Calaveras County is sprinkled with charming Gold Rush towns, hiking trails, rivers, and creeks, plus an incredible natural cave system. This area of Northern California is often overlooked for nearby Yosemite or Amador County to the north. But there is so much to explore in this beautiful section of the state. This two-day trip is loaded with all sorts of outdoor adventures and activities in NorCal.
From national parks and campgrounds to waterfalls, canyons, and more, there is so much to love about America’s natural splendor — and June, designated as Great Outdoors Month, is the perfect time to get outside.
With less than an hour of drive time (minus the trip there), this Calaveras County adventure features stunning views of the foothills and natural caves, plus several charming Gold Rush towns along the way.
Moaning Caverns Adventure Park is most famous for its massive marble cave. Moaning Caverns is home to the largest single cave chamber in California.
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Just to give you an idea of its size, the cave is large enough to hold the Statue of Liberty. Visitors access this massive cave through staircases, platforms, and for the most athletic– by a 100 foot spiral staircase.
Moaning Caverns Adventure Park, 5350 Moaning Cave Rd, Vallecito, CA 95251, USA
Tours last 45 minutes and start at the top of every hour. Since this is a population attraction in the area, it is recommended you make reservations in advance. There is so much to do here in addition to exploring the cavern. In addition to exploring the cave, Moaning Caverns Adventure Park also offers panning for gemstones and ax throwing. The park opens at 10 a.m.
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Hike The Natural Bridges Trailhead In Vallecito
This short hike is the perfect trail for a hot day. It leads to a system of limestone caverns and natural pools.
This 2-mile out-and-back trail is downhill on the way in and uphill on the way back. The entire hike takes about an hour but you’ll likely want to spend time enjoying the beautiful natural setting at the end of the trail.
Natural Bridges Trailhead, Parrotts Ferry Rd, Vallecito, CA 95251, USA
While hiking along Natural Bridges Trailhead you’ll come across Coyote Creek as well as natural pools where you can cool off. Many hikers also enjoy exploring the caves along this trek. Bring water shoes and a pool float so you can explore the caves while floating on your back.
Swim In New Melones Lake At Tuttletown Recreation Area
This beautiful reservoir has more than 100 miles of shoreline when full. Visitors to Tuttletown Recreation Area at New Melones Lake can enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing.
Tuttletown Recreation Area, Reynolds Ferry Rd, Sonora, CA 95370, USA
This reservoir is 12,500 acres, making it one of the largest in California. The smooth water is good for water skiing, as well as kayaking or floating. There are oak trees that provide shade, but it’s best to bring an umbrella or shade structure.
Check Into Your VRBO Near Downtown Sonora
About nine miles away from New Melones Lake is the town of Sonora where you’ll find this beautiful 1910s bungalow.
Check-in time is 4 p.m., giving you a full day to play and explore, and also providing enough time to shower and get ready for a dinner out. The Bauman House is within walking distance of downtown Sonora. It has three bedrooms– two with queen-sized beds and one with a double bed. The house also has two bathrooms.
Imagine having late-night drinks or morning coffee on the screened-in patio. There is also a living room and a fully-stocked kitchen with a coffee bar. Check-out is 11 a.m., giving you plenty of time to explore downtown Sonora in the evening as well as in the morning.
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Enjoy The Patio At The Armory Restaurant In Sonora
This lively downtown Sonora restaurant has a two story patio and plenty of outdoor seating.
The Armory serves upscale food and a wide selection of drinks, including fresh Margaritas and barrel-aged Manhattans. The restaurant regularly hosts live music acts. Grab a seat on the rooftop patio or in the beer garden.
What do you think of this getaway in Calaveras County? What other outdoor adventures and activities in NorCal do you enjoy? This is your chance to share your favorite places and businesses with other readers! See what other natural settings you can experience in Northern California.
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