Love Elevated - Three-Day Getaway for Valentine's Day Weekend

Escape the ordinary and let romance take center stage this Valentine’s Day weekend in beautiful Tuolumne County. Stroll hand-in-hand through historic Gold Rush towns, savor shared treats, get swept away on a train ride, and enjoy snow-kissed mountain mornings and cozy spa moments. This carefully curated itinerary blends classic romance with adventurous moments that bring you closer together.

Arrive in Sonora or in the Jamestown area.

Lodging options: 

Best Western Plus Sonora Oaks Hotel & Conference Center is nestled in a grove of ancient oaks in a park-like setting. Enjoy dinner at the nearby and locals' favorite, The Standard Pour, a casual restaurant that features craft beer, unique wines, and a diverse menu. The Standard Pour is housed in the old Pickering Lumber office building built in 1924. Another option is Pinocchio's, family-owned and operated through generations with Italian recipes that have been in the family for decades. 

Chicken Ranch Casino Resort, a 4‑star upscale hotel perched in the Sierra Nevada foothills near Jamestown. Indulge in dinner at Perch, with a unique blend of American fusion dishes in an upscale setting (there's a dress code). Or try one of the several other dining options at the resort.

Morning

Charge up for the day with breakfast at your lodging location (Best Western Plus offers free breakfast), or for a more unique option that sets the tone for the day, choose the Kate's Bakery in Columbia State Historic Park, which is where you'll spend the first part of your day. You may want to sleep in, businesses in Columbia generally open around 10am.

Explore Columbia State Historic Park. There’s no place better to get immersed in California’s Gold Rush history than in Columbia State Historic Park where you can stroll along wooden sidewalks, ride an authentic stagecoach, pan for riches of gold, and chat with knowledgeable and friendly townspeople dressed in period attire.

• Dive into the Gold Rush era with a stagecoach ride with Columbia Stage Line through the wild outskirts of town
• Visit the 5th generation owned and operated Nelson's Columbia Candy Kitchen for some special Valentine's treats
• Pan for gold at Matelot Gulch Mining Co
• Savor an ice cream at the Fallon House Ice Cream Parlor
• Browse  the many unique shops in town such as the Columbia Mercantile 1855, Towle & Leavitt, Columbia Booksellers & Variety Store, and the Columbia Clothiers & Emporium
• Stop at the Parrott's Blacksmith shop for a heart-shaped horseshoe and watch the process of blacksmithing
• Dress up and take an old-time photo for a fun memory to take home 

Afternoon

Off to Jamestown to have lunch at the Willow Saloon or Jamestown Hotel before exploring downtown Jamestown. Step into Arthur Michael Vineyard's tasting room on Main Street for some delicious local wines.

Ride the historic rails on the special Sweetheart Limited at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park. Doors open at 4:00pm and train ride is at 5:30pm, reservations are needed. Enjoy a decadent dessert paired with a glass of sparkling wine or cider, then settle in for a leisurely 45-minute train ride through the scenic California Gold Country—where the lowering sun over the timeless landscape sets the mood for romance. (There is also a another at 6:00pm with ride at 7:30pm)

Dinner Options: 

• Indulge in a specially curated Valentine's Dinner and chocolate-covered strawberries at the scenic Teleli Golf Clubs's West Wind Bar & Grill. (Reservations suggested)
• Explore Historic Downtown Sonora during 2nd Saturday Art Night. The year-round, monthly art night features live music and art activations at shops and eateries. For a delicious dinner stop by Emberz, Diamondback Grill, Bigwood Brew Works, or The Armory, where their social media followers voted for the Valentine's Dinner courses. Definitely stop by Fittin’ Pretty Bras & Boutique for a bit of shopping that suits the day!

Rise and shine and head "up the hill" (Hwy 108 east)

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Sugar Shack in Twain Harte--another favorite of locals and folks headed to the snow.

Drop into the Strawberry Store for snacks, souvenirs, and world-famous fudge.

Explore the High Country:

• Set out for a moderate to moderately-strenuous hike around the scenic Pinecrest Lake. Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots.
• If snow action is what you're seeking, hit the slopes. Go skiing or snowboarding at Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort (rentals and lessons available) or tubing at Leland Snowplay area. Check ahead to make sure they're open.

Break for a delicious lunch at Mia's Brick Oven Pizza & Specialties.

Head back, and take the turn into the quaint and walkable town of Twain Harte.

• Step into The Harte of the Kitchen for any kitchen gadget or accessory you may ever need and The Walk-in Closet for some unique finds.
• Check to see if Twain Harte Miniature Golf is open. The vintage course is really fun for couples looking for a little competition between themselves.
• Take a relaxing stroll through Meadows Park and do a little bird watching--Twain Harte is an official Audubon Bird Town, and there are there are pamphlets to guide you at the park's entrance.

Check out of your accommodations and head to Yosemite! (east on Hwy 120)

Have breakfast and a stroll around the pretty native plant nursery at Mountain Sage Cafe and Nursery in Groveland and take some time to explore town. If you need any supplies for your hike, stop by Yosemite Basecamp.

Drive to Hetch Hetchy Reservoir (55 min.drive) for a hike along the brilliant blue hidden gem in Yosemite’s northwest corner, featuring dramatic granite cliffs, stunning waterfalls, and scenic trails-perfect for hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking a quieter Yosemite experience. Have proper hiking attire, snacks, plenty of water, and sunscreen. 

Visit the historic Evergreen Lodge for lunch.

After the hike and lunch, it's spa time at Rush Creek Lodge & Spa. The Spa is a nature-inspired wellness retreat featuring indoor‑outdoor thermal pools, Himalayan salt sauna, aromatherapy steam room, sensory mist showers, and rejuvenating massage and facial treatments all designed to echo the raw beauty of Yosemite. Bring spa-wear to change into in the locker rooms; they supply luxurious robes and slippers. (Make a reservation ahead of time)

It's time to head home. We hope you enjoyed your romantic weekend. See you again soon!