California has a strong gold rush history as many people know. The entire Gold County stretches over most of the eastern part of California above the Central Valley. I recently had the blessing to attend my cousin's wedding in Sonora, California and took advantage of the opportunity to spend time with my family and explore the region. Sonora is a large town on the southern end of the main gold fields and has a rich heritage with a present day tourism industry providing a great escape from Stockton and the Bay Area.
Back Porch View
To make thing easier and more fun, we decided to rent a large and wonderful house. It was the center of our activities nestled in the foothills with expansive views and lots of space for a huge family. Having a huge porch was wonderful for morning and evening leisure and made a great backdrop for the weekend. You can also rent this fine property or just view the great pics here. Do not forget your golf clubs!
Interior of Moaning Caverns
Before the family arrived, I had the opportunity to explore the region. Since I have so many friends from the Murphys area, I have been to the region many times and was excited to do a little caving on the trip. Moaning Caverns is not the best in the region, but it is very convenient and close to Sonora. The name comes from an early sound heard within the cave of moaning sounds likely caused by wind at the surface, but modifying the cave over time eliminated the sound. It is a vertical cavern with a good amount of cave features, but many visitors enjoy the zip lining and gold panning at the surface. You can also rappel down into the cave for an added treat. Most visitors opt for the massive iron spiral staircase which was a good way to burn off all the calories from lunch.
Before the wedding, I had to drive down the road to Jamestown for a ride on a classic steam locomotive. The Number 3 locomotive at the Railtown 1897 State Historic Park and the surrounding facilities have been featured in many television shows and movies. It may be most famous in its co-starring role in Back to the Future Part 3. The excursion train takes about an hour chugging through the back country and is fun for the whole family. Arrive early as the first train was packed before the afternoon heat.
Wedding Chapel at the Union Hill Inn
It was finally time for the big event. After a whirlwind of activity dressing up and getting the kids ready, it was time to head to the Union Hill Inn near Sonora for my cousins wedding. This very popular facility is rustic chic and perfect for young couples. The ceremony was short and intimate and everyone loved the facility and the reception including all-you-can-eat prime rib. Even with all the hassle, it turned out nice. After the wedding cake, it was time to bow out gracefully before the sun sets leaving the wedding party to dance the night away!
Wagon and Buildings at Columbia State Historic Park
After waking up to the wonderful view of the foothills, it was once again time to leave the homestead and explore the region. Staying close, I ventured to Columbia State Historic Park just north of Sonora. This restored gold rush era town is still active with several small businesses including gold panning, stagecoach rides, blacksmithing, and various food and drink options. The town was great with a fun atmosphere and lots of cool history and excellent photography. Admission is free so you have more money to spend on ice cream!
Highway 49 in honor of the 1849 Gold Rush
After a whirlwind weekend with family, I was able to do a little wine tasting and see my friends in Murphys on the way home. The region including Sonora, Murphys, Calaveras Big Trees, and some great fall color has so many different vacation options - camping, caving, parks, reservoirs, shopping, wine tasting - its a destination in and of itself. Being on the way to Yosemite National Park also helps. Please enjoy the rest of my photos below.
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