Gold Country

Year-round events and attractions beckon all ages in this remarkable region, where the California Gold Rush began. See historic Sutter’s Mill in Gold Discovery State Historical Park on the American River, where gold was first discovered, and pan for gold yourself! Visit antique stores, restaurants and art galleries in nearby “Old Hangtown” (Placerville) or “Old Pokerville” (Plymouth).  We have white water rafting in the summer and skiing in the winter. Or take in many colorful seasonal events such as wine festivals in the spring or the Apple Hill Festival in the fall.

New York Times: 36 Hours in Sutter Creek:
FOR decades, a rowdy past was California Gold Country's sole claim to fame. Now wine fever has swept much of the 300-mile mother lode. Vineyards blanket hills that once swarmed with forty-niners, and ambitious restaurants have popped up in still-rustic towns. In Sutter Creek (population 2,480), born at the dawn of the Gold Rush, Wild West kitsch mingles with breezy wine-country style. Mosey along sidewalks shaded by filigreed balconies or bicycle through blissfully empty Amador County countryside. Belly up to the bar in an 1880's saloon or sip Sierra Foothills vintages at the source.

Sunset Magazine: Rediscovering the Gold Country:
Once beautiful but sleepy, the little towns of the Sierra foothills are growing more sophisticated. Autumn is the perfect time to explore them.