As you meander through the undulating hills and sinuous roads of California’s Gold Country, it’s impossible not to feel transported to a bygone era. This storied region, once the epicenter of the largest gold rush in American history, now boasts a captivating landscape of vineyards, historic towns, and rugged wilderness. From Sonora’s charming streets to Yosemite National Park’s awe-inspiring vistas, a road trip through Gold Country offers a unique blend of nostalgia and modern convenience. As you explore this enchanting region, you’ll discover an intricate tapestry of history, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, making it the perfect destination for a memorable California adventure.
Day 1 – Sacramento
Sacramento had won me over before my actual trip even began, thanks to some extra days I got to spend in this charming city. As it turns out, Sacramento is a haven for cyclists, and I wouldn’t hesitate to return and delve deeper into its many attractions. What particularly caught my attention was the city’s infectious energy and the kaleidoscope of street art and murals that adorned its walls – a true reflection of the vibrant community that calls Sacramento home.
Sacramento Underground Tour
Step into the unexplored world beneath Sacramento’s streets with the Underground Tour, a unique blend of education and entertainment. This fascinating journey delves into the city’s past, revealing its secrets and surprises. In the mid-19th century, Sacramento faced devastating floods that forced residents to ‘jack up’ their homes by literally lifting them up to escape the rising waters. As we explore this subterranean realm, we’ll discover hidden pathways, uneven alleyways, and underground spaces, all expertly guided by knowledgeable and charismatic tour leaders who bring the experience to life with humor and insight.
Railroad Museum
Surrounded by the picturesque Old Sacramento waterfront, the California Railroad Museum played host to a memorable dinner event. As we stepped into this iconic institution, the rustic charm of yesteryear came alive with meticulously restored locomotives and railcars. It was here that the rich history of the railroad unfolded before us, revealing the fascinating story behind its enduring impact on the Golden State for nearly two centuries.
Tower Bridge
As you venture out, be sure to witness the majestic Tower Bridge, its shimmering gold hue radiating a brilliant beauty at sunset – a quintessential California golden moment. This architectural marvel is aptly complemented by the State Capitol Building’s cupola, situated mere blocks away, as both structures bask in the warm glow of sunrise and sunset. Prior to 1963, this iconic bridge played host to railroad traffic in its central span, with vehicles navigating the sides, adding a touch of nostalgia to its storied history.
California’s State Capital
Explore California’s rich history and architectural beauty in Sacramento, its state capital. Uncover the stories behind the stunning buildings by taking self-guided or guided tours that weave through the historic offices, legislative chambers, and vibrant artwork throughout the Capitol complex. The on-site museum adds an extra layer of depth to this already engaging experience, providing a unique blend of history, architecture, and culture.
Where We Stayed & Ate
During our stay in Sacramento, we had the pleasure of calling the Embassy Suites Riverfront Promenade home, located directly on the waterfront adjacent to Tower Bridge and just across from Old Sacramento’s historic charm. With our accommodation’s prime position, we were able to explore the city on foot or utilize bike/scooter sharing services offered by Jump.
Day 2 – Folsom
Located in the picturesque foothills of the Sierra Nevada, Folsom Prison is an iconic institution that has been immortalized in music and culture. Less well-known, however, are the surrounding natural attractions that offer breathtaking views of lakes and rivers. With over 95 miles (152.8 km) of trails to explore, visitors can experience the unique blend of rugged terrain and serene waterways, making Folsom a nature lover’s paradise.
Cycling the Johnny Cash Trail
As you explore Folsom, consider following in the footsteps of Johnny Cash fans by taking a leisurely bike ride along the Johnny Cash Trail. This 12-mile paved path meanders behind City Hall, hugs the American River, and traverses the historic Robbers’ Ravine Bridge. The trail’s namesake is rooted in local lore – the ravine was once a hideout for stagecoach robbers seeking to evade detection. With its easy terrain and accessible design, this trail is perfect for riders of all skill levels, including those looking to take an electric bike for a spin.
Kayaking at Lake Natoma
The Lake, a serene five-mile stretch of water, flows gently along Folsom’s banks. Its tranquil state is a result of the American River’s expansion, courtesy of Nimbus Dam, which slows down the waters from Folsom Dam. This picturesque setting is an ideal spot for stand-up kayaking enthusiasts like myself, who appreciate the calmness of the water. On a particularly gloomy day, we were thrilled to find that as soon as we hit the lake, the skies cleared up and we were treated to some delightful sunshine. Paddling along, you get to admire the various bridges, including the iconic Rainbow Bridge.
Where We Stayed & Ate
When exploring Folsom, don’t miss out on Karen’s Bakery and Cafe, a delightful spot to grab a bite to eat. For a flavorful twist, head over to Mas Taco Bar. And if you’re a chocoholic, treat yourself at the one-of-a-kind Chocolate Architect. As for accommodations, we enjoyed our stay at Natoma Inn during our time in Folsom. For an immersive experience, check out my Gold Country California road trip vlog on YouTube for better quality and watch it below.
Day 3 – Placer County
Perched 132 miles northeast of San Francisco and 100 miles west of Reno, Placer County offers an unparalleled outdoor experience. The region’s vast expanse of national forest and parkland stretches out across hundreds of miles, providing a wealth of year-round recreational activities that cater to all manner of enthusiasts. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty that beckons you to lace up your hiking boots or grab your bike and explore.
Auburn State Recreational Area
Nestled in California’s iconic Gold Country, the Auburn State Recreational Area is a nature lover’s paradise, offering a serene escape from the stresses of everyday life. The area boasts an array of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, camping, mountain biking, horseback riding, and even gold panning – a nod to the region’s rich history. While some may still engage in this activity for its nostalgic value, others do it purely for the thrill. For me, Auburn was nothing short of a nature heaven, where my worries melted away with each step on the trails. We spent time at the Lake Clementine Dam, where a leisurely stroll from the top yields breathtaking views and easy access to the lake’s tranquil shores. We also ventured to Cave Valley (aka Auburn Quarry), where I had the opportunity to try rock climbing for the first time. As an indoor climber, it was exhilarating to take my skills outdoors and conquer the rugged terrain. The experience left me beaming with pride, a testament to the area’s allure and my own determination.
Foresthill Bridge
Soaring an impressive 730 feet above the American River’s North Fork, the Foresthill Bridge holds the distinction of being the 4th highest bridge in the United States and the tallest in California. As I embarked on a scenic drive through California’s picturesque Gold Country, this striking structure proved to be a must-stop attraction, offering breathtaking views that left a lasting impression.
Where We Stayed & Ate
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During our stay in Auburn, we had the pleasure of calling the Holiday Inn home for the night. In addition to the hotel, we also stopped by the Park Victorian Inn to enjoy their cocktail hour offerings. One of the highlights of our evening was a delicious dinner at PaZa Winery’s Taste of Placer County event – an experience I would highly encourage.
Day 4 – El Dorado County
Nestled in the heart of California lies El Dorado County, a treasured getaway that’s bursting with excitement and charm all year round. This captivating destination seamlessly blends the great outdoors with a rich cultural heritage, inviting visitors to explore its many wonders.
Fishing at Henningsen Lotus Park
While mastering the art of trout fishing may require patience, there are experts who can guide you through the process with ease. Trout Unlimited is one such organization that offers valuable tips and tricks for catching trout in the rivers of gold country. Having a personal connection to camping and fishing, I found their approach particularly appealing. Although we didn’t land any catches during our excursion, it was an enjoyable experience nonetheless. For more information, check out the details.
Rafting on the American River
Floating down the South Fork of the American River, surrounded by the scenic beauty of Marshall Gold State Historic Park, is an adventure like no other. The Mother Lode River Center offers a thrilling whitewater river rafting experience that’s sure to get your heart racing. With its diverse range of rapids, you can choose from various grades to suit your taste and take in the stunning views along the way. Our team embarked on this exhilarating journey in two separate boats, with yours truly accompanied by our knowledgeable guide Thomas, while the rest of the crew paddled off into the distance.
Day 5 & 6 – Calaveras County
In the heart of California’s Gold Country and the majestic High Sierra, nestled between the iconic Yosemite National Park and the breathtaking Lake Tahoe, lies Calaveras County – a year-round travel haven awaiting discovery. This charming region boasts award-winning wineries in the picturesque Sierra Foothills, as well as an abundance of recreational opportunities that will keep you entertained 365 days a year. Moreover, its quaint Gold Rush towns transport visitors back to a bygone era, making Calaveras County an ideal destination for those seeking a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history.
Calveras Big Trees State Park
Calveras Big Trees State Park has been a treasured state preserve since its establishment in 1931, when it was designated to safeguard the majestic giant sequoias that thrive throughout Northern California. This includes the revered ‘Discovery Tree’, also known as the ‘Big Stump’, which marks the site of Augustus T. Down’s 1852 discovery. As a personal favorite haunt, I was struck by the sheer scale and awe-inspiring beauty of these natural giants. The park offers an array of winding trails, allowing visitors to meander and uncover its many hidden wonders. I would relish the opportunity to return and delve deeper into the park’s secrets.
Moaning Cavern
Moaning Cavern Adventure Park, situated in California, boasts an enormous cave chamber that can accommodate the iconic Statue of Liberty within its vast expanse. This natural wonder has been attracting visitors since its discovery by miners in 1851. Initially, early explorers would descend into the cavern via a large bucket, but nowadays, a spiral staircase provides a more convenient and safe means of access. Alternatively, for the more adventurous, a thrilling repel route is available, spanning 50 meters from top to bottom. The park offers an array of activities, including guided cave tours, ziplining excursions, and breathtaking views along the way. Unfortunately, due to lighting constraints, not everyone in our group was able to partake in the ziplining adventure – but we’re already planning our next trip to tackle this thrill. Moaning Cavern is an absolute must-visit attraction for anyone embarking on a California road trip.
New Melones Lake
Nestled between the storied mining towns of Sonora and Angels Camp, along the picturesque Highway 49, lies New Melones – a haven for those seeking a tranquil retreat amidst the great outdoors. The New Melones Lake Glory Hole Recreation Area boasts an impressive array of recreational activities, set against the stunning backdrop of California’s third-largest reservoir. A leisurely boat ride across the serene waters is just one way to unwind and connect with nature.
Natural Bridge at Calveras
While the two-mile round-trip hike to Calveras’ Natural Bridge may not be ideal for those who shy away from physical challenges, the breathtaking scenery and unique geological formations make it an adventure well worth undertaking. The steep descent and subsequent ascent can be intense, but the stunning limestone caverns, expertly carved by Coyote Creek over time, provide a mesmerizing distraction from the physical demands of the hike.
Where We Stayed & Ate
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During our stay in Murphys, a premier California mountain town, we had the pleasure of calling Murphy’s Suites home for two nights. Our dining experiences were highlighted by The Lube Room Saloon and Crusco’s Ristorante – both highly recommended.The region offers an abundance of activities to suit every interest, making it essential to allocate sufficient time in your Gold Country itinerary to explore all that this area has to offer.One evening, we had the privilege of enjoying a truly exceptional dinner at Ironstone Vineyards. I would like to extend my sincerest gratitude to Nathaniel, Christina, Max, Joe and Kim for generously sharing their photographs from our trip with me.This Northern California Gold Country Road Trip blog post is brought to you in collaboration with Visit California, with whom I am honored to have partnered.