✈️Gold Country – Learn EVERYTHING about the California Region

Gold Country is an underexplored part of California, but with a lot to offer travelers. Get to know everything about the region in this complete guide!

You know those American movies where the characters decide to spend a few days camping, in cabins in the middle of the forest? Gold Country (or Gold Region) is a part of California with the perfect setting for this type of adventure, as well as being great for a road trip.

Cradle of the gold rush in the 19th century - a fact remembered even in its name -, the destination has several attractions for nature lovers. Incredible scenery, adventure and outdoor activities are the highlights of this area of the North American West Coast.

The region, located on the west side of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, has a characteristic culture inherited from the country's Wild West era. The climate is well defined, with hot and dry summers, and rigorous and humid winters (with a lot of snow in some parts).

If you are planning a road trip through California, or a trip to Yosemite National Park, visiting the Gold Region is a great choice. Especially for wine, adventure, nature and history lovers, who will be enchanted by the Gold Country.

Are you one of these? So check out our tips to get to know the best of the place and enjoy a lot ?

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Gold Country – Learn EVERYTHING about the California Region — Historic Gold Country Buildings – Photo: Mark Gunn via Flickr

When to go
Directions
Things to Do
Where to stay
Tips to enjoy
What you need to know before you go

When to go to Gold Country

Choosing the best time to visit Gold Country California depends on what you expect from your trip. As the region has a Mediterranean climate, similar to that of Spain or Italy, the seasons are well marked.

In summer there is little rain, and temperatures are very high and stable – often above 35ºC. It's a very hot time to go there, and the busiest one too, as it coincides with the country's school holidays.

During winter, it can be less than 0ºC and snow a lot, even more in the higher regions. Some roads are even closed at this time, which can disrupt the tour.

Mid seasons are the most suitable times. If your idea is to enjoy nature outdoors a lot, go in spring. If you want to enjoy a cold climate, but without exaggeration, autumn is more suitable.

The ideal time to stay in Gold Country is relative. There are enough places to fill several days of tour. If you have availability, consider spending at least four or five days there. If you need to go faster, a day or two is enough.

Donnell Vista, aiming em Sonora Pass Highway, no Gold Country California

How to get to Gold Country

To get to the Gold Country you will need to arrive in California first, either by flying, by car, or in whatever way you prefer. Flying to San Francisco, or within the United States to Sacramento, are the best ways to start the journey.

Departing from San Francisco, Sacramento, or any other city in the vicinity, you will need to rent a car. Gold Country is a part of the state that unites several counties (smaller regions that encompass several cities), and the distances are long.

There is no direct public transportation to Gold Country. Getting there with this medium is quite challenging – there are countless combinations for this – and we don't recommend it. If you cannot drive, look for an agency and arrange a transfer to the location.

>> See all information about San Francisco car rental in our full post

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Things to do in Gold Country

The Gold Country area encompasses North American counties located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada, the mountain range of California. There are many natural sites for walks amid forests and parks, but the region is also famous for its historic western-style towns.

There are many vineyards there, making it a good destination for wine lovers, with more than 200 wineries spread across the Gold Region. In addition, the area is full of bucolic countryside landscapes, restaurants with delicious cuisine, antique shops and artisan products.

Highway 49 is the main state road that cuts through the region from north to south. Following it, you will pass through several historic communities, such as Nevada City, Coloma, Amador, Tuolumne County (the gateway to Yosemite Park), until you reach Mariposa and, finally, Oakhurst.

For those who enjoy nature, a visit to the parks of Gold Country California is a must. You can dive in rivers, go rafting, hiking or trekking, recreationally panning for gold, horseback riding or taking a train, among many other possibilities.

Each county has its own characteristics, and we've summarized them all to help you define your travel itinerary:

Sierra County

The nature of Sierra County presents a unique spectacle each season, and there are plenty of lakes in the mountains. There, you can fish, watch birds or the flora of the Sierra Valley. The Downieville Classic, the annual bike circuit, draws cyclists from around the world to the county.

This is the northernmost part of the Gold Country, and promises a truly relaxing experience in the midst of the mountains. For those who want to take a break from the urban climate, away from crowds and noise, this is the ideal place.

Nevada County

Nevada City and Grass Valley are gold-rush cities, with many historic Victorian-style buildings to visit, such as old saloons, hotels and restaurants.

It's home to several ranches, where families welcome visitors interested in a down country experience in Gold Country California. And in addition to nature, it also has a presence in the arts, with award-winning theaters.

Placer County

Placer County is a place for a more peaceful and relaxing trip, although it also has its adventurous side. There is a large production of wines and beers there, as well as a good supply of organic food.

In the warm seasons, it has stunning landscapes, with lakes and various activities to be done in the mountains. In the cold, the place becomes a paradise for winter sports lovers.

Eldorado County

The territory of El Dorado County has super distinct scenarios, with super high points contrasting at altitudes close to zero. Award-winning wineries, apple trees to pick fruit from the tree, lakes surrounded by forests, even historic cities are part of what is there.

In winter, the mountains fill with snow, an ideal time for those who want to ski or snowboard. In summer, the rivers become attractive for boating and fishing, or for camping in the surroundings.

Sacramento County

Sacramento is the county of the capital of California, which is the city of the same name. The region contrasts well the modern with the heritage of the past. Starting the Gold Country itinerary in the region is a good tip, with Sacramento, Folsom and Rancho Cordova being the main cities.

Gold rush culture can be explored in Old Sacramento and the Folsom Historic District. In addition, there is a wide range of restaurants with local produce, many museums and diverse attractions in the region.

Amador County

Amador County is an hour from Sacramento, right in the heart of the Gold Country. The altitudes of the place are also diverse, as in El Dorado, being a good place for both athletes and children.

There, you will find good wineries, tasty food and shops operating in historic buildings. Amador was one of the richest places during the gold rush, and today it has five cities, three towns and one hamlet.

Calaveras County

In Calaveras County you can take one of the best winery tours in the region. It's also home to Big Trees State Park, with giant sequoias, two beautiful rivers – the Mokelumne and Stanislaus – as well as three incredible caves to explore.

The Jumping Frog Jubilee, frog jumping contest, is a super famous festival in the place, and worth seeing. Literature fans will recognize the festivity for one of Mark Twain's short stories.

Tuolumne County

Tuolumne is a great destination for anyone looking for quality time outdoors. The region has historic walks, mainly in Columbia and Jamestown, harking back to the gold rush era.

One of the highlights of the place is the contact with nature. High Sierra is a great area for camping, fishing and hiking. In addition, in Yosemite National Park it is worth walking along less crowded trails, and visiting the waterfalls along the way.

>> Read more about Tuolumne County to include this destination in your itinerary

Mariposa County

Mariposa County is home to the best-known part of Yosemite Park and the High Sierra Nevada, a region well suited for camping. It's perfect for the more adventurous, with plenty of activities to do there.

Iconic granite mountains sit in this part of Gold Country California – the best known being Half Dome and El Capitan. Visitors to the area can enjoy museums, craft shops, and restaurants with local beers and wines.

Wood County

Madera County has attractions for travelers interested in relaxation and those seeking adventure. It is in this county where there are Centers for the Discovery of Fossils, where there are bones of mammoths of more than 700 thousand years to observe.

The more radical will like Bass Lake, a city where they can participate in water sports or dine beside the river. In Oakhurst there are good options for lodging, restaurants, museums and shops to check out.

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Where to stay in Gold Country

The most popular areas to stay in Gold Country California are in Toulumne County, particularly Sonora, Jamestown and Groveland. However, during your roadtrip along highway 49 you will find several lodgings in the cities where you choose to stop.

A tip is to book your stay in advance, as hotels do not have many rooms and they are very popular. If you are looking for a more intimate trip, bet on the Bed & Breakfast. They are excellent options with good structure, receptivity and comfort, in addition to being a charm.

Some accommodation suggestions in the region:

Bradford Place Inn ($$) in Sonora
Barretta Gardens Inn ($$$) in Sonora
Jamestown Railtown Motel ($) in Jamestown
Historic National Hotel & Restaurant ($$) in Jamestown
Lazy Z Resort ($$) em Twain Harte
Travelodge by Wyndham Angels Camp CA ($) at Angels Camp
The Groveland Hotel ($$), em Groveland
Hotel Charlotte ($$), em Groveland
Priest Station Cafe & Cabins ($$) em Groveland

See more accommodation options in the Gold Country regions by clicking here

Did you know it's best to book your hotel six months in advance?
This is the recommended time to find the best hotels still available at great prices. Secure yours now Booking.com

Tips for enjoying Gold Country

Plan your trip. Gold Country covers an extensive area and going without an itinerary can get you lost. You'll enjoy it better if you plan.
Enjoy the cuisine of the region. One of the great highlights of the Gold Region is the cuisine. And a tip: in small towns, bet on the most crowded restaurant. Are you sure you'll get it right?
Stay in rustic places. You will wake up to a beautiful view and countryside atmosphere. B&B and farms are good options.
Be sure to visit the old shops in the region, and look for something more retro – especially if you are a fan of antique shops.
Travel calmly. Gold Country does not combine with rush, it is a trip to appreciate scenery and discover charming corners. #FicaADica to relax on your vacation.

So, were you enchanted by the Gold Region of the United States? Let us know if you ever thought about visiting Gold Country before!

What you NEED to know BEFORE going to Gold Country California

Are you full of things to think about and still have to plan your entire trip? Or you've seen it all, but you're feeling that familiar "maybe I've forgotten something?" So calm down, we'll help you with some items you can't forget before boarding. Come on?

1) Have you already purchased your airline ticket?

Where to buy: PROMO TICKETS

Looking for a good deal and flight prices? When buying tickets to California, it is worth taking a look at the Passages Promo website. It is quite common to find cheaper and better flight options than on other sites. We always use and is it worth it?

2) Have you booked your hosting?

Where to buy: BOOKING.COM

If you haven't booked your stay, the tip is to compare hotels, hostels and inns through Booking.com. This is the largest hotel booking platform in the world, ensuring a safe experience and great accommodation deals.

#StayHip: Keep an eye out for 'Smart Deals', which only last for one day. Some amazing hotels offer great discounts using this badge on the platform. If you find a good deal, is it worth closing?

3) California travel insurance

Buying travel insurance for California is an excellent way to ensure a smooth trip and avoid worries. Having the assistance of insurance gives you the peace you need to enjoy your destination and know that you have support if you need it. Also enjoy our Insurance Promo discount coupon. - SEE PRICES

4) How to have unlimited internet while traveling

Where to buy: America Chip

Did you know that it's getting easier – and cheaper – to have unlimited internet throughout your trip?

Just ask for an international cell phone chip at AMERICA CHIP. We always use and love it! They send a SIM card to your address in España, you insert it in your cell phone when you arrive at your destination and you have unlimited internet throughout the trip.

#StayHip:Save on car GPS rental and use GoogleMaps and Waze with your unlimited internet?

5) Rent cars at the best prices

Where to rent: RENTCARS

We really like RentCars to find the cars we use on our travels. It is the only one in Spain that compares the best rental companies in the world, but lets you pay in reais, without IOF. In addition, it is also the only one that lets you pay in 12 interest-free installments. It is worth it!

#Here's a tip: Try to find cars with full car and third party insurance coverage. Thus, you avoid inopportune surprises when picking up the car.