6 Breathtaking Towns to Visit in California's Sierra Nevada
Known to world travelers for providing access to Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America, the iconic granite cliffs of Yosemite National Park, one of America’s most visited national parks, and an array of rushing rivers, gushing waterfalls, and lush valleys, the beauty of California’s Sierra Nevada is beyond words. Even the finest paintings may fail to fully capture its splendor. To delve into this Instagram-worthy side of the Golden State, first-time visitors should consider basing themselves in one of the region's enchanting towns. Below are six breathtaking towns in California’s Sierra Nevada worth exploring.
Lone Pine
Nestled in California’s Owens Valley, Lone Pine has been the backdrop for numerous films, such as "How the West Was Won" (1962). Surrounded by the snow-capped Alabama Hills, a mesmerizing landscape of jagged peaks and twisted rock formations, the setting is rugged, rustic, and other-worldly. Whitney Portal Road, starting in downtown Lone Pine, serves as the gateway to Mount Whitney, the highest point in the contiguous United States, offering stunning views of the peak. Wander through the town under a vivid blue sky, exploring buildings that evoke the essence of the Old West. The Museum of Western Film History offers a journey through the town's cinematic legacy, while the Alabama Hills Cafe & Bakery is renowned for its hearty breakfasts and delicious brunches.
Sonora
Incorporated in 1850, a decade before the Civil War, Sonora is one of California's oldest cities. Despite its small size and population of around 5,000, Sonora is steeped in historic charm, boasting many buildings over a century old. The City Hotel, constructed in the 1850s, is a highlighted structure on the National Register of Historic Places, celebrated as a rare surviving example of early Gold Rush-era stone construction. The Sonora Inn, founded in 1896 and blending historical architecture with modern amenities, offers a glimpse into the past. Discover more about Sonora’s heritage at the Tuolumne County Museum and History Research Center. Nearby, the Tuttletown Recreation Area provides ample opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Jamestown
Jamestown, one of California's original Gold Rush towns, hosted Tuolumne County's first gold discovery. Today, its main drag is lined with quaint historic inns and hotels, such as the 1859 Historic National Hotel & Restaurant, adding a charming luster. Located just outside of town, the Jamestown Railtown Motel offers proximity to the Railtown 1897 State Historic Park. This park celebrates Jamestown's industrial heritage with a functional blacksmithing area and an authentic railroad roundhouse. Don’t miss “The Walk of Fame,” where medallions honor the area’s cinematic history. Rocca Park, home to the Jamestown Museum, is also a must-visit.
Groveland
Proud of its Gold Rush history, Groveland now serves as the gateway to Yosemite National Park. The Iron Door Saloon, over 170 years old and constructed from solid granite, claims the title of California’s oldest continuously operating saloon. It offers char-grilled burgers and St. Louis-style pork ribs. The Groveland Hotel, evolving from a trading post to a ranger station through its history, is a site of transformation. The Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum is a treasure trove for history buffs. A visit to the Mountain Sage Nursery offers insights into drought-tolerant California plants and serves delicious bagels.
Mariposa
Mariposa, named for the Spanish word for 'butterfly,' was founded in the 19th century along Mariposa Creek. About 75 miles north of Fresno in the Sierra Nevada foothills, it’s home to the Mariposa County Courthouse, the oldest in continuous use west of the Mississippi since 1854. The town's historical depth is further showcased by its old jail and the Mariposa Museum & History Center, which houses Gold Rush artifacts. For accommodations, there's a variety of Airbnbs, such as The Windmill's View, offering scenic vistas of Mariposa.
Murphys
Murphys stands as one of the most picturesque towns in Northern California's storied Gold Country. Charming, historic buildings, many over a century old, create a captivating Old West atmosphere that's a pleasure to explore. The town’s historic Main Street is lined with exquisite wineries, such as Lavender Ridge Vineyard, offering visitors premier wine tasting experiences. For those seeking accommodation, the Murphys Historic Hotel, established in 1856, ranks among the oldest operating hotels in California. Missing out on Mercer Caverns, where visitors can delve into the history of gem mining and discover its breathtaking subterranean wonders, would be a missed opportunity.
The Takeaway
Awestruck by Yosemite Valley's incredible beauty, the celebrated naturalist John Muir hailed it as "Nature's landscape garden, at once beautiful and sublime." He also extolled the Sierra’s conifer forests, Mono Lake, Kings Canyon, and Lake Tahoe, which he lauded as a "water heaven," the progenitor of all mountain lakes. To truly experience the Sierra Nevada region of California, selecting a charming town as your base—such as Lone Pine, Sonora, Jamestown, or Groveland—is advisable. Choose your destination, pack a good camera, and set off with your backpack for an unforgettable adventure.
