Passing through Groveland on the way to Yosemite National Park, Sierra Nevada mountains. Image credit Sundry Photography via Shutterstock.

9 Top-Rated Small Towns In California's Sierra Nevada

Discover these top-rated small towns in the stunning Sierra Nevada mountain range, stretching across California and Nevada, where these towns ensure an unforgettable experience. Whether delving into history at the North Star Mining Museum in Grass Valley, marveling at landscapes in Yosemite National Park, or appreciating historical architecture like the Historic Firehouse and Bell in Auburn, these towns offer a blend of attractions, history, and scenic wonders for an unforgettable visit.

More in Sierra Nevada13 Adorable Small Towns in California's Sierra Nevada

Auburn

View of the Auburn Bridge in the Sierra Nevada, California
View of the Auburn Bridge in the Sierra Nevada, California.

Auburn, a pivotal player in the Gold Rush era, unfolds its storied past through various historic sites and buildings. The 19th-century architecture stands beautifully preserved, including the Placer County Courthouse, the Historic Firehouse and Bell, and the Bernhard Museum. Outdoor enthusiasts can relish the Sierra Nevada foothills, engage in thrilling river-rafting adventures on the American River, or explore walking and hiking trails with staggering views at Hidden Falls Regional Park. Experience a weekend getaway in classic 1950s style at the recently remodeled FootHills motel, providing an affordable and cozy stay.

Sonora

Red Church on Washington Street in historic downtown Sonora on a cloudy, wet spring afternoon
Red Church on Washington Street in historic downtown Sonora. Image credit Stephanie Farrell via Shutterstock.

Known as the “Queen of the Southern Mines,” Sonora is your gateway to Yosemite adventures. Explore Coffill Park with its tree-lined picnic area and year-round creek, or wander through Prospector Park, where historic mining equipment tells tales of the past. History enthusiasts can dive into the town's veterans' stories at the Veterans Memorial Military Museum or hike the scenic 2.5-mile trail at Dragoon Gulch Trail Head. Explore downtown's architectural marvels like the Bradford Building, constructed in 1903. Extend your stay at The Bradford Place Inn & Gardens for a weekend retreat.

Grass Valley

View of Mill Street in downtown Grass Valley, California
Mill Street in downtown Grass Valley. Image credit EWY Media via Shutterstock.

Grass Valley played a significant role in the California Gold Rush. Spend the day at Empire Mine State Historic Park, where you can hike the rails, enjoy horseback riding, and explore one of California's oldest, deepest, and richest gold mines. Take a short drive to the North Star Mining Museum, the second-largest producer of gold during the Gold Rush, or experience exterior beauty and a movie at the historic 1942 Del Oro Theatre. Visit the Home of Lola Montez, the 19th-century Irish dancer and actress, or Swan Levine House, built in 1895, which now serves as a bed and breakfast with a rich history as an early 1900s Gold Rush boomtown hospital.

Groveland

Road to Yosemite Valley in Groveland, California with Half Dome in the background
Road to Yosemite Valley in Groveland, California. Image credit N8Allen via Shutterstock.

Groveland, the gateway to Yosemite National Park, invites you to explore the park through hiking, biking, or guided tours. Learn about the region's rich history at the Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at Pine Mountain Lake Golf Course, while those seeking tranquility can relax by the Tuolumne River or Pine Mountain Lake. Watch live music at Iron Door Saloon, a saloon that has been in continuous operation since its founding in 1852, making it the most extended continually operating bar in all of California. Experience the beauty of nature from the patio of Red Tail Ranch Retreat, overlooking vast meadows and foothills, for a serene retreat.

Murphys

Murphys Hotel; one of the oldest hotels still operating in California.
Murphys Hotel is one of the oldest hotels still operating in California. Image credit JRJfin via Shutterstock.

Located in the central Sierra Nevada foothills between Lake Tahoe and Yosemite National Park, you can relax at Feeney Park or Murphys Community Club & Community Park. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at the Sierra's finest, Forest Meadows Golf Course. Step back to the 1800s by strolling through Murphy's downtown district, featuring iconic structures like Murphy’s Historic Hotel, erected in 1856, or the Masonic Hall, established in 1859. Choose Courtwood Inn for a blend of bed and breakfast log lodge charm with modern, spacious amenities, or the acclaimed Victoria Inn for your stay.

Mariposa

Street view of beautiful town of Mariposa near Yosemite Valley
Street view of the beautiful town of Mariposa near Yosemite Valley. Image credit Jon Chica via Shutterstock.

Explore the historic Mariposa County Courthouse, a magnificent structure dating back to 1854. Roam the historic downtown area, featuring landmarks like the Masonic Lodge built in 1917 or the Bertken House erected in 1901. Uncover the wonders of the California State Mining and Mineral Museum, offering a captivating insight into the state's mineral wealth. Nature enthusiasts can briefly drive to Yosemite National Park for awe-inspiring landscapes and outdoor activities. Complete your visit with a stay at the Mariposa Hotel Inn, an ideal setting for gatherings and special celebrations, or the Mariposa Lodge, just 48 km from Yosemite South Entrance.

Truckee

Afternoon neighborhood view of historic homes in Truckee, California, USA.
Aerial view of historic homes in Truckee, California.

Journey through Truckee's history at the Truckee Old Jail Museum & Community Memorial Garden. Once a jail, the museum provides insight into the town's past and its role in maintaining law and order during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The surrounding garden pays tribute to Truckee's heritage, offering a serene space for reflection. Take advantage of the Truckee Railroad Museum, showcasing the region's rich railroad history. Explore downtown Truckee with historic gems like the Sassarini Home and Eaton Home. Stay at Gravity Haus Truckee-Tahoe, a cozy hotel with a European ambiance, or the Truckee Donner Lodge.

Quincy

Fog and clouds cover mountain side, Quincy, California
View of Sierra Nevada Mountain Range in Quincy, California. 

In the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, take a short drive to Bucks Lake, where visitors can rent a boat or kayak, traverse miles of forest trails, and engage in activities like fishing, biking, or eagle-watching. Explore the rich history of the gold country, railroad, and logging industry at the Plumas County Museum. Stay at Ada's Place, offering four fully furnished garden-level cottages in the heart of the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Mountain ranges. Stroll through downtown to admire landmarks like the Plumas County Courthouse and the 1876-built Huskinson Block, once a bustling hub for commerce and community gatherings.

Placerville

Mainstreet in Historic town of Placerville
Main Street in the historic town of Placerville, California. Image credit Laurens Hoddenbagh via Shutterstock.

Located in the foothills of Sierra County, Placerville earned its name during the gold rush of the late 1840s, inspired by the placer gold deposits discovered in its riverbeds and hills. Explore the Sierra Nevada through hiking and experience the thrill of American River rafting. Learn about the history at the Marshall Gold Discovery State Park, where the first gold was found. Discover the Gold Bug Park and Mine, offering hiking, a museum, and audio tours of an 1880s gold mine, complete with a blacksmith shop and gem mining. Choose accommodation at the Bella Vista Bed and Breakfast, known as the 'Most Beautiful View in Gold Country,' or opt for the Historic Cary House Hotel, which dates back to 1857 and has Victorian elegance.

Next UpThese 7 Small Towns in California's Sierra Nevada Have the Best Historic Districts

The Sierra Nevada region, well-known for its pivotal role in the California Gold Rush and the iconic Pacific Crest Trail, has a rich tapestry of history and natural beauty. From exploring the Yosemite Gateway Museum in Groveland to soaking in the landscapes of Marshall Gold Discovery State Park in Placerville, there is much to see and discover in these small towns. Appreciating historical architecture in Quincy with landmarks such as the Plumas County Courthouse and the 1876-built Huskinson Block, each town weaves together attractions, history, and scenic masterpieces, making the Sierra Nevada an excellent destination for a memorable visit.

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Marc Beckstead November 23 2023 in Places

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