Eleven Exciting Destinations for an Unforgettable Journey through Tuolumne County
Take a Dream Road Trip Through Tuolumne County
Love the great outdoors and history? Tuolumne County is the perfect pit stop on your San Francisco to Yosemite adventure!
With epic landscapes, a dash of history, and much more, this underrated gem is an unmissable destination for any road-tripper.
But did you know that Tuolumne County is also the gateway to Yosemite? Home to more than half of the National Park, it's the perfect detour for a few days before exploring nature's grandest theater.
Divide your Tuolumne County adventure into three main areas: Gold Rush Country, High Sierras, and the Yosemite region.
Gold Rush Country:Step back in time as you wander through charming Gold Rush towns, reminiscent of the Old West.
- Sonora: The largest town in Tuolumne County, steeped in Gold Rush history, offers a range of cool bars, boutiques, and eateries. Have a pint at the hip Sonora Brewing Company or sample the trendy cocktails at The Armory.
- Columbia State Historic Park: This old-school town, frozen in time since the 1850s, lets you explore Gold Rush architecture, visit working blacksmiths, and even try your hand at gold panning! Don't miss a slice of heaven at the St Charles Saloon or a schoolhouse sweet at the general store.
- Railtown 1897 State Historic Park: Calling all train enthusiasts! Discover a collection of vintage steam trains and old railway buildings, or step aboard a historic diesel locomotive for a 6-mile ride through Gold Country. Fun fact: films like Back to the Future 3 were filmed here!
- Jamestown: Stroll along the main street of this well-preserved Gold Rush town, then grab a scrumptious shake at the retro-cool Jamestown Frosty.
High Sierras:Experience the incredible outdoors surrounded by mountain peaks and pine forest.
- Pinecrest Lake: Perfect for hiking and water activities, this beautiful lake is nestled amongst nature's majesty. Take a boat or kayak or challenge yourself with the Cleo's Bath hike, a steep and dramatic path.
- Cover's Apple Ranch: A quaint country-style restaurant on a farm, famous for its mouthwatering apple pies and family-friendly petting zoo.
Yosemite Region:Prepare to be captivated as you explore picturesque towns, off-road adventures, and unspoiled spots within Yosemite National Park.
- Groveland: The "gateway town" to Yosemite via the Big Oak Flat Entrance, offers historical charm and fun, local hangouts like the Iron Door Saloon or Around the Horn Brewing Company.
- Miller's Off-Road Adventures: Hop in a vintage Jeep and discover the stunning landscapes of the Stanislaus National Forest on a thrilling off-road adventure.
- Hetch Hetchy Reservoir: Less visited than Yosemite Valley, this vast reservoir surrounded by majestic granite peaks offers hiking trails, incredible scenery, and a welcome break from the crowds.
- Rush Creek Lodge: Unwind at this idyllic mountain lodge, just a stone's throw from the Big Oak Flat Entrance. Relax in the spa, stuff your face at the restaurant, or lounge by the outdoor pool.
Looking for a quick overview? Here's a recommended itinerary:
- Tuolumne County, a hidden gem on your San Francisco to Yosemite road trip, boasts captivating landscapes and a rich Gold Rush history. (travel, Tuolumne County, history, San Francisco, Yosemite)
- The Gold Rush Country of Tuolumne County offers a taste of the Old West, with charming towns like Sonora, Columbia State Historic Park, Railtown 1897, and Jamestown. (Gold Rush Country, Sonora, Columbia State Historic Park, Railtown 1897, Jamestown)
- The High Sierras in Tuolumne County provide an outdoor adventure, complete with mountain peaks, pine forests, and attractions like Pinecrest Lake and Cover's Apple Ranch. (High Sierras, Pinecrest Lake, Cover's Apple Ranch)
- The Yosemite region showcases picturesque towns, off-road adventures, and unspoiled spots within Yosemite National Park, including Groveland, Miller's Off-Road Adventures, Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, and Rush Creek Lodge. (Yosemite Region, Groveland, Miller's Off-Road Adventures, Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, Rush Creek Lodge)
