8 Most Underrated Towns In California's Sierra Nevada
Snowy main streets, Gold Rush lore, hot springs you can soak in after a hike, and mountain backdrops that look straight out of a Western; welcome to Sierra Nevada town-hopping. This guide runs from Truckee’s Lake Tahoe energy to Markleeville’s cabin-and-hot-springs vibes, dips into Angels Camp history, and heads south for Bishop’s bristlecone day trips and desert-meets-peaks scenery. You’ll find Sequoia’s Mineral King for rugged trails, Kyburz for an easy US-50 stopover, Auburn for wine and waterfall views, and Lone Pine for Mount Whitney + Alabama Hills photo magic, plus a sobering, essential stop at Manzanar. Pack layers. Bring an appetite. Let’s go!
Truckee
Tracing its history back to the 1860s, the small town of Truckee is conveniently located just some 20 minutes from the popular Lake Tahoe. Known for its warm summers and snowy winters, Truckee offers its residents and visitors alike some truly splendid panoramas with a great side of charming 19th century history. Spend time at the downtown historic district, enjoy some authentic Western style cuisine, admire the unique vistas, or go hiking, swimming, cycling, and even skiing in the winter, Truckee is never short on adventures. And with its genuine slice of small town American life, one can be sure to find plenty of charming hospitality and quaint surroundings.
Markleeville
Though it has a population of just under 200 residents, Markleeville serves as the seat of Alpine County. Still this very small town should most certainly not be overlooked by passersby looking for wonderful encounters with the outdoors. A popular destination for biking, hiking, and fishing, tourists will also find a variety of charming rental cabins always ready to provide a most special sojourn. In addition to the wonderful alpine surroundings, guests can also enjoy some nearby hot springs and a nice assortment of quaint shops and locally owned restaurants. Meanwhile at the Grover Hot Springs State Park camping has never been more fun with spectacular views, awesome wildlife, and plenty of tranquil relaxation.
Angels Camp
Home to a population of just under 4,000 residents and situated at an elevation of nearly 1,400 feet, the town of Angels Camp was first settled in the 1840s. Established as a mining camp, this picturesque mountain town is indeed a splendid place to discover where pleasant weather, stunning vistas, and charming history all come together. Enjoy the scenic surroundings of the historic downtown (indeed the town in its entirety was designated a California Historic Landmark), browse through the quaint boutique shops, and of course take in all the rich aromas of the great locally run restaurants, cafes, and bakeries. In addition at the nearby New Melones Lake, wonderful opportunities for fishing, hiking, cycling, and picnicking can all be taken in all with the wonderful frame that are the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Bishop
The largest town in Inyo County, Bishop is home to just under 4,000 residents and is indeed a most picturesque and charming mountain locale. Well known as a filming site for several Western movies, this town at an elevation of some 4,150 feet experiences very hot summers and warm winters most people take advantage of the outdoors when here. Visit such natural wonders like the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest and the Keogh Hot Springs or take a break from the heat and enjoy an afternoon at the Laws Railroad Museum. And of course with mountain peaks galore there is never a shortage of photo and video opportunities in Bishop, while enjoying the eclectic range of shops and restaurants is always a charming experience.
Mineral King
Mineral King is also the name of a glacial valley within the Sequoia National Park, and the mining town of the same name is too a most splendid place of natural beauty. Situated at an elevation of nearly 7,000 feet this most stunning place of mountain and valley views is indeed the perfect destination to get away from the stresses of modern life. With its pristine and raw flora and fauna, dramatic canyon rocks, and challenging hiking trails, when in the Valley and town a most authentic experience with the outdoors is always on hand. And of course enjoying a tasty meal or shopping for that special souvenir in any of the local businesses only adds to the charm and beauty that only a rustic setting can provide.
Kyburz
Located in El Dorado County, the unique mountain town of Kyburz has a population of just under 200 residents. It remains a stunning natural retreat and a popular stop for travelers heading to larger destinations. Located less than an hour from Lake Tahoe, Kyburz provides convenient access to Sacramento and Placerville. With its charming cabins for rent, delightful local restaurants, and boutique shops, spending a night or two here creates memorable experiences. Additionally, the nearby Eldorado National Forest and Wright Lakes offer excellent camping opportunities in some of America's most beautiful natural settings.
Auburn
Auburn was officially incorporated in the 1880s and gained fame as a center of the California Gold Rush. Located about 33 miles from Sacramento, it is recognized as a California Historic Landmark. The town experiences hot summers and wet winters, and with a population just under 14,000, it continues to attract visitors with its rich history, local museums, shops, and scenic natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting along the Placer Wine Trail or spend a day at Hidden Falls Regional Park, which offers stunning valley views and abundant sunshine.
Lone Pine
Lone Pine is located at an elevation of 3,727 feet and is surrounded by the Sierra Nevada, Inyo Mountains, Alabama Hills, and Mount Whitney. With just over 2,000 residents, it exemplifies small-town America, enhanced by its stunning mountain backdrop. Visitors can enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, browse unique items at boutiques, or simply soak in the natural beauty. A visit to Lone Pine promises an unforgettable experience.
And for the history lover, a stop to the nearby Manzanar National Historic Site provides fascinating perspective and contemplation. Here more than 120,000 Japanese Americans were interred during the Second World War, during a time of great division and uncertainty.
The towns in California located within or near the impressive Sierra Nevada Mountain range offer breathtaking views and rich local history, each with its own unique charm. From the scenic Lone Pine to the historic Angels Camp, these mountain towns are small but full of character and entertainment. For travelers near the Sierra Nevada Mountains, these towns are true gems deserving a visit to explore and enjoy.
