9 Most Charming River Towns in California's Sierra Nevada to Visit in 2024
California’s Sierra Nevada is undoubtedly one of the most scenic areas in the state. With mountain backdrops so beautiful they do not feel real and sunsets that set the sky ablaze, beauty is in no short supply here. But the small towns in this region have far more to offer than just natural beauty. From challenging outdoor adventures to memorable 2024 festivals and events, these charming river towns are ideal for California day trips and weekend getaways.
Nevada City
Beauty, peace, and the historic gold rush are the defining features of Nevada City, California, along with the South Yuba River. Travelers can easily spend a day or a weekend in town exploring immaculate outdoor areas like the gardens at Crystal Hermitage. Here, gardening enthusiasts will find two well-maintained gardens, one upper and one lower, as well as places for meditation and a gift shop. Those looking for something more fast-paced will enjoy a morning of hiking through Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park. The park features over 20 miles worth of trails and some unbeatable views, including the rocky remains of 50-million-year-old riverbeds.
Alternatively, spend some time wandering through the Firehouse No. 1 Museum–one of the most photographed buildings in town. The museum offers a deeper look into the town's past including a brief glimpse into the mining history. Those traveling to Nevada City in 2024 will have a blast at annual events like the Strawberry Music Festival in May and the Nevada County Fair in August.
Truckee
Situated on a beautiful river of the same name, Truckee, California, is a lively small town that appeals to outdoor enthusiasts and families of all ages. Start a visit to Truckee off right by spending a few hours exploring Donner Memorial State Park. Here, guests will find an array of fun activities to partake in, including hiking, kayaking, and camping. In the winter, the park is an ideal spot for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Those who prefer swimming and beach volleyball to mountain hikes will find what they need at West End Beach Park. The beach also features boat rentals, playgrounds, and food vendors.
Visitors arriving in the winter months will want to visit the Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort for a few hours of skiing, eating, and making memories. Don’t forget to bring the family down to Truckee in April 2024 for the annual WinterWonderGrass music festival, which will take place nearby in Palisades, Tahoe.
Angels Camp
Over the years, Angels Camp, California, has gone by many different names. But one thing that has remained the same is just how beautiful this small river town is. Thrill-seekers will want to book some time at OARS California Rafting to organize an exciting day trip on the nearby South Fork American River. Looking for something fun to do at a slower pace? Head to Greenhorn Creek Resort for a round of golf–or get your fill of rocks, gems, and crystals at the Stories In Stones rock shop.
Angels Camp is also conveniently located roughly 60 miles from Yosemite National Park and only 7 miles from the memorable Moaning Caverns Adventure Park in Vallecito, California. Visitors arriving in 2024 should also keep their eyes open for exciting events, including the Calaveras Celtic Faire in March and the Reggae Campout at Calaveras County Fairgrounds in May.
Markleeville
Surrounded by mountains and small bodies of sparkling water, Markleeville, California, is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a peaceful and quiet getaway. Millbery Creek runs through the town, which is a tributary of the East Fork Carson River. Spend an entire afternoon wandering through Grover Hot Springs State Park. The park features hiking trails (including an ADA-accessible boardwalk), swimming areas, picnic spots, campsites, and various opportunities for wildlife watching.
Next, dive into the history of the area with a visit to the Alpine County Museum. Music lovers will want to visit Markleeville in June 2024 to attend the intimate Woollystar Music Festival, which takes place on a private ranch.
Three Rivers
From towering giant sequoia trees to jazzy music festivals, Three Rivers, California, offers entertainment for the whole family. The town takes its name from the three forks of the Kaweah River, which converge near the town. Take a few hours and explore both the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, where outdoor enthusiasts will have a blast. The parks wind into each other and feature hiking trails, impressive giant sequoias, campsites, lodging, and plenty of local wildlife to admire. Also inside the Sequoia National Park is the Mineral King Valley.
While hiking to this stunning Valley is quite strenuous, once there, the views are truly breathtaking. Plants and trees paint the hills here an enticing shade of green, while mountain tops seem to kiss the clear blue skies. Although peace and quiet are often welcome, those looking for something more lively will find what they need at the 2024 Jazzaffair Festival. Taking place for the 49th year, Jazzafair is set to arrive in Three Rivers this April.
Pollock Pines
Located in the beautiful El Dorado County, south of the South Fork of the American River, the old lumber town of Pollock Pines, California, has come a long way since its log milling days. Each summer, tourists and locals alike spend their time cooling off at Jenkinson Lake. The lake lies at the center of Sly Park Recreation Area which offers activities including swimming, fishing, hiking, boating, and camping.
After a few hours in the park, visitors can head to Bridalveil Falls, which can be found just off Highway 50. The waterfall is typically at its strongest in spring and winter, coming to a slower stream in the summer months. Guests traveling in 2024 will have the chance to attend the 75th annual Wagon Train Run. The event, which takes place in June, offers a historical reenactment of the "Great Western Migration."
Dunsmuir
If Bridalveil Falls in Pollock Pines wasn’t enough, then waterfall chasers will definitely want to plan a trip to Dunsmuir, California. Surrounded by the majestic beauty of Mount Shasta, Dunsmuir is home to the modest Hedge Creek Falls and the wonderfully wide Mossbrae Falls. Standing at 50 feet high and 150 feet wide–Mossbrae Falls are considered by some to be the most scenic waterfall in Northern California. Another must-see location in town is the Dunsmuir Botanical Garden. Here, visitors can enjoy beautifully maintained gardens, hiking trails, and peaceful picnic areas that line the Upper Sacramento River.
Roughly 5 miles outside of town, hiking enthusiasts will find Castle Crags State Park, which features more hiking trails, fishing spots, and camping opportunities. Those planning a trip in early June 2024 will want to check out Dunsmuir Railroad Days–a three-day festival featuring live music, a parade, and food vendors.
Bishop
Well known for its natural beauty, and the nearby Owens River, Bishop, California, is a haven for nature photographers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Come admire some of the oldest trees in the world at the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. Here, visitors can partake in guided tours past winding, twisted trees–some over 4,000 years old.
Next, drive over to Owens Valley, where scenic landscapes and sunsets are always easy to find. Anyone traveling with children will want to make a pit stop at Bishop City Park, where they will enjoy children's play equipment, a dog park, an arboretum, a pond, a garden, sports courts, and a public pool.
Tahoe City
Tahoe City is a lovely town bordered by Lake Tahoe on one side and Truckee River on the other. Visitors will find a healthy mix of historical sights, breathtaking pockets of nature, and opportunities for action sports. In the summer, Tahoe City is a hot spot for things like biking, rafting, swimming, and rock climbing. When winter rolls around, the city turns into a skiing mecca.
For a day of fun under the sun, be sure to visit Tahoe City Commons Beach. Or slow things down with a tour through the Gatekeepers Museum where visitors can dive deeper into Tahoe City history. Those willing to venture slightly out of town can take the roughly 17-mile drive to Emerald Bay State Park. Here, enjoy a range of activities, from hiking to scuba diving.
From quiet days spent along the river to lively music festivals and action sports–travelers will find all that and more in California’s Sierra Nevada region. Littered with picturesque small towns, this area offers visitors and locals alike a wide range of fun things to do, including an impressive array of 2024 events. So don’t wait, start planning a trip to one of these peaceful river towns today.
