Sunday. Information: ment, games and more at this free sumDECEMBER www.parks.ca.gov/columbia.Phone: mertime event. Held in downtown Sonora. 588-9128. Phone: 532-7725 or visit www.sonoraca. 18 — Bean Feed, noon, Washington Story Time. Features storytelling, corn. Street, Sonora, in front ofThe Sportsman. songs, fingerplays and crafts. Held 21-Sept. 13 - "Macbeth." East SoFree lunch served by Galen "Mut" 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and nora Theatre, Curtain times are 7 p.m. Mutzner and crew. Thursdays at Sonora Main Library, 480 Thursdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. 18 — Pop Hudson Memorial Christ- Greenley Road. Information: www.tuolSaturdays, Sundays through Thursday, mas Sing,12:45to1:30 p.m., Courthouse colib.org. Phone: 533-5507. 11175 Washington St.. For reservations, Sqaure, downtown Sonora. Presented by Family Movie Saturday.New and call 532-3120 or visit www.sierrarep.org. The Union Democrat. classic family-oriented films with a G or 25 — Christmas Day. PG rating shown from 2 to 4 p.m., So31 — New Year's Eve. nora Main Library, 480 Greenley Road. Information: www.tuolcolib.org. Phone: SEPTEMBER 533-5507. Family Sing-Along and Story Time. 4 — Friday Night Music in the Park. ONGOING EVENTS A 30-minute free family program, aimed From 5:30 to 8 p.m. in Murphys CommuOCTOBER at children ages 0 to 4, held at 11 a.m. nity Park. Community Dance. "Just Dance" each Friday. Each week features story5 — Calaveras Community Band 3P — Celebration of Arts.Held at So- meets from 1 to 4 p.m. every third Sunday teller B.Z. Smith, musician Dave RagCampground Program.An end-of-summer bash with the Calaveras Community nora Opera Hall. Phone: 532-2787 or visit at the Presbyterian Church of the 49ers in l and o r m u s ician/storyteller B i l l Columbia. Live music. Ballroom, swing, Roberson. Held at Out Of Hand and SiBand. Set for 6 p.m. at Ironhorse Camp- www.tuolumnecountyarts.org. 3 — West Point Lumberjack Day.Be- Latin and country western dancing. Free erra Waldorf School Store, 189 S. Washground Amphitheater at the Glory Hole Recreation Area. Information: www.usbr. gins at 7 a.m. with a pancake breakfast, dance instruction is offered during the ington St., Sonora. Phone: 533-1309. followed by a parade at 11 a.m., logging dance and a line dance is taught during Tuolumne County Master Gardengov/newmelones or 536-9094 ext. 221. 5- 6 — Chief Fuller Day.Begins at 10 contests, car show, food booths and bar- intermission. All ages welcome and no ers' Open Garden Day.Features free a.m. to dusk. Live music, vendors, food becue, horseshoe tournament, music, old- partner is needed. A $5 donation is re- demonstrations at Master Gardeners' and entertainment. west show performances, special games quested to benefit the church's Historic demonstration garden. Typically held 6 — Labor Day Country Barbecue. and activities for children 5 years of age Sanctuary Restoration and Maintenance from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. the first Saturday Features free children's activities, horse and up, clowns. Sponsored byWest Point Fund. Phone: 532-1859. of the month, except for holiday week"Poetry Night. Open readings, held ends, at 251 S. Barretta St., Sonora. Insoccer and other horse events, plus live Boosters Club, it benefits Bret Harte FFA. entertainment. Proceeds benefit the The event is free. Parking costs $4. A from 7 to 8 p.m. on the third Friday of each f o r m a t i o n Southern Tuolumne County Historical So- shuttle from the parking lot to downtown month atSonora Joe's Coffee Shoppe, ucanr.org/sites/tuolumne county masciety. From 2 to 7 p.m. at the Pine Moun- is available. Information: 293-4325. 140 S. Washington St., Sonora. Signups ter gardeners. Phone: hotline 5333 — 22nd annual Calaveras Grape for readings begin at 6:30 p.m. Admission 5912, office 533-5696. tain Lake Stables on Clements Road, off of Ferretti Road, in Groveland. Information: Stomp and Gold Rush Street Faire.Fea- is free. Phone: moderator Denella Kimura, Columbia College Jazz Series Con-

31 cert. Typically runs first weekend of each month, times vary. Concerts held at the College Dogwood Building. Directed by Rod Harris. Information: harrisr©yosemite.edu. Phone: 588-5211. First Saturday Flea Market by yosemite Chamber of Commerce.Starts at 8 a.m. the first Saturday of each month, from May to October, at Mary Laveroni Community Park, Groveland. Free admission for buyers Information: www.yosemitechamberofcommerce. corn. Phone: 962-0429. Fresh Fridays Farmers Market. Features farm-fresh fruit and vegetables, baked goods, fresh foods, wine and drinks, live music. From 5 p.m. to dusk Fridays through September at Utica Park in Angels Camp. Information: www.angelscampbusiness.corn. Phone: 736-1333. Sonora Certified Farmers Market. Features farm-fresh produce, live entertainment, pastries and breads, olive oils and crafts. From 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturdays, May through October, at Stewart an d T h eall s t r eets, S o nora. Information: w w w . sonoraca.corn. Phone: 532-7725. Groveland Farmers Market. Features fresh produce and eggs, jams, jellies and salsas, dried fruits and nuts, hand-crafted items, flowers and herbs. From 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays at Mountain Sage Nursery, 18653 Main St., Groveland. Information: www.mtnsage.corn. Phone: 962-5620. Tuolumne Farmers Market.Features organic fresh produce, fruit, eggs, pastries, jewelry, flowers, food, live music. Coincides with Tuolumne Concerts in the Park. From 4 p.m. to dusk Wednesdays from late spring to late summer, at Tuolumne Westside Park. Phone: 928-4351. Tuolumne Concerts in the Park. Run from 6p.m. to dusk Wednesdays, Tuolumne Westside Park. Features live local bands. Free admission. Coincides with Tuolumne Farmers Market. Information: www.tuolumnerecreation.corn. Phone: 928-1214. 19th annual Cruise Nights.First and third Wednesdays, May through September, The Junction shopping center, Sonora. Phone: 533-3548. Movies Underthe Stars. He ldTuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sunday, Memorial Day through Labor Day. Saturdays through September. At Pinecrest Lake Amphitheater, off Highway 108. Showtime is 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $6.50 per person, under 3 years old is free. Information: www. pinecresttheater.corn. Concerts in the Pines. From 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday nights, beginning Father' s Day Weekend, at Eproson Park Stage. Free live music. Information: www. twainhartecc.corn. Phone: 586-4482. Movies in the Park. Movies outdoors every Saturday night from June to September at Mary Laveroni Community Park in Groveland. Check the Yosemite Chamber of Commerce website for event schedule and details: www. groveland.org/Calendar. html, or grovelandmoviesinthepark.blogspot.corn. Diesel train rides. Wednesdays in July. Information: www.railtown1897. org. Phone: 984-3953.

Recreation Guide 2015

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Eproson House ....... 209 586-3700 22930 Twain Harte Drive — Certified Angus steak, fresh seafood delivered daily from Hawaii. Delicious pasta dishes, great wine spirits from the Eagle Tavern. Dine in the beautiful dining room or outdoor patio.

El DoradoMotel ...........209586-4479 22675 Black Hawk Drive. El Dorado Motel is located in Twain Harte, surrounded by pine trees offering nice and cleanrooms with microwave,refrigerator,coffeemaker, flat screen TVs with HD channels and free wireless internet. Half a mile to restaurants, shopping, golf and all event activities. www.eldoradomoteltwainharte.corn

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McCaffrey HouseBed 4 Breakfast Inn

sss 586-0757

23251 Highway 108 — Pure elegance in a wilderness setting. Artfully decorated country inn. 8 guest rooms, private baths, satellite TV, fireplaces and gourmet breakfast. Complimentary wifi. AAA Four Diamond, Select Registry property. $149-$200. Specializing in small weddings. www.mccaffreyhouse.corn

Twain Harte Rentals,Vacation Cabins 4 Homes .. 209586-5204 22910 Twain Harte, Suite 101, —Twain Harte's "Original" vacation home rental company. We make your family stay fun and memorable and have cabins and homes for every budget! We look forward to your stay! www.twainharterentals.corn.

Wildwood Inn

SportsmanCoffee Shop 209586-5448

22978JoaquinGull yRoad— Open daily 7a.m.to2 p.m. We have a large variety of George's homemadesausagedaily and the best breakfast in town.

The Rock of Twain Harte ......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209 586-2080 23068 Fuller Road — Great Food, Excellent Wine List, 15 Beers on Tap. Large Plasma TVs.Open 7daysaweek forBreakfast,Lunch R Dinner.Outdoordiningon ourdeck, or inside our lodge with a large stone fireplace. Free WiFi.

209 586-2900

22960 Meadow Drive. The Wildwood Inn is located in the beautiful summer and winter resort village of Twain Harte. The lnn offers nice and cozy rooms with microwave, refrigerator, coffeemaker, flat screen TVs and free wireless internet. Walking distance to restaurants, shopping, golf and all events and activities. Come visit us. www.wildwoodinn.corn.

I!,'!r!Cefrf!f0(meet!t!t Any Event, Inc.

209 352-6267

Email: info@anyeventmkcom — Event Planning, Catering and Winery Tours. There is no event too large or too small. Let us plan your Event to Remember. www.anyeventml.corn

MotherLode Adventures Charter Services,LLC ...209 677-3183 23184 Mark Twain Dr.- When planning your vacation, day trip, or special event, MLA provides professional travel and tourism assistance! From wedding shuttle services, and airport transportation, to Yosemite and wine tasting tours, let us do the driving! Winter, spring, summer or fall, we invite you to "Discover the Hidden Treasures of the Sierra ... and Beyond!" www.mlacharters.corn

Twain Harte Miniature Golf

209 586-5569

23098 Fuller Road — Celebrating over 60 years of affordable family fun! Now open spring, summer and fall! Open everyday from early June through Labor Day and open Fri.-Sun. during the spring and fall. The course is also available to rent for private parties. Call for hours. For more information visit our Facebook page!

Twain Harte Golf Club and Mickey's on the Green Casual Dining 4 Catering 209 586-3131

The "Jewel" of th e Sierra. Nine hole course surrounded by towering pines. www.twainhartegolf.corn/

I!M!r! ll!!!! g Caffe Blossom

209 586-9347

23063 Fuller Rd., Twain Harte — Organic coffee and espresso, fresh baked goods, open 7 days a. week serving Breakfast I Lunch. Come see us and try our great drinks, beer and wine. Wifi and live music. For a complete list of events check out our Facebook Events Page. Facebook.corn/caffeblossom

China House Restaurant . El Jardin Restaurant .

209 586-1898

22997Joaquin Gull yRd.— ""Voted Best Mexican Restaurant in the County," for 10 years. Enjoy the freshest in fine Mexican cuisine. Daily lunch specials, great tequila margaritas and wine. Open 7 days aweek 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. ~

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All That Matters FramingGifts-Gallery ..........209 586-1976 22990 Joaquin Gully Road — Weare a full service custom frame shop with client consultation and design assistance. Over 80 local artists are represented in the gallery .Creative artworksand giftsforany occasion.

The Harte of the Kitchen

. 209 586-5631

22950 Joaquin Gully Road — Located in downtown Twain Harte. We carry kitchen gadgets, pans, as well as aprons, towels, cook and bakeware and many specialty items. If you cannot find an item in our store we will be more than happy to try and finditforyou.Open 7daysaweek.Mondaythrough Saturday10a.m.to 5p.m . and Sundays11a.m .to 3 p.m .W interhoursaresubjectto change.Wehopeto see you soon.

Twain Harte Lumber 6r AceHardware Inc....... 209 586-3571 22956 Twain Harte Drive —Come visit the biggest little hardware store around. Our sales people are here to help you find whatever you need to get the job done. Rental Equipment Available.www.twainharteace.com

Twain HarteMarket

. 209 586-6100

Twain Harte Village Shopping Center — Tuolumne County's natural and organic food store. Catering, deli, bakery, meat/fish/poultry counter, wine and beer, floral R gifts. Grocery.

Twain Harte Pharmacy EiVariety........ . . . . . . . 209 586-3225 Twain Harte Village Shopping Center — Indisputably the most "unique" drug and variety store. A full-service pharmacy,fashions,fabrics,crafts,and seasonalmerchandise. Also voted "Best Gift Store" three years running.

209 586-1045

22968 Joaquin Gully Road —Serving Twain Harte since 1988. Authentic Chinese cuisine. Clean friendly family atmosphere. Freshest ingredients and bestvalue. Catering and take out available.

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March 17 April 25 June 13 July 4. August 22 September 12

St. Patrick's Day "Shooter Scooter Relay" Dog Parade "Who Let The Dogs Out?" Town-wide Community Yard Sale Parade 6 Family Fun Day Town-wide Community Yard Sale Dam Duck Race

Checkoutourwebsitewww. TwainHarteBA.corn orFacebookTwain HarteLiving