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Austin Banks Railtown
Austin Banks

History's Mysteries of Tuolumne County

By VTC Author | 05/18/2020 | Exploring Tuolumne County

Spooky Season is officially here! From the Gold Rush to tales of trekking in the Sierra, Tuolumne County is filled with a rich history. While much of the history is accurately recorded, there are still mysteries around every corner and new stories waiting to be uncovered. However, it is no mystery that Tuolumne County is the place to be for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and even those looking into the supernatural. Explore with new eyes and discover the mysteries Tuolumne County has to offer.

Candy Kitchen in Columbia By Austin Banks

The Standard Pour

The Standard Pour is a local favorite restaurant for their innovative California cuisine. It is housed in what was once the Mill of Standard offices, across the street from what used to be the hospital. There have been multiple ghost sightings including a tall man in a top hat and young girl seen over the years. So keep an eye out the next time you enjoy one of their delicious burgers. 


Columbia Historic State Park

Columbia is filled with mysteries from its heyday. Simply by walking the streets you can tell how deep the history runs, how life was for those in the 1800’s and the accurate level it is preserved at today. Learn about the competition between Columbia and Sacramento to become the state capital or discover the legends surrounding the Battle of Sawmill Flat. If you’re looking for a little extra mystery, visit the Victorian Era Fallon Hotel which is said to be haunted by a young lady lingering around the grounds.


Railtown 1897 State Historic Park

Transport yourself to the Wild West at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park in Jamestown. Ride on historic trains (call for schedule) to explore the landscape of Gold County and see history come to life. Whether you’d like to ride in the cab or participate in their Crew for the Day program to have a hands-on experience, Railtown will bring the mysteries of the foothills of the Sierra to light.

Wells Fargo in ColumbiaRailtown Train Inside

Sasquatch Sightings

The Sierra is filled with myths and tales. One of the most well-known is the legend of Sasquatch aka Bigfoot. Head out on a hike to explore and you’ll never know who or what you might stumble upon. Many claim to have spotted it in Twain Harte or at Herring Creek in Stanislaus National Forest. It is your chance to try and crack the mystery of Bigfoot in Tuolumne County.


Gold Panning

Get closer to history by practicing gold panning the way the 49ers did back during the Gold Rush. Learn from modern day prospectors and see if you have the Midas touch. They found gold in these hills and who knows, you could too.


Chinese Camp

The abandoned ghost town in Chinese Camp was once a bustling town in the Sierra foothills. You may recognize it from being featured on the silver screen. Walk through the rundown abandoned buildings for an eerie sense of how life would have been or to see if anything is still lingering today.  


Have other mysteries you love? Share them with us on Facebook or Instagram!

Take a break and take a trip. Start planning your vacation with the help of travel inspiration and information delivered directly to your mailbox. Request your FREE Tuolumne County Vacation Planner here today.

2020 Vacation Planner


Visit www.VisitTuolumne.com to find lodging, including quaint B&Bs, cabins and more, for your trip to Tuolumne County.

Visit Tuolumne County
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Sonora, CA 95370

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