6 Most Inviting Towns In California's Sierra Nevada
When most people think of California, they often think of the sun-kissed coastline, or rolling waves washing ashore on the sandy beaches, or maybe even the glitz and glamour offered in Los Angeles. What often does not come to mind are the powdery slopes of the ski resorts on Mammoth Mountain or the once-thriving gold rush communities hidden throughout the mountains. The Sierra Nevada has long served as a natural barrier to cities, towns, and travelers, but those who visit immediately feel a sense of community in these isolated pockets of civilization amongst California’s great outdoors. So, when planning your next trip or adventure, take a chance on these six inviting small towns.
Truckee
Hidden high above sea level, In California’s towering mountain range, sits a town with the unique ability to make visitors feel like they're strolling through an old Wild West town.
Truckee was founded in 1863, and the town's essence still feels as if it has captured this bygone era. Stroll down Donner Pass Road and take your pick from various antique shops, cafes, and galleries lining the street. Learn about some local history, specifically the town’s ties to the railroad, at the Truckee Railroad Museum, which will take you through the first railway carved through the mountain range.
If you came to Truckee, you’re probably searching for some adventure. During the warmer months, take a kayak or canoe trip on the crystal-clear waters of Donner Lake. If you prefer the stability of land, then hike up to the cloud-covered Donner Lake overlook for one of the best panoramic views in the state.
Independence
Visitors are often surprised at just how many exciting attractions are located within a town that only has a population of around 600 people. But, to their surprise, Independence punches above its weight class in the excitement category.
Explore a world-class museum as you stroll through the Eastern California Museum, which houses everything from historic native American tools to exhibits showcasing the lives of early pioneers. Just down the scenic Route 395 lies some more history. The Manzanar National Historic Site showcases the darker side of America’s past. The monument pays tribute to the many Japanese Americans who were incarcerated during World War II.
If you choose to forego the history and head outdoors, numerous hikes near Independence offer some of the most beautiful views of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range. The Dehy Park Trail is an easier route that can accommodate all types of hikers while not sacrificing the region’s beautiful scenery. Visitors can also have a nice walk in the middle of town if they choose to visit the Mary Dedecker Native Plant Garden.
Angel’s Camp
If you want to travel back in time and see what a frontier town looked like during the heat of the California Gold Rush, then you must pay a visit to Angel’s Camp.
Grab a pamphlet at the Calaveras Visitors Center and begin following the outlined walking tour, which will take you through the historic downtown core and showcase some of the town’s most notable landmarks and local businesses. See how the early pioneers traveled in style at the Angels Camp Museum & Carriage House, which portrays just how far modes of transportation have come in the past century.
For the perfect outdoor excursion, load up and head out to the nearby New Melones Lake, where visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, or simply relaxing in one of the shaded areas near the edge of the lake. There are even miles of miles of hiking & mountain biking trails for those seeking to break a sweat.
Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth Lakes is one of the few destinations in the world where it is possible to ski, golf, and fish on the same day without having to Travel. The town’s unique geographical location provides some pretty spectacular opportunities for those visiting.
During the colder months, the town transforms into a ski haven as people flock to resorts located on Mammoth Mountain to shred some of the freshest powder on the West Coast. As the weather warms, the excitement does not disappear. Summer means that nearby Mammoth Lake is beginning to be the perfect weather for a mid-afternoon swim and that the nearby hiking trails among the mountains are beginning to clear. For those seeking a backcountry adventure, head to the John Muir Trail, which will take you into the great unknown of the Sierra Nevada. Or maybe you want to hit some fairways at the Sierra Star Golf Course, regardless of your choice the opportunity for outdoor activity is endless.
If you wish to escape the sun and spend some time indoors, head to the Mammoth Ski Museum, which showcases the beginning of this sport. To learn about some local history, visit the Mammoth Museum which is dedicated to brave pioneers who settled this rugged land.
Groveland
Sitting at an elevation of 3,136 ft, the town is one of the last stops for those seeking to enter the renowned Yosemite National Park. What began as a gold rush town quickly turned into a must-visit destination for its proximity to the great outdoors.
Explore the histories of the fortunate few who found the gold during the town’s mining days. The Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum holds many stories about the town’s earliest days. Main Street in Groveland also has the ability to allow visitors to enjoy a refreshing beverage in a real Wild West saloon. The Iron Door Saloon has been the local watering hole since its establishment in 1852 and is the oldest operating saloon in California.
Before heading into the vast interior of Yosemite, get acclimated to the elevation by taking a walk through the trails at the surrounding Stanislaus National Forest. Visitors can even jump into the crystal-clear water at nearby Pine Mountain Lake.
Sonora
Get a taste of California’s laidback culture in the chill town of Sonora, at the doorstep of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range the town has captured the stereotypical friendly atmosphere of California.
It is no surprise that the town was captured by the same gold rush fever that took hold of California, so continue to learn about the trials and tribulations gold miners experienced by visiting the Tuolumne County Museum located in downtown Sonora. Get a feel for the local culture by exploring Sonora's energetic arts scene, with galleries showcasing the work of local painters, sculptors, and craftspeople. Catch a live performance at the historic Fallon House Theatre or browse the galleries along Washington Street.
Make sure you bring some water if you plan on heading outside, Sonora’s temperatures can soar in the summertime making hiking more difficult. But don’t let the heat deter you from conquering the Dragoon Gulch Trail Head, which is the perfect trail for hikers of all levels.
With its diverse range of offerings, it is no surprise that California is one of the premier tourist destinations in the world. But, hidden throughout the state’s lesser-known locations are some fantastic attractions where visitors can still feel the same sense of adventure and relaxation while avoiding the packed crowds. So, pack some sunscreen or a winter jacket, and choose from the long list of exciting attractions in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains.
