We all know that fall feeling, but it's more than just a feeling--it's all of the senses combined! The sights, tastes, smells, and sounds are unmistakable.
Your ultimate fall California road trip awaits in Tuolumne County! Watch as history comes to life and as nature makes its presence known through vibrant autumn colors, crisp scents, and dropping temperatures. Authentic California Gold Country, Yosemite National Park, and the High Sierra are your destinations for a memorable fall getaway.
Take a chance and take a trip to Tuolumne County, where your senses will get their fill of fall with off-peak accommodation prices.
Wander in Groveland, and pop into Mountain Sage Coffee and Nursery for a taste of their delicious pumpkin spice latte and seasonal scones, or stop in Around the Horn Brewing Company for a one-of-a-kind seasonal brew. Feel like shopping? Swing by Ranch Revived to find the perfect fall decor or warm, wool blanket to bring home. Stock up on outdoor gear at Echo Adventure Cooperative, and find some locally-made gifts and souvenirs at Mother Lode Made and The Grove Mercantile (which has seasonal flavors of homemade ice cream too).
For the golfer, Pine Mountain Lake Golf Course is the perfect locale for a fall-day round with views of Yosemite's peaks.
The air is cool and bright and colorful foliage takes over Columbia State Historic Park. Explore the nooks of the park and let your nose lead you into Seven Sisters Candle and Soap Co. where you’ll feel their seasonal scents warm your heart. Wander a little ways and visit Nelson’s Columbia Candy Kitchen, where there’s no tricks, only treats. We recommend…everything! While you're in Columbia, check out the modern take on an old provisions store, Columbia Mercantile 1855 for an old-fashioned style grocery shopping experience. Stop by Inner Sanctum Cellars Winery and Tap Room near the park to relax with a glass of wine or beer in the beautiful outdoor patio area.
At Railtown 1897 State Historic Park in nearby Jamestown, become immersed by the smells, sounds, and sights of Wild West railroad culture while walking the grounds full of massive oak trees. Enjoy a spooky adventure on special evening train ride, the Skeleton Starlight, which runs on Saturdays in October. Try some wine in town at Arthur Michael Vineyards or take the scenic route just outside of town to Gianelli Vineyards and Tasting Room to sip wine while overlooking the rolling foothills with golden grape leaves in the foreground.
Sonora, Tuolumne County's largest city, bustles with things to do. Take the family on an indoor adventure and work together to solve a real-time immersive puzzle at Motherlode Escape Rooms, or wander the shops filled with autumn decor, clothing, and more. Indigeny Reserve, just east of town has the best hard apple cider, which is proudly created on site. The property also has beautiful picnic grounds, walking trails, and a disc golf course.
Take the whole family to the ultimate fall destination Cover's Apple Ranch in the town of Tuolumne to try their fresh pressed apple cider and Mile High Apple Pie, pick out a pumpkin, and feed the barnyard animals.
Fall colors are brilliant in the High Sierra and create the perfect excuse for a road trip. When it comes to seasonal baked goods found along Highway 108, the team at The Sugar Shack knows how to get those taste buds to tingle with fresh, home-made sweet treats and savory meals.
Visit the little mountain town of Twain Harte and enjoy a relaxing picnic under the pines at Eproson Park. Nearby, find some fun fall fashions at The Walk-In Closet or handy cooking gadgets to help with upcoming holiday cooking or gift giving at The Harte of the Kitchen.
Cooler days bring out lots of fall events throughout Tuolumne County. Some of the most noted are the Fall Fest at Indigeny Reserve in Sonora and Harvest Festifall in Columbia State Historic Park in October. Keep an eye on the events calendar; fun events, such as haunted tours, train rides, and art shows, are added often.
And, don't miss out on the fall bounty of Tuolumne County and the region; many of the local farmers' markets run into October!
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