We feel like we're falling for fall, but it's more than just a feeling -it's all of the senses combined! The sights, the tastes, the smells. Experience a different side of Yosemite National Park in the quieter and less crowded destinations. Watch as history comes to life with local tales of legends and as nature makes it's noise of loud autumn colors in Gold Country. Temperatures are dropping and cooler adventures are found out on the trails and at unique events of the High Sierra communities. Take a chance and take a trip to Tuolumne County, where your senses will get their fill of fall at off-peak accommodation prices.
Yosemite has quieted down, and now’s the time for National Park adventures and new explorations as the season turns. Find yourself in awe as you take in the sights among the giant sequoias of Tuolumne Grove. Explore the Stanislaus National Forest on bike to hear the whistling wind the feel of a rugged trail beneath your wheels. Wander the downtown street of Groveland and pop into Mountain Sage Coffee and Nursery for a taste of their yummy pumpkin spice latte and seasonal scones you won’t be able to resist. Take it easy at Yosemite Cellars smell the swirl of the local wines as you sip the afternoon away.
Gold Country comes to life with color and local events in the fall. The air is cool and bright, colorful foliage takes over Columbia State Historic Park. Explore the old nooks of the park and let your nose lead you into Seven Sisters Candle and Soap Co. where you’ll feel the warmth of their seasonal scents fill your senses. Wander a little ways and visit Nelson’s Candy Kitchen, where there’s no tricks, only treats. We recommend…everything! While you're in Columbia, check out the newly restored Columbia Mercantile 1855 for an old fashioned style grocery shopping experience. Nearby in Jamestown, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, you will hear the Wild West come to life with the sound of the old diesel train whistle blow.
High Sierra adventures await you, where the brisk mountain breezes are the perfect excuse for a cozy sweater. Take a hike along the Pinecrest Lake Loop Trail and catch unreal views of the changing leaves and Sierra Nevada. Visit the little mountain town of Twain Harte and enjoy the annual Pints in the Pines Oktoberfest event. Listen for that perfect pour and guzzle your way through the weekend with live music and laughter along the way. When it comes to seasonal baked goods, on Highway 108, Alicia's Sugar Shack knows how to get those taste buds to tingle. Feel the warm heat of their fireplace as you hang for a while enjoying the free wifi and good vibes.
The Sixth Sense, some are hesitant to believe it and few have it, but we can't deny the thrilling attraction to a good scare, or even a history lesson. Take a Ghost Tour in Columbia State Historic Park where there is the largest collection of Gold Rush-era brick buildings in California which are full of captivating stories and ghostly vibes. Feeling extra brave? Explore the park buildings after-dark on a Paranormal Prospecting Tour for a ghost hunting investigation. The abandoned ghost town in Chinese Camp is a unique destination in the foothills. This once bustling gold rush town, has now been reclaimed by nature with overgrown greenery and eerie rundown buildings. Take a stroll and take a few photos. Find out more information at our nearby visitors center. Looking for a real spook with a side of railroad history? Go on a Lamplight Tour of the Roundhouse at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park where you’ll encounter ghosts of the Sierra Railway who wish to share their stories and take you back in time in the dark.
Visit www.VisitTuolumne.com to find lodging, including quaint B&Bs, cabins and more, for your trip to Tuolumne County.