God's Country

Heart of the Gold Country

Amador County is the heartbeat of California's Gold Rush heritage. From the historic towns of Jackson and Sutter Creek to the rolling vineyards of the Shenandoah Valley, Amador offers a rich tapestry of history, wine, and natural beauty. The county is home to some of the deepest gold mines in the world and a thriving wine industry that rivals regions many times its size.

From Foothills to the Sierra Crest

El Dorado County is where the California Gold Rush began at Sutter's Mill in Coloma. Today the county spans from the charming foothill town of Placerville — known as 'Hangtown' — through Apple Hill's orchards and vineyards, up to the stunning shores of South Lake Tahoe. It's a county of remarkable geographic and cultural diversity.

Yosemite's Hometown

Mariposa County is the southern gateway to Yosemite National Park and home to the oldest courthouse still in use west of the Mississippi. The town of Mariposa retains its Gold Rush character with a walkable downtown, local galleries, and the California State Mining & Mineral Museum. The county's stunning natural beauty makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.

Mountain Living, Gold Rush Roots

Nevada County combines Victorian-era charm with a thriving arts and food scene. Nevada City, often called California's most charming town, features gas-lit streets, independent boutiques, and farm-to-table restaurants. Nearby Grass Valley preserves its deep mining heritage at Empire Mine State Historic Park, one of the oldest and richest gold mines in California.

Where Gold Country Meets the Mountains

Placer County stretches from the Gold Rush town of Auburn in the foothills to the ski resorts of North Lake Tahoe. Old Town Auburn preserves its mining heritage with a vibrant downtown, while the American River offers world-class rafting. The county's diverse geography means you can go from Gold Rush history to alpine skiing in under two hours.

Gateway to Yosemite

Tuolumne County stretches from the Gold Rush towns of Sonora and Jamestown to the high country of Yosemite National Park. The county seat of Sonora anchors a vibrant cultural scene, while Columbia State Historic Park preserves living Gold Rush history. Whether you're catching a show at Sierra Repertory Theatre or riding a steam train at Railtown 1897, Tuolumne delivers.

Where Adventure Meets History

Made famous by Mark Twain's jumping frog, Calaveras County is a land of caves, vineyards, giant sequoias, and Gold Rush towns. From the charming wine village of Murphys to the adventures at Moaning Cavern and the waters of New Melones Lake, Calaveras delivers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler.