Discover a charming town steeped in rich history, offering outdoor adventures, unique shops, and friendly hospitality
Journey back in time to Mokelumne Hill, a California Historical Landmark nestled in the heart of Calaveras County. Founded in 1848 during the Gold Rush, this charming town boasts well-preserved historical architecture, narrow streets, and a captivating atmosphere.
Step Back in Time:
- Explore Historic Buildings: Stroll down Main Street and admire the beautifully preserved Gold Rush-era buildings.
- Mokelumne Hill Historical Society: Delve deeper into the town’s history with a visit to the Mokelumne Hill Historical Society, which also serves as the local library.
- China Gardens: Discover the fascinating history of the Chinese community during the Gold Rush at the 19th-century terraced Chinese Gardens, nominated for the National Register of Historic Places.
Experience the Outdoors:
- Mokelumne River: Unwind by the scenic Mokelumne River, perfect for picnics, fishing, or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature.
- Mokelumne Hill Whitewater Trail: For the adventurous, whitewater rafting trips on the Mokelumne River provide an exhilarating experience.
- Mokelumne Coast to Crest Trail: Hike through breathtaking Sierra Nevada landscapes, including aspen groves and wildflowers, on this scenic trail.
Unwind and Savor:
- Hotel Leger: Stay overnight at the historic Hotel Leger, the heart of the community, offering comfortable accommodations, a renowned restaurant, and intriguing ghost stories.
- Renegade Winery: Sample delicious wines and enjoy live music at the friendly Renegade Winery.
- Posterity Ciderworks: Discover unique, small-batch ciders crafted with local fruits at Posterity Ciderworks.
- Moke Hill Nuts/Mok-A-Java: Indulge in a variety of coffee flavors and tasty treats at Moke Hill Nuts/Mok-A-Java.
- Downtown Charm: Browse through unique shops like Petroglyphe Gallery and For Succ Sake, offering art, plants, and home décor.
Events and Activities:
- Immerse yourself in the community spirit by attending Mokelumne Hill’s Fourth of July celebration featuring a parade and fun activities.
- Enjoy free concerts in Shutter Tree Park during the fall months.
- Participate in various events and activities hosted by the Hotel Leger throughout the year.
Plan Your Mokelumne Hill Escape:
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History of Mokelumne Hill
Mokelumne Hill offers a perfect escape for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a charming and relaxing getaway. Start planning your adventure today by browsing our website for information on accommodations, activities, and local attractions.
Mokelumne Hill, which sits on the edge of the beautiful Mokelumne River Canyon, with an elevation ranging from 1200 to 1700 feet, is commonly referred to as “Moke Hill” by locals. Well-preserved historical architecture, narrow streets, and its small size, all contribute to the town’s charm. It takes its name from the Mokelumne River, which in turn is Miwok for the “people of Mokel,” the likely name of a Native American Miwok village in the area. Mokelumne Hill was one of the richest gold mining towns in California. Founded in 1848 by a group of Oregonians, the gold digs were so rich that the miners risked starvation rather than head to Stockton to replenish their supplies (one finally did and made it rich by becoming a merchant). Soon after, gold was also discovered in the nearby hills, so much so that miners were restricted to claims of 16 square feet, and yet many of those claims were reported to have paid up to $20,000.
Today, the charming Hotel Léger is the center of the community, offering year-round events and activities, a writer’s retreat and maybe even a haunting or two. Ghost hunting kits are available from the front desk for those who dare to use them. And who might be haunting the hotel besides the original owner, George Léger? Ancestors of current locals are reputed to have played cards in the saloon with the infamous outlaws, Black Bart and Joaquin Murieta. The present hotel is actually three separate buildings, one of which served as the Calaveras County Courthouse from 1855 to 1866 and housed the county jail in the basement.
