The Sierra Foothills are filled with adventure, history and natural wonders. The Gold Rush dominates the history here, but there are many more stories to explore. Discover hidden ghost towns, eerie abandoned mines, and Old West towns still brimming with life. Hike through oak and pine forests to waterfalls and sweeping vistas, or spend the day wine tasting at the many family wineries.

Latest Discoveries

  • Lone Buffalo Vineyards patio area
    Wineries

    Lone Buffalo Vineyards

    Focused on hand crafted small-lot wines, Lone Buffalo Vinyards is dedicated to showcasing the amazing varietals this region has to offer.
  • Struble Ranch House
    Farms

    Struble Ranch

    Struble Ranch is a third generation owned and operated ranch. Open seasonally on weekends, the farm sells fresh manderin, navel oranges, and other citrus grown on the property. Enjoy the gorgeous 360 degree view of Loomis Basin Valley while sampling some amazing oranges.
  • The patio at Dono dal Cielo
    Wineries

    Dono dal Cielo

    Dono Dal Cielo is an estate vineyard nestled in the warm rolling foothills of Newcastle. Taste award winning wines in a relaxed and very friendly atmosphere, either in the spacious barn or out on the patio overlooking the vineyards and farm.
  • Pond at Dueling Dogs
    Breweries

    Dueling Dogs Brewing

    Sample farm-fresh beer, ciders and meads in a lovely country setting. Weekends feature food trucks and live music, with plenty of picnic tables to enjoy both. Or bring your own picnic to enjoy while sampling their locally made brews.

Fun Things To Do With Kids

Entrance to the Marshall Gold Discovery Museum
Historical Interest

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park

The 576 acre Marshall Gold Discovery State Park encompasses the discovery site and the surrounding area, with several miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding. The museum features a number of interpretive exhibits telling the stories of the original inhabitants and those who came looking for gold. 
  • Exterior of the Gold Rush Museum
    Museums

    The Gold Rush Museum

    Pan for gold, see what it was like inside a gold mine, and explore Gold Rush history in this charming museum, open Friday through Sunday from 1:00pm to 4:00pm. Fun for kids and parents, and free!
  • Quarry Park Adventures
    Outdoor Activities

    Quarry Park Adventures

    Climb towering cliffs, rappel down dizzying heights, and zip-line over rocky pools, all at Quarry Park Adventures. There's climbing for smaller adventurers too, and paddle boats and picnic tables for a more serene afternoon.

Outdoor Adventures

  • Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Parks and Wilderness

    Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

    Enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, camping, and all kinds of water sports at the Folsom State Recreation Area. At almost twenty thousand acres and over one hundred miles of trails, this popular park boasts a huge variety of activities, all surrounded by spectacular scenery and natural beauty.

Popular

  • Downtown Grass Valley
    Historic Towns

    Explore Grass Valley

    Grass Valley is a charming and historically rich destination that beckons travelers seeking a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. With a captivating history dating back to the Gold Rush era, this small town offers an array of interesting activities and attractions.
  • St. George Hotel in Volcano, CA
    Historic Towns

    Exploring Volcano, CA

    For such a small town, Volcano, CA has a big history and lot to offer for modern day visitors. Nestled in a picturesque bowl-shaped valley, Volcano is a true gem in Amador County.