Things To Do
Columbia State Historic Park
Located in the heart of the California Mother Lode, Columbia State Historic Park is a living gold rush town featuring the largest single collection of existing gold rush-era structures in the state.
Indigeny Reserve
Indigeny Reserve is a lush 160 acre preserve and apple orchard set in the breathtaking hills of Sonora, California. Visit the tasting room to try their hard cider and apple brandy.
Pinecrest Lake
The 3.7 mile hike around the lake is one of our favorites!
Table Mountain
The Table Mountain Hike is all about the views. Once you get to the top you are rewarded with vast panoramas of New Melones to the west and views of Jamestown and beyond to the east. The best time for this hike is in the spring when the wildflowers (lupin, poppies and a host of others) blanket the entire plateau of Table Mountain. Trailhead parking is at the end of Shell Rd, off of Rawhide, where the road turns to dirt. You will see a closed gate. Park here and start your hike at the “Table Mtn Trail” sign.
Downtown Sonora
Antique Shops, Art Galleries, Bars, and Restaurants
Dragoon Gulch
Located in the City of Sonora, the Dragoon Gulch Trail provides its visitors with a unique opportunity to stroll through the Mother Lode’s oak woodlands. The Dragoon Gulch Trail is a system of trails creating a 2 ½ mile loop. The trails travel along a natural creek up to the vista that provides a spectacular view of the City and its surrounding mountain ranges. The trails vary in difficulty making it perfect for the casual walker and for those who want a strenuous hike or jog. The main entrance to the Trail is located at Woods Creek Park. From the Bay Area and Central Valley take Highway 108 East to Highway 49 North into the City of Sonora. From Highway 49 turn left on Woods Creek Drive (across from the Mother Lode Fairgrounds) and follow the signs to the trail. If traveling south on Highway 49 into the City, stay on Highway 49 and turn right on Woods Creek Drive.
West Side Trail
This trail is developed from the east boundary of the Tuolumne Township to approximately four miles beyond the Stanislaus National Forest boundary. Hikers, bikers, and horse riders use the trail. The canyon views are absolutely breathtaking. A short distance in the trail you will find the train tracks from yesteryear. Trailhead: (from Black Oak Casino) Take Tuolumne Road towards Tuolumne City, left on Carter Street, and Right onto Buchanan. There is a parking area shortly up the road on the left.
Bourbon Barrel
The business offers 122 different types of bourbon as well as a selection of local wines, craft beers and spirits. Bourbons include renowned Pappy Van Winkle (10-year, 12-year, 15-year, 20-year and 23-year) as well as other small-batch Kentucky bourbons found nowhere else in the Western states. The bar also features a food menu with taste of the South and a hint of California mountain cuisine
Papa's New Roost
Great for breakfast! DJ recommends the Prime Rib Scramble :)
