The 11 Can't-Miss Towns In California's Sierra Nevada
Known as the “Range of Light”, the Sierra Nevada Mountains offer beautiful views and adventures to those who visit. A large portion of the Sierra Nevada mountain range lies in California. Find outdoor fun of all kinds in these cute California mountain towns. Each town offers different ways to enjoy the outdoors, ranging from hiking to skiing.
The Sierra Nevada communities in California also have incredible histories and origins. Many towns in the region, like Auburn and Grass Valley, were founded during the Gold Rush and still retain remnants of that wild history. From incredible history to natural beauty, discover these 11 can’t-miss towns in California’s Sierra Nevada.
Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth Lakes can only be described as “unreal” with its wild mountain landscapes and unlimited potential for adventure. Whether you're drawn to the natural scenery or outdoor adventures, Mammoth offers a wealth of activities to delight visitors to the Sierra Nevada region. Known for winter sports, the nearby Mammoth and June Mountains offer plenty of opportunities to ski and snowboard during the long winter season. Explore the wintery landscapes on a snowmobile or take the whole family on a sledding adventure. For those holding an Ikon Pass, it is also one of the pass destinations.
Outside of winter, Mammoth Lakes offers other outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, and swimming. You can also camp at Sierra National Forest in the summer. Visit the town's Welcome Center on Main Street for complimentary maps and area information.
Sonora
Called “Queen of the Southern Mines”, Sonora was founded by Mexican miners during the California Gold Rush. The historic downtown reflects its past with unique Gold-Rush era architecture and buildings. Pass by landmark spots that show the town’s past prosperity in the 1800s and early 1900s, like the renovated Opera Hall. This charming town also hosts numerous fun events throughout the year, from its Spring Festival to the festive Christmas Parade.
The Sierra Nevada area is known for its scenic views, and Sonora provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature. Explore the outdoor beauty that surrounds Sonora by hiking the Dragoon Gulch Trail. The 3-mile trail features a pretty creek, benches for breaks, and a great view at the top.
Auburn
In Placer County, the town of Auburn attracts visitors looking to learn more about Gold Rush history and those who enjoy outdoor activities in the beautiful Sierra Nevada region. With many locations registered as California Historical Landmarks, this small town is steeped in history. See examples of historic architecture from the mid-to-late 1800s, such as the Placer County Courthouse and Auburn’s Old Town. To learn more about Auburn’s Gold Rush past, head over to the Gold Rush Museum for informative and hands-on exhibits that are fun for all ages.
Though the town provides plenty to see and do, from history to wine tasting, the beauty of the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains draws in adventure seekers. Close to Auburn, areas like Hidden Falls Regional Park showcase the natural beauty of the mountainous landscape. Explore the scenic trails there on foot, on a mountain bike, or on horseback.
Mariposa
Mariposa draws visitors from all over, as it is often one of the last stops on the way to Yosemite National Park. This town makes a great stop or place to stay on the way to taking in the scenery of the famous national park.
The town name comes from the Spanish word for “Butterfly." Mariposa holds a Butterfly Festival each spring to celebrate its name and history. Release butterflies into the wild, pet adorable animals, and shop with local vendors to experience all aspects of the unique festival. For 2026, the festival will be held in early May. For art lovers, visit the Mariposa County Arts Park to view a variety of interesting outdoor art and sculptures. During the summer, enjoy live music and concerts in the park.
Truckee
Nestled in Nevada County, Truckee is one of the snowiest towns in the nation, making it an excellent spot for winter sports. The town boasts world-class ski resorts, such as Northstar California Resort, which features 3,170 acres of terrain for outdoor winter activities, along with 100 trails and 20 ski lifts. The park receives an average annual snowfall of approximately 350 inches.
Originally a railroad town, Truckee shows signs of early prosperity like a historic downtown with a 19th-century look. For those seeking retail therapy, the downtown area boasts a variety of charming boutiques and shops. The town is also conveniently located near Lake Tahoe and Donner Memorial State Park, offering endless opportunities for outdoor enjoyment.
Murphys
Murphys, also called the “Queen of the Sierra,” lies between Lake Tahoe and Yosemite. This town also boasts gold-rush roots, as it was named for the brothers who were among the first to discover gold in 1848. Many historical buildings from that time remain in Murphys today, including the Murphys Historic Hotel. As one of California’s oldest hotels, it has hosted many famous figures, including Mark Twain, J.P. Morgan, and Ulysses S. Grant.
Many foodies come to Murphys for their vibrant restaurant scene and fun drinking establishments. Main Street also features many cozy wineries within walking distance of hotels, such as Four Winds Cellar and Black Sheep Winery.
Groveland
Another popular gateway town into Yosemite National Park, Groveland began as a gold rush town. Now, the quirky community is a popular stop on the way to Yosemite. When visiting, you may hear from locals about how they elected a dog named Goose as their Honorary Mayor. The town also features a variety of gold rush-era buildings, including the Groveland Jail. For fun nightlife, check out the historic Iron Door Saloon, one of the oldest running saloons in the state.
Groveland hosts numerous community events during the summer months, including their farmers' market on Saturdays. During the winter, local businesses offer indoor entertainment, such as plays and musicals, as well as special dinners. Nearby Yosemite is an excellent attraction for snowshoeing and scenic views.
Grass Valley
Nestled in "Gold Country," Grass Valley once held the largest, most lucrative mines in the entire state. Today, this small town provides big adventures for those who visit, from outdoor recreation to world-class entertainment. Go to Grass Valley’s Center for the Arts to see live theater productions like concerts, musicals, and plays.
For those interested in history, visit Grass Valley’s historic downtown or the Empire Mine State Historic Park. The landmark park showcases the town’s lucrative gold-rush past. Take a tour of the Victorian house, see abandoned mineshafts, and stroll through up to 14 miles of trails.
Nevada City
Nevada City also lies in what's known as “Gold Country," very near the town of Grass Valley. For those who like history, this city is considered one of the best-preserved “gold rush” towns on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Region. Deer Creek flows through the center of town, allowing you to take in pretty views of the creek while dining at restaurants like Deer Creek Bark & Grill. For a more unique setting, dine at the Stone House tavern, an 1800s brewery with elevated bar food that often holds live music nights.
In the summer, don’t miss the Nevada City Film Festival. The festival transforms the city into a hub of art, featuring showings of independent films, comedy routines, and other artistic endeavors. If you want to mix art and history, make sure to visit Broad Street’s Nevada Theater. Built during the Gold Rush Era, the historic theater is the oldest continuously operating one on the West Coast.
Bridgeport
Close to the Nevada border, Bridgeport is the first town on Route 182, also known as Sweetwater Road, entering California from Nevada. Lacking water sources, the Walker River Irrigation District built the Bridgeport Reservoir in 1923. Today, Bridgeport attracts people who enjoy water activities such as boating and fishing.
Bridgeport offers information on local history at places like the Mono County Museum. For even more history and a jaunt into nature, take a day trip to Bodie State Historic Park, which houses the mining ghost town of Bodie, which still features original structures from prominent families during that time.
Sierra City
Located an hour away from Truckee, Sierra City is another city steeped in Gold Rush history. It held the second-largest gold-producing mine in Sierra County. Explore the town’s rich past at the Kentucky Mine Museum. For food in the city, stop at the Red Moose Cafe & Inn on Main Street.
Sierra City rests at approximately 4,000 feet above sea level, offering stunning views and unspoiled natural attractions. The Sierra Buttes and the Lakes Basin region lie just 20 minutes or so away from town. Visitors to the area can enjoy a wide range of outdoor recreation activities, from winter sports to water sports.
Explore the Sierra Nevada Mountains
These California towns show off the beauty and history of the incredible Sierra Nevada Region. Learn more about the California Gold Rush in towns like Nevada City, Grass Valley, and others located in the state's Gold Country region. You can also find adventures in any season, from skiing in Truckee to boating in Bridgeport. The Sierra Nevada region, as a whole, offers visitors numerous ways to experience nature.
