Uncover the lesser-known gems of Tuolumne County- from tucked- away trails and scenic overlooks to charming shops and peaceful hideaways. This itinerary is all about venturing off the beaten path and discovering the places locals love, but most visitors miss.
Day 1: Arrival
Arrive in Groveland at Berkshire Inn Bed & Breakfast a beautiful, sprawling inn sits that sits on 20 wooded acres with nature trails and beautiful vistas near Yosemite National Park.(Make reservations ahead of time)
Afternoon
Travel east to the Groveland Ranger District of Stanislaus National Forest visitor information center and the hike Little Golden Forest Trail (9 Minute Drive)
The Little Golden Forest Trail is an easy, scenic loop that winds through pine forest and open meadows- perfect for a peaceful stroll surrounded by natural beauty. A self-guided trail brochure at the ranger station across the parking lot
Enjoy dinner at The Grill at Pine Mountain Lake in Groveland before heading back to the inn for the night. (15 Minute Drive)
Day 2: Full Day
Morning
Enjoy a delicious breakfast before checking-out of the inn and heading to Firefall Ranch at Yosemite for a horseback riding adventure.
Experience the sights and sounds of nature while riding through the nearby wilderness.
- Book Guided Trail Ride in Advance
Afternoon
After your ride, head back to Groveland and delight in a coffee and snack from Mountain Sage Coffee & Nursery in their beautiful garden area (11 Minute Drive) then depart for the town of Tuolumne for a hike on the scenic Westside Trail (50 Minute Drive).
Following the route of a former logging railroad, the trail offers a level, forested path perfect for a peaceful hike or bike ride- rich with natural beauty, vistas and local history.
- Have proper hiking attire and plenty of water
Depart for Twain Harte, CA
Grab some lunch at the local favorite, The Sugar Shack (13 Minute Drive) in Twain Harte
Check-in to your lodging at Mi Wuk Village Inn (2 Minute Drive) and take the ride to Donnell Vista Scenic Vista, Stanislaus National Forest (42 Minute Drive). Perched above the Stanislaus River Canyon, Donnell Vista delivers stunning panoramic views of rugged cliffs, forested slopes, and Donnell Reservoir- an easy-to- reach spot that feels worlds away.
Columns of the Giants is a striking volcanic rock outcropping in Stanislaus National Forest, where towering basalt columns rise dramatically along the trail. It’s a quick, easy walk to a truly unique geological wonder.
Evening
Head back down the hill to Pinecrest Lake for dinner at The Steam Donkey (40 minute drive to 421 Pinecrest Lake Rd.)
Return to Mi Wuk Village Inn or top off the night at nearby Diamond Jim’s to enjoy live music or karaoke or simply kick back in the beer garden.
Return to Mi Wuk Village Inn or top off the night at nearby Diamond Jim’s to enjoy live music or karaoke or simply kick back in the beer garden.
Day 3: Departure Day
Morning
Check-out of the Mi Wuk Village Inn and head to Pence Sourdough in Sonora for a hearty breakfast (portions are large).
Once in Sonora hop on the Sonora Selfie Trail, a mobile pathway to many of the hidden gems of the city. Then head to the Dragoon Gulch Trail.
Then embark on a hike at Dragoon Gulch Trail. Just steps from downtown Sonora, the trail offers a peaceful escape into nature with a mix of shaded woodland paths and open ridge line views. It’s a favorite local spot for hiking, trail running, and soaking in scenic vistas of the Sierra foothills.
- Easy to Moderate Hike
- Have proper hiking attire and plenty of water
Afternoon
Follow the Walk of Fame from Rocca Park to Railtown 1897 State Historic Park in Jamestown. The Walk of Fame highlights iconic films and TV shows shot in Tuolumne County with bronze markers set into the sidewalk. It's a fun stroll through local movie history.
Before heading home have lunch at CC Taqueria, a local favorite.
Thank you for choosing Tuolumne County and exploring some of its hidden treasures! We can’t wait to see you again!
