Take Highway 49 Through Northern California For An Incredible 125-Mile Scenic Adventure That Ends In Paradise
By Lisa Sammons|Published September 02, 2021
×
Lisa Sammons
Author
Lisa loves animals and has dogs, rats, cats, guinea pigs, and snakes. She is passionate about animal rescue and live music - traveling across the country to see a favorite band is a pretty regular occurrence! Being out hiking in the woods enjoying the scenery with her beloved dogs is another favorite hobby, and also checking out the Pokemon Go scene in whatever city she happens to be in at any given time (coffee and dog leash in hand). You can reach Lisa at lsammons@onlyinyourstate.com
It’s no secret that Northern California has some incredible scenery. The region is not only beautiful; it’s also full of history. This region was transformed in the mid-1800s by the famous California Gold Rush that truly changed the future of the state. If you’re looking for magnificent windshield views and a route full of historical sites, it doesn’t get any better than Highway 49. You’ll pass through some of the most gorgeous scenery in the state, and also drive through quite a few charming mining towns along the way. Prepare your playlist, grab some snacks, and fill up your tank: you’re about to embark upon one of the best road trips in Northern California.
Fittingly, you'll start your journey off in Coloma. This is the site where the Gold Rush of 1848-1850 began. Gold was first discovered near a sawmill along the South Fork American River. While the mill no longer exists, a replica stands in its place in the middle of Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park.
The discovery of gold sent thousands of newcomers to California. The area's population went from 14,000 in 1848 to more than 300,000 in just a few years. And then in 1850, California gained statehood.
Like those who sought fortune so long ago, you'll continue south down what is now known as Highway 49. You'll pass through many quaint little mining towns and see plenty of beautiful mountain scenery.
If you take a slight detour onto Old Highway 49, you'll run into Bella Grace Vineyards. This award-winning winery is one of many vineyards in the area. Their 20 acres of grape fields are open for tours and tastings.
Bella Grace Vineyards, 73 Main St, Sutter Creek, CA 95685, USA
Head back to Highway 49 and continue. We're sure by this point you're starting to get hungry, so let's stop for food at El Mezcal Mexican Restaurant in San Andreas. This authentic spot is absolutely incredible! Don't miss the horchata... it's delicious!
El Mezcal Mexican Restaurant, 126 W St Charles St, San Andreas, CA 95249, USA
Now that you've filled up your stomach, keep driving south through the magnificent scenery as Highway 49 merges with Highway 120. This area is one of the most beautiful in the state.
You'll end your trip at Yosemite National Park. The views here are absolutely unparalleled. It's easily one of the most beautiful parks in the entire country.
Yosemite National Park Road, Yosemite National Park Rd, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389, USA
With over 1,200 pristine square miles of untouched natural beauty, there's something for everyone in Yosemite. Waterfalls, wildlife, mountains, and valleys -- Yosemite has it all.
The famous sequoias of Yosemite live in three ancient groves within the park. These trees look like something from another planet. Their exact age is unknown, but it is thought that some of them are over 3,000 years old.
Well: what are you waiting for? This magical road trip will take you through one of the most scenic drives in Northern California, and finishing up at Yosemite is the cherry on top. The journey down Highway 49 is a truly perfect road trip in NorCal, so pack your bags and hit the road!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
