Recreation

Only two hours from the San Francisco Bay Area and situated midway between Yosemite Valley and Lake Tahoe this ideal location provides ample opportunity to explore California's "Gold Country."

Enjoy the ambiance of famous gold rush towns. We are conveniently located near historic Columbia, Jamestown, and Sonora in Tuolumne County (Too-all-um-eee). While you are here, visit Yosemite, South of us.

Historic Sites

Visit many State Historic Parks including Railtown 1897 where you can tour an authentic railroad roundhouse and take a scenic train ride. Also, see Columbia State Park and time travel back to the 1850's in the preserved Gold Rush-era business district. While you're there participate in attractions including a ride on a 100 year-old stagecoach and panning for gold.

Alpine Skiing, Snow Play and Snowboarding

Tuolumne County is a winter wonderland with plenty of snow for sledding, cross country skiing and snow play at Leland Meadows Snow Park. Or, take advantage of downhill Alpine skiing and snowboarding just 30 miles away at Dodge Ridge Resort.

Sightseeing and Activities

Enjoy the outdoors fishing, river rafting, and water skiing at numerous nearby lakes such as Lake Don Pedro, Melones Lake, Pinecrest Lake, and more! Visit Yosemite for the day to hike around beautiful waterfalls and photograph wildlife or tour nearby Moaning and California Caverns or Mercer Caverns for a fascinating lesson in geology.

Jamestown Gold Panning

Learn gold panning and sluicing on claim located in the historic Harvard Mine District of Jamestown, California. Find out more by visiting Jamestown Gold Panning.

Gambling and Theatre

For fantastic indoor activities gamble at the newly opened Black Oak Casino and Chicken Ranch Bingo and Casino. Then take your winnings antique shopping downtown Sonora and Jamestown for unique finds. Attend live Theatre at Sierra Repertory Theatre, Stage 3 Theatre Company, Fallon House, Black Bart Playhouse and Murphy's Creek Theatre.

Events

Tuolumne County is home to many festivals including the Christmas parade, Mother Lode Fair, Gold Rush Cultural Fair, Bach Festival, Quilt Show, Farmer's Market, and more. For a complete list of Sonora's festivals and events visit www.sonoraca.com or call (209) 532-7725.