Gold Rush charm, towering sequoias, scenic mountain vistas, and thrilling river adventures.
Spring is the perfect time to visit Calaveras County and the Western Sierra, where the rolling green foothills come alive with wildflowers, flowing rivers, and crisp mountain air. We have spent many a weekend in the Western Sierra and the Calaveras region of the Sierra. The options for planning a days activities are abundant and with a little creativity and casual awareness of its history, you can craft a very special weekend in the Sierra.
Whether you’re here for world-class wine tasting, hiking among ancient sequoias, or chasing adventure on the river, this 2-3 day itinerary offers the best of the Western Sierra in spring.
Day 1: Gold & Wine Country – Savor the Flavors & History of Calaveras
Start your journey by exploring the heart of Gold Country and indulging in the best local wine and food.
Morning: Exploring Historic Murphys & Gold Rush Towns
Kick off your trip in Murphys, a picturesque town often called “The Queen of the Sierra.” Stroll along Main Street, where Gold Rush-era buildings house boutique shops, art galleries, and award-winning wineries.
Gold Rush Highlights:
🏛 Angels Camp Museum – Home to one of the largest Gold Rush-era exhibits in the state. Don’t miss the carriage collection and mining artifacts.
🐸 Frog Hop of Fame – A fun sidewalk tour of plaques celebrating past winners of the Jumping Frog Jubilee, inspired by Mark Twain.
🎨 Petroglyphe Gallery (Mokelumne Hill) – A beautiful art space featuring works from local and regional artists.
Midday: Wine Tasting & Lunch in Murphys
🍷 Ironstone Vineyards – One of Calaveras County’s most famous wineries, featuring lush gardens, a heritage museum (home to a 44-pound gold nugget), and wine caves.
🧀 Allegorie Art and Wine – A unique tasting room blending local art and handcrafted wines in an intimate setting.
🥗 Lunch at Alchemy Café – A farm-to-table bistro with fresh, locally sourced dishes like grilled trout, lamb burgers, and seasonal salads.
Afternoon: More Wine or Outdoor Strolling
🚶♂️ Murphys Historic Walking Tour – A self-guided tour of Gold Rush landmarks, including Murphys Old Schoolhouse, historic hotels, and the Murphys Jail.
🍷 Vina Moda or Twisted Oak Winery – Boutique wineries with bold reds and relaxing patios to enjoy a glass of wine.
Evening: Farm-to-Table Dining & Relaxation
🍽 Dinner at Grounds in Murphys – Casual fine dining featuring locally sourced meats, fresh fish, and artisanal cocktails.
🏨 Stay Overnight in Murphys
- Victoria Inn – A charming bed & breakfast with historic charm and modern comforts.
- The Dunbar House Inn – A romantic getaway in the heart of Murphys with beautifully restored rooms.
Day 2: Big Trees & Mountain Vistas on Highway 4
Venture higher into the Sierra, where ancient sequoias and breathtaking views await.
Morning: Explore Calaveras Big Trees State Park
🌲 North Grove Trail – A 1.5-mile loop featuring some of the largest and oldest sequoias in the world.
🏕 South Grove Trail (Optional) – A quieter, 5-mile hike through less-traveled groves of massive trees.
📷 Scenic Photography Spots – The Pioneer Cabin Tree site, The Empire Tree, and the Stanislaus River overlook.
Midday: Lunch & Exploring Arnold
🍔 Lunch at The Lube Room – A local-favorite mountain tavern with great burgers and craft beer.
🚲 Arnold Rim Trail – If you’re up for more adventure, bike or hike to Cougar Rock for panoramic Sierra views.
Afternoon: Scenic Drive Along Ebbetts Pass (Hwy 4)
🚘 Drive toward Bear Valley – This scenic mountain road (depending on snow conditions) offers incredible views of the High Sierra.
🎿 Spring Snow Play (if conditions allow) – Rent snowshoes at Sierra Nevada Adventure Company and explore Lake Alpine or Bear Valley Mountain Resort.
Evening: Cozy Lodging in the Sierra
🍽 Dinner at Sarafina’s Italian Kitchen (Arnold) – A rustic, family-owned Italian restaurant with hearty homemade pasta.
🏡 Stay Overnight in Arnold or Bear Valley
- Black Bear Inn (Arnold) – A charming mountain lodge with cozy cabins.
- Bear Valley Lodge – A rustic yet comfortable stay near High Sierra adventure spots.
Day 3: Rivers, Wildflowers & Adventure on the Stanislaus
For those with an extra day, get on the water, chase wildflowers, and uncover hidden Gold Rush gems.
Morning: Whitewater Rafting on the North Fork of the Stanislaus
🌊 Book a rafting trip with O.A.R.S. for an epic Class IV+ whitewater adventure through the granite-lined Stanislaus River canyon.
🌿 Not into rafting? Instead, visit Natural Bridges Trail, a 1.5-mile hike leading to a cave and river pool perfect for a spring dip.
Midday: Fishing, Picnicking & More Gold Rush History
🎣 Fishing at Lake Camanche or New Melones – Cast your line for striped bass or rainbow trout.
🌼 Wildflower Hunting Along the Foothills – Drive along Pool Station Road for fields of California poppies, lupines, and fiddlenecks.
🥪 Picnic at Pardee Reservoir – A scenic, low-elevation lake ideal for kayaking and enjoying the warm spring sun.
🏛 Explore San Andreas & More Gold History – Visit the Calaveras County Museum Complex, featuring a historic courthouse and old jailhouse from the 1800s.
Evening: Final Sunset & Farewell Dinner
🍽 Dinner at The Pickle Patch in San Andreas (weekdays only) – A quirky, beloved local sandwich shop.
🥩 OR Dinner at Camps at Greenhorn Creek – If heading back to Angels Camp, enjoy grass-fed steaks and sunset views over the golf course.
Why Visit in Spring?
🌿 Wildflowers & Rolling Green Hills – The foothills come alive with California poppies, baby blue eyes, and fiddlenecks.
🍷 Prime Wine Tasting Season – Mild weather and fewer crowds make this a relaxed time for wine lovers.
🌲 Big Trees & High Sierra Adventure – Spring is perfect for hiking, snowshoeing, and scenic drives.
🚣 Thrilling River Rafting & Fishing – Spring runoff means prime whitewater conditions on the Stanislaus River.
Plan Your Perfect Spring Getaway
Calaveras County offers a perfect mix of Gold Rush history, outdoor adventure, and wine country charm. Whether you explore for two or three days, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for this hidden gem in the Western Sierra.
For more insider tips and trip-planning resources, visit Sierra Rec Magazine and start planning your perfect spring escape today! 🌲🚗🌊🍷
This version keeps the detailed structure from the Visalia itinerary, while expanding each day with engaging descriptions, must-visit locations, and local travel tips. Let me know if you’d like further refinements or additional suggestions! 🚀
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